short essay
Notes for Islamic Call to Prayer
The place of music in Islamic culture is no less diverse and complex than that of other cultures. Music plays a role in both secular and religious facets of life, and it is impossible to generalize about the incredible diversity of musical expression in the numerous cultures that have been most profoundly shaped by Islam.
The most universal form of sacred musical expression for Muslims is Qur’anic recitation, or the chanting of the holy Qur’an. Here again two main principles should be considered: the origins of the practice and its diverse manifestations as reflected in the wide variety of traditions emanating from disparate geographical and cultural contexts. Qur’anic recitation originates traditionally with the Prophet Muhammad and the Qur’an itself: “The Qur’an must be recited or chanted aloud and in a state of physical and spiritual purity. It must be recited slowly, deliberately, and rhythmically” (Q. 73:4). Despite this “musical” description, the recitation is not to be “sung” and it is not to be heard as entertainment. The prayers should be chanted with a character reflecting humility and in a sad voice.