Category: Food Drink

Muslim food and Drink Guide

  • Meat

    Allah says:

     O mankind! Eat of that which is lawful and good on the earth, and follow not the footsteps of Shait�n (Satan). Verily, he is to you an open enemy. (Quran 2.168)

      O you who believe (in the Oneness of Allah – Islamic Monotheism)! Eat of the lawful things that We have provided you with, and be grateful to Allah, if it is indeed He Whom you worship. (Quran 2.172)


    Narrated. Abu Huraira. The Prophet said, “Eating any fanged beast of prey is prohibited” (reported by Muslim).
    Muslim reported the aforesaid hadith from Ibn Abbas narration with this version: “He prohibited.”And he added “And every bird with claws.”
    Narrated Jabir: “On the day of khaibar, Allah’s Messenger forbade the flesh of domesticated asses, but permitted horse flesh (Agreed Upon).”
    Narrated Ibn Abu Aufa We went on seven expedition with Allah’s Messenger and we ate locusts. (Agreed Upon).
    Narrated Anas regarding the story of the hare: he (Abu Talha) slaughtered it and sent its haunch to Allah’s Messenger (SAW) and he accepted it. (Agreed Upon).
     
    Narrated Ibn Abu Ammar. I asked jabir, “Is hyena a game ?” He replied, “Yes.” I asked “Did Allah’s Messenger say that?” He replied, “Yes.” (Reported by Ahmad and Al-Arba’a. Al-Bukhari and ibn hibban graded it Sahih)
    Narrated Ibn umar:”Allah’s Messenger prohibited eating or drinking the milk of the animal which feeds on filth (Al-Arba’a except An-Nasa’i reported it. At-Tirmidhi graded it hasan).”
    Narrated Abu Qatada regarding the Zebra’s story; the Prophet ate from it. (Agreed upon)
    Narrated Abdur-Rahman bin utman Al-Qurashi: “A physician consulted Allah’s Messenger (about extracting medicine from frogs and he prohibited killing them. ” (Ahmad reported it; Al-Hakim graded it Sahih).
    Narrated Ibn Abbas: The sand lizard was served as food on the table of Allah’s Messenger .(Agreed Upon)
    Any four -hoofed, flesh-eating beat of prey is forbidden and similarly any birds nibbling at its prey with the grip of its talons is forbidden.
    Hare is permissible according to the majority of scholars.
    According to this Hadith a hyena is permissible. According to some imams it is permissible were as according to some others it is forbidden. Their reason being that hyena like to feed on human flesh and therefore digs into the graves. The dabb (a kind of sand lizard) was never eaten by The Prophet (SAW) himself, but his companions did eat it before him while eating off his dining sheet. He was invited to eat it , but refused partaking of it but did not forbid the people around him to eat it.
     
    Al-Bukhaari (5558) and Muslim (1966) narrated that Anas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) sacrificed two horned black and white rams. I saw him placing his foot on their sides, and he said the name of Allaah and he said takbeer, then he slaughtered them with his own hand. 
     
    O people! Allah is Tayyib (Pure and Good) and only accepts that which is Tayyib. Allah has indeed commanded the believers with what He has commanded the Messengers, for He said: (O (you) Messengers! Eat of the Tayyibat and do righteous deeds.

    Verily, I am well-acquainted with what you do) (23:51), and: (O you who believe! Eat of the lawful things that We have provided you with) He then mentioned a man, (who is engaged in a long journey, whose hair is untidy and who is covered in dust, he raises his hands to the sky, and says, `O Lord! O Lord!’ Yet, his food is from the unlawful, his drink is from the unlawful, his clothes are from the unlawful, and he was nourished by the unlawful, so how can it (his supplication) be accepted”) It was also recorded by Muslim and At-Tirmidhi


    After Allah mentioned how He has blessed His creatures by providing them with provisions, and after commanding them to eat from the pure things that He has provided them, He then stated that He has not prohibited anything for them, except dead animals. Dead animals are those that die before being slaughtered; whether they die by strangling, a violent blow, a headlong fall, the goring of horns or by being partly eaten by a wild animal. Dead animals of the sea are excluded from this ruling, as is explained later, Allah willing, as Allah said:
    (Lawful to you is (the pursuit of) watergame and its use for food) (5:96), and because of the Hadith about the whale recorded in the Sahih. The Musnad, Al-Muwatta’ and the Sunan recorded the Prophet saying about the sea:
    (Its water is pure and its dead are permissible.)
    Ash-Shafi`i, Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and Ad-Daraqutni reported that Ibn `Umar said that the Prophet said:
    (We have been allowed two dead things and two bloody things: fish and locusts; and liver and spleen).
    We will mention this subject again in Surat Al-Ma’idah (chapter 5 in the Qur’an), In sha’ Allah (if Allah wills).
    Issue: According to Ash-Shafi`i and other scholars, milk and eggs that are inside dead unslaughtered animals are not pure, because they are part of the dead animal. In one narration from him, Malik said that they are pure themselves, but become impure because of their location. Similarly, there is a difference of opinion over the cheeses (made with the milk) of dead animals. The popular view of the scholars is that it is impure, although they mentioned the fact that the Companions ate from the cheeses made by the Magians (fire worshippers). Hence, Al-Qurtubi commented: “Since only a small part of the dead animal is mixed with it, then it is permissible, because a minute amount of impurity does not matter if it is mixed with a large amount of liquid.” Ibn Majah reported that Salman said that Allah’s Messenger was asked about butter, cheese and fur. He said:
    The allowed is what Allah has allowed in His Book and the prohibited is what Allah has prohibited in His Book. What He has not mentioned is a part of what He has pardoned.)
    Allah has prohibited eating the meat of swine, whether slaughtered or not, and this includes its fat, either because it is implied, or because the term Lahm includes that, or by analogy. Similarly prohibited are offerings to other than Allah, that is what was slaughtered in a name other than His, be it for monuments, idols, divination, or the other practices of the time of Jahiliyyah. Al-Qurtubi mentioned that `A’ishah was asked about what non-Muslims slaughter for their feasts and then offer some of it as gifts for Muslims. She said, “Do not eat from what has been slaughtered for that day, (or feast) but eat from their vegetables.”
    Then Allah permitted eating these things when needed for survival or when there are no permissible types of food available. Allah said: (But if one is forced by necessity without willful disobedience nor transgressing due limits), meaning, without transgression or overstepping the limits,
    (…then there is no sin on him.) meaning, if one eats such items, for,
    (Truly, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.)
    Mujahid said, “If one is forced by necessity without willful disobedience nor transgressing the set limits. For example, if he didn’t, then he would have to resort to highway robbery, rising against the rulers, or some other kinds of disobedience to Allah, then the permission applies to him. If one does so transgressing the limits, or continually, or out of disobedience to Allah, then the permission does not apply to him even if he is in dire need.” The same was reported from Sa`id bin Jubayr. Sa`id and Muqatil bin Hayyan are reported to have said that without willful disobedience means, “Without believing that it is permissible.” It was reported that Ibn `Abbas commented on the Ayah:
    (. ..without willful disobedience nor transgressing) saying, “Without willful disobedience means eating the dead animal and not continuing to do so. Qatadah said:
    (without willful disobedience) “Without transgressing by eating from the dead animals, that is when the lawful is available.”
    Issue: When one in dire straits finds both ـ dead animals, and foods belong to other people which he could get without risking the loss of his hands or causing harm, then it is not allowed for him to eat the dead animals. Ibn Majah reported that `Abbad bin Shurahbil Al-Ghubari said, “One year we suffered from famine. I came to Al-Madinah and entered a garden. I took some grain that I cleaned, and ate, then I left some of it in my garment. The owner of the garden came, roughed me up and took possession of my garment. I then went to Allah’s Messenger and told him what had happened. He said to the man:
     
    (You have not fed him when he was hungry – or he said starving – nor have you taught him if he was ignorant.)
    The Prophet commanded him to return `Abbad’s garment to him, and to offer him a Wasq (around 180 kilograms) – or a half Wasq – of food
    This has a sufficiently strong chain of narrators and there are many other witnessing narrations to support it, such as the Hadith that `Amr bin Shu`ayb narrated from his father that his grandfather said: Allah’s Messenger was asked about the hanging clusters of dates. He said:

    (There is no harm for whoever takes some of it in his mouth for a necessity without putting it in his garment.)
    Muqatil bin Hayyan commented on:
    (…then there is no sin on him. Truly, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.) “For what is eaten out of necessity.” Sa`id bin Jubayr said, “Allah is pardoning for what has been eaten of the unlawful, and Merciful’ in that He allowed the prohibited during times of necessity.” Masruq said, “Whoever is in dire need, but does not eat or drink until he dies, he will enter the Fire.” This indicates that eating dead animals for those who are in need of it for survival is not only permissible but required.
    174. Verily, those who conceal what Allah has sent down of the Book, and purchase a small gain therewith (of worldly things), they eat into their bellies nothing but fire. Allah will not speak to them on the Day of Resurrection, nor purify them, and theirs will be a painful torment). (175. Those are they who have purchased error at the price of guidance, and torment at the price of forgiveness. So how bold they are (for evil deeds which will push them) to the Fire). (176. That is because Allah has sent down the Book (the Qur’an) in truth. And verily, those who disputed as regards the Book are far away in opposition).
     
