Fatwa ID: 01379

Answered by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah

Question:

Playing the Duff in praising Allah and his Messenger Sallallahu Alahi Wasalam

Answer:

In the name of Allah, the most Beneficent, the most Merciful.

Firstly, there are differences of opinions regarding the permissibility of using a duff in Islam.

The great companion Saaiduna Abdullah Bin Abbas said: The duff is haram, stringed instruments are haram, drums are haram and flutes are haram. (Sunan Baihaqi p.222 v.10) 

However during Eid, weddings or at the time of joyous occasions it is permissible to play the duff. For example it is narrated by Saaidah Aaisha that Saaiduna Abu Bakr entered upon her and there were two girls with her during the days of Mina beating the dyff, and the Prophet of Allah was covering himself with his garment. Saaiduna Abu Bakr rebuked them, and the Prophet of Allah uncovered his face and said, “Leave them alone, O Abu Bakr, for these are the days of Eid.” That was during the days of Mina. (Sahih Bukhari p.130 v.1) 

It is reported regarding Saaiduna Umar that if he heard the sound of a duff he would immediately send somebody to investigate it. If it was found to be the occasion of amarriage, he would not do anything. Otherwise he would forcefully stop the playing of the duff. (Fathul Qadeer p.389 v.6)

Regarding the question, whether it is permissible to use the duff when it comes to reciting the Quran or praising the Prophet of Allah , then the answer which can be found in Imam Ghazali “Ihyaul Uloom” where he states:

"Praising the Prophet of Allah is an ibadat. It is not permissible to do so with the duff which is an instrument of entertainment."

Only Allah Knows Best

Mohammed Tosir Miah

Darul Ifta Birmingham