The question of whether music is haram (forbidden) in Islam is a matter of significant debate among Islamic scholars, and interpretations vary widely across different cultures and schools of thought within the Muslim world. Here are the main perspectives:
Strict Prohibition (Haram):
- Some scholars and schools of thought, particularly within certain interpretations of Sunni Islam (e.g., Salafi and some Hanbali scholars), hold that music is generally haram. They base their views on specific hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) that they interpret as prohibiting musical instruments and singing. For example, a frequently cited hadith mentions that:
"There will be among my followers people who will consider as permissible illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk, the drinking of alcoholic drinks, and the use of musical instruments" (Sahih al-Bukhari).
Conditional Prohibition (Makruh or Permissible):
- Other scholars argue that music is not intrinsically haram but can be considered makruh (discouraged) or haram depending on the context and content. For example, music that promotes immoral behavior, distracts from religious duties, or contains inappropriate lyrics might be deemed impermissible, while music that is uplifting or spiritual can be allowed.
- The Maliki school, for instance, traditionally holds that music is permissible as long as it does not encourage sinful behavior.
Permissibility (Halal):
- Many contemporary scholars and Islamic thinkers believe that music is generally permissible (halal) as long as it adheres to Islamic ethical guidelines. They argue that the Quran does not explicitly prohibit music and that the hadiths cited by those who prohibit music are subject to various interpretations and contexts.
- This view is often more prevalent in regions where music plays a significant cultural role, and among Muslims who emphasize the importance of cultural and artistic expression.
Final Thoughts
In Islam, music, musical instruments, and singing are considered forbidden. This prohibition is backed by references from the Quran and the Sunnah.