Green Prophet has covered the topic of alcohol—and specifically beer—from several angles over the years. Here’s a concise roundup of those articles, all grounded in Islamic teachings, cultural context, and contemporary nuances.

1. The Religious Foundation: Beer Is Prohibited

The core reason Muslims abstain from beer stems from explicit Quranic and hadith teachings. The Quran denounces intoxicants, stating: “Intoxicants … are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:90)

Additionally, Prophet Muhammad is quoted in hadiths saying, “Every intoxicant is khamr (wine) and every khamr is haram (forbidden),” emphasizing a zero-tolerance stance—even if a substance doesn’t intoxicate in small amounts.

Green Prophet’s article further explains that alcohol—including wine or anything fermented from grapes or dates—is considered impure (najis) and forbidden (haram), regardless of its form or concentration.

2. How Islam Separated From Pre-Islamic Drinking Culture

Alcohol was common in pre-Islamic Arabia, but with the emergence of Islam and its ethical reforms, usage significantly declined. Islamic scholars and historical records highlight how early teachings shifted the norm from daily intoxication to deliberate abstinence.

3. Variations in Practice—Not All Muslims Abstain

Green Prophet recognizes that real-world practices vary. In some regions—depending on legal systems, personal beliefs, and societal norms—some Muslims may still choose to consume alcohol. A Pew Research Survey (2013) found that in certain countries up to 10% of respondents considered alcohol morally acceptable. For example, Jordan, with a predominantly Muslim population, has seen Christian-owned craft breweries operate—such as Carakale Brewery in Amman—highlighting complexity in regional brewing traditions and religious contexts. The same is true in Israel where Arab Christians are a thriving part of society.

4. Negotiating Social Settings—Mocktails and Alcohol-Free Trends

While alcohol is forbidden, Muslims still participate in social gatherings—and often choose creative alternatives. Mocktails—or “virgin” versions of popular cocktails—are widely accepted as long as they contain no alcohol or derivatives.

Green Prophet’s “10 Alcohol-Free Mocktails for Summer” article presents a variety of flavorful, alcohol-free options perfect for parties or summer gatherings, underscoring that abstaining doesn’t mean missing the fun.

5. Fermented Yet Halal? The Case of Kombucha

Kombucha introduces an interesting caveat: a popular probiotic drink produced by fermentation, typically containing trace amounts of alcohol. Is it halal?

• For: Some scholars and halal certification bodies consider commercially produced kombucha with less than 0.5% ABV to be halal, as the alcohol is minimal and a byproduct—not the purpose of consumption.
• Against: Others argue that any amount of alcohol—even if from fermentation—is impermissible, placing the decision in personal or local scholarly jurisdiction.:

As Green Prophet advises: when in doubt, look for halal certification, especially if fermenting at home, where alcohol levels are harder to control.

6. Exceptions in Practice: Alcohol in Muslim-Majority Countries

Green Prophet reported that—despite strict Islamic laws—some Muslim-majority countries allow limited alcohol access to non-Muslims or foreign residents. For instance, Saudi Arabia recently opened its first alcohol shop in 70 years, servicing diplomats under tight regulation. However, these exceptions don’t change the religious ruling that for observant Muslims, alcohol remains strictly forbidden.

Want to know more? Explore the Green Prophet eco-Muslim archives:

• Why Muslims don’t drink alcohol
• Why Muslims don’t drink alcohol (2011)
• Islam’s ban on alcohol and how it’s applied
• Saudi Arabia opens first alcohol shop in 70 years
• 10 alcohol-free mocktails for summer
• Can Muslims drink mocktails?
• Can Muslims drink kombucha?
• Jordan gets its first craft brewery, causing ire among religious clerics

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A rare and intricately carved Roman marble sarcophagus, dating back 1,700 years, has been unearthed during a rescue excavation by the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) in the ancient port city of Caesarea. The find, described by archaeologists as “spectacular and unique,” features a vivid mythological scene of a drinking contest between Dionysus—the god of wine—and the hero Heracles (Hercules).

This marble coffin may be the oldest “party scene” ever found in Israel—and it’s carved in stunning detail.

