Music in Islam: An Older Reflection on a Longstanding Debate

This is an older Rethinking Islam reflection on the longstanding debate about music. For the updated and more fully sourced discussion, read Music: Is It Haram or Permissible in Islam?.

Good day everyone!

Today, I find myself in a musical dilemma, pondering the age-old question: “Is Music Haram in Islam?” Now, let’s be honest; when it comes to music, it’s not always as harmonious as a well-tuned symphony. So, let’s dive into this sticky subject with a bit of humor.

The Groovy Introduction

Imagine this: You’re at a Muslim gathering, and someone whips out their guitar, belting out some tunes. Suddenly, Auntie Noor whispers into her hijab sister and says it HARAM.  Yes, folks, it can get that intense.

The Sharia Shuffle

Now, before we start the Sharia Shuffle, remember that Islamic law draws from various sources, and interpretations can be as diverse as the top 40 charts. We’ve got the Quran, Hadith, Ijma, and Qiyas—all lined up like judges on a talent show.

Historical Hits and Misses

Throughout history, Islamic civilization has produced some amazing musicians. Picture Al-Farabi dropping the hottest track of the 9th century. But things got a little dicey when people started debating the rhythm of religious devotion.

The Argumentation Waltz

On one side, we have scholars who say, “Music distracts you from worship!” They’re like strict parents who can’t let you have any fun. Then, there are those who claim, “Music’s lyrics are naughty!” Yes, they’re the ones who check the song’s lyrics before hitting the dance floor at a wedding.

In the Pro-Music Corner

But hold on, we’ve got the pro-music crew too! They say, “Quran doesn’t drop the beat on music,” and they argue that music can be as harmless as a toddler’s toy piano. They even have the “It’s Good for the Soul” playlist for when they’re feeling spiritual.

Conditional Karaoke

Now, for the middle-grounders who say music can be halal but with conditions. Imagine them as the DJ at a party with a “no inappropriate lyrics” rule, and they’re handing out earplugs to control the volume.

Let’s approach the topic of music in Islam with seriousness and scholarly rigor. Music has been a subject of debate for centuries, and understanding its status in Islam requires a deep dive into the Quran and Hadith.

Islamic Perspective

1. Maintaining the Spiritual Focus:SURAH LUQMAN AYAT 6 (31:6 QURAN) WITH TAFSIR
   SURAH LUQMAN AYAT 6 IN ARABIC TEXT
   وَمِنَ ٱلنَّاسِ مَن يَشۡتَرِي لَهۡوَ ٱلۡحَدِيثِ لِيُضِلَّ عَن سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ بِغَيۡرِ عِلۡمٖ وَيَتَّخِذَهَا هُزُوًاۚ أُوْلَـٰٓئِكَ لَهُمۡ عَذَابٞ مُّهِينٞ
   Wa minan naasi mai-yashtaree lahwal haddesi li yudilla ‘an sabeelil laahi bighairi ‘ilminw wa yattakhizahaa huzuwaa; ulaaa’ika lahum ‘azaabum muheenMUHSIN KHAN
   And of mankind is he who purchases idle talks (i.e. music, singing, etc.) to mislead (men) from the Path of Allah without knowledge, and takes it (the Path of Allah, the Verses of the Quran) by way of mockery. For such there will be a humiliating torment (in the Hell-fire).
2. Promotion of Good and Forbidding of Evil: Islam encourages the promotion of good and the forbidding of evil (Quran 3:104). Some argue that certain types of music, with explicit or immoral content, may fall under the category of evil.
3. Prohibition of Musical Instruments: A major evidence used by scholars who prohibit musical instruments is Sahih al Bukhari 5590, which mentions people who will regard musical instruments as lawful alongside other prohibited matters. Read Sahih al Bukhari 5590
4. Lyrics and context also matter: Even scholars who permit some forms of music generally distinguish between acceptable content and songs that promote indecency, intoxication, violence or neglect of religious duties.

Scholarly Opinions

Islamic scholars throughout history have provided various interpretations of these Quranic verses and Hadiths. While some scholars consider all forms of music to be haram based on these references, others adopt a more nuanced stance.

The Middle Ground

Scholars who adopt a middle-ground approach argue that music may be permissible as long as it meets certain conditions:

1. Content: Music should not contain lyrics or themes that promote sinful behavior or go against Islamic values.
2. Moderation: It should be enjoyed in moderation and not become an obsession or distraction from religious duties.
3. Cultural Sensitivity: Recognizing the diversity of musical practices in different Islamic communities and respecting their cultural significance.

The Power of Music: Exploring its Positive and Negative Effects on Psychology

Music, a universal language that transcends cultures and generations, has been a subject of fascination and study in the field of psychology for decades. Its ability to evoke powerful emotions, alter moods, and influence behavior has intrigued researchers and music enthusiasts alike.