    Allah says
    Forbidden to you (for food) are: Al-Maytatah (the dead animals – cattle-beast not slaughtered), blood, the flesh of swine, and the meat of that which has been slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allah, or has been slaughtered for idols, etc., or on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering, and that which has been killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by the goring of horns – and that which has been (partly) eaten by a wild animal – unless you are able to slaughter it (before its death) – and that which is sacrificed (slaughtered) on An-Nusub (stone altars). (Forbidden) also is to use arrows seeking luck or decision, (all) that is Fisqun (disobedience of Allah and sin). This day, those who disbelieved have given up all hope of your religion, so fear them not, but fear Me. This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion. But as for him who is forced by severe hunger, with no inclination to sin (such can eat these above-mentioned meats), then surely, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.
     They ask you (O Muhammad ) what is lawful for them (as food ). Say: “Lawful unto you are At-Tayyibat [all kind of Halal (lawful-good) foods which Allah has made lawful (meat of slaughtered eatable animals, milk products, fats, vegetables and fruits, etc.)]. And those beasts and birds of prey which you have trained as hounds, training and teaching them (to catch) in the manner as directed to you by Allah; so eat of what they catch for you, but pronounce the Name of Allah over it, and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is Swift in reckoning.”
     (Quran 5:3-4)
     Muslim recorded that Buraydah bin Al-Husayb Al-Aslami said that the Messenger of Allah said”He who plays Nardshir (a game with dice that involves gambling) is just like the one who puts his hand in the flesh and blood of swine”


    Ibn Kathir said IT is recorded in the Two Sahihs that the Messenger of Allah said” Allah made the trade of alcohol, dead animals, pigs and idols illegal.) The people asked, “O Allah’s Messenger! What about the fat of dead animals, for it was used for greasing the boats and the hides; and people use it for lanterns” He said, No, it is illegal.

    Allah says
    O you who believe (in the Oneness of Allah – Islamic Monotheism)! Eat of the lawful things that We have provided you with, and be grateful to Allah, if it is indeed He Whom you worship.
    He has forbidden you only the Maytatah (dead animals), and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that which is slaughtered as a scrifice for others than Allah (or has been slaughtered for idols, etc., on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering). But if one is forced by necessity without wilful disobedience nor transgressing due limits, then there is no sin on him. Truly, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful
    (Quran 2:172-173)
     
    Narrated. Abu Huraira. The Prophet said, “Eating any fanged beast of prey is prohibited” (reported by Muslim).
    Muslim reported the aforesaid hadith from Ibn Abbas narration with this version: “He prohibited.”And he added “And every bird with claws.”
    Narrated Jabir: “On the day of khaibar, Allah’s Messenger forbade the flesh of domesticated asses, but premitted horse flesh (Agreed Upon).”
    Narrated Ibn Abu Aufa We went on seven expedition with Allah’s Messenger (and we ate locusts. (Agreed Upon).
    Narrated Anas regarding the story of the hare: he (Abu Talha) slaughtered it and sent its haunch to Allah’s Messenger and he accepted it. (Agreed Upon).
    Narrated Ibn Abbas :”Allah’s Messenger prohibited the killing of four creatured: aunts, bees, hoopoes and strikes.” (Reported by Ahmad and Abu Da’ud. Ibn hibban graded it Sahih)
    Narrated Ibn Abu Ammar. I asked jabir, “Is hyena a game ?” He replied, “Yes.” I asked “Did Allah’s Messenger say that?” He replied, “Yes.” (Reported by Ahmad and Al-Arba’a. Al-Bukhari and ibn hibban graded it Sahih)
    Narrated Ibn umar:”Allah’s Messenger prohibited eating or drinking the milk of the animal which feeds on filth (Al-Arba’a except An-Nasa’i reported it. At-Tirmidhi graded it hasan).”
    Narrated Abu Qatada regarding the Zebra’s story; the Prophet ate from it. (Agreed upon)
    Narrated Abdur-Rahman bin utman Al-Qurashi: “A physician consulted Allah’s Messenger about extracting medicine from frogs and he prohibited killing them. ” (Ahmad reported it; Al-Hakim graded it Sahih).
    Narrated Ibn Abbas: The sand lizard was served as food on the table of Allah’s Messenger .(Agreed Upon)
    Any four -hoofed, flesh-eating beat of prey is forbidden and similarly any birds nibbling at its prey with the grip of its talons is forbidden.
    Hare is permissible according to the majority of scholars.
    According to this Hadith a hyena is permissible. According to some imams it is permissible were as according to some others it is forbidden. Their reason being that hyena like to feed on human flesh and therefore digs into the graves. The dabb (a kind of sand lizard) was never eaten by The Prophet (SAW) himself, but his companions did eat it before him while eating off his dining sheet. He was invited to eat it , but refused partaking of it but did not forbid the people around him to eat it.
    ============
     
    Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) hated the smell of garlic, and said: “Whoever eats anything from this unpleasant plant should not approach us in the mosque.”

    The people said, “It has become haraam (forbidden), it has become haraam.”

    When the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) heard what was being said, he said: “O people, it is not for me to forbid something that Allaah has permitted; this is just a vegetable whose smell is unpleasant.” (Reported by Ahmad and Muslim, 877).

  • Gold and Silver Utensils

    The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) issued a stern warning about using such vessels. Umm Salamah reported that he said: “The one who eats or drinks from a vessel of gold or silver is putting fire from Hell into his stomach.” 
    (Reported by Muslim, 3/1634).

    Scholars say this ruling applies to every kind of vessel or utensil that is made of gold or silver, such as plates, forks, spoons, knives, trays on which food is offered to guests, boxes of sweets which are given to wedding guests, and so on.

  • Prophets diet

    1. When he put his hand in the food, he would say, “Bismillaah (in the Name of Allah), and he told people to say this when eating. He said, “When any one of you eats, let him mention the name of Allah. If he forgets to mention the name of Allah at the beginning, let him say Bismillaahi fi awwalihi wa aakhirihi (in the name of Allaah at its beginning and at its end).” Saheeh hadeeth, narrated by al-Tirmidhi (1859) and Abu Dawood (3767).
    2. When he raised the food to his mouth, he would say, “Al-hamdu Lillaahi hamdan katheeran tayyiban mubaarakan fihi ghayri makfiyyin wa laa muwadda’ wa laa mustaghni ‘anhu Rabbanaa ‘azza wa jall (Allaah be praised with an abundant, beautiful, blessed praise. He is the One Who is Sufficient, Who feeds and is never fed, The One Who is longed for, along with that which is with Him, and the One Who is needed. He is Our Lord, may He be glorified). Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5142).
    3. He never criticized food at all. If he liked it, he would eat it, and if he did not like it, he would leave it and not say anything. Narrated by al-Bukhaari (3370) and Muslim (2064).
    4. Sometimes he would praise the food, as when he asked his family for food, and they said, “We have nothing but vinegar.” He asked for it and started to eat it, saying, “What a good food is vinegar.” Narrated by Muslim (2052)
    5. He used to talk whilst he was eating, as is seen from the report quoted above about vinegar.
    6. He would repeatedly urge his guests to eat, as generous hosts do, and as is seen in the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah, narrated by al-Bukhaari, about the story of drinking milk, where he repeatedly said to him, “Drink!” and he kept telling him to drink until he (the guest) said, “By the One Who sent you with the truth, I have no more room for it!” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (6087).
    7. When he ate with others, he would not leave until he had made du’aa’ for them. He made du’aa in the house of ‘Abd-Allah ibn Bisr, and said: “O Allah, bless for them that which You have provided for them, forgive them and have mercy on them.” Narrated by Muslim (2042).
    8. He commanded people to eat with their right hands and forbade them to eat with their left hands. He said, “The Shaytaan eats with his left hand and drinks with his left hand.” Narrated by Muslim (2020). This implies that eating with the left hand is haraam, and this is the correct view, because the one who eats with his left hand is either a shaytaan (a devil), or he is imitating the Shaytaan.
    9. He commanded those who complained that they never felt full to eat together and not separately, and to mention the name of Allah (say Bismillaah) over the food so that He might bless it for them.” Narrated by Abu Dawood (3764) and Ibn Maajah (3286).
    10. It was also reported that he said, “I do not eat reclining.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5083.
    11. He used to eat using the first three fingers (of his right hand), which is the best way of eating.

    See: Zaad al-Ma’aad, 220-222. And Allaah knows best.

    1. The Prophet’s guidance regarding diet:
    1. The Prophet  (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to know what he was eating.
    2. He used to eat what was good for him.
    3. He used to eat enough to keep him going, but no so much as to make him fat. Ibn ‘Umar narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The believer eats in one stomach whilst the kaafir eats in seven.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5081) and Muslim (2060).
    4. He taught his ummah something to protect them from diseases caused by eating and drinking. He said: “The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach. It is sufficient for the son of Adam to eat a few mouthfuls, to keep him going. If he must do that (fill his stomach), then let him fill one third with food, one third with drink and one third with air.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi (1381), Ibn Maajah (3349); classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah (2265).

    more to be added

  • The Islamic Etiquettes of eating and drinking.

    In this Article I will describe the etiquette of eating and drinking in Islam by both oneself and whilst attending a dinner invitation.


    Firstly it is always better to try to eat with others if that is possible because Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), said: “Gather around your food so that it may be blessed.” (Abu Dawood and Tirmidhi).


    If one is invited for food then he should go by himself (unless it is a family invitations). If you want to bring a friend then you should seek the hosts permission first. Abu Mas’ud Al-Badri, may Allah be pleased with him, said : “A man invited Allah’s Prophet peace be upon him, to a meal along with four other people. A man followed the Prophet. At the door, the Prophet peace and Blessings of Allah be upon him, said to the host which meaning of is translated as: “This man has come with us: If you’d permit, he will come in; if not he will go back.” The host said: I give him my permission, O Allah’s Messenger.” (Bukhari & Muslim).


