Can Muslims Listen to Music? A Deep Dive into Islamic Views

Can Muslim listen to music? This is a question that continues to spark debate among scholars, students, and everyday believers. With the growing influence of music in modern life, many Muslims are seeking clear, faith-based guidance.

This article explores Quranic verses, Hadiths, and scholarly opinions to provide a balanced, in-depth look at what Islam says about music and how Muslims can approach it with spiritual awareness.

What the Quran Says About Music

When exploring the question, can Muslim listen to music, it is essential to examine what the Quran explicitly states. Interestingly, the Quran does not directly mention the word “music” in a clear-cut prohibition.

However, several verses have been interpreted by classical and contemporary scholars as potentially referring to musical entertainment and its impact on spiritual well-being. One of the most commonly cited verses is:

“And of mankind is he who purchases idle talk to mislead others from the path of Allah without knowledge and takes it (the path of Allah) in mockery. For such, there will be a humiliating punishment.” — Surah Luqman (31:6)

Many early Islamic scholars, such as Ibn Mas’ud (may Allah be pleased with him), interpreted “idle talk” (lahw al-hadith) in this verse as referring to singing and musical instruments.

Ibn Kathir, a renowned Quranic exegete, echoed this interpretation, stating that such distractions can turn people away from the remembrance of Allah and moral responsibility.

Another reference is found in Surah Al-Isra:

“And do not walk upon the earth exultantly. Indeed, you will never tear the earth [apart], and you will never reach the mountains in height.” — Surah Al-Isra (17:37)

While this verse does not address music directly, some scholars argue that musical indulgence often promotes arrogance, heedlessness, and extravagance, attitudes discouraged in this and similar verses.

Although the Quran does not explicitly outlaw music, its warnings against distractions, vanity, and behavior that leads to spiritual negligence provide the foundation for scholarly debate on whether can muslim listen to music in various contexts.  

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Hadiths Often Quoted in Music Discussions

To thoroughly address the question can Muslim listen to music, we must look beyond the Quran and consider the Hadiths—sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ—as they play a crucial role in shaping Islamic jurisprudence.

Several authentic narrations directly or indirectly reference music and musical instruments, and these are often central in scholarly debates about its permissibility.

Sahih al-Bukhari on Musical Instruments

One of the most frequently cited Hadiths when asking can muslim listen to music comes from Sahih al-Bukhari, a collection widely recognized for its authenticity. The Prophet ﷺ said:

“There will be among my ummah people who will consider as permissible: illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk (for men), the drinking of alcoholic drinks, and the use of musical instruments.” — Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 5590

This Hadith is commonly used by scholars who argue that music is haram. The grouping of musical instruments with major sins such as zina (fornication) and khamr (intoxicants) suggests that listening to or playing music may lead to spiritual and moral harm.

Thus, in answering the question, can muslim listen to music? This Hadith is considered a strong piece of evidence by many scholars in favor of prohibition. Discover the beauty of Nasheed in Arabic and its instruments.

Hadith on Flutes and Satan

Another Hadith often mentioned in discussions about can Muslim listen to music is found in Sunan Ibn Majah and similar collections. It states:

“People among my ummah will drink wine, calling it by another name, and musical instruments will be played for them, and singing girls will perform for them. Allah will cause the earth to swallow them up, and will turn others into monkeys and pigs.” — Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 4020 (classified as weak by some scholars, but cited in context)

Although the chain of narration of this Hadith is debated, many classical scholars still referenced it when discussing whether Muslims can listen to music. It reflects a concern that music, when coupled with immoral behavior, leads to a general decline in spiritual integrity and invites divine punishment.

Scholarly Opinions on Permissibility

The question can Muslim listen to music has been the subject of extensive scholarly debate for centuries. Islamic scholars across different schools of thought have offered a range of opinions, shaped by interpretations of Quranic verses, Hadiths, and cultural contexts.

These views generally fall into three main categories: outright prohibition, conditional permissibility, and general allowance with ethical restrictions.

The Majority View: Music Is Haram

A significant number of classical scholars, including those from the Hanafi, Hanbali, and Shafi’i schools, have traditionally ruled that music—especially when accompanied by instruments—is haram (forbidden).

These scholars often base their position on Hadiths such as the one from Sahih al-Bukhari which places musical instruments alongside alcohol and illicit acts. From this perspective, when asked can Muslim listen to music, the answer is a firm no, particularly if the music promotes immorality, distraction from worship, or leads to sinful behavior.

The Moderate View: Conditional Permissibility

Scholars like Imam Al-Ghazali and Yusuf Al-Qaradawi adopt a more nuanced stance. They argue that the answer to can Muslim listen to music depends on the content, context, and effects of the music.

If the lyrics promote ethical behavior, remembrance of Allah, or emotional upliftment—and the music does not involve haram elements—then it may be permissible.

For instance, nasheeds or songs without instruments or with minimal percussion are often deemed acceptable by scholars in this group. They emphasize intention and spiritual outcome over the act itself. Learn about the beautiful Nasheeds songs and why it is unique.

The Liberal View: Music Is Generally Permissible

In more recent times, some contemporary scholars, especially those engaging with modern Muslim societies, suggest that music is not inherently haram. They argue that there is no explicit verse in the Quran nor an undisputed Hadith that clearly forbids all forms of music.  

From their perspective, the question can Muslim listen to music should be answered with a yes, provided the music does not contradict Islamic ethics, such as promoting vulgarity, drugs, or blasphemy. These scholars focus on how music is used rather than its mere existence.

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Conclusion

The question can Muslim listen to music is one that continues to invite discussion and interpretation within the Islamic tradition. While some scholars view music as impermissible due to its potential for distraction and moral harm, others allow it under specific conditions, emphasizing content, context, and intention.

What is clear is that Islam encourages mindfulness in all forms of entertainment. Muslims seeking clarity on music are encouraged to consult knowledgeable scholars, reflect on the spiritual impact of what they listen to, and align their choices with Islamic values.

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FAQs

Can Muslims listen to music for relaxation?

It depends on the type of music and its content. Many scholars allow it if it doesn’t promote sin or distract from Islamic duties.

Is instrumental music haram in Islam?

Most classical scholars say yes, while some modern scholars allow it if used in moderation and without harmful content.

Are nasheeds with drums permissible?

Yes, most scholars agree nasheeds with duff (frame drum) are allowed, especially during celebrations.