Entered upon her and there were two girls with her beating the duff and singing, and the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was covered with his garment. He uncovered his face and said: "Let them be there, O Abu Bakr, for these are the days of 'Eid." Those were the days of Mina and the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) was in Al-Madinah on that day."
The Book of the Prayer for the Two 'Eids - Sunan an-Nasa'i 1597
This narration from 'Aishah (may Allah be pleased with her) describes the Prophet's ﷺ permissibility of permissible recreation during the days of Eid, demonstrating the balanced nature of Islamic law that accommodates human nature while maintaining spiritual consciousness.
Scholarly Commentary
The scholars explain that the Prophet's ﷺ covering with his garment indicates his state of rest and spiritual retreat, yet he permitted the musical activity recognizing the celebratory nature of Eid. This shows that recreational activities containing no unlawful elements are permissible during festive occasions.
The specification "days of Mina" refers to the days of Tashreeq (11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah) when takbeer is prescribed. The Prophet's ﷺ presence in Medina while referring to "days of Mina" indicates these days share the same celebratory ruling regardless of location.
Abu Bakr's initial objection stemmed from his piety, but the Prophet's ﷺ correction teaches us the principle of contextual permissibility - what might be discouraged at other times becomes permissible during Eid to manifest the joy and gratitude Allah has prescribed for these blessed days.
Legal Rulings Derived
Permissibility of singing and playing the duff (frame drum) for women during Eid celebrations.
The distinction between general times and festive occasions in evaluating recreational activities.
The importance of manifesting legitimate joy during Eid as an expression of gratitude for Allah's blessings.
The permissibility of women's gatherings with musical instruments that are specifically permitted (like duff) without mixed gatherings.