Is listening to music, or playing games such as chess, dominoes, and cards for the purpose of entertainment and amusement, unlawful (haram)?
The most precious possession a person has is their time, especially the time of youth. Therefore, one should utilize it to draw closer to Allah and seek knowledge. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, urged us to seize five opportunities before five impediments: "Your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before your busy time, and your life before your death." Furthermore, health and free time are two blessings that many people fail to appreciate.
Therefore, one must utilize time in ways that bring them closer to Allah and benefit them in this world and the Hereafter, while permissible entertainment and recreation are allowed if they adhere to Islamic guidelines. They must not include anything forbidden, nor distract from an obligation, nor lead to corruption, nor exceed moderation. If the listened-to singing is permissible and does not consume excessive time, then there is no harm in it. As for forbidden singing, it is not permissible to listen to it.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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