The Shariah Status and Commandments of Music

Abstract

Islam, besides teaching worship and beliefs, also provides a complete code of conduct for a moral and civil society. Any action that causes corruption or moral decay is prohibited. Music and singing are among such actions that can lead to hypocrisy in hearts and promote immorality, indecency and illicit behavior. Hence Islamic Law has declared music, singing and the use of musical instruments unlawful. The Noble Qur’an says: “And of the people is he who buys the amusement of speech to mislead others from the path of Allah without knowledge and takes it (as) a mockery. For such people, there is a humiliating punishment.”Ibne Mas’ood, Ibne Abbas, and other companions interpreted “amusement of speech” as singing and music. Imam Qurtubi explains this prohibition is proven by the Glorious Qur’an and Sunnah.

Keywords: Music, Singing, Musical Instruments, Amusement of Speech