What is the ruling on using two-dimensional pictures in teaching children, as well as incorporating music into their education?

There is no objection to using two-dimensional drawings in children’s education, as Islamic law permits the making of children’s toys even when they are in the form of statues. Moreover, these drawings are merely two-dimensional representations and, therefore, do not fall within the scope of the warning of punishment mentioned in connection with the condemnation of image-making and image-makers. Rather, the condemnation is intended for the makers of statues and idols. It is a well-established principle that the rulings of Islamic law are based on the true nature of things and not on their names.

Likewise, there is no objection to using music for educational purposes, as music is merely sound created by Allah Almighty through the contact between physical objects—whatever is good in it is good, and whatever is bad in it is bad. Music is prohibited only when it is used as a means to what is prohibited or to anything that incurs the anger of Allah Almighty.

And Allah Almighty knows best.