Instead of red Solo cups and keg stands, this ancient drinking game involved gods and demigods slugging it out in style. The scene on the sarcophagus shows Dionysus, the god of wine and wild nights, going head-to-head with Hercules, known for his brute strength and legendary hangovers.

Caesarea, home of the original drink-off?

The excavation was launched by the IAA in collaboration with the Caesarea Development Corporation, which has been working to preserve and restore the historical treasures of the city.

Carved in high relief on gleaming white marble, the sarcophagus depicts the legendary showdown between Dionysus (known in Roman mythology as Bacchus) and Heracles, a symbolic battle of indulgence and strength. In classical mythology, Dionysus challenges Heracles to a drinking contest—a moment of revelry that showcases the god’s cunning and command over pleasure.

Related: why Muslims don’t drink alcohol

Experts believe the sarcophagus once belonged to a high-status individual—likely Roman or Romanized elite—interred in Caesarea during the 3rd or 4th century CE, when the city thrived under Roman rule.

“This is the first sarcophagus of its kind found in Israel with this specific mythological scene,” said Dr. Peter Gendelman of the IAA. “Its craftsmanship, condition, and content are exceptional.”

Founded by Herod the Great and once a glittering Roman provincial capital, Caesarea Maritima remains one of Israel’s most archaeologically rich sites. Finds from recent years have included Roman-era mosaics, Byzantine churches, and Crusader fortifications—but this sarcophagus, with its mythological imagery and well-preserved artistry, stands out.

“This discovery adds a rich new layer to our understanding of Roman funerary culture in the eastern Mediterranean,” noted Dr. Helen Goldstein, classical art historian at Tel Aviv University. “The depiction of Dionysus and Heracles is not only artistic—it reflects the spiritual and cultural values of the elite in late antiquity.”

The sarcophagus will be formally presented to the public on Thursday, June 12, where it is expected to draw significant interest from scholars and heritage professionals. Conservation experts are currently studying the piece, and plans are underway to display it in Caesarea or at a national museum.

The IAA continues to urge developers and landowners to coordinate in advance with heritage authorities, as salvage excavations like this one often reveal irreplaceable cultural treasures.

So next time you’re playing quarters or stack cup, raise a glass to Dionysus and Hercules—the original players of the ancient world.

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Kombucha is a probiotic superdrink that you can find in every health store and it’s even available in mainstream Costco and Walmart. While Muslims can’t drink alcohol, it is haram, and not halal or allowed. Is kombucha, with very low amounts of alcohol allowed?

What is that strange brew known as kombucha? 

Kombucha is a fermented tea that contains probiotics, making it popular for its health benefits. We have a recipe here for making it at home. However, its halal status is a topic of debate due to the small amounts of alcohol produced during fermentation. While biofuels, a product of alcohol are under debate, the answer among Muslims about kombucha, is maybe. When in doubt, look for a halal certifcation. When making kombucha at home, as your local authorities.

Here’s a breakdown of the key points to ask about kombucha.

Why Kombucha Might Be Considered Halal:

1. Low Alcohol Content: The alcohol in properly brewed kombucha is typically less than 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume), and it’s safe for children to drink and similar to non-alcoholic beverages. This amount is not enough to cause intoxication, which is the primary concern in Islamic law regarding alcohol.
2. Natural Fermentation: The alcohol is a byproduct of the natural fermentation process, not added intentionally. Many Islamic scholars consider this different from beverages where alcohol is the main purpose.

Related: Why Muslims don’t drink alcohol

Why Some Muslim Authorities Might Consider Kombucha Haram:

1. Potential for Higher Alcohol Levels: If kombucha is over-fermented or homemade without careful control, the alcohol content can exceed 0.5%, potentially reaching up to 3% or more.
2. Different Scholarly Opinions: Some scholars argue that any amount of alcohol, regardless of its source or concentration, is haram if it exists in a consumable form.

Scholarly Consensus:

• Many modern Islamic scholars and halal certification bodies consider commercially produced kombucha with controlled fermentation (under 0.5% ABV) to be halal.
• Homemade kombucha requires more caution because it’s harder to control alcohol levels.

