Can Muslims listen to music during Ramadan?
It depends. Listening to music doesn't break your fast, but scholars already differ on music in general, and Ramadan raises the bar. Even Muslims who normally listen to some music often take a break during this month to make more room for the Quran, dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and prayer.
Does music break the fast?
No. Your fast is broken by things like eating, drinking and intercourse during daylight hours, not by what you hear. So if you listened to a song in the car, you don't need to make up the day.
But the fast is about more than an empty stomach. The Prophet ﷺ said: "Whoever does not give up forged speech and evil actions, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink" (Sahih al-Bukhari 1903). Scholars explain that sins don't cancel the fast, but they can strip away much of its reward.
What scholars say about music in general
The majority of scholars in the four schools (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i and Hanbali) hold that musical instruments are not allowed, with exceptions such as the daf (a simple hand drum) at weddings and Eid. A minority of classical and modern scholars allow music with clean lyrics. Almost all agree that songs about alcohol, sex or disrespect are off-limits. For more detail, see Can I still listen to music after becoming Muslim?
Why Ramadan is different
Ramadan is the month the Quran was revealed (Quran 2:185), and the Prophet ﷺ spent it close to the Quran. Ibn Abbas reported that the angel Gabriel met him every night of Ramadan to review the Quran with him, and that he was more generous then than at any other time (Sahih al-Bukhari 1902).
So even if you follow the view that some music is allowed, Ramadan is a natural time to switch it off. The time and attention you free up can go to things that last.
Easy swaps for the month
- Quran recitation: listen to a reciter you love on your commute. See Can I listen to the Quran while driving or doing chores?
- Voice-only nasheeds: Islamic songs without instruments are widely accepted.
- Podcasts and short talks: a 10-minute reminder a day adds up over 30 days.
- Silence: quiet time for dua and reflection is part of Ramadan too.
If you find it hard to stop completely, cut back step by step rather than feeling guilty. A smaller, honest effort is better than giving up. After Ramadan, Eid is a day of joy with its own guidelines. See Can I play music and games on Eid?
- Music doesn't break your fast.
- Scholars differ on music; most restrict instruments.
- Ramadan is a month to focus on the Quran.
- Many Muslims pause music for the month.
People also ask
Can I wear deodorant while fasting?
Yes, you can wear deodorant while fasting. It stays on the skin and doesn't break your fast. Just avoid inhaling spray mist on purpose.
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