May I go to a children's birthday party where music is played?

Yes, there is no harm in it. Music plays almost everywhere today, and no one needs to turn down a friend’s invitation because of it.

A Muslim child is invited to a school friend’s birthday party. The child is delighted, but wonders whether it is allowed to go, since there will surely be music. The answer is simple. The child may go; there is no harm in it.

Music is part of everyday life today. It plays in the streets, in shops, in hotels and in many other places. It can hardly be avoided. If one stayed away from every place where music can be heard, one could hardly go anywhere at all. The second verse above reminds us that God does not ask anyone for more than they can bear.

Something else matters more. An invitation is a sign of friendship. Islam encourages treating people of other faiths with kindness and fairness, as long as they live in peace with us. The first verse above says so explicitly. Going to a birthday party, sharing in the joy and bringing a present shows this kindness in a very practical way.

Of course a Muslim child remains who they are at a party too. For example, they pay attention to what they eat and behave well. Parents can talk this through with them beforehand. Then the child can enjoy the party with a clear conscience while nurturing a good friendship.