What Types of Music Are Prohibited in Islam?
Some Muslims believe that music of all types is permissible. This is often the case for instrumental accompaniments of devotional songs, which are especially common in Sufi and Shia traditions. This view is widely held, and the majority of Muslims subscribe to it. However, there is still some disagreement over the question of what constitutes halal music.
Haram is music that brings pleasure
In Islam, music that brings pleasure is considered haram. This is music that has a theme or content that is illegal, such as songs about wine and beauty. It may also include songs that make fun of others or describe nature in ways that are inappropriate. In some cases, these songs may be used in wedding ceremonies.
The strictest madhhab in this regard is Abu Hanifah. His companions said that listening to music is haram because it implies rebellion and evil. It also implies disbelief. These companions narrated a hadith that did not come from the Prophet, but was nevertheless relevant to their opinion.
While some forms of music may fall into this category, other forms of music may be permitted. Hip-hop and rap are two examples of popular music that may be classified as haram. Some rap songs contain drugs and alcohol and may have drum machines and instruments that are not allowed in Islam. However, this type of music is rare.
Although the Qur’an has little to say about music, some of its verses are interpreted by Islamic scholars as referring to music. Although music and singing are forbidden, some exceptions have been made, such as the use of musical instruments that are designed for entertainment. These instruments can create a sense of charm and pleasure without singing.
Haram is music that contains forbidden instruments
Islam prohibits music that contains instruments that are not permissible in the faith. This includes rap and hip-hop. Rap music may use drum machines and contain words about drugs and alcohol. However, there are some aspects of rap and hip-hop music that are permitted in Islam.
Many scholars have criticized the ahadiths regarding music, but others consider them sound. Ibn Baz, for example, said that the ahadiths about music were not full of flaws. However, he added that, apart from the Book of Allah, the ahadiths on music are still hasan or da’if. The vast majority of them constitute definitive proof that music and instruments containing instruments are haram.
In addition to the haram instruments, music containing vulgar lyrics is also considered haram. In Islamic law, string instruments and vocalists are forbidden. However, a band can still perform halal music if they use drums, harp, or guitar. Some Islamic artists, such as Cat Stevens’ Yusuf Islam, have released albums that comply with halal guidelines.
Although some scholars maintain that music containing forbidden instruments is haram, other scholars claim that the Prophet Muhammad did not specifically forbid music. In fact, Islam has its own musical tradition, and its artists range from classical singing to hip-hop.
Haram is music that contains forbidden lyrics
Islamic law states that any type of music containing lyrics that are forbidden to recite is haram. Although this is not a definitive statement, a broad definition can be used to distinguish music containing forbidden lyrics from music with permissible lyrics. In addition to lyrics, haram can also include intoxicants and musical instruments. Some types of music are even forbidden by Islam, including those that incite people to violent acts.
Regardless of whether music has prohibited lyrics or not, Islam teaches that there is a perfect balance in every aspect of life. This balance includes music, which can promote good things and bring believers closer to their faith. Although the Quran clearly bans listening to music containing forbidden lyrics, there is some evidence that shows that the Prophet Muhammad listened to music in moderation.
Some scholars say that the music containing forbidden lyrics is haram because it contains forbidden words and music instruments. However, the strictest madhhab on this topic is the Abu Hanifah, which says that all musical instruments are haram. This madhhab cites the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) saying that some people would find illegal sexual intercourse, silk, and alcohol permissible, if they were able to hear music. Although many scholars share this opinion, they tend to associate music with alcohol, which is not true. Another argument for music being haram is that the beats in these songs encourage dancing.
While there are different types of music, there are many types that are permissible. Sufi music and qawwali music are examples of permissible music. Their lyrics praise Allah, the Prophet Muhammad, and the Ahl al-Bait. Furthermore, these types of music do not use stringed instruments.