What is the ruling on using the duff (frame drum)?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Testimonies
Primary text
The use of the duff is permissible for announcing marriages, evidenced by the Prophet's command: 'Announce the marriage and strike upon it with the duff.' This ruling is supported by a narration where the Prophet commanded a woman to fulfill her vow to strike the duff upon his safe return from a journey. Additionally, the practice of young girls striking the duff while reciting poetry during celebrations, even concerning historical events, was permitted by the Prophet.
Supporting text
The Shafi'i school and our associates deem the use of the duff to be disliked (makruh) outside of weddings. This is based on a report that Umar would investigate the source of a duff sound; if it was at a feast, he remained silent, but if otherwise, he would strike the person with a rod. However, the primary proof cited is that if it were disliked, the Prophet would not have commanded the woman to fulfill her vow involving it.