Scholars have differed on this for centuries. There are legitimate positions on both sides.
Detailed Explanation
This is one of the most debated topics in Islamic jurisprudence, and honest scholarship acknowledges that it is not a simple "yes or no."
Those who say music is prohibited cite hadith that mention musical instruments negatively and the view of the majority of classical scholars, particularly in the Hanbali and Shafi'i traditions, that musical instruments (other than the duff/frame drum) are not permissible.
Those who say music is permissible (with conditions) cite the hadith of Aisha (RA) where the Prophet (peace be upon him) allowed singing girls to perform on Eid, the general principle that things are permissible unless explicitly prohibited, and the view of scholars like Ibn Hazm, al-Ghazali, and many contemporary scholars that music itself is not haram — only music with haram content is problematic.
What most scholars agree on: regardless of the position on instruments, music with lyrics that promote immorality, intoxication, or sin is not permissible. The nasheeds (Islamic songs) tradition is accepted by virtually all scholars.
Evidence
hadith
Cited by those who prohibit musical instruments
Sahih al-Bukhari #5590
hadith
The Prophet (peace be upon him) allowed singing girls to perform on Eid — cited by those who permit
Sahih al-Bukhari #949
scholarly opinion
Ibn Hazm (permissible), al-Ghazali (conditionally permissible), Imam Ahmad (prohibited), contemporary scholars on both sides
Centuries of legitimate scholarly disagreement across all major schools
Common Misconception
"It's clearly haram, end of discussion." This ignores centuries of legitimate scholarly debate and respected scholars on both sides.
Practical Advice
Study the arguments from both sides. Follow the position of a scholar or school of thought you trust. At minimum, avoid music with clearly immoral content.
This content is for educational guidance only and does not constitute a fatwa (legal ruling). Islamic rulings can vary based on your school of thought and local context. We recommend consulting a local scholar you trust for personal advice.
