In Islam, the topic of music is addressed through various hadiths (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad), though the Quran itself does not explicitly prohibit it. Interpretations vary among scholars, with some viewing most forms of music—especially with instruments—as forbidden (haram), while others permit it under certain conditions, such as if it avoids promoting sin or is used for spiritual purposes. The debate often centers on whether hadiths apply broadly or contextually, and many scholars note exceptions like the use of a tambourine (duff or daf) at weddings or celebrations. Below, I’ll outline key hadiths commonly cited, their explanations, and scholarly perspectives, drawing from reliable sources.

Key Hadiths Prohibiting or Warning Against Music

Several hadiths in major collections like Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, and Sunan Abu Dawud are frequently referenced to argue against music, associating it with sin, Satan, or moral decline. These are often interpreted as targeting idle entertainment that distracts from faith.

• Hadith on Musical Instruments Becoming Lawful: Narrated by Abu ‘Amir or Abu Malik Al-Ash’ari in Sahih Bukhari: “From among my followers there will be some people who will consider illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk, the drinking of alcoholic drinks and the use of musical instruments [ma’azif], as lawful. And there will be some people who will stay near the side of a mountain… Allah will destroy them during the night and will let the mountain fall on them, and He will transform the rest of them into monkeys and pigs and they will remain so till the Day of Resurrection.” 9 This is seen as a prophecy warning against a future where music (along with other sins) is normalized, leading to divine punishment. Scholars interpret “ma’azif” as referring to stringed or wind instruments, viewing it as a sign of societal corruption.
• Hadith on Bells as Instruments of Satan: Narrated by Abu Huraira in Sahih Muslim: “Allah’s Messenger said, ‘The bell is the musical instrument of the Satan.'” 9 Similar versions in Abu Dawud describe angels avoiding groups with bells, and Umar ibn al-Khattab cutting bells from a child’s ankles, calling each one accompanied by a devil. 9 This is explained as prohibiting percussive or ringing sounds linked to idolatry or distraction, extending to broader musical tools.
• Hadith on Punishments Involving Earthquakes and Deformity: Narrated by Anas in Al-Tirmidhi: “The Prophet said: In this Ummah there will be punishments of earthquakes, showers of stones and deformity; that will be when the people drink khamr [intoxicants], listen to female singers and play musical instruments.” 9 This ties music to collective divine retribution, interpreted as a consequence for indulging in singing and instruments.
• Hadith on Molten Lead (or Iron) in the Ears: A narration attributed to Ibn Abbas in al-Musannaf by Ibn Abi Shaybah states: “The punishment of the one who listens to singing is that molten lead will be poured into his ears on the Day of Resurrection.” 0 5 This is the one likely referenced in the viral video you posted, portraying severe afterlife consequences for listening to music. However, its authenticity is debated—some scholars classify it as weak (da’if) due to chain of narration issues, while others accept it as supporting evidence for prohibition.

Other collections, like the 40 Hadith on Music compiled by scholars, include prophecies such as: “When singing girls and musical instruments will become profuse and when liquor will be consumed (in abundance).” 5 These emphasize music’s role in end-times moral decay.

Hadiths Allowing Music in Specific Contexts

Not all hadiths are prohibitive; some show the Prophet permitting limited forms, often vocal or during joyous occasions, which supporters use to argue against blanket bans.

• Hadith on Singing Girls During Eid: Narrated by Aisha in Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim: The Prophet entered her home while two girls sang songs of Bu’ath (a pre-Islamic battle). When Abu Bakr objected, calling them “musical instruments of Satan,” the Prophet said, “Leave them.” He allowed it briefly but turned away or covered his face. 9 This is interpreted as permitting innocent vocal music or drumming on holidays, especially for children or women, but not as endorsement of instruments generally.

These exceptions are often cited to allow a cappella nasheeds (religious chants), melodic Quran recitation, or duff drumming at weddings. 10

Scholarly Opinions and Interpretations

Opinions differ across Sunni schools (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, Hanbali) and Shia traditions, influenced by hadith authenticity, context, and cultural factors. Classical scholars generally prohibit instruments except the duff, viewing music as leading to hypocrisy or sin. 9 8 For instance:

• The four Sunni madhhabs largely deem most music haram, with exceptions for noble content without instruments. 9
• Shia scholars unanimously declare all music, singing, and instruments haram, even if religious. 9 3
• Conservative sites like IslamQA affirm total prohibition based on Quran (e.g., avoiding “idle talk” in 31:6) and Sunnah. 8

Conversely, progressive and Sufi views permit music if it uplifts the soul or avoids lewdness. 10 2 Al-Ghazali argued in The Revival of the Religious Sciences that not all music is “frivolous talk,” and it can be therapeutic or spiritual. 10 Sufis use instruments in sama’ (listening sessions) for ecstasy and closeness to God, like whirling dervishes. 10 Modern fatwas from scholars like Ali Gomaa (former Grand Mufti of Egypt) and Muhammad Husayn Fadlallah allow it conditionally. 10 Some, like Maliki scholar Al-Fakihani, claim no strong evidence from Quran or authentic hadith for a total ban. 2

Overall, the majority traditional view leans toward prohibition for instrumental music, but vocal forms with positive intent are often debated as permissible. Interpretations depend on hadith grading (sahih vs. weak) and context, with no universal consensus. 6 7 If you’re referring to a specific hadith or school of thought, feel free to provide more details for deeper analysis.