Is it Shirk to Be a Fan of Someone Who Uses the Word Idol?
Answered by Ustadh Nail Kadi
Question:
The use of the word “idol” is common in the entertainment industry today. Is it shirk to be a fan or consumer of their content?
Answer:
In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate
Although the word “idol” lexically/literally refers to man-made objects of worship which would entail polytheism (shirk), we use the word “idol” today for musicians metaphorically to emphasize the devotion of their fans. This devotion and commitment is not equivalent to polytheism (shirk). However, due to the potent nature of music, it often entails heedlessness (ghafla) and a waste of one’s gifts of sight, hearing, love, energy, free time, and more.
For a cautious reminder on the guidelines around music, see:
https://seekers.flywheelstaging.com/answers/general-counsel/is-listening-to-music-haram/
Our hearts have a limited capacity to behold the beauty around us, and we have a limited time on this planet, an average of 4,000 weeks.
The Prophet Muhammad (May Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said: “There are two blessings that many people are deceived into losing: health and free time.” (Bukhari)
And Allah knows best.
[Ustadh] Nail Kadi
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
