The Taliban's Persecution of Fawad Andarabi and the Misunderstandings of Islamic Teachings on Music

Recently, the Taliban brutally killed a popular Afghan folk singer, Fawad Andarabi, just days after asserting that music is forbidden in Islam. This atrocity has brought to light misconceptions and misinterpretations of Islamic teachings, particularly those related to music. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the true Islamic stance on music, countering prevalent misconceptions with the original Quranic texts and scholarly interpretations.

The Quran and Music

Contrary to a popular narrative, Islam as a religion is not subject to a democratic process where beliefs are voted on. Islam is instead grounded in the teachings of the Quran and the practices (Sunnah) of the Prophet Muhammad. The Quran, the holy book of Islam, does not explicitly forbid music. It is important to understand that the Quran is the primary source of Islamic teachings, and human interpretations and declarations of what is forbidden must be verifiable and in line with the Quranic text.

The Quran emphasizes certain principles that guide human behavior, including the prohibition of polytheism and the promotion of good deeds. However, the Quran does explicitly state that fallible human beings should not declare things forbidden without clear evidence. This is an important distinction, as it differentiates between true Islamic teachings and subjective interpretations that may be influenced by personal biases or cultural norms.

The Role of Tradition and Scholarly Opinions

Many traditionalist interpretations of Islamic teachings, especially those pertaining to music, are often based on historical and cultural contexts. These interpretations, while influential, should not be considered as definitive without thorough examination of the Quran and the supportive Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad).

It is crucial to check back with the Quran whenever there is any doubt or misunderstanding about Islamic teachings. Numerous scholars have provided their interpretations based on the Quran and Hadith, with varied opinions on the permissibility of music. While many scholars from the Sunni tradition hold that musical instruments may be forbidden, the act of singing itself is generally permissible.

Regressing or Advancing? The Taliban's Promises

Speculations about the future of Afghanistan under Taliban rule suggest that the country may regress to the 7th century in terms of societal norms, particularly if social media continues to influence and propagate such extreme views. The Taliban have made promises, but these promises remain to be seen in practice. Nonetheless, it is important to note that the behavior of the current government and its regime should be judged based on concrete actions, not hollow statements.

True Islamic Teachings on Music

Music, when used for legitimate purposes and in moderation, is not inherently forbidden in Islam. Music that is used to celebrate happy occasions or for rejoice is encouraged according to many scholars. However, the use of music as a career or for entertainment purposes is not seen as a positive aspect in Islam. This is because the promotion of music can lead to undesirable behaviors such as dancing, which distracts from more constructive and morally sound activities.

Islam encourages the use of poetry and recitation of the Quran, which provide deep spiritual nourishment and provide a means to connect with the divine. These forms of expression are seen as more beneficial for the soul, as they align with the ultimate goals of self-reflection, self-improvement, and spiritual growth. In contrast, excessive engagement with modern music can lead to psychological and physical harm, as it often distracts from the realities of life and may contribute to a superficial and imbalanced way of living.

Conclusion

The tragic killing of Fawad Andarabi highlights the need to correct widespread misconceptions about Islam and the true teachings of the Quran. It is essential to revisit the Quran and consult with knowledgeable scholars to understand the nuanced and multifaceted nature of Islamic teachings, particularly those related to music. The Taliban's actions reflect not genuine Islamic teachings but rather the intolerant and extremist views of a select few individuals who misinterpret the religion to suit their purposes.

As the world watches the developments in Afghanistan, it is crucial to remember that true Islamic teachings advocate for peace, compassion, and respect for all forms of artistic expression. True Islamic teachings are much more vast and encompassing than the narrow and often harmful interpretations imposed by extremist groups like the Taliban.