Related: make halal aloe vera juice at home

Conclusion:

For Muslims who want to enjoy kombucha:

• Check for Halal Certification: Some brands have official halal certification.
• Mind Homemade Brews: If making it at home, limit fermentation time to keep alcohol levels low.
• When in Doubt: Follow your personal or local scholar’s guidance, as opinions can vary.
• Or make your own non-alcoholic drinks.

10 alcohol-free mocktails for summer

https://www.greenprophet.com/2010/07/aloe-vera-recipes/

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We know that Muslims don’t drink alcohol, and they choose mocktails instead, but Muslims aren’t the only people who live in Muslim countries. In a bid to modernize and westernize Saudi Arabia the Kingdom is allowing the first alcohol shop to be open in 70 years.

The client’s will be limited to diplomatic staff, say sources in local media. These are people who have been for years importing illicit alcohol finally making it legal.

Read Related: Summer mocktails for Muslims in America

Other limits is that patrons will be limited to 240 “points” of alcohol per month whereas one litre of spirits will be worth six points, one liter of wine three points and one liter of beer one point.

Related: Jordan gets its first brewery, upsetting Muslim leaders

According to the US Department of State heroin and hashish are the most heavily-consumed substances, but Saudi officials report that cocaine and amphetamines are also in demand. Paint and glue inhalation and abuse of prescription drugs is also reported.

Meanwhile in 2018 Saudi Arabia lifted the driving ban on women; this weekend the Muslim kingdom held its first fashion week that included swimsuits. And a Saudi prince just bought a Tesla Cybertruck.

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Research in the last few years suggests no amount of alcohol may be good for us, but a new study has found that alcohol does play a role in removing contaminants like arsenic out of our body. Can a shot of vodka be your next detox treatment?

A study published in Eco-Environment & Health has revealed some fascinating insights into the interaction between alcohol consumption and arsenic accumulation in the body. Led by Dr. Hongbo Li, the research team set out to explore how alcohol influences the absorption and distribution of arsenic in bodily tissues.

Arsenic can be found naturally in certain foods and can also contaminate food through environmental factors such as soil, water, and air pollution. Some foods that may contain arsenic include:

1. Rice: Arsenic can accumulate in rice more than in other grains due to its cultivation in flooded fields where arsenic in the soil is more readily taken up by the plant.
2. Seafood: Some seafood, particularly certain types of fish like tuna, cod, and shellfish, can contain arsenic, primarily in the form of organic arsenic compounds.
3. Drinking water: Arsenic contamination in groundwater, particularly in areas with natural deposits of arsenic or industrial pollution, can lead to arsenic entering drinking water supplies.
4. Fruits and vegetables: Arsenic can be present in small amounts in fruits and vegetables, although levels are typically lower compared to rice. Leafy greens, apples, and root vegetables like carrots may contain trace amounts.
5. Poultry and meat: Arsenic-based compounds have been historically used in poultry and livestock farming to promote growth and prevent disease. While this practice has been restricted in many countries, trace amounts of arsenic may still be found in poultry and meat products.

Giving mice shots of Chinese spirits to change gut microbiotics

The latest study involved feeding mice arsenate-enriched diets while also giving them daily doses of Chinese liquor, mimicking human alcohol consumption patterns. Alcohol is forbidden by some religions like Islam where it is considered haram or forbidden. But previous studies have pointed to high levels of arsenic in Islam’s zam zam water, a holy source of water drunk on pilgrimages to Mecca.

Surprisingly, the researchers found that although alcohol increased arsenic absorption in the gut, it actually decreased its accumulation in vital organs. This unexpected outcome was attributed to alcohol’s impact on intestinal barriers and changes in gut microbiota, which facilitated arsenic’s entry into the bloodstream.

Additionally, alcohol consumption was found to enhance kidney filtration and reduce antidiuretic hormone levels, leading to increased arsenic excretion through urine.

Dr. Hongbo Li, the corresponding author of the study, emphasized the importance of understanding the complex relationship between alcohol and arsenic bioavailability. He highlighted the need to grasp how these substances interact within the body to better predict and mitigate associated health risks.

