Understanding Halal and Haram in Islam

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Halal and Haram in Islam

Understanding Halal and Haram in Islam

In Islam, the concepts of Halal (permissible) and Haram (forbidden) are fundamental principles that govern various aspects of life. They go beyond mere dietary restrictions and encompass a holistic approach to ethical conduct, societal interactions, and spiritual fulfillment. Let’s explore these concepts and their significance in Islam.

Islam places great emphasis on the importance of consuming halal food. Muslims believe that consuming halal food is not only a religious obligation but also a way of life that promotes purity, cleanliness, and wholesomeness. Same goes with halal actions/deeds. In a nutshell halal actions and food is a way of life that promotes purity of mind, body and soul.

All Muslims desire to attain closeness to Allah, deepen their spiritual bond and achieve complete taqwa (God-consciousness). The Muslim’s spiritual life develops under many changing dynamics, and the level of spirituality or attainment of “taqwah” of a Muslim depends heavily upon various lifestyle factors (halal and in line with Islamic Shariah).

The body, mind, and spirit are all interconnected. Anything that affects the body, in turn, affects the mind and consequently affects the spirit. Thus, whatever negatively affects the mind and body is prohibited in Islam. This is one of the pearls of wisdom behind the prohibition of specific foods and drinks( e.g., alcohol, drugs, blood, swine, carrion, etc) and actions in islam.

You can also think of it as a GIGO effect i.e “Garbage In – Garbage Out”. So when the mind and body absorb the garbage of Haram, our connection to Allah SWT weakens. Shaytan gains greater control over us as our spiritual shield (aura) weakens, and our state of remembrance is hampered.

Consuming haram eliminates our inhibitions and shifts our focus away from the remembrance and obedience of Allah, which is the very purpose of our existence.

Allah enlightens us further in the following verse of the Qur’an as to the dangers of consuming not just food, but also intoxicants.

“The Shaytan only desires to stir up enmity and hatred between you by means of intoxicants and gambling, and hinder you from the remembrance of Allah and the prayer. So will you be of those who abstain?” (Al-Qur’an 5:91)

When we do not abstain from haram consumables, we allow ourselves to be influenced by the Shaytan which creates harm within our societies. The Prophet ﷺ is reported to have said:

“A person who consumes an intoxicant, their worship is not accepted for 40 days” (Jami ‘at-Tirmidhi)

Here, the term ‘Acceptance’ refers to reward. Thus, the Muslim in this case has fulfilled his duty of prayer, but he is not granted any reward for it. A severe recompense indeed.

Consuming haram, however, is not exclusive to eating or drinking, rather it encompasses any type of benefit that one can derive from a prohibited source. For instance, using wealth that was acquired unlawfully whether it be through stealing, force, usurious gain ( riba ), taxes on trade or the wealth of orphans are all matters that are considered as haram consumption. Another example is adultery (sex outside marriage) is haram in islam, declared an evil way which opens door to other evil acts and leads one to Hell Fire; unless we repent and Allah forgives. Allah warns in the following verse of the Qur’an.

“And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse (zina). Indeed, it is a shameful (deed) and an evil way” .(Al-Qur’an 17:111)

Quranic Foundation

The Quran is the holy book of Islam, considered the literal word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It contains divine injunctions that distinguish between what is permissible (Halal) and what is forbidden (Haram). The Quranic guidance covers matters of faith, worship, social ethics, and governance.

For example, Surah Al-Baqarah elucidates the dietary laws of Islam, prohibiting the consumption of intoxicants, blood, and the flesh of swine (2:173). The Quran emphasizes the importance of consuming what is lawful and wholesome, reflecting the underlying principle of purity and righteousness in all aspects of life. Similarly, Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:90–91) highlights the prohibition of gambling and the consumption of wealth acquired through illicit means.

“O mankind! Eat of what is lawful and good on the earth and do not follow the footsteps of Shaytan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.” – (Al-Quran 2:168)[i]

Quranic Foundation

The Sunnah comprises the teachings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). As the exemplar of ethical conduct, the Prophet’s life serves as a practical manifestation of the Quranic guidance. His sayings (hadith) and actions offer invaluable insights into the application of Halal and Haram in various spheres of life.

For instance, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of honesty and integrity in business transactions, stating, “The truthful and trustworthy businessman will be in the company of prophets, saints, and martyrs on the Day of Judgment” (Tirmidhi). Such teachings underscore the ethical imperative of upholding fairness and transparency in all dealings.

The Sunnah: Exemplifying Ethical Behavior

Halal principles extend beyond dietary restrictions to include the method of slaughter (Zabiha). This exemplifies the meticulous attention paid to the ethical treatment of animals and the sanctity of life in Islam. The prescribed method involves pronouncing the name of Allah (God) at the time of slaughter and ensuring the swift and humane death of the animal.

By adhering to the principles of Halal slaughter, Muslims affirm their commitment to ethical consumption and stewardship of the environment, reflecting the interconnectedness of faith and ethical conduct.

Dietary Laws: Beyond Meat and Methods of Slaughter

In addition to dietary laws, Halal and Haram govern various aspects of social conduct and interpersonal relationships. Islam emphasizes treating others with kindness, respect, and fairness, regardless of differences in race, religion, or socioeconomic status. Acts of dishonesty, deceit, or exploitation are deemed Haram and are antithetical to the teachings of Islam.

