In the rich tradition of Islamic scholarship, many classical scholars have expressed caution—if not outright condemnation—toward music and its influence on the human soul. One of the most notable works on this topic is The Evils of Music: The Devil's Voice & Instrument, written by the renowned 14th-century Islamic scholar Imām Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah (691H–751H). This book explores the psychological, spiritual, and moral consequences of engaging in music, rooted in Quranic teachings, Hadiths, and scholarly analysis.
Who Was Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah?
Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah was a prominent Hanbali scholar, jurist, and theologian of the 14th century. A student of the legendary Ibn Taymiyyah, he is best known for his works on Islamic spirituality, law, and ethics. His writings are widely studied in traditional Islamic circles to this day.
The Core Message of The Evils of Music
In this book, Ibn Qayyim argues that music is not merely a form of entertainment but a spiritual danger. He refers to it as:
"The Devil’s Voice and Instrument"
This title alone reflects his position: music, in his view, acts as a distraction from the remembrance of Allah (dhikr) and the pursuit of a righteous path.
Key Themes and Arguments
1. Music and the Human Heart
Ibn Qayyim emphasizes that music softens the heart—but not in a way that leads to divine reflection. Instead, it evokes emotions tied to desires, love for the dunya (worldly life), and heedlessness.
2. Distraction from Worship
According to the author, excessive indulgence in music can lead individuals away from obligatory duties like prayer (salah) and Qur'an recitation. He presents the idea that music clouds the soul and creates spiritual negligence.
3. Association with Sinful Environments
The book highlights how music often accompanies gatherings involving unlawful behavior—such as drinking, dancing, and immoral speech. This association reinforces his view that music leads to sin.
4. Quranic and Prophetic Warnings
Ibn Qayyim cites several verses from the Qur'an and hadiths that warn against “idle talk,” which many scholars have interpreted to include music and singing. He also references the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ that caution against the widespread use of musical instruments.
Scholarly Perspectives: Unity and Diversity
While Ibn Qayyim’s stance is shared by many classical scholars—particularly in the Hanbali and Maliki schools—it is worth noting that other Islamic scholars have offered more nuanced views. Some allowed limited forms of music, especially when used for permissible or spiritually uplifting purposes. However, the consensus among traditional scholars leans toward caution and regulation.
Why This Book Still Matters Today
In an age of constant audio stimulation—from streaming services to social media—The Evils of Music forces a critical re-evaluation of our listening habits. The book calls Muslims to reflect on whether the sounds they consume bring them closer to Allah or further away.
The Evils of Music by Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah is more than a polemic against sound—it’s a spiritual guide urging believers to guard their hearts. Whether one agrees fully or partially with his position, the book opens a valuable discourse on how Muslims should interact with music in a modern context.