     As a guest you should not criticize the food by saying it is things such as it is of poor quality or poor taste etc. If you are do not like it just do not eat it. Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) never criticized any food. If he liked it he would eat it and if he did not like it he would leave it. (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3370; Muslim, 2046)

     Also if you are a guest ask what the dish is as the Prophet peace be upon him used to ask. It may not be something which you may find repulsive or may even be allergic too.
     Khaalid ibn al-Waleed said that he and the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) entered upon Maymoonah, who was his [Khaalid’s] maternal aunt and the maternal aunt of Ibn ‘Abbaas, and found that she had some roasted lizard that her sister Hafeedah bint al-Haarith had brought from Najd. She offered the lizard to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), but he would rarely stretch forth his hand to food until he had been told what it was. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) stretched forth his hand, then one of the women who were present said, “Tell the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) that what has been offered to him is lizard.” The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) withdrew his hand from the lizard, and Khaalid ibn al-Waleed asked, “Is lizard haraam, O Messenger of Allaah?” He said, “No, but it is not found in the land of my people and I feel that I would have no liking for it. Khaalid said, Then I chewed it and ate it, and the Messenger of Allaah was looking at me. (Bukhari)


    As a host you Muslim host should be hospitable to his hosts. You should not be offended if the guests do not like your food. If the do then you should encourage them to eat because Abu Hurayrah told a story about drinking milk, where the Prophet repeatedly said to him, “Drink!” and he kept telling him to drink until he (the guest) said, “By the One Who sent you with the truth, I have no more room for it!” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (6087).

    A Muslim must not not eat nor drink from vessels made of silver or gold. the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Do not wear silk or brocade (specific to men only), and do not drink from vessels of gold and silver, or eat from plates thereof. They are for them in this world and for us in the Hereafter.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5426; Muslim, 2067)


    Also Umm Salamah reported that the Prophet said: “The one who eats or drinks from a vessel of gold or silver is putting fire from Hell into his stomach.” (Reported by Muslim, 3/1634).

    A person can talk whilst eating obviously whilst using common sense as to not looking bad because Abu Hurayrah said: One day some meat was brought to the Messenger of Allaah (S) and the foreleg, which he used to like, was offered to him. He took a bite, then he said: “I will be the leader of mankind on the Day of Resurrection. Do you know why that is? … Then he quoted the lengthy hadeeth about intercession. (al-Bukhaari (3340) and Muslim (194)

     
    A Muslim should not recline whilst eating because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I do not eat whilst I am reclining.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5399).
     

    It is recommended for a Muslim sit whilst eating and drinking. But on some occasions one may need to stand or walk whilst drinking or eating


     It is narrated from Anas and Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) forbade drinking whilst standing. (Muslim 2024, 2025)

    The Hadiths below prove that on occasions one may need to stand whilst drinking and walk whilst eating and in such circumstances it is allowed but if there is no need then one should sit.


       Ibn Mas’ood (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: I brought water to the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) from Zamzam and he drank whilst standing. Al-Bukhaari (1637) and Muslim (2027)

      It is narrated that ‘Ali ibn Abi Taalib (may Allaah be pleased with him) drank whilst standing, and the people looked at him as if they objected to that. He said: “What are you looking at? If I drink whilst standing, I saw the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) drink whilst standing, and if I drink sitting, I saw the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) drink whilst sitting.” Ahmad (797) Ahmad Shaakir said in Tahqeeq al-Musnad: its isnaad is saheeh. (also similar hadith report narrated in bukhari 5615)

     Ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “We used to eat at the time of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) whilst walking, and we used to drink whilst standing.” Al-Tirmidhi (1881)  Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi.

     
    When getting ready to eat you should wash your hands to remove any dirt. Before you start to eat you should say “Bismillaah (in the name of Allaah) and eat with your right hand. If you forget to mention Bismillah at the beginning then say Bismillaahi awwalahu wa aakhirahu (In the name of Allaah at the beginning and at the end). Start eating the food that is directly in front of you and not from from the middle nor from someone else’s plate. If you have injury and cannot use your right hand or only have one hand then Allah does not burden a person beyond their means and there would be no sin in eating with left hand. If you are drinking from a large vessel which requires two hands to lift then (and only then) you use both hands to drink something. The Sunnah whilst eating food is to use three of the right hand fingers.


    It is a habit of Muslims in one particular Muslim country to hold a glass of water with their left hands and lift it to their mouth and push the glass or left hand with right hand to enable the water to go into their mouths. This is not allowed and haram. They do this because they do not want to make the glass greasy. When they see someone eating rice with a spoon they will brag that they are doing a Sunnah by eating with their hands rather than a spoon and how pious they are for doing that. Reality is the trying to trick Allah by doing this and they are disobey a command of the Prophet peace be upon him to eat and drink (i.e. He commanded us to eat and drink with our right hands) whilst following a non commanded Sunnah. They would be better of letting the glass get greasy and washing it latter or if they still have an issue about grease then use a spoon rather than disobey the Prophet peace be upon him using trickery.
     
    When a man ate with his left hand in his presence, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “Eat with your right hand.” He said, “I cannot.” He said, “May you never be able to!” Nothing was stopping him but his stubborn arrogance, and he never raised his right hand to his mouth after that. (Reported by Muslim, 3776). According to a report narrated by al-Daarimi, “his right hand never reached his mouth”. This man suffered paralysis because of the du’aa’ of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him).


    It was narrated from Jaabir ibn ‘Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said: “Do not eat with the left hand, for the Shaytaan eats with the left hand.”

    Narrated by Muslim, 2019.

    It was narrated from Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said: “When one of you eats, let him eat with his right hand, and when he drinks, let him drink with his right hand, for the shaytaan eats with his left hand and drinks with his left hand.”

    Narrated by Muslim, 2020


     It was narrated from Umm Kalthoom from ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When any one of you eats, let him mention the name of Allaah. If he forgets to mention the name of Allaah at the beginning, then let him say ‘Bismillaahi awwalahu wa aakhirahu (In the name of Allaah at the beginning and at the end).’” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1858; Abu Dawood, 3767; Ibn Maajah, 3264. Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Sunan Abi Dawood, 3202).


    And ‘Umar ibn Abi Salamah said: I was a young boy in the care of the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), and my hand used to wander all over the platter (of food). The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to me, “O young boy, say Bismillaah, eat with your right hand, and eat from what is directly in front of you.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3576; Muslim, 2022).


     It was narrated from Ibn ‘Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “No one among you should eat with his left hand, or drink with it, for the Shaytaan eats with his left hand and drinks with it.” (Narrated by Muslim, 2020).


      Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said to ‘Umar ibn Abi Salamah, “O young boy, say Bismillaah, eat with your right hand, and eat from what is directly in front of you.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3576; Muslim, 2022).


    Ibn ‘Abbaas narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The blessing descends in the middle of the food, so eat from the edges and do not eat from the middle.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1805; Ibn Maajah, 3277. Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 829).
    .
    Also do not breath or blow into a dish. If the food is too hot just let it cool down by itself. One should not waste food if a piece of food falls on the floor you should remove the dirt from it and eat it. Some of you may have seen videos from countries affected from draught were the children search for grains of food on the soil.
    Ibn Abbas the Prophet peace and bleassings of Allah be upon him, said which meaning of is translated as: Forbade breathing or blowing into the dish. (Al Tirmidhi).
     
    Anas ibn Maalik narrated that when the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) ate, he would lick his three fingers. Anas said: “And he said, ‘If any one of you drops a piece of food, let him remove any dirt from it and eat it, and not leave it for the Shaytaan.’ And he commanded us to clean the plate, and said, ‘For you do not know where in your food the blessing is.’” (Narrated by Muslim, 2034).


    A Muslim should not be greedy and should eat in moderation. A Muslim should divide his stomach into 3 parts. One third for drink one third for food and one third for air.
    Ibn ‘Umar narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The believer eats in one stomach whilst the kaafir eats in seven.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5081) and Muslim (2060).


    Prophet peace be upon him said: “The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach. It is sufficient for the son of Adam to eat a few mouthfuls, to keep him going. If he must do that (fill his stomach), then let him fill one third with food, one third with drink and one third with air.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi (1381), Ibn Maajah (3349); classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah (2265)


    Ibn ‘Umar narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The believer eats in one stomach whilst the kaafir eats in seven.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5081) and Muslim (2060).


     After eating one should praise Allah and make dua.


    It was narrated from Anas ibn Maalik that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allah is pleased with His slave when he eats something and praises Him for it, or drinks something and praises Him for it.” (narrated by Muslim, 2734).
    The following duas can be said.


    Abu Umaamah said: When the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) finished eating, he would say, “Al-hamdu Lillaah hamdan katheeran mubaarakan fihi ghayra makfiyyin wa laa muwadda’in wa laa mustaghnan ‘anhu rabbana (Praise be to Allaah, much good and blessed praise. O our Lord, You are not in need of anyone, and we cannot do without Your favour nor dispense with it).” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5458).


     Ibn Hajar said: “ ‘ghayra makfiyyin (You are not in need of anyone)’ means that He has no need of any of His slaves but He is the One Who feeds His slaves and suffices them.”


    And whenever he ate food other than milk, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) would say, “Allaahumma baarik lana fihi, wa at’imna khayran minhu (O Allaah, bless it for us and feed us with better than it).” And when he drank milk he would say, “Allaahumma baarik lana fihi wa zidna minhu (O Allaah, bless it for us and give us more.).” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 3377; classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 381).

     
    Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever is fed by Allaah, let him say, ‘Allaahumma baarik lana fihi, wa at’imna khayran minhu (O Allaah, bless it for us and feed us with better than it).’ And whoever is given milk to drink by Allaah, let him say, ‘Allaahumma baarik lana fihi wa zidna minhu (O Allaah, bless it for us and give us more)’.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 3455; classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 2749).
     
     It was narrated from Mu’aadh ibn Anas that his father said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever eats some food then says, ‘Al-hamdu Lillaahi allahi at’amani haadha wa razaqnihi min ghayri hawlin minni wa laa quwwata (Praise be to Allaah Who has fed me this and provided me with it with no power or strength on my part),’ his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 3458; Ibn Maajah, 3285; classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 3348).


    It was narrated that Abu Ayyoob al-Ansaari (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “When the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) ate or drank anything, he would say, ‘Al-hamdu Lillaah alladhi at’ama wa saqaa wa sawwaghahu wa ja’ala lahu makhrajan (Praise be to Allaah Who has given food and drink,made it easy to swallow and provided an exit for it).’” (Narrated by Abu Dawood, 3851 and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani).


