Commentary on the Prohibition of Khamr

From the Book of Prescribed Punishments in Mishkat al-Masabih, Hadith Reference: Mishkat al-Masabih 3635

Definition of Khamr

The Prophet (peace be upon him) explicitly defined khamr as any substance that "infects the mind" (khamara al-'aql). This linguistic definition transcends specific substances and encompasses all intoxicants regardless of their source.

The enumeration of grapes, dates, wheat, barley, and honey demonstrates that the prohibition applies to intoxicants derived from both solid and liquid sources, establishing a comprehensive legal principle.

Legal Implications

This hadith establishes the 'illah (effective cause) of prohibition as intoxication itself. Scholars of usul al-fiqh derive from this that any substance causing mental alteration falls under the prohibition, regardless of its original form.

The mention of honey - which is not commonly fermented - indicates the Prophet's foresight in prohibiting even potential intoxicants, emphasizing preventive measures in Islamic law.

Scholarly Consensus

All four madhahib agree that any intoxicating drink is haram, whether derived from the mentioned substances or others. The Hanafis extend this to include any intoxicating substance in liquid form, while the majority include all intoxicants regardless of form.

This hadith forms the foundation for the prohibition of modern intoxicants not known in the Prophet's time, as they share the same effective cause of mind-alteration.