Hadith Text & Reference

The Prophet [SAW] said: "Every intoxicant is unlawful and every intoxicant is Khamr."

Source: Sunan an-Nasa'i 5582 | Book: The Book of Drinks | Author: Sunan an-Nasa'i

Linguistic Analysis

The term "Khamr" literally means "that which covers" - referring to anything that veils or clouds the intellect. While traditionally understood as grape wine, this hadith expands its definition to encompass all substances that cause intoxication, regardless of their source or form.

Legal Ruling (Hukm)

This hadith establishes the fundamental Islamic principle that all intoxicants are absolutely prohibited (haram). The repetition emphasizes the comprehensive nature of this prohibition, leaving no room for exceptions based on the substance's origin, quantity, or method of consumption.

Wisdom Behind the Prohibition

Intoxicants corrupt the mind - Allah's greatest gift to humanity - impairing judgment, leading to neglect of religious duties, and causing harm to oneself and society. Preservation of intellect ('aql) is among the five essential objectives of Islamic law (maqasid al-shari'ah).

Scholarly Consensus

There is unanimous agreement among all classical schools of Islamic jurisprudence that all intoxicating substances are prohibited, whether consumed in small or large quantities. This prohibition extends to modern substances like drugs and alcohol-based intoxicants.