    It was narrated from ‘Abd al-Rahmaan ibn Jubayr that a man who served the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) for eight years told him that he used to hear the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) saying, when food was brought near him, “Bismillaah.” And when he had finished eating he would say, “Allaahumma at’amta wa asqayta wa hadayta wa ahyayta, fa laka’l-hamd ‘ala ma a’tayta (O Allaah, You have fed, given to drink, guided and brought to life, so praise be to You for what You have given).” (Narrated by Ahmad, 16159; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah, 1/111)
     
    If you are eating at a hosts house then you should pray for him or her.


     Anas narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came to Sa’d ibn ‘Ubaadah who brought him some bread and oil, and he ate. Then the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “May fasting people break their fast with you, may the righteous eat your food, and may the angels send blessings upon you.”
    (Narrated by Abu Dawood, 3854; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Sunan Abi Dawood, 3263).
     
    It is recommended to to wash hands and rinse mouth after eating


    Basheer ibn Yassaar narrated that Suwayd ibn al-Nu’maan told him that they were with the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in al-Sahba’ – which is some distance from Khaybar – and the time for prayer came. He called for food, but he did not find anything but some saweeq (barley mush). So he ate some and we all ate with him. Then he called for water and rinsed out his mouth, and then he prayed, and we prayed, and he did not do wudoo’.
    (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5390).


    The above are the Islamic Etiquettes of eating and drinking. there is a final point which is concerns hosting a meal. You should be aware that people countries different to you may have habits which might be against Islamic Etiquettes or may be in compliance but may seem rude if one does not understand the reasons behind then

    For instance in Arab countries it is part of an etiquette to for the host to hasten to offer food. It is also part of etiquette for the guests to hasten to start eating on being offered food so as to honour the guest to reassure the guest that the food is good and that they are not just saying that the food looks nice to be polite. This also is in line with Islamic etiquettes. Unfortunately those who do not know the reasons behind this rush to the food may find it strange or even very bad manners.

    One should also be aware that many Muslim countries have old non Islamic etiquettes of hosting a dinner.

    For instance in the western Part of one  Muslim country the Muslims there have pre-Islamic customs were the host lays out all the food in a room and the host does not eat with the guests. He in fact leaves the guests and only returns when the guests have finished eating. If the guests do not eat his food he will get very offended. This is not Islamic etiquettes and needs to be changed but it will take time

    In  the Eastern part of the same country the hosting etiquettes are opposite and very unIslamic or at least they used to. For instance a person goes to their house. The host is obliged to offer food. If he does not the guests will find him an uncultured person. The guests however are obliged to refuse and the host is supposed to keep asking and the guests keep refusing and this carries on for a while until finally the guests are supposed to say agree. If they say yes on the first occasion then they are considered greedy guests. Then when they sit down for the meal the guests are only supposed to eat when the guests asks them to please take the food and even they they are not supposed to rush to the food. In addition they are not supposed to eat too much or they will be labelled as greedy. All this is against the etiquettes of Islamic way of hosting. They need to change their habits.

  • Alcohol

    Allah says :

    “O you who believe! Intoxicants (all kinds of alcoholic drinks), and gambling, and Al-Ansaab (stone altars for sacrifices to idols etc) and Al-Azlaam (arrows for seeking luck or decision) are an abomination of Shaytaan’s (Satan’s) handiwork. So avoid (strictly all) that (abomination) in order that you may be successful”

    [al-Maa’idah 5:90]

    “And come not near to unlawful sex. Verily, it is a Faahishah (i.e. anything that transgresses its limits: a great sin), and an evil way that leads one to hell unless Allaah forgives him”

    [al-Isra’ 17:32].

    Al-Bukhaari narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said: “No adulterer is a believer at the time when he is committing adultery; no thief is a believer at the time when he is stealing; no drinker of wine is a believer at the time when he is drinking it.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari (5578) and Muslim (57).

    Allah says :

    “If you avoid the great sins which you are forbidden to do, We shall expiate from you your (small) sins, and admit you to a Noble Entrance (i.e. Paradise)”

    [al-Nisa’ 4:31].

    It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) used to say: “The five daily prayers, from one Jumu’ah to the next, and from one Ramadaan to the next, are an expiation for whatever (sins) come in between, so long as one avoids major sins.” Narrated by Muslim (233).

    Allah says :

    “And those who invoke not any other ilaah (god) along with Allaah, nor kill such person as Allaah has forbidden, except for just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse”

    [al-Furqaan 25:68].

    The Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) cursed ten with regard to alcohol: the one who squeezes it (the grapes etc), the one for whom it is squeezed, the one who drinks it, the one who carries it, the one to whom it is carried, the one who pours it, the one who sells it, the one who consumes its price, the one who buys it and the one for whom it is bought.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1259; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani.

    Al-Nasaa’i (5666) narrated that ‘Uthmaan (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “Avoid alcohol for it is the mother of all evils. There was a man among the people who came before you who was a devoted worshipper. A seductive woman fell in love with him, and she sent her slave-woman to him to call him to bear witness. He went with the slave-woman, and every time they passed through a door, she locked it behind them, until he reached a beautiful woman with whom was a child and a vessel of wine. She said, ‘I did not call you to bear witness, rather I called you either to have intercourse with me, or to drink a cup of this wine, or to kill this child.’ He said, ‘Pour me some of this wine.’ So she poured him a cup, then he said, ‘Give me more,’ and he did not stop until he had has intercourse with her and killed the child. So avoid alcohol, for by Allaah faith and addiction to wine cannot be combined except soon one of them will be expelled.”

    Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Nasaa’i.

    And those who invoke not any other ilaah (god) along with Allaah, nor kill such person as Allaah has forbidden, except for just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse __and whoever does this shall receive the punishment.

    1. The torment will be doubled to him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein in disgrace;
    2. Except those who repent and believe (in Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds; for those, Allaah will change their sins into good deeds, and Allaah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful
    3. And whosoever repents and does righteous good deeds; then verily, he repents towards Allaah with true repentance”

    [al-Furqaan 25:68-71]

    Abu Dawood (3674) and Ibn Maajah (3380) narrated that Ibn ‘Umar said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “May Allaah curse wine, the one who drinks it, the one who pours it, the one who sells it, the one who buys it, the one who squeezes (the grapes etc), the one for whom it is squeezed, the one who carries it and the one to whom it is carried.” Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood.

    Al-Tirmidhi (1295) narrated that Anas ibn Maalik said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) cursed ten with regard to wine: the one who squeezes (the grapes etc), the one who asks for it to be squeezed, the one who drinks it, the one who carries it, the one to whom it is carried, the one who pours it, the one who sells it and consumes its price, the one who buys it and the one for whom it is bought.

    Alcohol is the mother of all evils, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told us. Narrated by al-Tabaraani in al-Awsat; classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’.

    Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

    “O you who believe! Intoxicants (all kinds of alcoholic drinks), and gambling, and Al-Ansaab (stone altars for sacrifices to idols, jinn, etc), and Al-Azlaam (arrows for seeking luck or decision) are an abomination of Shaytaan’s (Satan’s) handiwork. So avoid (strictly all) that (abomination) in order that you may be successful”

    [al-Maa’idah 5:90]

    It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The one who is addicted to alcohol is like one who worships an idol.” Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 3375; classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh Ibn Maajah, 2720.
    It was narrated from Abu’l-Darda’ that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “No one who is addicted to alcohol will enter Paradise.” Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 3376; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani as stated in Saheeh Ibn Maajah, 2721.
    It was narrated that ‘Uthmaan (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “Avoid alcohol for it is the mother of all evils. There was a man among the people who came before you who was a devoted worshipper. A seductive woman fell in love with him, and she sent her slave-woman to him to call him to bear witness. He went with the slave-woman, and every time they passed through a door, she locked it behind them, until he reached a beautiful woman with whom was a child and a vessel of wine. She said, ‘I did not call you to bear witness, rather I called you either to have intercourse with me, or to drink a cup of this wine, or to kill this child.’ He said, ‘Pour me some of this wine.’ So she poured him a cup, then he said, ‘Give me more,’ and he did not stop until he had has intercourse with her and killed the child. So avoid alcohol, for by Allaah faith and addiction to wine cannot be combined except soon one of them will be expelled.”

    Narrated by al-Nasaa’i, 5666; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Nasaa’i, 5236.

    It was narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Amr said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever drinks alcohol and gets drunk, his prayers will not be accepted for forty days, and if he dies he will go to Hell, but if he repents, Allaah will accept his repentance. If he drinks wine again and gets drunk, his prayer will not be accepted for forty days, and if he dies he will go to Hell, but if he repents, Allaah will accept his repentance. If he drinks wine again and gets drunk, his prayer will not be accepted for forty days, and if he dies he will go to Hell, but if he repents, Allaah will accept his repentance. If he does that again, Allaah will give him to drink of the mud of khabaal on the Day of Resurrection.” They said, “O Messenger of Allaah, what is the mud of khabaal?” He said, “The juice of the people of Hell.” Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 3377; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Ibn Maajah, 2722.
    Abu ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Mandah said: The phrase “his prayers will not be accepted” means that he will not be rewarded for his prayers for forty days, as a punishment for drinking alcohol. This is like what they said about the one who speaks when the imam is delivering the khutbah on Friday: he prays Jumu’ah [Friday prayer] but there is no Jumu’ah for him, meaning that he will not be given the reward for praying Jumu’ah, as a punishment for his sin.

    Ta’zeem Qadr al-Salaah, 2/587, 588.
    Al-Nawawi said:

    With regard to his prayer not being accepted, what this means is that he will not be rewarded for it, even though it is valid, and he does not have to repeat it.

    With regard to what the questioner was told about her fasting not being accepted, this is based on the view of some of the scholars that the mention of prayer in the hadeeth quoted above is a warning that no other acts of worship will be accepted either.

    then he must hasten to repent, for “the one who repents is like the one who did not sin.” Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 2450; classed as saheeh by al-Busayri as stated in al-Zawaa’id Haashiyat Sunan Ibn Maajah

  • Can Muslims eat fish and sea food?

