Hadith on Eid: Permissibility of Music and Singing on Eid

📖Sahih al-Bukhari 3931
Narrated Aisha: That once Abu Bakr came to her on the day of `Id-ul-Fitr or `Id ul Adha while the Prophet (ﷺ) was with her and there were two girl singers with her, singing songs of the Ansar about the day of Buath. Abu Bakr said twice. “Musical instrument of Satan!” But the Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Leave them Abu Bakr, for every nation has an `Id (i.e. festival) and this day is our `Id.”

• This Hadith narrates an incident when Abu Bakr objected to the presence of two girl singers who were singing songs about a battle during a festive occasion. He referred to the musical instrument used by the singers as a “musical instrument of Satan” and expressed his disapproval of the music. However, the Prophet Muhammad allowed the girls to sing, recognizing that it was a joyful occasion and that their music and singing were not violating Islamic teachings. This Hadith teaches us that Islam allows for the celebration of special occasions and expressions of happiness, as long as they are within the boundaries of Islamic teachings. However, it is important to ensure that the means of expression, such as music and singing, do not violate Islamic values and ethics. It is the responsibility of Muslims to ensure that their celebrations and expressions of joy are in accordance with Islamic teachings. At the same time, there are Hadiths that prohibit certain types of music and singing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned against listening to music and singing that contain vulgar or inappropriate lyrics, promote sinful behavior, or distract from the remembrance of Allah. For example, it is narrated in Sahih al-Bukhari that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “There will be among my Ummah people who will regard as permissible adultery, silk, alcohol, and musical instruments.” When we look at the two Hadiths in context, we can understand that the Islamic view on music and singing is not absolute. While the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) allowed the singing and music of the girls during the festive occasion mentioned in the first Hadith, he also warned against certain types of music and singing that are not in line with Islamic values, as mentioned in the second Hadith. Thus, it is important to differentiate between permissible and impermissible forms of music and singing in Islam. Music and singing that promote goodness, virtue, and remembrance of Allah are encouraged, while music and singing that contain vulgar or inappropriate lyrics, promote sinful behavior, or distract from the remembrance of Allah are prohibited.

In summary, the Islamic view on music and singing is not absolute. Muslims should strive to express their happiness and joy in a permissible way, in accordance with Islamic teachings. They should also be careful about the types of music and singing they listen to or participate in, ensuring that they are in line with Islamic values and ethics.