Answered by Shaykh Abdul-Rahim Reasat
Question
What is the Islamic perspective of glossolalia, or “speaking in tongues”?
Also, Christians or Jews have things that refer to Allah generally, for example, the Christian song “Kumbayah.” The lyrics are just about asking for God’s help. Is this blasphemous?
Answer
I pray you are well.
Given that glossolalia is either an unknown language or one that is supposedly ascribed to the Divine, it would be impermissible to use it or engage in any activity that involves it. We have been told to shun the practices of other religions.
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Whoever imitates a people he is one of them. “[Abu Dawud]. This refers to the imitation of their religious practices, as scholars have pointed out. [‘Itr, I’lam al-Anam]
Given this, one should also avoid singing Kumbaya, even if the lyrics are not ostensibly problematic. We have a rich tradition of song and poetry in Islam and many beautiful compositions to the same effect, such as Imam Haddad’s famous poem “My Loving Lord’s knowledge has sufficed me. “
It is better to engage in these poems and songs. Better for your faith and better for your soul. May Allah grant you the best of both worlds.
[Shaykh] Abdul-Rahim
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani