Introduction
TV and movies are a big part of modern life. Whether it’s watching a show, a film, or an online video, most people spend hours in front of a screen. But as Muslims, we must ask: Is watching TV and movies allowed in Islam?
Islam teaches us to be careful about what we watch and how it affects our faith, time, and behavior. Some TV shows and movies can be Halal (permissible), while others can be Haram (forbidden). This guide will help you understand what Islam says about watching TV and films in a simple way.
Does Islam Allow Watching TV and Films?
Islam does not completely ban entertainment, but it teaches us to follow Halal (permissible) things and avoid Haram (forbidden) things.
Allah says in the Quran:
“And do not follow that of which you have no knowledge. Indeed, the hearing, the sight, and the heart – about all those [one] will be questioned.”
(Surah Al-Isra 17:36)
This means we should be careful about what we watch because Allah will question us about how we used our eyes, ears, and heart.
Related Article — Is Watching Movies Haram? Islamic Perspective & Guide
When Is Watching TV and Films Haram?
Watching TV and movies becomes Haram (forbidden) if they contain things that go against Islam. Here are some reasons why watching certain films and TV shows can be Haram:
1. If It Has Immorality (Nudity, Romance, or Indecency)
Many TV shows and movies have:
❌ Immodest clothing (revealing outfits)
❌ Romantic and inappropriate scenes
❌ Bad language and dirty jokes
Islam teaches us to lower our gaze and avoid looking at things that are inappropriate. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Modesty is part of faith.” (Bukhari, Muslim)
If a show or movie contains such things, it is best to avoid it.
2. If It Distracts From Prayer and Islamic Duties
If watching TV makes you miss Salah, stop reading the Quran, or forget about your Islamic duties, then it is harmful.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The two feet of the son of Adam will not move on the Day of Judgment until he is asked about… how he spent his time.” (Tirmidhi)
We must make sure that TV and films do not take us away from worship and good deeds.
Also Check — Top 10 Islamic Movies You Should Watch
3. If It Promotes Haram Ideas (Shirk, Kufr, or Magic)
Some TV shows and movies show:
❌ False gods and shirk (associating partners with Allah)
❌ Magic and supernatural powers
❌ Atheist ideas (denying Allah’s existence)
Allah warns us about magic and disbelief in the Quran:
“…But they do not harm anyone through it except by permission of Allah. And they learn what harms them and does not benefit them…”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:102)
If a movie promotes wrong beliefs, it can mislead Muslims, especially young people.
4. If It Contains Extreme Violence or Horror
Islam does not allow harming others, and watching violent or scary content can make people less sensitive to pain and suffering.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the people are safe.” (Bukhari)
Watching violent movies can lead to aggression, fear, and anxiety. It is better to avoid them.
Check Also — Top 10 Movies That Promote Good Moral Values
When Is Watching TV and Films Halal?
Not all TV and films are bad. Some are educational, informative, or entertaining in a Halal way.
1. If It Teaches Something Beneficial
Islam encourages seeking knowledge. Watching educational documentaries, Islamic lectures, and historical films can be a good way to learn.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim.” (Ibn Majah)
Some Halal TV options include:
✅ Islamic programs (Seerah, Quranic lessons)
✅ Documentaries (history, science, nature)
✅ Inspirational movies (real-life stories of good people)
2. If It Promotes Good Values
Movies or shows that encourage kindness, honesty, patience, and justice are positive.
Also Check — Bollywood vs. Hollywood: Which One is More Ethical in Islam?
Examples:
✅ Films about Islamic history
✅ Stories that teach family values
✅ Shows that promote kindness and honesty
3. If It Does Not Waste Time or Affect Faith
TV and films should not take up all your time. Watching too much entertainment can make people lazy and forgetful of Allah.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There are two blessings that many people waste: health and free time.” (Bukhari)
To avoid wasting time, follow these tips:
✔️ Watch only for a limited time
✔️ Choose content wisely
✔️ Make sure it does not affect your prayers
4. If It Has No Music or Inappropriate Content
Many scholars believe that musical instruments are not allowed in Islam. Some TV shows and films contain Haram music and lyrics. If possible, choose shows with minimal or no music.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There will be people from my nation who will regard as lawful… musical instruments.” (Bukhari)
If you must watch something with background music, try to mute it or find a better alternative.
Also Check — The Rise of Islamic Cinema
How to Watch TV and Films in a Halal Way?
If you want to watch TV or movies, follow these Islamic guidelines:
✅ Check the content first – Make sure it has no Haram elements
✅ Limit your time – Do not let it take away from important tasks
✅ Watch with family – Avoid watching alone to prevent bad choices
✅ Skip bad scenes – If you come across something inappropriate, mute or skip it
✅ Think before watching – Ask yourself: Will this bring me closer to Allah?
Alternatives to TV and Films
Instead of watching movies all the time, try these Halal alternatives:
⭐ Islamic documentaries – Learn about Islam and history
⭐ Audiobooks and podcasts – Listen to Islamic stories and knowledge
⭐ Reading books – Strengthen your faith through reading
⭐ Spending time with family – Strengthen family bonds
⭐ Outdoor activities – Appreciate nature and Allah’s creation
Also Check — What Islam Says About Music in Movies?
Conclusion: Should Muslims Watch TV and Films?
Watching TV and movies is not completely Haram, but it depends on what you watch and how it affects your life.
❌ If it contains nudity, bad language, violence, shirk, or distracts from Islam, it is Haram.
✅ If it is educational, Islamic, or promotes good values, it may be Halal.
The best advice is: If you are unsure, it is better to avoid it.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt.” (Tirmidhi)
As Muslims, we must always choose what is best for our faith and life. May Allah guide us to the right path, Ameen.
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