What is the ruling on music in Islam?
The ruling on music is one of the most debated topics in Islamic jurisprudence. Here is a balanced scholarly overview:
The position of the majority (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, Hanbali β classical):
Instrumental music is generally considered impermissible (haram or at minimum makruh) based on:
- Quran 31:6 β "idle talk" (lahw al-hadith) interpreted by Ibn Masud and other Companions as singing
- Hadith: "Among my community will be those who make permissible fornication, silk, khamr, and musical instruments." (Bukhari)
The permissive position (some contemporary scholars):
Some contemporary scholars (including Sheikh Yusuf al-Qaradawi and others) hold that music is permitted provided:
- The lyrics do not contain anything prohibited
- It does not lead to haram activities
- It is not accompanied by haram elements (alcohol, mixing, etc.)
- It is not excessive/addictive
What is clearly permitted:
- The duff (hand drum) for weddings and Eid
- Nasheeds (Islamic songs) without instruments
- Most scholars: sound effects and background music in moderation
Practical guidance:
The safest approach is to:
1. Avoid music with explicit/haram content
2. Limit music consumption in general
3. Prefer nasheeds and Quran recitation
4. Follow your madhab or the ruling of a scholar you trust
This is an area of genuine scholarly difference (ikhtilaf). You should follow the position you believe is most sound after study, without judging others who follow different valid opinions.