Question
As far as I know that all four Imams consider any type of singing and musical instrument as haraam. I also know that you have to follow at least one Imam, if possible, in totality. Does this mean that you do not agree with any one of them regarding singing? Or I am wrong about following of any of the four imams is necessary?
Jazzakallah khairun
Answer
There are a few points that require some clarification on the issue:
Firstly, as I have stated in a few of my earlier responses1
s, a Muslim is not bound by the Shari`ah to follow any other individual except for the Prophet (pbuh). A person may disagree with any one or all of the four more well known Muslim jurists.
Secondly, besides the Prophet (pbuh) no one else – not even the most respected scholars of Islam – holds the position, which commands total or even partial submission from others. It is only the position of the prophets of God, as representatives of God to the humankind, which demands that others submit to their directives and teachings.
Thirdly, all Muslim scholars have presented their understanding of the directives of Islam and in the light of their respective understandings, have placed the various actions in the categories of Halaal, Haraam, Makrooh etc. This placement and understanding is based on specific verses of the Qur’an and/or on teachings ascribed to the Prophet (pbuh). Obviously, if a person’s understanding or interpretation of a Qur’anic verse or of a saying ascribed to the Prophet (pbuh) differs from that of another person, then, as a corollary, there will exist a difference of opinion regarding the directives derived from such Qur’anic verse or saying ascribed to the Prophet (pbuh).
My difference of opinion with the four highly respected Muslim jurists should be seen in the light of the foregoing clarifications.
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Moiz Amjad
February 26, 2002
- For details, please refer to the question titled: “Some Questions regarding Adherence to a Particular Juristic School“, “Fully Adhering to a Particular Juristic School“, “Which Madhab (Muslim Juristic School) Do You Follow?” and “Subscribing to a Particular Juristic School“.
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