    Sea food of all kinds are lawful (halal) to consume for Muslims. It does not matter whether sea food is of a plant nature or of an animal nature. It does not mater whether sea food is dead or alive. It does not have to be slaughtered in a specific way. Some scholars believe Otters and turtles are allowed as long as they are slaughtered properly and crabs are allowed but do not need to be slaughtered.


     There are a few exceptions and that is frogs are Haram (forbidden) to consume by Muslims. Crocodiles are also Haram (forbidden)to consume by Muslims because Crocodiles have fangs and even though it spends a lot of time in water it is a land dwelling animal with fangs .
     
     Allah says :

    “Lawful to you is (the pursuit of) water-game and its use for food for the benefit of yourselves and those who travel” [al-Maaidah 5:96].

    Ibn Abbaas said: Sayduhu (lit. hunting, pursuit) refers to whatever is taken from it alive, and taaamuhu (lit. its food) means whatever is taken dead.
     
     Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) forbade killing them, as is reported in the hadeeth of Abd al-Rahmaan ibn Uthmaan, who said that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) forbade the killing of frogs. (Narrated by Imaam Ahmad and Ibn Maajah; see also Saheeh al-Jaami, 6970).

    Some scholars exclude sea snakes, but the correct view is that as they live nowhere except in the water, we are permitted to eat them, because of the general nature of the Quranic aayah : “Lawful to you is (the pursuit of) water-game and its use for food for the benefit of yourselves ” [al-Maaidah 5:96].

  • Muslims cannot eat Pig meat

    A Sister asked Muslim Converts “I grew up on farms with pet pigs. I know for a fact that pigs do not eat there own poo. They are intelligent and easy to train. Please answer my question because every born Muslim friend I have says we don’t eat pork because they eat there own poo ! Is there a real reason.

    Assalaamu Alaykum
    Your question demonstrates a fault in the way people are answering this question and many other questions. In fact the enemies of Islam have exploited this to it’s fullest.


    In the last 40 years I have seen many challenges that the Muslims have faced in the west and in around they the world.

    One challenge is how to answer questions truthfully and correctly. We were often asked questions on many aspects of Islam and our different cultures.  I even heard non Muslims asking Muslims  why do we eat with our hands. This is not asked much now but it was asked quite often 30 years ago. I remember our local Muslim shopkeeper saying to the woman “Salts  released from the hands and this makes the food taste better. It is ridiculous that many Muslims feel they have come out with scientific theories to say why they eat with their hands instead of saying what do you not eat with your hands.  The  Muslim who came to the west as immigrants have a huge inferiority complex they may be thinking “oh she is going to have a bad image of us because we eat food with our hands”


    As a child I disliked seeing Muslims having such an inferiority complex. So I thought why don’t these non Muslims eat with their hands. One day I came across a piece of literature which talked about a Christian Priest who disliked washing his hands.


    As Muslims we cannot lie about Islam. Whenever a person resorts to lying about an issue, it shows he is unable to defend his point.

    Muslims have the upper hand in that we have been given the truth and the truth is much easier to defend than falsehood.

    Just look at the Christians. They try extremely hard to defend the false concept of the trinity but they cannot.

     
    As Muslims we have the truth and to defend the truth is easy. Whenever we can not defend anything authentic in Islam it means we lack the ability to defend it. Sometimes the person either  lack the knowledge aor simply lacks the ability to debate.


    One of the most frequently asked questions by non Muslims is why do you Fast in Ramadan?

    In the 1980’s when I was around 15-16 years of age, I was asked this question by non Muslims children at my school. At the time we didn’t have internet, nor any good books in English. I and most other Muslim children had very basic knowledge of Islam.

    Feeling the need to give an answer to the boys question I started to think what can I say. So I started to think deeply and came out with a wonderful answer. I told him something on the lines of feeling how the poor people with no food feel and appreciating  the food.

    Five to ten years latter some scholars came out with the same response to this question and people started to say to me what a wise and  brilliant and amazing answer by the scholar. I could only laugh because I was a child without much knowledge of Islam who came out with the same answer about a decade earlier.

    In fact my theories became even better when I reached high school. As I was studying A levels in science and often read body building magazines which talked about free radicals and so on.

    Scholars who could only come out with this answer of feeling for the poor, were far behind me and I still only had very basic knowledge of Islam.

    These explanations caused problems for the Muslims.


    By the time these fatwas had come out I had started to read more about Islam had rejected this explanation that I had formulated in my teens. It became quite obvious that fasting in Ramadan was about obedience to Allah not about feeling how it is to be poor and have no food.

    Alhamdulillah some good scholars such as Shaykh Munajjid also realized the problems these explanations were causing.


    To answer any question on Islam, we must first go to the sources of Islam which are the Quran and the Authentic hadeeth. We should not start try to formulate answers in our own brains.


    So with regards to this question let us look at  what Allah and his Prophet peace be upon him say

    In a Hadith recorded by Imam Ahmad, that Abu Hurayrah said that Allah’s Messenger said:
    O people! Allah is Tayyib (Pure and Good) and only accepts that which is Tayyib. Allah has indeed commanded the believers with what He has commanded the Messengers, for He said: “O (you) Messengers! Eat of the Tayyibat and do righteous deeds. Verily, I am well-acquainted with what you do” (23:51), and: “O you who believe! Eat of the lawful things that We have provided you with” He then mentioned a man, who is engaged in a long journey, whose hair is untidy and who is covered in dust, he raises his hands to the sky, and says, `O Lord! O Lord!’ Yet, his food is from the unlawful, his drink is from the unlawful, his clothes are from the unlawful, and he was nourished by the unlawful, so how can it (his supplication) be accepted” It was also recorded by Muslim and At-Tirmidhi

    Allah says
    Forbidden to you (for food) are: Al-Maytatah (the dead animals – cattle-beast not slaughtered), blood, the flesh of swine, and the meat of that which has been slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allah, or has been slaughtered for idols, etc., or on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering, and that which has been killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by the goring of horns – and that which has been (partly) eaten by a wild animal – unless you are able to slaughter it (before its death) – and that which is sacrificed (slaughtered) on An-Nusub (stone altars). (Forbidden) also is to use arrows seeking luck or decision, (all) that is Fisqun (disobedience of Allah and sin). This day, those who disbelieved have given up all hope of your religion, so fear them not, but fear Me. This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion. But as for him who is forced by severe hunger, with no inclination to sin (such can eat these above-mentioned meats), then surely, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.


    They ask you (O Muhammad ) what is lawful for them (as food ). Say: “Lawful unto you are At-Tayyibat [all kind of Halal (lawful-good) foods which Allah has made lawful (meat of slaughtered eatable animals, milk products, fats, vegetables and fruits, etc.)]. And those beasts and birds of prey which you have trained as hounds, training and teaching them (to catch) in the manner as directed to you by Allah; so eat of what they catch for you, but pronounce the Name of Allah over it, and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is Swift in reckoning.”
    (Quran 5:3-4)


    Muslim recorded that Buraydah bin Al-Husayb Al-Aslami said that the Messenger of Allah said “He who plays Nardshir (a game with dice that involves gambling) is just like the one who puts his hand in the flesh and blood of swine”


    Ibn Kathir said It is recorded in the Two Sahihs that the Messenger of Allah said” Allah made the trade of alcohol, dead animals, pigs and idols illegal. The people asked, “O Allah’s Messenger! What about the fat of dead animals, for it was used for greasing the boats and the hides; and people use it for lanterns” He said, No, it is illegal.

    Allah says
    O you who believe (in the Oneness of Allah – Islamic Monotheism)! Eat of the lawful things that We have provided you with, and be grateful to Allah, if it is indeed He Whom you worship.


    He has forbidden you only the Maytatah (dead animals), and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that which is slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allah (or has been slaughtered for idols, etc., on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering). But if one is forced by necessity without willful disobedience nor transgressing due limits, then there is no sin on him. Truly, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful
    (Quran 2:172-173)


    Narrated Ibn Umar:”Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) prohibited eating or drinking the milk of the animal which feeds on filth (Al-Arba’a except An-Nasa’i reported it. At-Tirmidhi graded it hasan).”

    Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah said:
    The Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) forbade the milk of an animal that feeds on filth or impurity, but if the animal is detained until it becomes pure, then it is halaal according to Muslim consensus, because before that the effect of the impurity could be seen in its milk, eggs and sweat, so it gave off a rotten and evil stench. Once that is removed, it becomes taahir (pure). If the ruling is established for a reason, it ceases to apply once that reason is no longer present. End quote.
    Majmoo al-Fataawa, 21/618

    What we learn from the Quran and the hadeeth is that Allah only wants us to eat what is Tayyib and Pig meat is not Tayyib. Also  eating and drinking the milk of an animal which feeds on filth is also prohibited. It does not explicitly say that  pigs are prohibited because they fed on filth. The fact is pig is prohibited whether it eats filth or not.


    So why is Pig meat haram to eat. Answer is because Allah says it is haram.


    Now some may say but I want to know why Allah says it is not Tayyib for me to eat.


    One way would be to get angry at whoever asks questions such questions. But that would not be the right thing to do.


    The other is what people adopt and that is using scientific or behavioural evidences. Which is very popular amongst those who are non scientist.


    As a pharmacology graduate I know the complications of science and its limitations. I mentioned this in previous articles.


    It is fine to sometimes  mention scientific data to support our argument but we have to take care that it will  not back fire on us in the long term. Which is what eventually happens


    Non Scientist hear about certain scientific theories or even just data and  they think they are experts in science. They feel they have more knowledge of science than those of us who actually studied science at university.

     
    The sister said that she grew up on farms with pet pigs and they didn’t eat their own filth. This is her finding but there are other findings were non Muslim pig farmers have been interviewed and they said that pig farming was profitable because they could feed pigs anything.

