Is Music Haram? A clear Muslim perspective

As-salamu alaykum - sharing a straightforward take on the question “Is music haram?” Short answer: many scholars judge music, musical instruments and certain types of singing to be impermissible in Islam, basing their view on evidence from the Qur’an and the Sunnah. For a longer, detailed discussion you can see a full write-up on islamqa (link included in the original source). That discussion quotes Qur’anic verses and hadith, brings evidence from numerous scholars, and stresses that the main schools of thought are in agreement on this issue. It also replies to common arguments used to permit music for modern tastes, and points readers to further references. Insha'Allah the overview covers the following topics: - What is meant by Ma’azif? - Qur’anic and Prophetic evidence regarding music and singing - How scholars have approached music and song - The daff (hand-drum): is it a valid exception? - Drums or martial music in times of war: are they different? - The report about the Abyssinians playing and singing in the Prophet’s mosque - Did the Companions ever listen to singing? - Are the hadiths that forbid music weak or unreliable? - Is singing only forbidden when alcohol is involved? - Does “idle talk” include singing or not? - Can singing ever be worshipful if it leads to obedience to Allah? - The claim that music softens hearts: is that a correct defense? - Brief conclusion and recommended references May Allah grant us guidance and sound understanding. Allah knows best.