In summary, while alcohol intake may boost arsenic absorption, it also accelerates its elimination from the body, potentially reducing its harmful effects. This finding holds significant implications, particularly for populations exposed to both arsenic and alcohol, providing valuable insights into managing associated health risks.

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Recovering from addiction is a chaotic process. After all, the long-term damage done to the body in various forms takes much more time than you would expect. Now that the number of drug and alcohol addicts is increasing at a staggering rate, health professionals are worried about people. However, it is fair enough to applaud the massive improvement in technology and health practices, like at cbi detox in Tucson — it is much easier to seek refuge from addiction in the future and get rid of it for life. 

While many are reluctant to embrace this problem in the beginning, the situation around them will take a turn for the worse at some point in time, which will eventually force them to walk out of their cocoon and acknowledge this problem. So if you’ve been running away for quite some time, wait right there! We’ve got your back and will sift you through the top reasons for seeking addiction treatment:

Mend Damaged Relationships

Addiction takes a big toll on relationships, such as broken trust, anger, resentment, or guilt. If left unchecked, these issues will transition into much larger problems in the future. Since the victim isn’t functioning in their consciousness all the time, repairing damaged relationships becomes the need of the hour. So repairing damaged relationships is essential because it is an organic consequence of the addiction treatment. But, also vital for the person who is undergoing it. 

While one might not be affected, their friends and family must have had several sleepless nights due to the victim. The modern treatment facilities, through the use of therapeutic approaches, are helpful in bridging the gap between family members and their loved ones. 

Mental Health

Mental health is on the front row to get affected as a result of any sort of abuse. Be it substance or alcohol, mental health is usually at the receiving end of the damage. Bear in mind constant use of alcohol and drugs makes your emotions go haywire. Not only does a person lose consciousness but starts to feel isolated due to ostracization from society. As a result, the victim starts relying on drugs and alcohol to feel relaxed. This results In their mental health getting deteriorating instantly. 

However, once the mind is free from everything, it becomes easier to socialize with the people around. The treatment centers provide family treatment programs wherein every member of the family is told about dealing with the victim in the house. 

Luckily, finding a trusted alcohol rehab in Denver center can make a significant difference in the recovery journey. These facilities are equipped to support both the individual and their family throughout the healing process.

Become Physically More Active

Thanks to the luxury rehab treatment centers, it is much easier for the victims to undergo relentless physical training programs to stay fit. Bear in mind not being physically resilient will make a victim more vulnerable to catching some of the worst diseases out there. Now that COVID 19 is all over the place, staying physically active is important. 

When looking for the best we recommend you to go through the client reviews and never skip the testimonial section. Once the victim starts to witness results in their physical performance, it will be much easier for them to smile and get back to the normal pace of life. 

Cultivate Confidence

Addiction takes a big toll on your physical and emotional health. So if you don’t focus on getting treated on time, it will be hard to uplift your confidence again. Thanks to addiction treatments, the wellness experts help you in interacting with the people around you and cultivating your confidence. Not to forget, confidence makes an individual stand out, and failing to be vocal about your thoughts will never make you visible to a large crowd. 

Confidence is highly important in life, both personally and professionally. However, due to addiction and being socially cut off from society, it can become a tough cookie for you to achieve. So now is the best time for an individual to consider a top-notch treatment so that they can feel good about themselves. 

Develop Your True Identity

Most victims lose their identity and become lost in their world. Such people have a very hard time interacting with their friends and family members, let alone interacting with a local. However, addiction treatment centers are created such that an individual can work on their true identity to become a better version of themselves. 

The treatment centers focus on working on the self-esteem and self-actualization of an individual so that they can get back to the normal pace of life. Unless an individual doesn’t have a true identity of their own, it will be hard to cement a strong reputation of themselves in the minds of the people around them. So when an individual has an identity of their own, it will be much easier to achieve happiness.

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Addiction to drugs or alcohol is a common problem nowadays. People often started doing drugs and alcohol as a means of fun and relaxation and later feel health, mind, and many more issues. This is a very serious problem that more than fifty percent of the population around the world faces. Dealing with such a problem is crucial, but it is costly.