The Quranic injunction to “speak justice” and “stand firm as witnesses for Allah, even against yourselves or your parents and relatives” (4:135) underscores the ethical imperative of upholding truth and justice in all circumstances.

Ethical Conduct: Integrity in Interactions

Financial Transactions: Riba and Ethical Investment

Islam promotes equitable and just financial practices, free from exploitation and usury. The prohibition of riba (interest) reflects the ethical imperative of fairness and mutual benefit in financial transactions. Instead, Islam encourages trade, investment, and charitable giving as means of generating wealth and promoting socio-economic development.

Note: Going in depth into Islamic financing and trading is beyond the scope of this article. We recommend consulting an Islamic Scholar (mufti) for your particular case, for your own peace of mind and to stay on the righteous path. May Allah help and guide us all on the righteous path.

Halal & Haram Items and Actions:

There are two types of haram:

Al-haram-al-Datihi : — Prohibited because of its essence and harm it causes to an individual.

For example: Adultery(adultery is the extra marital sex), murder, theft.

Al-haram-al-gayrihi : — Prohibited because of external reasons that are not fundamentally harmful but are associated to something that is prohibited.

For example: Ill-gotten wealth obtained through sin. Examples include money earned through cheating, stealing, corruption, murder, and Interest, or any means that involve harm to another human being.

Foods which are prohibited to Muslims

consuming flowing blood is Haram
meats such as Pork, Dog, Cat, and other animals.
animals that die of themselves.
intoxicants such as alcohol.
Animals that are not slaughtered in the name of Allah.
Donkey meat.
Meat of animal with fangs.
Birds that have claws.
snake, scorpion, mice.
food made by any other religion other than Muslims, Christians, and Jews.

for more information, please consult a Scholar.

Actions which are prohibited in Islam

Allah S.W.T has mentioned in Quran;

“If you avoid the major (part) of what you have been forbidden (to do), We will cancel out for you your (other) evil deeds and will admit you (to Paradise) with a noble entry.” (Quran, 4:31)

In this verse, it is clearly mentioned that if we avoid Haram things and acts, Allah S.W.T will admit us into the Paradise.

Below is a list of actions Haram in Islam
Shirk: Shirk means unforgivable sin. There are 4 types of Shirk;
Believing there is another God Except Allah S.W.T
Believing Allah S.W.T has a son or Father
Believing that astrologers or other people have knowledge of future
Believing there is someone who has the powers Similar to Allah
Music
Drinking Alcohol and Gambling
Hitting oneself or another
Earning Interest
Men wearing silk or Gold

Slaughtering Animals without saying Allah’s name. In Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says: “And do not eat of that upon which the name of Allah has not been mentioned, for indeed, it is grave disobedience. And indeed do the devils inspire their allies [among men] to dispute with you. And if you were to obey them, indeed, you would be associates [of others with Him].” (Quran, 6:121)

Making tattoos are strictly prohibited in Islam
Suicide is also forbidden and is considered Haram in Islam

Forcing your spouse is one of the biggest sins you will ever commit. Our beloved Prophet (PBUH) has taught us to be very friendly with your Wife, even stated that make her your best friend. In one of His hadith Holy Prophet (SAW) said: “The best of you are those who are the best to their wives, and I am the best of you to my wives.” (Ibn Majah)

Fornication and adultery are considered major sins
Wrongly consuming the property of an orphan
Stealing
Giving and accepting bribes is also Haram
Treating others unjustly
Arrogance and pride
Making statues and pictures
Betrayal and cheating others
Offending one’s neighbor
Frequent lying
Using abusive language
Not paying Zakat

These were some forbidden actions that we should try to not commit for the sake of Allah Almighty. There are many others which are not mentioned above. May Allah give us the strength to stay away from these Haram actions! Ameen.

Ruqyah Services: Spiritual Healing and Protection

In addition to following the principles of Halal and Haram, seeking Ruqyah services can provide essential spiritual healing and protection. Ruqyah is an Islamic practice rooted in the recitation of Quranic verses and supplications for seeking cure and protection from various spiritual afflictions, including the evil eye, black magic, and jinn possession.

We offer professional Ruqyah services tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced practitioners provide personalized treatments, ensuring holistic well-being and spiritual balance. Seek spiritual healing and protection with Ruqyah to enhance your connection with Allah and safeguard yourself from negative energies.

Conclusion: Upholding Divine Guidance

Consuming haram food is very influential on the emotional and spiritual intelligence. Haram food can lead to the body’s tendency to do bad, and keep the souls and hearts away from calmness and peace. Even more, eating haram food is one of the causes of obstruction of prayer and closer to the torturing by hellfire.

Throughout our lives, we encounter matters of halal and haram on almost a daily basis. When these moments arise, we should strive to partake in only that which we have certainty of its permissibility. We should leave that which we know is wrong, and that which we have doubt in, we should refrain from until such a time that we are able to ascertain its religious judgment.

We ask Allah to accept and bless this small effort in benefiting the nation of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. May Allah keep us steadfast and protect us from all that is Haram, and Allah ﷻ knows best.