Question : A question was asked about the ruling of clapping when it is appropriate or in social gatherings.

Fatwa in Brief: Clapping is a manifestation of pre-Islamic ignorance; at the very least, it is disliked (makruh).

Shaykh Ibn Baz, Fatawa Mu‘asira, p. 67

Response:

Clapping at appropriate times is not worship and is not a means of drawing closer to God. It is a cultural tradition; and a way in which some people choose to express themselves when amazed or surprised by [or appreciative of] something. There is nothing that prohibits this [clapping] in Muslim law.

Commentary:

Those who draw close to God by whistling and clapping are wrong. This is pointed out by al-Qurtubi in his interpretation [of the Qur’an] (tafsir), when he criticizes the ignorance of the Sufis who dance and clap. [In his view] Such behaviour is contrary to the spirit of Islam, and in opposition to rational thought. It is the kind of behaviour that people used to do in their houses [before Islam enlightened them].

However, the type of clapping mentioned in this fatwa is not worship. Further, it does not suggest that anyone is attempting to draw closer to God. It is a cultural tradition; and a way in which some people choose to express themselves when amazed or surprised by [or appreciative of] something. There is nothing that prohibits this [clapping] in Muslim law. It is better, however, not to do it during celebrations that take place in the mosque. For, in this way, Muslims distinguish themselves from the unbelievers (kuffar).

Scholars mention that it is permitted to clap at times other than during prayer and the sermon (khutbah). There should first be a need for this, such as when someone wishes to seek permission [for a request], or wishes to alert someone, or to embellish a [Islamically permitted] song (nashid), or when women and children play. When there is no need for clapping, however, this practice is disliked (makruh).[1] 

And God knows best.

Dr. Anas Abu Shadi