Q 2: What is the Islamic ruling on singing and music? I read in a book that they are Haram (prohibited) but the supporting Hadith is Da`if (weak).

A: Indeed, singing and music are Haram, for Allah (Exalted be He) says, And of mankind is he who purchases idle talks (i.e. music, singing, etc.) to mislead (men) from the Path of Allâh without knowledge The "idle talk" mentioned here is singing, as interpreted by many scholars. It is also related in "Sahih" Book of authentic Hadith by Al-Bukhari that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, At the end of time, there will be some people (Part No. 26; Page No. 223) who will consider illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk (for men), the drinking of Khamr (intoxicant) and the use of musical instruments as lawful. Allah will make the earth sink with them. The Prophet (peace be upon him) mentioned musical instruments with consuming Khamr, wearing silk for men and committing Zina (sexual intercourse outside marriage), which are all prohibited. This denotes that using musical instruments is strongly prohibited. Q 4: What the ruling on using singing for Da`wah (calling to Islam) purposes? A: Using singing as a means for Da`wah is invented by misguided Sufis and not by the followers of Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet). Singing is Haram and it is not permissible to make Da`wah depending on a prohibited means. Allah knows best. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.