Nurulaina Saidin, Mohd Ashrof Zaki Yaakob

Permissible and Prohibited Animals in Islam: Insights from the Qur’an and Hadis

Introduction

Permissible and prohibited animals in islam: insights from the qur’an and hadis. Explore Islamic dietary laws for permissible (halal) and prohibited (haram) animals from Qur'an and Hadis. Covers specific animals, exceptions (ḍarūrah), and health principles.

Abstract

This article explores the Islamic dietary laws regarding halal and haram animals as derived from the Qur’an and authentic hadis. The fundamental principle in Islamic jurisprudence is that all good and wholesome (ṭayyib) things are permissible, while harmful and impure (khabīth) things are prohibited. Evidence from the Qur’an highlights the permissibility of most four-legged and aquatic animals, with certain restrictions, while the Hadith of the Prophet (PBUH) further clarifies specific rulings on animals such as locusts, horses, rabbits, and birds that do not prey on other creatures. Conversely, explicit prohibitions include pork, dead animals, flowing blood, and those slaughtered in the name of other than Allah, alongside animals with fangs, predatory birds, coprophagous animals, and creatures forbidden to be killed. This study also discusses the principle of necessity (ḍarūrah) which allows exceptions in dire circumstances. The findings affirm that Islamic dietary law is not only based on textual evidence but also emphasizes health, cleanliness, and the preservation of human life, reflecting Islam’s holistic approach to lawful consumption.

Review

This article, "Permissible and Prohibited Animals in Islam: Insights from the Qur’an and Hadis," proposes a timely and relevant exploration of Islamic dietary laws. The abstract clearly articulates the paper's aim to meticulously delineate the categories of *halal* and *haram* animals, grounding its analysis firmly in the primary Islamic sources: the Qur’an and authentic Hadith. It establishes a foundational framework by introducing the core principle that good and wholesome (ṭayyib) things are permissible, while harmful and impure (khabīth) elements are prohibited, setting a robust theological and jurisprudential context for the subsequent discussion. A significant strength evident from the abstract is the comprehensive scope intended for the study. It promises a detailed categorization, moving from broad permissibility of most four-legged and aquatic animals to specific clarifications from the Prophet's Hadith regarding creatures like locusts, horses, and rabbits, as well as birds. Crucially, the abstract highlights explicit prohibitions such as pork, dead animals, and blood, alongside a nuanced discussion of animals with fangs, predatory birds, and coprophagous creatures. The inclusion of the principle of necessity (ḍarūrah) is particularly commendable, demonstrating an awareness of the practical application and flexibility inherent in Islamic law, thus presenting a holistic view of lawful consumption rooted in textual evidence, health, and cleanliness. While the abstract lays out a compelling case for a thorough examination, the full paper would benefit from ensuring certain aspects are robustly addressed. Given its reliance on Hadith, a detailed methodological section outlining the criteria for Hadith authentication and selection would significantly bolster its scholarly rigor. Furthermore, while the article touches upon health and cleanliness, a more explicit engagement with the scientific rationale behind certain prohibitions or permissibility, where applicable, could enrich its argument and appeal to a broader audience. Finally, exploring potential variations in interpretation among different schools of Islamic jurisprudence regarding specific borderline cases, even if briefly, could add a valuable layer of analytical depth, showcasing the nuances within Islamic legal thought on this vital subject. Overall, this paper promises to be a valuable contribution to the understanding of Islamic dietary regulations.

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