Positive Effects of Music on Psychology

1. Mood Enhancement

Music can strongly affect mood and reward pathways. A well known 2011 study by Salimpoor and colleagues found dopamine release associated with anticipation and experience of pleasurable music. That finding describes a neurological response, not a religious ruling on whether a particular form of music is permissible.

Reference: Salimpoor, V. N., Benovoy, M., Larcher, K., Dagher, A., & Zatorre, R. J. (2011). Anatomically distinct dopamine release during anticipation and experience of peak emotion to music. Nature Neuroscience, 14(2), 257-262.

2. Stress Reduction

Music has also been found to have a significant impact on stress reduction. It can serve as a powerful coping mechanism, helping individuals manage stress and anxiety. Studies, such as one conducted by Jespersen et al. in 2015, have shown that listening to calming music can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and promote relaxation.

Reference: Jespersen, K. V., Otto, M. S., & Kringelbach, M. L. (2015). A randomized controlled trial of the effect of different types of music on stress levels, on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and on sleep in healthy humans. PLoS ONE, 10(11), e0143125.

3. Cognitive Enhancement

Research on music and cognition is mixed and depends on the task, the listener and the type of musical exposure. The 1998 study by Chan and colleagues concerned music training and verbal memory, not a general finding that background music improves creativity.

Reference: Chan, A. S., Ho, Y. C., & Cheung, M. C. (1998). Music training improves verbal memory. Nature, 396(6707), 128.

4. Pain Management

Music therapy is increasingly used in healthcare settings for pain management. It has been found to reduce the perception of pain and the need for pain medication in patients undergoing surgery or experiencing chronic pain. A study by Nilsson et al. in 2009 reported that music therapy helped lower pain levels and anxiety in patients after cardiac surgery.

Reference: Nilsson, U. (2009). The anxiety-and pain-reducing effects of music interventions: A systematic review. AORN Journal, 90(6), 745-762.

OK WELL ANALYSED: But how effective it is in current times? Music comes with lyrics. What good does the lyrics encompasses humans’ influence?

Negative Effects of Music on Psychology

1. Aggressive Behavior

Lyrics can also influence short term thoughts and emotions. Anderson and colleagues reported that violent song lyrics increased aggressive thoughts and feelings in experimental settings. That should not be exaggerated into a claim that listening to a particular song automatically causes violent behaviour.

Reference: Anderson, C. A., Carnagey, N. L., & Eubanks, J. (2003). Exposure to violent media: The effects of songs with violent lyrics on aggressive thoughts and feelings. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 84(5), 960-971.

2. Emotional Manipulation

Music has the power to manipulate emotions, which can be used for both positive and negative purposes. In some cases, individuals or groups may use music to evoke strong emotions, leading to emotional manipulation and control. This phenomenon has been observed in cults, political rallies, and even in marketing campaigns, where music is strategically used to influence people’s feelings and behavior.

3. Auditory Distraction

While music can enhance cognitive performance in some situations, it can be a distraction in others. In tasks that require a high level of concentration, such as reading complex texts or performing intricate calculations, music with lyrics or a fast tempo can disrupt focus and hinder productivity. The so-called “Mozart Effect” has been debunked in recent research, suggesting that the impact of music on cognitive tasks is context-dependent.

Music’s impact on psychology is a complex interplay of positive and negative effects. It has the power to elevate mood, reduce stress, enhance cognitive functions, and even alleviate pain. However, it can also lead to aggressive behavior, emotional manipulation, and auditory distraction. Understanding the dual nature of music’s influence on the human mind is essential for harnessing its benefits while mitigating its potential drawbacks.

It is crucial to approach the study of music’s effects on psychology with a balanced perspective, recognizing both its potential for positive transformation and its capacity to influence behavior and emotions, for better or worse. The key lies in the mindful and intentional use of music to achieve desired psychological outcomes while being aware of its potential pitfalls.

Let’s hear from the Ulamas

Problems with Music | Shaykh Hamza Yusuf – YouTube

Shaykh Hamza explains how music deviates one’s mind and emotions towards evil doings. He puts up a statement saying that nobody can make a blanket statement if it is haram or not, as there is no evidence in the Quran and Hadith.

Music is Haram in Islam – Assim al Hakeem

Assim al Hakeem represents the restrictive position and cites classical jurists who prohibited musical instruments. That position has deep roots in Sunni scholarship, but it should not be presented as though no recognised jurist ever held a more permissive interpretation. The historical record contains disagreement, especially over singing, instruments, context and exceptions.

