Is Know The Ledge - Eric B. & Rakim Halal or Haram?

Across the schools of thought analyzed, the highest verdict for "Know The Ledge - Eric B. & Rakim" is Haram (1/5).

Is Know The Ledge - Eric B. & Rakim halal according to Sistani?

Haram (1/5). Under Ayatollah Sistani's framework, the primary test is whether the tune type is suitable for entertainment and amusement gatherings. 'Know The Ledge' features a high-tempo, driving breakbeat (sampled from Bob James' 'Nautilus') with an energetic bassline and drums, which is highly suitable for dance, parties, and entertainment venues. Furthermore, the lyrics explicitly promote and glorify several haram acts, including drinking alcohol ('forty's of beer') and severe gun violence. Sistani rules that if the music accompanying vocal tracks is suitable for entertainment gatherings, it is forbidden to listen to it, regardless of the listener's personal state or lack of arousal.

Is Know The Ledge - Eric B. & Rakim halal according to Khamenei?

Haram (1/5). Under Ayatollah Khamenei's framework, music is forbidden if it is 'lahwi' (deviating from the path of Allah and causing carelessness). This song fails the 3-component assessment: (1) it is lahwi due to its association with vanity and street culture; (2) it is mutrib (exciting) due to its aggressive, fast-paced rhythm; and (3) it is suitable for gatherings of amusement. Additionally, the song directly violates several of the five forbidden categories of entertainment from his Risaleh: it promotes sin (glorifying gun violence, murder, and drinking alcohol) and encourages illicit sexual behavior ('moan and groan until your moms come home'). Therefore, it is categorically prohibited.

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How Islamic rulings on music work · Sistani's ruling · Khamenei's ruling · How scores are calculated

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