The Effects of Clubbing

Quotes giving Islamic Perspective:

Jaabir (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (pbuh) said: “Whoever believes in Allah and the last day, should not sit at a table where wine is being served.”

Ibnul Quayyim Al Jowziyyah refers to music which accompanies dance as the “Qur`an of Shaytaan.”

Although the above quotes make it clear that, for Muslims, being in an atmosphere where there is music and alcohol (i.e. clubs) is haram, the statements will mean nothing to non-Muslims. Thus, for the negativity of clubbing to be portrayed to these people, it is only applicable that the adverse consequences of alcohol, drugs, and free mixing in certain environments, be portrayed.

Why do we go clubbing?

Clubbing is a major part of Western society, attracting people of all ages, cultures, religions etc. In some areas, there are Muslims who go clubbing, ignorant of the Islamic ruling on public displays of dancing.

The non-Muslims go to clubs for a “good time.” This definition, usually, encompasses getting pissed, pulling and getting laid. This is the basis for some Muslims to participate in such activities.

The Prophet (pbuh) said in an authentic narration:

“You will surely follow in the ways of those before you (Jews and Christians), inch by inch and step by step, so much so that if they were to enter a lizards hole, you would follow after them.”

It is easy to see the attraction of night-clubs: music, bright lights, free mixing and for those who drink, alcohol promos. The environment is hyped to such an extent that it is only inevitable for the individual to practically become addicted to the whole club scene.

So what goes on?

With the frantic atmosphere created by loud music, alcohol, availability of drugs, and free mixing, it is easy to lose ones state of mind. A person can be forced into situations that normally would be unthinkable to him/her. Peer pressure also has a role to play. No one clubs alone; there is usually a group. For males, impressing mates is a number one priority, so drinking alcohol in huge amounts, experimenting with drugs, and pulling as many girls as possible is part and parcel of the game. It does not matter what religion you are, what your beliefs and morals are. You may be able to resist temptation initially, but the more frequently your faced with an environment where anything goes, your guard will fall.

The woman at these clubs are barely clothed, some intoxicated, therefore vulnerable targets. There have been many cases reported of attempted rapes, especially down south. In fact, Brookside (channel 4 soap) has recently highlighted the issue of rape at a party where there were drugs and alcohol use.

People say “I’m not like that, I don’t do anything wrong when I go clubbing…” But, if we think to ourselves, what are the thoughts that go through our minds when we see a beautiful woman? Nobodies perfect, it is only human instinct to be attracted to the opposite sex (nowadays, even that’s debatable). So why put ourselves in an environment where these desires are only fuelled more, and could lead us to actions we may later regret…It is surely the Shaytaans work:

“No one is safe from his bewitching except whomsoever Allah wills. He makes good looking to him what harms him the most, until he imagines that it is the most beneficial act for himself. And he makes him flee from the most beneficial act until he thinks it is something harmful to him.”

Consequences of Drug use:

One of the main “DANCE DRUGS” is ecstasy. It is an effective stimulant, but also an effective killer. Overdosing can cause blurred vision, cardiovascular collapse and respiratory problems. So why is it so widely used in the club scene? What benefits do people gain? Apart from energising the body for a couple of hours, why risk your physical and mental well-being. Surely, you are not in control of your actions while intoxicated.

Extent people will go to!

This is not a huge problem for the non-Muslims, but it is clearly evident for the Muslims in western society. The majority of Muslim parents are opposed to their children being out at late hours, especially in such environments. But, in most cases the truth is concealed from them. Studying late, or staying over at a friend’s house are common excuses. If this does not work, sneaking out is also an option considered. Thus, the consequences of clubbing are reflected greatly in society. As far as non-Muslims are concerned, staying out till late, and on a regular basis, has been the cause of many domestic feuds between parents and kids.

Alternatives

For the Muslim, who would say, “I was only seeking relaxation and entertainment”, is it not more feasible to attain relaxation by standing up for Allah’s worship. Dancing does not fit into the category of worship, although in certain cases it is a religion for some people. The Insomnia song “God Is a DJ” highlights this point.

The non-Muslim may still see nothing wrong with clubbing, but just having fun. Some may even argue that it keeps them fit, but this burning of calories may be counteracted via a few vodkas, buds etc. Inevitably, it will be like walking up a glass hill to convince the non-Muslim about the haramness of clubbing, but alternatives such as aerobics, step classes etc can be suggested (dancing to music, but in a more healthy environment-a gym).

Regarding females, the dress issue must be greatly stressed. Why do they wear such short skirts, and tight tops? Do they not find it degrading? Or are they deliberately drawing attention to their bodies. Do they not realise that there are people out there who may get the wrong impression and try to take advantage, especially if they are under influence of drugs and alcohol (impaired perceptions, increased confidence =not scared to pursue what they want). Thus, ask them: is it worth it?

Conclusions

Sadly, some people take their position on dancing from a number of islamically invalid sources, most commonly the Biblical verse:

“Let them praise his name in dance: Let them sing unto him with the timbrel and harp.” Psalms, (149:3)

Who is being praised in a club?

Understandably, it all comes down to personal choice. We as Muslims, can only point out the negativity in clubbing, but then again we must reiterate that there are Muslims involved in this lifestyle as well, and not just the non-Muslims.

The increasing number of such places will just add to the problem further.

So, without coming across to the non-Muslims as if looking down on them for clubbing, it is probably best to acknowledge their reasons for going, and then explaining the bad things to them (previously discussed).

As far as the free mixing is concerned, explanations should be offered as to respect for woman, and how woman are respected greatly in Islam (heaven is at the feet of your mother). Again, non-Muslims will argue that it is only natural to talk to the opposite sex. Thus, the point of decency in the conversation, and a clean state of mind must be stressed.

Remember, it is harder to tell people what to think, but easier to tell them what to think about. So, even if people are not drastically affected, at least you have raised awareness to the alcohol, drugs etc. problems.

This Islam awareness day, is an opportunity for us to educate the non-Muslims, and ourselves as well. We should not judge people as who are we to judge. Instead, we should listen to people’s views and guide them towards the path of Allah (swt).