Several rehabs are present out there that take in patients who feel addiction problems and treat them properly. These rehabs are costly, but the services they provide make that cost justifiable. There are also several insurance policies for such addicted patients. Such policies can take to cover up their rehab expenditure and also health care treatment with sand plans.

The Tricare drug rehab coverage is a huge benefit for such patients. Now, in this article, we shall see in detail about this plan and what it covers.

What areas does the plan cover?

In the following areas of the article, we shall discuss all the things that the plan covers. 

Briefly stated, the Tricare drug rehab coverage includes the following areas:

• Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment
• Drug and Alcohol Detox
• Medication-assisted treatment along with partial hospitalization
• Residential treatment

Impatient Treatment Coverage:

TRICARE patients must face a mental or physical health-related emergency linked or caused due to addiction requiring immediate hospitalization for the Tricare rehab plan to cover up the expense.

Patients facing addiction problems requiring emergency hospitalization in any nearest inpatient treatment centres. From there they get overall expenses covered by the Tricare drug rehab coverage.

Whether it’s managing intense symptoms during Cocaine withdrawal or stabilizing physical health through medical supervision, the plan ensures necessary support is in place. Consistent monitoring and professional care make the detox process safer and more effective for patients.

This plan also covers non-emergency care only if the patients opt for care from one of the qualified treatment centres.  

Outpatient Treatment Coverage:

For the Tricare rehab plan to cover up this type of expense, the patient must face active addiction problems. But, it does not need immediate hospitalization and all the time care in a hospitalized setting. In such scenarios, the patients do not require prior authorization before seeking out Tricare drug rehab coverage expenses. 

People suffering from substance abuse and those transferring from inpatient treatment centre are also eligible for the plan’s availing. This plan also covers the treatment of several co-occurring disorders like mental health disorders and so on.

Detoxication of drug and alcohol:

Several or rather, most of the Tricare rehab plans cover drugs and alcohol detoxication as well. These detoxication treatments are only covered if done from a qualified medical centre. Medical care, along with the rest of the medications used for controlling the withdrawal symptoms, falls under the Tricare drug rehab coverage. 

After a patient enrols in an inpatient or outpatient care program, the drugs and alcohol detox coverage start in the Tricare plan.

Medication-Assisted Treatment Coverage:

• Several patients require continued medications and medical therapies and help after the care program ends. For such cases, the Tricare rehab plan covers all such expenses. 
• These include mental health therapies, medications for prevention against withdrawal and discourage relapse, etc.
• Since this part of the plan does not fall under emergency health issues. So the plan requires you to get prior authorization before activating this. 

Sober Living House Coverage:

• This part of the plan falls under the partial hospitalization course of the plan. This program helps the patients to achieve recovery along with receiving medical support services. 
• This plan is for 24 hours a day but for helping the patients time to time to receive sober housing environment a develop relapse prevention skills.
• Patients who show or exhibit an inability to achieve and maintain recovery with outpatient services can avail of this plan. This intensity of impairment that is brought forth by addiction can interfere with the person’s everyday life and functions. That is why this plan allows the patients to active partial hospitalization and cover up their sober living houses.

Related: Why Muslims Don’t Drink Alcohol

In Conclusion:

Drug and alcohol addiction is a severe problem. Many people face this problem and need proper help against such issues. The Tricare drug rehab is a plan that helps these patients face these problems head-on and get rid of them without having to worry about the charge.

The post Everything Under The Tricare Drug Rehab Coverage appeared first on Green Prophet.

It is a well known fact that Muslims don’t drink alcohol. It is haram or not halal, which means forbidden. Muslims don’t eat foods or consume drinks with any kind of alcohol or ethanol, they don’t wear perfumes containing alcoholic ingredients and they stay away from all forms of intoxicating substances. Muslims in Dubai also don’t tolerate medical cannabis of any form, even harmless CBD oil. 

This abstinence from drugs and alcohol is a command from God, the law maker for Muslims’ health and environment. But why else is alcohol, and drugs in general, haram in Islam? Is biofuel haram? According to one leader in Saudi Arabia it is. Let’s take a look.

