Musical Instruments in Different Sufi Orders

الآلات الموسيقية في الطرق الصوفية المختلفة

النسخة العربية

English Version

Sufi orders (tariqas) differ in their views on music (samaʿ) and the use of musical instruments. There is no single uniform rule. Below is a summary of the main orders:

1. Chishtiyya (Chishti Order)

• Strongly associated with samaʿ and Qawwali, especially in South Asia.
• Common instruments in practice: Tabla, Dholak, Harmonium, Sitar, Sarangi, Ney, Daff/Dafli.
• Early masters set strict conditions (adult male singers, pure lyrics, pure intention). Some statements discouraged stringed instruments like chang and rabab, but later practice became more open.

2. Mevleviyya (Mevlevi / Whirling Dervishes)

• Music is central to the whirling ceremony (āyīn).
• Main instruments: Ney (reed flute – the most sacred), Kudüm (small kettledrums), Rebab, Tanbur, Bendir.

3. Naqshbandiyya

• Generally the most cautious order.
• Prefers silent or quiet dhikr. Musical instruments are usually avoided or strongly restricted.

4. Qadiriyya

• Varies by branch and region.
• Some branches use frame drums (daff) and percussion; others discourage musical samaʿ.

Important Spiritual Advice

If you use music and instruments as a Muslim, remember these essential points:

• Try to reduce non-vegetarian foods – a lighter diet helps keep the heart soft and the mind clear.
• Never ever take drugs – any intoxicant destroys the clarity and sincerity needed for true spiritual listening.
• Always value the truth – speak truthfully, act truthfully, and keep your intention pure. Music without truth of the heart is empty.

Music is only a means. The real goal is a purified heart turned toward Allah.