Historical Background of Declaring Loudspeakers Prohibited
Written by: Waqar Akbar Cheema◈ Islamic Matters and Modern Technology
Disagreements have continually arisen over the use of modern technology in Islamic matters.A commonly held opinion is that "scholars oppose all forms of progress," especially when it comes to the issue of declaring loudspeakers prohibited.
However, a detailed examination of this matter makes it clear that the scholars are not against modern technology itself, but rather oppose careless imitation and unethical usage.
◈ The Scholars and the Issue of Loudspeakers
At one point in time, loudspeakers were declared prohibited. This verdict was issued by the renowned scholar Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi (رحمه الله).These rulings are compiled in Imdad al-Fatawa, Volume I, which was edited by Mufti Shafi Usmani (رحمه الله).
The following details are important in reference to Maulana Thanvi’s fatwa:
✿ The First Fatwa and Its Basis
① The First Ruling:In Ramadan 1346 AH (February 1928), Maulana Thanvi (رحمه الله) declared the loudspeaker prohibited.
This stance was reaffirmed in Dhul-Hijjah 1346 AH (May 1928).
② Basis of Misunderstanding:
This opinion was formed at a time when very limited information was available about the device.
It was mistakenly equated with the gramophone, which was predominantly used for music at that time.
③ Prohibition in Worship:
Due to ambiguity surrounding its use, the loudspeaker was considered unsuitable for prayers.
◈ Consulting Experts
Maulana Thanvi (رحمه الله) sought expert consultation to further investigate the matter.These experts included both Muslims and non-Muslims, whose names are listed in Imdad al-Fatawa:
- Syed Shabbir Ali (M.A., Professor, Department of Science, Aligarh)
- Birj Nandhar (B.Sc., Alexander High School, Bhopal)
✿ Expert Opinion and Change in Ruling
① Expert Clarification:Once the experts explained that the loudspeaker merely amplifies sound rather than producing or recording it, its use was permitted in activities outside of worship.
② Subsequent Research:
In Muharram 1357 AH (March 1938), Maulana Thanvi (رحمه الله) allowed the use of loudspeakers for sermons, though he still advised avoiding them during prayer.
◈ The Role of Mufti Shafi (رحمه الله)
Following Maulana Thanvi’s demise, Mufti Shafi (رحمه الله) revisited the fatwa.After the establishment of Pakistan, experts at Radio Pakistan clarified that the loudspeaker does not record but only amplifies sound.
Based on this clarification, Mufti Shafi (رحمه الله), in 1953, declared the use of loudspeakers during Salah permissible.
◈ The Scholars’ Cautious Approach
The scholars adopted a careful and reserved approach, and their rulings were based on the limited knowledge available at the time.Once the truth became evident, they revised their earlier opinions, demonstrating intellectual integrity.
In matters of worship, decisions are made with the utmost caution, to avoid compromising foundational principles.
✔ Key Points Summary
❶ The initial fatwa was based on limited knowledge and was later revised in light of new research.❷ The scholars gave importance to expert opinion and withdrew their stance once the truth became clear.
❸ The principle of caution in worship reflects the scholars’ practical wisdom.
❹ Mufti Shafi’s (رحمه الله) research played a vital role in declaring the use of loudspeakers permissible in Salah.