Alcohol in Islam

Linguistically, khamr (خمر) the Arabic word for “wine”, is alcohol derived from grapes. This is what is prohibited by specific texts of the Quran (see 5:90). Therefore alcohol is categorically unlawful (haraam) and considered impure (najis). Consuming any amount is unlawful, even if it doesn’t create any drunken effects. This is opposite to Judaism which consecrates its Sabbath every Friday night using alcohol specifically made from grapes.

But when we go back to Islam, the Prophet Muhammad of Islam said, “Intoxicants are from these two trees,” while pointing to grapevines and date-palms. Alcohol derived from dates or raisins is also prohibited, again regardless of the amount consumed.

At first, a general warning in the Quran was given to forbid Muslims from attending prayers while in a drunken state (Quran, 4:43). Then a later verse was revealed to Prophet Muhammad which said that while specifically alcohol had some medicinal benefits, the negative effects of it outweighed the good (Quran, 2:219).

Finally, “intoxicants and gambling” were called “abominations of Satan’s handiwork,” which warned people with self-consciousness to not turn away from God and forget about prayer, and Muslims were ordered to abstain (Quran, 5:90-91).

The Prophet Muhammad also instructed his companions to avoid any intoxicating substances (paraphrased), “if it intoxicates in a large amount, it is forbidden even in a small amount.” For this reason, most observant Muslims avoid alcohol in any form, even small amounts that are sometimes used in cooking.

6 reasons why Muslims don’t drink alcohol

1. Alcohol and prayer do not mix

Prayer (salat) is a fundamental part of the Muslim lifestyle, an obligatory call to God five times a day. A ritual eco “wudhu” (woo-dhoo) is necessary before the prayer which involves a water saving ablution to spiritually connect to environment, health and creation. The presence of alcohol in the same room does not affect the prayer, according to Islamic scholars, but anyone who drinks alcohol cannot pray for a month, unless he or she repents. Another obligation to Muslims is the annual Hajj or Haj pilgrimage, at least once in their lifetime. 

2. It’s addictive

Even when the early Muslims recognised alcohol for its medicinal uses, Prophet Muhammad likened the drink to a “disease”, saying there is no cure in things that God has forbidden. Like the first puff of a cigarette, it is up to individual will-power to continue or stop drinking. Nonetheless, some Muslims seek alcohol treatment.

Read More: Can Muslims drink mocktails?

3. Liquor clouds the intellect

Khamr also describes how alcohol consumption makes it difficult to differentiate between right and wrong. Muslim faith is founded on the intellect, rational thought and good judgement. Anything that could jeopardise this behaviour is forbidden, and another reason why Muslims don’t drink.

4. It gives the wrong message to children

Sitting in a restaurant where alcohol is served is not the same as drinking it. This is why Islamic law has the flexibility to say if someone needs to sit in such a restaurant for a work meeting or because no other diners are available, he/she can, but should not sit at a table where alcohol is served.

Bars and environments where alcohol is served could lead to drinking and in the presence of children, it could teach them to explore drinking. Mature Muslim adults are role models and carry a message that you don’t have to drink to have a good time, to work or to socialise.

Classical and contemporary Islamic scholars have helped explain why an alcohol zone can be as bad as drinking itself,

“The difference between [prohibitions in environment] and [prohibitions related to the end goals] is that while both are forbidden, the former is considered lesser in weight because it is related to causes, whereas the latter is related to an actual forbidden act. Thus, sitting at the table, although not the same as drinking, could lead to it whereas drinking in itself is absolutely forbidden,” says Dr. Abdullah bin Bayyah from Suhaibwebb.

5. Alcohol makes one forget

Any intoxicating substance, whether it’s wine, beer, gin, whiskey or drugs, affects a person’s faculties and behaviour. The result is the same, and the Quran outlines that it is the intoxication-which makes one forgetful of God and prayer-that is harmful.

