Revising The Fiqh of Khamr and Alcohol: Ethical Use from an Islamic Perspective
Abstract
This article provides a thorough examination of the intricate understanding of al-Khamr (inebriating beverages) and al-Muskir (inebriating substances) within Islamic jurisprudence. It highlights their profound significance for Muslims, touching upon various facets of daily life such as food, household, personal care, culinary arts, industry, and medicine. In today's world, where alcoholic beverages and alcohol-based products are widespread, there is considerable confusion among Muslims regarding their permissibility under Islamic principles.
This article aims to elucidate the precise definitions and attributes of al-Khamr and al-Muskir, explore the religious decrees governing their consumption, and address the challenges arising from aligning Quranic descriptions of al-Khamr with the prevalent use of alcohol and ethanol-based substances. Moreover, the discussion extends to the implications of ethanol-based non-beverages as al-Mufsid (harmful substances), elucidating the permissions and limitations regarding their non-medical and medical use. It will illustrate that khamr is distinct from ethanol and that all non-beverage ethanol products are permissible for utilization in various spheres, including food preparation, household chores, personal hygiene, culinary pursuits, industrial applications, and medicinal uses.
These products are considered ritually clean even without invoking the principle of ʿumūm al-balwā (widespread adversity). Through this discourse, readers will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the Islamic stance on intoxicating substances, armed with invaluable principles to navigate contemporary consumption practices in alignment with Islamic teachings.
Shaykh Rafāqat Rashid
JKN Fatāwa Department
Al Balagh Academy Department of Sharīʿah
www.albalaghacademy.org
Attested by Shaykh Muftī Saiful Islām
JKN Fatāwā Department
www.jknfatawa.co.uk
May 2024, Dhu’l-Qaʿdah 1445 AH
Contents:
1. Introduction
2. Context and Purpose for Prohibiting al-Khamr
3. Definitions and Description of al-Muskir and al-Khamr
4. Rulings of al-Khamr and al-Muskir
5. Application to Modern-Day Context
6. Comparing Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol) with al-Khamr: Understanding the Relationship
7. The Ethanol Production Process and the State of Khamr
8. Definition and Effects of Neurotoxic Substances (Al-Mufsid)
9. Processes which Relinquish Khamr Status
10. Ethanol-based Solutions in light of Various Applications
11. Dispensation for Use of Ethanol and ‘Umūm al-Balwā
12. Dispensation in Rulings Related to Non-Medical and Medical Use
13. Conclusion and Summary Table
Introduction
In today's world, characterised by the widespread availability of alcoholic beverages and alcohol containing products, there arises significant ambiguity concerning their permissibility within Islamic teachings. Negotiating matters of religious adherence, personal conduct, and self-care regarding alcohol-based substances used in food, household, personal care, culinary arts, industry, and medicine demands a thorough comprehension of the intricacies surrounding al-Khamr (inebriating beverages like wine) and al-Muskir (inebriating substances) for Muslims. Many Muslims encounter challenges in reconciling the Quranic descriptions of al-Khamr with the consumption of alcohol or ethanol, which are prevalent in contemporary products.
This article aims to clarify these matters by delving into the definitions and descriptions of al Muskir and al-Khamr and elucidating the rulings surrounding their consumption according to Islamic jurisprudence. It will explore the application of these rulings in contemporary society and address the relationship between ethanol (ethyl alcohol) and al-Khamr, shedding light on their similarities and differences.
Furthermore, this article will examine the concept of al-Mufsid, neurotoxic substances, and their relevance to discussions surrounding the permissibility of certain alcohol-based substances in Islamic law. It will explore dispensations in rulings related to both non-medical and medical use, offering insights into when exceptions may apply.
By the end, readers will thoroughly grasp the Islamic stance on intoxicating substances, armed with invaluable application principles. A summary table at the end will enhance usability, providing a concise reference guide for effortless navigation and comprehension. Through this exploration, we aim to offer clarity and guidance to Muslims navigating the intricacies of modern-day ethanol based product consumption within the bounds of Islamic teachings.
