Is It Permissible To Write Poetry And Listen To Nasheeds?

Question:

Is is permissible to write poetry and listen to nasheeds? Is there any rewards for doing so?

Answer:

Nasheeds and Islamic poetry serves to inspire one in her Iman and love for Rasulullah Sallallāhu Alayhi Wasallam. Rasulullah Sallallāhu Alayhi Wasallam used to seldom recite poetry and listen to poetry to encourage and inspire the Sahaba. The Sahaba used to also recite poetry in the battlefields to encourage and motivate each other. When listening or reciting Nasheeds and Islamic poetry the following should be considered:

• It should not contain music or any musical instrument, like beating of drums etc.
• The intention should be to be inspired in Deen. It should not be an entertainment or just listening to some good sound or tune.
• There should be moderation in saying Nasheeds and poetry. It is inappropriate to be obsessed and consume ones time only in reading and listening to Islamic poetry and Nasheeds.

The Nasheeds and poetry is not equivalent to Zikr of Allah, Durood, and Tilaawat of the Quran. These are the actual modes of Ibadah and not just a means to inspire.

And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best

Mufti Ebrahim Desai.

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