    Other studies have said those pigs who are free to roam about do get infected with Pork tapeworm. This is what happens in south American countries. People who eat pork or pork meat imported from those countries can get affected by pork tapeworm, which can be even  deadly in some cases.

    In one video I saw it was mentioned that 50 million people across the world are infected by this kind of tapeworm. The pigs get this tapeworm through contact or ingestion of this filth.


    So we can at least conclude that pig meat at least has the potential to cause Tapeworms in humans. So that alone is not good.


    Now although this is quite interesting facts we cant be sure that this is why Allah forbade Pig meat. Nor can we say it the only reason Allah forbade such meat.


    It may be a reason, it may be only one of many reasons why Allah forbade pig meat. But we cannot go around saying Muslims are not allowed to eat pig meat because the pig may have tapeworm or consumed its own filth.


    For this reason we have to be careful in what we say because a person could come to us and say we will breed pigs in the Laboratory with only Halal feed such  plants and water, for a certain amount of months or years and at the end of that period we will even test it for tape worm . Then if it is free of tapeworm will you eat it and say it is halal?


    Allah has told us not to eat Pig meat. He has not said why we cannot eat it. So Pig meat is be haram for Muslims forever.


    However if a chicken were eating filth then we would not eat that particular chicken. Sheik ul Islam says until it has become pure again.

    So this data about pigs (at least free range ones) eating their own poo are true facts. However, we cannot say this is the reason why Allah made pig haram for us.

     This is only a theory.  People have to be careful  to point out that this is only a theory and not a fact because some people who lack intellect  will start eating pig meat coming from laboratory bred pigs.


    This question in itself answers many other questions.


    There have been many incidences were some Muslims have asked questions to scholars and the scholars have given their theory as to why such and such is halal or haram.

    Some Muslims have  taken these answers (or rather theories) as HARD facts when IN REALITY THEY ARE JUST A THEORY OF THAT PARTICULAR SCHOLAR OR GROUP OF SCHOLARS.


    Many enemies of Islam have tried to make theories or use theories to over right Islamic laws established from Quran and hadith.


    Obviously in some instances you will find hard scientific or behavioural facts which help us understand even a particular  Hadith or a  Quranic ayah. But the problem is some people do not recognize facts from theories.

    Each society has different morals. For non Muslims in west it may be fine to eat pork but not dogs. Whereas Non Muslims in Korea or China may like eating dogs.

    There are even some humans on earth that are cannibals.

    As human beings we have to find out how did we get here, who created us and what our creator wants from us.

    As Muslims we realize and can prove that  that all other religions are false and only Islam is the true religion of God . The evidences for this I have explained on the following link  www.muslimconverts.com/islam


    As Muslims we must realize that what Allah wants from us is total submission and surrender of our wills to him in peace (i.e., in peace meaning without arguing and saying I don’t want to do this).

    So as a Muslim we have to surrender peacefully. One who surrenders unpeacefully is someone who tries to fight physically, or argue, shout, protest or try to always look for ways to rebel.

    Its a peaceful surrender.  We are happily surrendering, saying I belong to you oh Allah order me to do whatever you want me to do and I will do it happily to the best of my ability.

    Our decisions are filled with errors and mistakes. The beauty of this surrender and submission is that we are  surrendering and submitting our selves and letting go of what we thought is right for what Allah knows is right for us.

    Allah is perfect and his laws are perfect for man kind to live on this earth.

    From Quranic ayahs and hadith’s above we learn that Allah only wants us to eat what is Tayyib and Pig meat is not Tayyib.

    Also the eating or drinking the milk of the animal which feeds on filth is also prohibited. It does not explicitly say that the pig is prohibited because it feeds on filth. The fact is pig is prohibited whether it eats filth or not.


    It is up to Allah to make lawful whatever he wants and make unlawful whatever he wants. We have no say in the matter. If we dislike anything and try to deny his existence or choose some one else as a God then the reality will still remain that Allah is our only creator and we are going to return to him.

    Even if all the jinn and mankind gathered together with all their nukes to haram Allah they could not do anything to Haram him.

    And if the whole of mankind and jinn gathered together and tried to save someone from Allah’s punishment they will not be able to.


    So our Job should be to please Allah on this earth and in return Allah, out of his mercy and love for those who obey him , will give us heaven were there is everlasting happiness.


    So our job should be to try and find out what does Allah want us to do. What does Allah want us to stay away from.


    The role model for the Muslims  after the Prophet (peace be upon him)are the Sahabah. They asked the Prophet peace be upon him questions but these questions few in number. We have huge books on Hijab alone. We read one book after another on the same topic.

      When the order for Hijab came the Muslimahs just did it because that Order came from their Creator, they had true conviction and their correct understanding of who Allah and his messenger (peace be upon him) were.

    So with regards this question what we learn from Quranic ayahs and hadith’s above is that Allah only wants us to eat what is Tayyib and Pig meat is not Tayyib. Also the eating or drinking the milk of the animal which feeds on filth is also prohibited. It does not explicitly say that the pig is prohibited because it feed on filth. The fact is pig is prohibited whether it eats or doesn’t eat filth.

    I think this should be enough for us. if somebody wants to contemplate of the beauty of Allah’s laws then that is not a bad thing.

    But I think learning about the reason why pig is Haram was not an important issue, otherwise the Sahabah would have asked the Prophet peace be upon him and we would have known the exact reason.

    Their success as being the best Muslims of all time was in finding what was Haram and Halal rather than their reasons.

  • Muslim food and Drink Guide

    The issue of what is right or wrong for one to eat or drink is not an issue of debate just in our times. But it has been an important issue through out the world history.

    Humans being with limited knowledge and self desire have made lawful certain substances and made unlawful other substances to themselves and to others. However these man made laws differ from country to country and change from time to time depending on which group of people have the most influence and power. This cycle may repeat many times over through out the history of that nation.

    We also see even in our own times human beings being burnt alive because he or she ate beef in India by vegetarians. Similarly in the west if the so called animal rights activists had their way they pe will be slaughtering people for eating meat.

    However, the same people will find no wrong in drinking alcohol. Alcohol a substance which leads to destruction not just of the individual but the whole society. How many times do we here of a person who killed someone whilst drinking because he was under the influence of Alcohol?

    In the Britain for instance we can see humans juggling over whether to legalize drugs such as cannabis. I say juggling because they do not know for certain what the correct thing to do is. Not only are human laws plagued with uncertainty but they are often influenced by the desire of those making the laws.

    However, we as Muslims should be should show great gratitude to our Lord that he has not left us to make our own laws and go round in circles making error upon error. It Is a great blessing on the believers that Allah has shown us what is good to eat and drink and what is bad for us to eat and drink.

    Allah created us and created the food for us and through His infinite wisdom knows what is beneficial for us and what is harmful for us.

    Allah says:

     O mankind! Eat of that which is lawful and good on the earth, and follow not the footsteps of Shaitan (Satan). Verily, he is to you an open enemy. (Quran 2.168)

      O you who believe (in the Oneness of Allah – Islamic Monotheism)! Eat of the lawful things that We have provided you with, and be grateful to Allah, if it is indeed He Whom you worship. (Quran 2.172)

    Allah says :

    “Forbidden to you (for food) are: Al‑Maitah (the dead animals — cattle — beast not slaughtered), blood, the flesh of swine, and that on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering (that which has been slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allah, or has been slaughtered for idols) and that which has been killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by the goring of horns — and that which has been (partly) eaten by a wild animal — unless you are able to slaughter it (before its death) ‑ and that which is sacrificed (slaughtered) on An‑Nusub (stone‑altars). (Forbidden) also is to use arrows seeking luck or decision; (all) that is Fisqun (disobedience of Allah and sin). This day, those who disbelieved have given up all hope of your religion; so fear them not, but fear Me. This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion. But as for him who is forced by severe hunger, with no inclination to sin (such can eat these above mentioned meats), then surely, Allah is Oft‑Forgiving, Most Merciful”

    [al-Maa’idah 5:3]

    “And why should you not eat of that (meat) on which Allah’s Name has been pronounced (at the time of slaughtering the animal), while He has explained to you in detail what is forbidden to you, except under compulsion of necessity?”

    [al-An’am 6:119]

    Allah says :

    “O you who believe! Make not unlawful the tayyibaat (all that is good) which Allah has made lawful to you, and transgress not. Verily, Allah does not like the transgressors.” [al-Maa’idah 5:87]

    “Say: ‘Who has forbidden the adornment with clothes given by Allah, which He has produced for His slaves, and al-Tayyibaat [all kinds of halal (lawful) things] of food?’ Say: ‘They are, in the life of this world, for those who believe, (and) exclusively for them (believers) on the Day of Resurrection (the disbelievers will not share them).’ Thus We explain the aayaat (Islamic law) in detail for people who have knowledge.” [al-A‘raaf 7:32]

    “Say: ‘Tell me, what provision Allah has sent down to you! And you have made of it lawful and unlawful.’ Say: ‘has Allah permitted you (to do so), or do you invent a lie against Allah?’” [Yoonus 10:59]

    Allah has also warned His slave against forbidding anything without knowledge. He said :

    “And say not concerning that which your tongues put forth falsely: ‘This is lawful and this is forbidden,’ so as to invent lies against Allah. Verily, those who invent lies against Allah will never prosper.” [al-Nahl 16:116]

    In sha’ Allah in this section we will deal with what is lawful for Muslims (Halal) and what is Unlawful (Haram) for Muslims and the civilized way of eating and drinking.

    So what can a Muslim eat and drink?

    What can a Muslim not eat

    Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): “Forbidden for you (for food) are: al-maytatah (dead animals – cattle-beast not slaughtered), blood, the flesh of swine, and the meat of that which has been slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allah, or has been slaughtered for idols, etc., or on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering, and that which has been killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by the goring of horns – and that which has been (partly) eaten by a wild animal – unless you are able to slaughter it (before its death)…” [al-Maa’idah 5:3].

