Is listening to Qawwali Haram?
The permissibility of Qawwali in Islam is a topic that has generated diverse opinions among scholars. As a Sunni Islamic scholar who favors Qawwali, I present the following comprehensive argument to demonstrate that Qawwali is not haram and is permissible under specific conditions:
Understanding Qawwali
Qawwali is a form of devotional music associated with Sufism, aimed at inducing a spiritual state and bringing listeners closer to the Divine. It often includes praises of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and revered saints, along with themes of love and devotion.
The Nature of Music in Islam
Qur'an and Hadith on Music:
- There is no explicit prohibition of music in the Qur'an. Verses that mention "idle talk" (Luqman 31:6) have been interpreted by some as referring to music, but this interpretation is debated.
- The Hadith literature contains both positive and negative references to music. For example, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) allowed the singing of songs during Eid and weddings (Sahih al-Bukhari, 949).
Classical Scholars’ Views:
- Imam Al-Ghazali: He argued that music itself is neutral and its ruling depends on the content and the effect it has on individuals. In his "Ihya' 'Ulum al-Din," he states that music that incites good feelings and reminds one of Allah is permissible.
- Imam Ibn Hazm: In "Al-Muhalla," Ibn Hazm argues that there is no evidence to declare music haram, as long as it does not lead to sinful behavior.
The Sufi Perspective
Sufism emphasizes the inner, spiritual dimensions of Islam. Sufi practices, including Qawwali, are aimed at deepening one's connection with Allah. Sufi scholars like Jalaluddin Rumi and Amir Khusro have endorsed the use of music and poetry as a means to achieve spiritual enlightenment.
Conditions for Permissibility
- Content: The lyrics should not contain anything contrary to Islamic teachings. They should focus on themes of love for Allah, the Prophet, and the righteous.
- Context: Qawwali should be performed in settings conducive to spiritual reflection, avoiding environments of vice and immorality.
- Intent: The intention behind listening to or performing Qawwali should be to draw closer to Allah, not for mere entertainment.
Supporting Evidence
Historical Precedent:
- Sufi Orders: Many respected Sufi orders (Tariqas), such as the Chishti and Qadiri orders, have a long tradition of using Qawwali as part of their spiritual practices.
- Respected Sufi Saints: Saints like Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya and Hazrat Moinuddin Chishti have endorsed and popularized Qawwali as a means of spiritual elevation.
Modern Scholars:
- Shaykh Hamza Yusuf: He acknowledges the nuanced view on music and emphasizes the importance of context and content in determining its permissibility.
- Mufti Muhammad Shafi: In his work "Maariful Quran," he states that if music leads to beneficial outcomes and does not cause harm, it can be considered permissible.
Conclusion
Based on the examination of classical and contemporary scholarly views, the historical practice of Sufi saints, and the conditions under which Qawwali is performed, it is evident that Qawwali can be permissible in Islam. It is essential to ensure that the practice aligns with Islamic principles of morality, spirituality, and devotion to Allah. Thus, Qawwali, when approached with the right intention and under appropriate conditions, is not haram and can serve as a powerful tool for spiritual growth and connection with the Divine.