🎶 Unveiling Mūsīqā: The Complex Legacy of Music in Islamic Culture
Definition and Etymology
Mūsīqā (موسيقا) translates to “music” in Arabic. The term seems to derive from the Syriac word “mūsīqī” (موسيقى), embodying a similar meaning.
Background
The relationship between Islam and music is intricate, characterized by theological debates and cultural diversities. Islamic texts provide various anecdotes and rulings about music, which engender varying interpretations among Muslim scholars.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Islamic cultures worldwide present a gamut of attitudes towards music:
- Ottoman Empire: Viewed music as a symbol of intellectual and cultural prestige.
- Persian Culture: Hid the roots of beloved poetry and instrumental music.
- Arab World: Produced some celebrated music genres such as qawwali and nashid.
Conversely, strict interpretations might view music as distasteful or conflicting with religious observances.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Nashid: A form of vocal music popular in the Middle Eastern Islamic practices.
- Sama: A Sufi spiritual concert including singing and listening to music.
- Tala’wwuḥ: Chanting or song meant for religious rhapsody.
Exciting Facts
- The golden age of Islamic civilization (8th to 14th centuries) saw a flourishing of musical development, with iconic instruments like the oud and qanun.
- Poets like Rumi engaged deeply with music within their religious practices, famously stating, “I am the servant of the Qurʾān as long as I live; but I shall associate myself with none but those who chant music.”
Quotations from Notable Writers
“All that is not your heart, contemplation, care or desire in music is said to be of no worth.” — ʿUmar ibn al-ʿFarīd
“A voice! A voice from the past, pure, silvery, sweet, dispensing peace and solace to souls oppressed.” — Khalil Gibran
References and Further Reading
- The Music of the Arabs by Habib Hassan Touma
- Music in the World of Islam by Ameneh Youssefzadeh
- Islam and the Performing Arts: Texts, Traditions, and Contexts by Anthony Shay
- The Persian Nightingale: Music, Politics, and the Limits of Artistic Freedom in Contemporary Iran by Roxane Haag-Higuchi