    1 A Muslim can not eat nor drink anything that causes intoxication in any amounts. What intoxicates in large amounts is unlawful in small amounts. In fact a Muslim is not even allowed to sit in a table were alcohol is being served (Detailed article on Alcohol)

    a. So Alcohol and products containing or made from Alcohol are Haram (even if all the alcohol has evaporated).

    Thus Spirit Vinegar is Haram ( but if Vinegar was produced without using Alcohol then it is lawful)

    Vanilla Extract is made  by macerating and percolating vanilla beans in a solution of ethyl alcohol and water and therefore it and products containing it would not be lawful.

    b. Narcotics, Heroin, cocaine, marijuana and any other substances which causes intoxication are also forbidden

    c. Nutmeg also causes intoxication is also Haram

    2 Pig and any products containing pig is Haram

    3 All carnivores which have fangs such as lions, tigers, wolves , dogs, cats etc are Haram

    4 All birds which have talons such as  hawks, falcons, vultures, eagles etc are haram

    It was narrated from Ibn Abbaas that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) forbade all carnivorous animals which have fangs and all birds which have talons.
    (Narrated by Muslim, 1934)

    Narrated by Abu Dawood (5267) and Ibn Majaah (3224) from Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allah be pleased with him) who said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) forbade killing four kinds of animals: ants, bees, hoopoes and sparrow-hawks. Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood

    5 Domesticated donkeys are haram Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) forbade mutah (temporary marriage) in the year of Khaybar and he forbade the meat of domesticated donkeys.”
    (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5203; Muslim, 1407)

    6Animals which we are commanded to kill such as mice, scorpions, snakes are haram

    7 Animals that are sacrificed  to anyone other than Allah is haram

    8. Any animal that has died (except fish and sea creatures) before being slaughtered in the Islamic manner. (will be described below)

    9 Eating or drinking blood is haram.

    9 Frogs are haram to eat

    Abd al-Rahmaan ibn ‘Uthmaan (may Allah be pleased with him), according to which a doctor asked the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) about using frogs in medicine, and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) forbade killing them.

    Narrated by Abu Dawood (5269), classed as saheeh by al-Nawawi in al-Majmoo’ (9/34).

    9. Ibn ‘Umar  said The Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) forbade eating jallaalah or (drinking) its milk. Narrated by Ahmad, Abu Dawood and at-Tirmidhi who said: (it is) hasan ghareeb. It was classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Irwaa’, 2503 (see below for details)

    10 Narrated Ibn umar:”Allah’s Messenger prohibited eating or drinking the milk of the animal which feeds on filth (Al-Arba’a except An-Nasa’i reported it. At-Tirmidhi graded it hasan).”

    What can Muslims eat

    1 We can eat all fruit and vegetables.

    2 We can eat all fish and sea food but not frogs nor crocodiles as crocodiles have fangs (fish do not have to be slaughtered)

    Allah say

    Lawful to you is (the pursuit of) water-game and its use for food – for the benefit of yourselves and those who travel…(5:96)

    Ibn ‘Abbaas said: “ Sayduhu (lit. hunting, pursuit) refers to whatever is taken from it alive, and ta’aamuhu (lit. its food) means whatever is taken dead.”

    3 There are certain animals who are halal (lawful) as long as they have been slaughtered in the Islamic way

    These animals are  cows, sheep, lamb, chickens, hens, turkey, ducks, camels, goats, goose, ostrich, etc if they are slaughtered in the halal way.

    Allah says

    “Eat not (O believers) of that (meat) on which Allah’s Name has not been pronounced (at the time of the slaughtering of the animal)”

    [al-An’aam 6:121]

    So the halal way of slaughtering an Animal which is regarded as halal to eat is having a sharp knife saying Bismillaah, wa Allaahu akbar (In the name of Allah and Allah is Most Great). and then cutting the throat and esophagus of the animal and letting the blood flow. After the blood has drained out the animal is fit for consumption (note the head can only be cut of after the blood has drained out. It is also sunnah to have the anima’s head facing the qibla. note if the animal is killed in any other way (such as by strangulation, electric shock, stunning, poison etc) it becomes Haram to eat.

    al-Saheehayn that Anas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) slaughtered two rams with his own hand, and he said Bismillaah and Allaahu akbar. Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 7/130, no. 5554; Muslim, 3/1556, no. 1966; Ahmad, 3/115. 

    4 An Animal who is normally allowed to eat but it has fed on haram feed is known as Jallaalah and it cannot be eaten until it has been kept for three days and nights and fed only with halal feed.

    It says in Kashshaaf al-Qinaa‘ (6/193): Jallaalah – which refers to animals most of whose food is najis – is haraam, as is its milk, because of the report narrated by Ibn ‘Umar who said: The Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) forbade eating jallaalah or (drinking) its milk. Narrated by Ahmad, Abu Dawood and at-Tirmidhi who said: (it is) hasan ghareeb. It was classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Irwaa’, 2503…

    … (it is haraam) until it has been kept for three days and nights, because if Ibn ‘Umar wanted to eat (such an animal), he would keep it for three days and feed it with pure food, and prevent it from eating impure food, whether it was a bird or animal, because the factor that was preventing it from being halal would be removed thereby. End quote.

    5 Narrated Anas regarding the story of the hare: he (Abu Talha) slaughtered it and sent its launch to Allah’s Messenger (SAW) and he accepted it. (Agreed Upon).

    6 Narrated Ibn Abu Ammar. I asked jabir, “Is hyena a game ?” He replied, “Yes.” I asked “Did Allah’s Messenger (SAW) say that?” He replied, “Yes.” (Reported by Ahmad and Al-Arba’a. Al-Bukhari and ibn hibban graded it Sahih)

    7 Narrated Abu Qatada regarding the Zebra’s story; the Prophet (SAW) ate from it. (Agreed upon)

    8 Ibn `Umar said that the Prophet said: We have been allowed two dead things and two bloody things: fish and locusts; and liver and spleen. (Ash-Shafi`i, Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and Ad-Daraqutni )  (know as long as liver and spleen is from an animal which is halal to eat)

    9 Certain foods are allowed although the prophet disliked to eat them himself.


    “Khaalid ibn al-Waleed reported that some grilled lizard meat was brought to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and put in front of him. He stretched out his hand to take some, but one of the people present said, ‘O Messenger of Allah, it is lizard meat,’ so he pulled his hand back. Khaalid ibn al-Waleed asked, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, is lizard haram?’ He said, ‘No, but it is not known among my people and I cannot face eating it.’ So Khaalid took some of the lizard meat and ate it, whilst the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) looked on.” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 4981, al-Nisaa’i, 4242, and Abu Dawood, 3300).

    Meat of Christians and Jews

    The Christians and Jews are regarded people of the book because Allah’s messengers came to them with original Bible and Original Torah but the Christians and Jews changed those books and in doing so became Kaffirs. Because they are Ahle Kitab Kaffirs not say other types of kaffirs it is allowed to to eat meat that is slaughtered by them on conditions that the meat is slaughtered and on the condition that animal is of those types which are halal and that the animals throat and esophagus of the animal are cut and the blood is allowed to flow and that no name other than Allah’s is mentioned nor is it dedicated to anyone other than Allah.

     The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was invited to eat some barley bread and other food by a Jewish boy. Narrated by Ahmad, classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 1/71.

    The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and his companions did wudoo’ from the leather water skin of a mushrik woman. Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 337; Muslim, 682

    Made lawful to you this day are At-Tayyibat [all kinds of Halal (lawful) foods, which Allah has made lawful (meat of slaughtered eatable animals, etc., milk products, fats, vegetables and fruits, etc.). The food (properly slaughtered cattle, eatable animals, etc.) of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) is lawful to you and yours is lawful to them. (Lawful to you in marriage) are chaste women from the believers and chaste women from those who were given the Scripture (Jews and Christians) before your time, when you have given their due Mahr (bridal money given by the husband to his wife at the time of marriage), desiring chastity (i.e. taking them in legal wedlock) not committing illegal sexual intercourse, nor taking them as girl-friends. And whosoever disbelieves in the Oneness of Allah and in all the other Articles of Faith [i.e. His (Allah’s), Angels, His Holy Books, His Messengers, the Day of Resurrection and Al-Qadar (Divine Preordainments)], then fruitless is his work, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers. (quran 5:5

    In  reality Christian nowadays kill animals mostly by haram methods. Many scholars say such kind of meat is thus not allowed. Some Jews do slaughter their animals by cutting the animals animals throat and esophagus and letting the blood flow but it is not clear if they mention any one else’s name other than Allah’s.

     Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) said that some people said to the Prophet (peace be upon him) that a people come to them with meat which they do not know whether they have mentioned the name of Allah upon it or not. The Prophet replied “Mention the name of Allah upon it and eat it (Bukhari)

    Also in a multinational company it is not even known who slaughtered the animal. The company may belong to a Jew r Christian but the worker may be Atheist or Hindu, Sikh or Buddhist etc.

    What if a person is stranded in a desert or an isolated and there is no halal food to eat?

    There are incidences were you will not  find any halal food at all. Not even an apple. You may only find a wild pig. If you do not kill and eat that wild pig then you will die of starvation. In such a case it is allowed for a person to eat a small amount of that pig. Just enough to survive until he can find halal food.

    Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

    “Forbidden to you (for food) are: Al‑Maitah (the dead animals — cattle — beast not slaughtered), blood, the flesh of swine, and that on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering (that which has been slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allah, or has been slaughtered for idols) and that which has been killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by the goring of horns — and that which has been (partly) eaten by a wild animal — unless you are able to slaughter it (before its death) ‑ and that which is sacrificed (slaughtered) on An‑Nusub (stone‑altars). (Forbidden) also is to use arrows seeking luck or decision; (all) that is Fisqun (disobedience of Allah and sin). This day, those who disbelieved have given up all hope of your religion; so fear them not, but fear Me. This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion. But as for him who is forced by severe hunger, with no inclination to sin (such can eat these above mentioned meats), then surely, Allah is Oft‑Forgiving, Most Merciful”

    [al-Maa’idah 5:3]

    It so happened that in Chechnia some of the Mujahideen (Muslim fighters) ran out of food and could not find any food. Some of them died of hunger but one Mujahid managed to spot a wild pig and he killed it.  He ate just enough to survive. Had he not eaten it, he would have also  died like his comrades of starvation. So in this extreme case it was permitted for him to eat the wild pig.

