The Messenger of Allah [SAW] forbade soaking (fruits) in Ad-Dubba', Al-Muzaffat, An-Naqir, Al-Hantam, and every intoxicant is unlawful.
The Book of Drinks - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5589
The Messenger of Allah [SAW] forbade soaking (fruits) in Ad-Dubba', Al-Muzaffat, An-Naqir, Al-Hantam, and every intoxicant is unlawful.
Commentary on the Prohibited Vessels
Ad-Dubba' refers to gourds or pumpkins that were hollowed and used as containers. Al-Muzaffat were vessels coated with pitch or resin. An-Naqir were containers made from palm-tree stalks. Al-Hantam were earthenware jars. The prohibition encompasses both the vessels and their contents when used for intoxicants.
Legal Ruling and Wisdom
This hadith establishes the prohibition of using specific containers for fermenting intoxicants. The wisdom behind this prohibition includes preventing intoxicants, closing avenues to sin, and distinguishing Muslim practices from pre-Islamic customs. The general principle "every intoxicant is unlawful" applies universally, regardless of container.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars interpreted this prohibition as applying when the soaking leads to intoxication. Imam An-Nawawi explained that these vessels were specifically mentioned because they were commonly used for fermenting drinks in pre-Islamic Arabia. The prohibition serves as a means to prevent intoxicants at their source.