I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) addressing in Medina. He said: O people, Allah is giving an indication (of the prohibition) of wine. and He is probably soon going to give an order about it. So he who has anything of it with him should sell that, and derive benefit out of it. He (the narrator) said: We waited for some time that Allah's Apostle (ﷺ) said: Verily Allah, the Exalted, has forbidden wine. So who hears this verse and he has anything of it with him, he should neither drink it nor sell it. He (the narrator) said: The people then brought whatever they had of it with them on the streets of Medina and spilt that.
The Book of Musaqah - Sahih Muslim 1578
In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate. This narration from Sahih Muslim demonstrates the wisdom of gradual legislation in Islamic law, as wine prohibition was implemented in stages to facilitate the community's transition.
Contextual Analysis
The Prophet's initial statement indicates divine preparation for prohibition while allowing temporary benefit from existing stocks. This reflects the pedagogical wisdom of Islamic legislation, considering human circumstances and gradual spiritual development.
The final prohibition came with comprehensive implementation - neither consumption nor trade permitted. The community's immediate compliance, pouring wine in Medina's streets, demonstrates their exemplary faith and submission to divine command.
Legal Implications
Scholars derive from this hadith the principle of gradual prohibition in matters deeply rooted in pre-Islamic practice. The initial permission to sell existing stocks shows consideration for economic interests before complete prohibition.
The final ruling establishes that when something is declared unlawful, both its consumption and commercial transaction become forbidden. The Companions' action of destruction illustrates the proper disposal method for prohibited substances.
Spiritual Dimensions
This narration highlights the relationship between divine legislation and human readiness. Allah's wisdom in gradual prohibition allowed hearts to prepare for complete abstinence.
The immediate obedience of the Companions serves as a timeless example of submitting to Allah's commands without hesitation, demonstrating perfect faith in action.