Clapping and whistling

Q 2: Please advise concerning the ruling of Shari`ah (Islamic law) on men clapping hands in case of emergency or happiness.

A: If something good happens to a person and brings them happiness, they should pronounce Tasbih (saying: "Subhan Allah [Glory be to Allah]"), Takbir (saying: "Allahu Akbar [Allah is the Greatest]"), praise Allah and thank Him for His blessings, hoping to have more of them. If a person admires another for their talk, advice or way of recitation, and the people mention that person, they should praise them moderately, supplicate to Allah for them and encourage them to do forms of goodness. A man should not clap his hands if something happens during Salah (Prayer) or at any other time; clapping is prescribed for women only, and the Prophet (peace be upon him) told us this as a general rule.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.