    Some Muslim misunderstand this verse and believe that if they are in a city were there is no halal meat then they can eat haram meat. Haram meat is only allowed in a situation were there is absolutely no food at all. One doesn’t need meat or fish to survive.

    Once a group of new recruits of the Pakistani army were sent on patrol in a deserted area. Their communication equipment failed and they were stranded in that area for 2 weeks. One of them said there was no people and  no animals ( nor were there any fish) but they had lots of fruit there. But even the fruit was raw at that time of the year. He said we grabbed fruits and took a bite and threw it say this is raw. As time went by and we got extremely hungry we picked the raw fruit and said this is fine.  So they survived on that raw fruit for two weeks until the Pakistani Army was able to rescue them.

    So there is no excuse for someone eating haram meat if he can find something such as fruits, vegetables or fish to eat. There are people who even live their whole life eating vegetables.

    Going to the Masjid whilst eating certain halal foods

    Onions and garlic are Halal food and thus we can eat them but as they give a bad smell we should not go to the Masjid after eating them


     Narrated from Jaabir ibn ‘Abd-Allaah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever eats onions, garlic or leeks, let him not approach our mosque, for the angels are annoyed by the same things that annoy the sons of Adam.” Muslim (564)

    also ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “O people, you eat two plants which I think are nothing but bad: this onion and garlic. I saw the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), if he noticed their smell on a man in the mosque, ordering that he be taken out to al-Baqee’. Whoever eats them, let him cook them to death.” Muslim (567)

    Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “It is the duty of every Muslim to do ghusl on Friday, and to use the siwaak and put on perfume, if his family has any.” Ahmad (16445) This hadeeth was classed as saheeh by Shu’ayb al-Arna’oot in his commentary on al-Musnad.


    Utensil

    Silver and gold cups, plates, utensils, trays, boxes etc cannot be used to eat from or with.

    Umm Salamah reported that Prophet said: “The one who eats or drinks from a vessel of gold or silver is putting fire from Hell into his stomach.” (Reported by Muslim, 3/1634).


    Utensil of non Muslims

    ;Although food of the people of the book i.e Christians and Jews can be eaten if they mean the conditions mentioned above it should be noted that if their vessels are used for haram  things such as cooking pork or drinking  alcohol then you should avoid using those vessels and if you cannot find anything else then you should wash them with water ,making sure the impurities do not remain in them. As the following hadiths will explain.

    The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was invited to eat some barley bread and other food by a Jewish boy. Narrated by Ahmad, classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 1/71.

    The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and his companions did wudoo’ from the leather water skin of a mushrik woman. Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 337; Muslim, 682

    Abu Tha’labah al-Khushani   said: I said, “O Prophet of Allaah, I live in a land where there are some of the People of the Book; can we eat from their vessels?” He said: “As for what you said about the People of the Book, if you can find anything else, do not eat from their vessels, but if you cannot find anything else then wash them and eat from them.”  al-Bukhaari (5478) and Muslim (3567)

    report from Abu Dawood (3839): “We live next to some of the People of the Book who cook pork in their vessels and drink wine in their vessels.” The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “If you can find anything else, eat from them and drink from them, but if you cannot find anything else, then wash them with water and eat and drink.” Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood.

    Going to a place were Alcohol is served

    References

    Ahmad (15022), Abu Dawood (2785) and Ibn Maajah (3121) narrated that Jaabir ibn ‘Abd-Allaah (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) sacrificed two rams on the day of Eid. When he turned them to face towards the qiblah he said: “Verily, I have turned my face towards Him Who has created the heavens and the earth Haneefa (Islamic Monotheism, i.e. worshiping none but Allah Alone), and I am not of Al-Mushrikoon .Verily, my Salaah (prayer), my sacrifice, my living, and my dying are for Allaah, the Lord of the ‘Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists). He has no partner. And of this I have been commanded, and I am the first of the Muslims’ [cf. al-An’aam 6:79, 162-163]. O Allaah, from You and to You, on behalf of Muhammad and his ummah. In the name of Allah and Allah is most great.” Then he slaughtered them.

    The isnaad of this hadeeth may reach the level of hasan as Shu’ayb al-Arna’oot said in Tahqeeq al-Musnad.

    It says in al-Mawsoo’ah al-Fiqhiyyah (21/196), explaining the etiquette of slaughtering:

    The slaughterer should face towards the qiblah and the animal’s neck should be turned to face the qiblah, because Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) disliked eating the meat of any animal that had been slaughtered facing any direction other than the qiblah, and no one among the Sahabah disagreed with him. That is narrated in some reports from Ibn Sireen and Jaabir ibn Zayd. End quote.

      
    It was narrated from Jaabir ibn ‘Abd-Allaah (may Allah be pleased with him) that he said: On the day of Khaybar, the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) forbade eating the flesh of domestic donkeys, but he granted a concession with regard to horses. Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3982; Muslim, 1941.


    It was narrated that Asma’ bint Abi Bakr (may Allah be pleased with her) said: At the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) we slaughtered a horse and ate it. Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 5191; Muslim, 1942.


    It was narrated that Jaabir (may Allah be pleased with him) said: We travelled with the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and we used to eat the flesh of horses and drink their milk. Narrated by al-Daaraqutni and al-Bayhaqi. Al-Nawawi said: with a saheeh isnaad

    narrated from Khaalid ibn al-Waalid, that he said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) forbade the flesh of horses, mules and donkeys, and every wild animal that has fangs.” Narrated by Abu Dawood, al-Nasaa’i and Ibn Maajah.
    This hadeeth is da’eef (weak), and was classed as such by al-Albaani in Da’eef Abi Dawood.


    Al-Haafiz Moosa ibn Haroon said: This is a weak hadeeth. Al-Bukhaari said: This hadeeth is subject to further investigation.


    Al-Bayhaqi said: This is a mudtarab (faulty) isnaad, and in addition to that it contradicts the ahaadeeth of trustworthy narrators, which say that the meat of horses is permitted. Al-Khattaabi said: There is something wrong with its isnaad. Abu Dawood said: This hadeeth is mansookh (abrogated). Al-Nasaa’i said: The hadeeth which says that it is permissible is more sound. It is more likely, if this is saheeh, that it has been abrogated, because of what it says in the saheeh hadeeth, “

    Allah says
    He has forbidden you only the Maytatah (dead animals), and blood, and the flesh of swine, and that which is slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allah (or has been slaughtered for idols, etc., on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering). But if one is forced by necessity without wilful disobedience nor transgressing due limits, then there is no sin on him. Truly, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Quran 2.173)

    Allah says
    Say (O Muhammad ): “I find not in that which has been inspired to me anything forbidden to be eaten by one who wishes to eat it, unless it be Maytatah (a dead animal) or blood poured forth (by slaughtering or the like), or the flesh of swine (pork, etc.) for that surely is impure, or impious (unlawful) meat (of an animal) which is slaughtered as a sacrifice for others than Allah (or has been slaughtered for idols, etc., or on which Allah’s Name has not been mentioned while slaughtering). But whosoever is forced by necessity without wilful disobedience, nor transgressing due limits, (for him) certainly, your Lord is Oft Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Quran 6.145)

    Allah says
    They ask you (O Muhammad ) what is lawful for them (as food ). Say: “Lawful unto you are At-Tayyibat [all kind of Halal (lawful-good) foods which Allah has made lawful (meat of slaughtered eatable animals, milk products, fats, vegetables and fruits, etc.)]. And those beasts and birds of prey which you have trained as hounds, training and teaching them (to catch) in the manner as directed to you by Allah; so eat of what they catch for you, but pronounce the Name of Allah over it, and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is Swift in reckoning.”
    Made lawful to you this day are At-Tayyibat [all kinds of Halal (lawful) foods, which Allah has made lawful (meat of slaughtered eatable animals, etc., milk products, fats, vegetables and fruits, etc.). The food (slaughtered cattle, eatable animals, etc.) of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) is lawful to you and yours is lawful to them. (Lawful to you in marriage) are chaste women from the believers and chaste women from those who were given the Scripture (Jews and Christians) before your time, when you have given their due Mahr (bridal money given by the husband to his wife at the time of marriage), desiring chastity (i.e. taking them in legal wedlock) not committing illegal sexual intercourse, nor taking them as girl-friends. And whosoever disbelieves in the Oneness of Allah and in all the other Articles of Faith [i.e. His (Allah’s), Angels, His Holy Books, His Messengers, the Day of Resurrection and Al-Qadar (Divine Preordainments)], then fruitless is his work, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers.
    O you who believe! When you intend to offer As-Salat (the prayer), wash your faces and your hands (forearms) up to the elbows, rub (by passing wet hands over) your heads, and (wash) your feet up to ankles . If you are in a state of Janaba (i.e. had a sexual discharge), purify yourself (bathe your whole body). But if you are ill or on a journey or any of you comes from answering the call of nature, or you have been in contact with women (i.e. sexual intercourse) and you find no water, then perform Tayammum with clean earth and rub therewith your faces and hands. Allah does not want to place you in difficulty, but He wants to purify you, and to complete His Favour on you that you may be thankful.
    And remember Allah’s Favour upon you and His Covenant with which He bound you when you said: “We hear and we obey.” And fear Allah. Verily, Allah is All-Knower of the secrets of (your) breasts. (Quran 4-7)
     

    Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Allah has prescribed proficiency in all things, so if you kill, kill well, and if you slaughter, slaughter well. Let one of you sharpen his blade and spare suffering to the animal.” Narrated by Muslim, 1955.