6. Alcohol can lead to crime

Think about the ridiculous things you might have done when drunk. Although a controversial statement, in Islam alcohol is viewed as the “key to every evil” (hadith), because of its close relation to creating or making criminal behaviour easier to commit. That isn’t an omission of the medicinal uses of alcohol, but to say that a prevention is better than a cure. Thus, the Quran explains, “in alcohol there is a great sin, and some benefits, but the sin outweighs its benefit.” (2:219).

Why Muslims don’t do drugs

All intoxicants were made haraam in Islam’s religious scripture at different times over a period of years. Over the years, the list of intoxicating substances has come to include more modern street drugs and the like. But some plants with intoxicating effects such as chewing khat in Yemen and cannabis have slipped into Islam. According to this site, the Muslim scholars are divided over khat, sometimes spelled ghat or gat:

“The three main positions on khat are that it is halal (permissible), makruh (detested or discouraged) or haraam (forbidden). It may be shown that each view has some support in the scholarly literature of Islam.

“Each was accepted by some members of the focus groups. Most of those who participated in the focus groups had a strong view on the correct position pursuant to Islam and this view influenced their decision to support or reject prohibition and to chew or not to chew khat.”

Islam prohibits the use of narcotics noting that “every intoxicant is haram (unlawful)”. Recreational drugs have become the social culture and despite religious prohibitions, Muslims are just as susceptible to cannabis (marijuana), hashish, and the supposedly herbal ‘hukkah‘ (a tobacco smoking pipe).

We suggest you speak to your local clerics about individual use because the use of these substances is not cut and dry. Nonetheless, this drug abuse is also haram, not to mention encouraging illegal drug trade and addiction.

Wine that’s halal?

Without side-sweeping the nutritional value to alcoholic beverages, we must accept that wine in particular is not completely “evil”. Wine contains coronary benefits and according to studies, decreases the risk of peptic ulcers.

Hippocrates recommended specific wines to disinfect wounds, and even the great Islamic scholar Ibn Kathir noted wine’s force for better digestion.

In the Quran is the promise of Paradise for people who conserve God’s laws on Earth and leave it as they found it, or better. This Paradise contains rivers of honey, milk and wine which does not intoxicate (see 47:15):

The description of the Paradise promised to the righteous is that in it are rivers of fresh water, rivers of milk that never changes in taste, rivers of wine delicious to drink, and rivers of pure honey. There they will ˹also˺ have all kinds of fruit, and forgiveness from their Lord. ˹Can they be˺ like those who will stay in the Fire forever, left to drink boiling water that will tear apart their insides?

Some great entrepreneurs took this verse from the Quran as inspiration, leading to the production of halal approved wines such as Halal Champ Wine, and Australia’s Patritti Wines of Dover Gardens, which was accredited by the Islamic Council in 2003.

According to a more lenient school of thought in Islam, creams and deodorants containing alcohol are alright to use as it is invariably a synthetic alcohol and not wine (khamr). In Saudi Arabia though, even fuel containing ethanol is getting the haram boot.

A contemporary fatwa (Islamic ruling) classified non-wine alcohol as permitted in external uses such as perfumes and soaps so long as it’s not used in vain or for intoxicating purposes. However, the main consensus is to religiously avoid it.  

Buying and selling wine in Islam

For Muslims, when something is made haraam, this means that thing is harmful to one’s health and contribution to the community. That also means Muslims aren’t supposed to encourage others to consume in any haraam, irrespective of who they are.

Dealing with the alcohol trade comes under the haraam category. The Prophet Muhammad forbade people from all actions related to the wine industry, including pressing wine, drinking it, serving it, selling it or buying it. This severity is to stop the expansion of harm caused by alcohol.

And above all, drinking is a lifestyle choice for socialising and enjoying food, a lifestyle that Muslims simply do not indulge in. That said, if you want to try a alcoholic summer drink, here are 10 mocktails for Muslims.

More on Muslim health issues:

Khitan – Circumcision Is Healthy For Muslim Sexuality
Lifestyle Poor for Abu Dhabi Women’s Health, Pregnancies, Babies
Egyptians Question the Health of Their Tap Water
If It’s Not Organic, It’s Not Halal (4 Ethical Zabiha Principles)

Updated March, 2023

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