Is teaching chanting, historical overviews, musical personalities, and the technical aspects of music (such as drawing shapes and musical notation) - with the possibility of avoiding the teaching of musical instruments and limiting it to songs with noble meanings - forbidden, doubtful, or permissible? And if this work and its earnings are forbidden, what should I do? Knowing that I do not master anything else except this field, and I can switch to an administrative job after at least five years of teaching experience.
Summary of the Answer:
It is permissible to recite anasheed (Islamic vocalizations) that are free of musical instruments, provided their meanings are wholesome and consistent with Islamic creed and etiquette. However, it is not permissible to teach historical overviews of music unless its prohibition is also clarified. As for teaching the technical aspects related to music, such as drawing shapes or writing musical notes, it is forbidden; because it is either part of the prohibited act or an aid to it, based on the Almighty's saying: (And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression) Al-Ma'idah/2. It is obligatory to strive to seek employment that is far from teaching prohibited work, for whoever fears Allah, He will make for him a way out and provide for him from where he does not expect.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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