The Ruling on Women Dancing and the Use of the Hand Drum at Weddings

Question:
Honorable Shaykh, he says: What is the ruling on women dancing at weddings with the use of the hand drum, and is it permissible for men to use the hand drum and listen to it at weddings?

Answer:
It is permissible for women, and indeed it is a recommended practice (sunnah) for women to play the hand drum and sing the customary songs that contain no melodic embellishment, no rhythmic distortion, no lewdness, and no instruments other than the hand drum. This is a recommended practice for the purpose of announcing the marriage. If we dance, it is permissible, provided it is not the dancing known today that is licentious. Licentious dancing is not permissible. However, modest dancing, with covering and decency, which is merely swaying among women with one another, as a display of joy and happiness, with the woman covering herself, is not the licentious dancing known today. There is nothing wrong with this; it is permissible, on the condition that this takes place within the circle of women and men do not see them. The use of the hand drum by men at weddings is not permissible, for this was specifically prescribed for women. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) only commanded the women to do this, and did not command the men to do so. It is specific to women. Yes.

The presenter:
May Allah reward you,