This is like when Abu Bakr (may Allaah be pleased with him) described singing as the flutes or musical instruments of the Shaytaan, as al-Bukhaari (3931) and Muslim (892) narrated from ‘Aa’ishah that Abu Bakr entered upon her when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was with her on the day of (Eid) al-Fitr or Adha, and there were two young girls singing lines of poetry that were said by the Ansaar on the day of Bu’aath. Abu Bakr said: Flutes of the Shaytaan! The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Let them be, O Abu Bakr, for every people has its Eid and our Eid is this day.”

The two young girls did not have a flute or musical instrument with them, but he (may Allaah be pleased with him) called singing the flute of the shaytaan, likening it to that because he found it displeasing.  https://sunnah.com/bukhari:949

Is Music Really Haram In Islam opinion of Nouman Ali Khan

Nouman Ali Khan has discussed the complexity of the evidence and the way Muslims often flatten a nuanced juristic discussion into slogans. His comments should not be turned into the unsupported claim that no mufti in the world could confirm a prohibition.

I am not a fan of Music either in due to committing shirk. Throughout the years, I have experienced mixed moods and emotions listening to Music. In my younger years, Music made my body groove, sway, fantasize, build castles in the air, and even strategize plans against people. It’s all about how different music influences your mind. Sometimes I hated music because it had a negative influence on me. But it was hard to resist either. It perks me up sometimes and even motivates me to finish tasks like exercise or household chores. I know that in the early Islamic period, they used duffs and poems which were allowed. However, now the music is too “loud” and filthy meanings. But to label it Haram, is it justifiable? Or could it be like medication, where you only take certain medication for certain illnesses, and Abusing it could be fatal?

My companions also hold different views on music. Some consider it haram because they believe it gradually consumes our time. Others argue that it should be enjoyed in moderation since it aligns with human nature. Some suggest that it’s not an issue, as long as we are cautious about the lyrics. This perspective is similar to what scholars are saying, adding that music has become unavoidable in today’s world, as it surrounds us more than food and water.

One example shared by a friend challenged my assumptions. If a person follows the view that instruments are prohibited, music encountered at weddings, restaurants or films still raises a real consistency question. If a person follows a recognised permissive view, the content and setting remain important. A concert is not automatically one ruling simply because men and women are present; alcohol, sexual conduct, missed prayers, lyrics, crowd behaviour and the scholarly view on instruments all matter.

Before ending. let’s slightly analyse this hadith in my earlier writing above:

Abu Bakr (may Allaah be pleased with him) described singing as the flutes or musical instruments of the Shaytaan, as al-Bukhaari (3931) and Muslim (892) narrated from ‘Aa’ishah that Abu Bakr entered upon her when the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) was with her on the day of (Eid) al-Fitr or Adha, and there were two young girls singing lines of poetry that were said by the Ansaar on the day of Bu’aath. Abu Bakr said: Flutes of the Shaytaan! The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Let them be, O Abu Bakr, for every people has its Eid and our Eid is this day.”

The two young girls did not have a flute or musical instrument with them, but he (may Allaah be pleased with him) called singing the flute of the shaytaan, likening it to that because he found it displeasing.  https://sunnah.com/bukhari:949

The hadith is recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari, and provides insight into the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace and blessings be upon him) perspective on singing and music during a specific occasion.

In this hadith, Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) expresses disapproval when he hears two young girls singing lines of poetry. He describes their singing as “Flutes of the Shaytaan,” likening it to musical instruments used by Satan. However, the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) responds by instructing Abu Bakr to let the girls continue, explaining that every people have their own occasions of celebration (Eid), and that their celebration for that day is by singing.

This hadith is often cited in discussions about music in Islam, and it is interpreted in various ways:

1. Permissibility with Conditions: Some scholars interpret this hadith to suggest that while the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) allowed the girls to continue singing, it was under specific circumstances i.e. celebrations. They argue that this indicates a permissibility for singing or music in certain contexts, such as celebrations and gatherings with Islamic relevance, as long as the content remains within the boundaries of Islamic ethics.
2. Cultural Tolerance: Another interpretation is that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) demonstrated cultural sensitivity and tolerance. He recognized the cultural practices of the Ansar (the people of Medina) and allowed them to celebrate their way, even if it included singing. This interpretation emphasizes the importance of respecting local customs and traditions, as long as they do not contradict Islamic principles.
3. Prohibition of Excessive Stringency: Some scholars argue that Abu Bakr’s initial reaction was overly strict, and the Prophet’s response corrected this by allowing for cultural diversity and expression within the bounds of Islamic principles.

Ultimately, this hadith is often used to highlight the flexibility within Islam regarding cultural practices, as long as they do not violate core Islamic teachings. It does not provide a definitive ruling on the permissibility of music but does emphasize the importance of considering the context and purpose of such practices within the framework of Islamic values. As such, different scholars and Islamic traditions may draw different conclusions from this hadith when addressing the issue of music in Islam.

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