The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) entered upon her and there were two girls with her who were beating the duff. Abu Bakr scolded them, but the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Leave them, for every people has an 'Eid."
The Book of the Prayer for the Two 'Eids - Sunan an-Nasa'i 1593
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) entered upon her and there were two girls with her who were beating the duff. Abu Bakr scolded them, but the Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Leave them, for every people has an 'Eid."
Commentary on the Hadith
This narration demonstrates the permissibility of permissible recreation and celebration during festive occasions in Islam. The duff (a simple hand drum) is specifically mentioned as it is the only musical instrument generally permitted in Islamic law.
Abu Bakr's initial reaction stemmed from his piety and concern that such activities might be inappropriate in the presence of the Prophet. However, the Prophet's intervention clarifies that Islam recognizes the human need for celebration and joyful expression during 'Eid.
The statement "every people has an 'Eid" indicates that celebration is a natural human inclination that Islam regulates rather than prohibits entirely. Our 'Eid celebrations are distinguished by their compliance with Islamic guidelines - avoiding forbidden elements while allowing permissible forms of joy.
This hadith establishes the principle that what is customarily considered celebration among Muslims during 'Eid is permissible, provided it remains within the boundaries of Shari'ah and does not involve prohibited elements such as mixed gender gatherings or unlawful music.