The Prohibition of Intoxicants

This hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i 5602 establishes the fundamental Islamic ruling that all intoxicating substances are categorically forbidden (haram). The comprehensive term "every intoxicant" (kullu muskirin) encompasses all substances that cloud the mind, regardless of their origin - whether derived from grapes, dates, wheat, or any other source.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam an-Nawawi explains that this prohibition is absolute and includes both small and large quantities. The wisdom behind this prohibition preserves the intellect ('aql), which Allah has honored humanity with and made a condition for religious accountability (taklif).

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani emphasizes that the prohibition extends beyond mere consumption to include production, sale, transportation, and any facilitation of intoxicants. This comprehensive prohibition aims to protect society from the spiritual, physical, and social harms caused by intoxication.

Legal Implications

The ruling applies to all substances that cause intoxication, including alcoholic beverages, narcotics, and any modern drugs that alter mental faculties. Scholars unanimously agree that this prohibition is among the clear, established rulings of Islam with no legitimate difference of opinion.

This hadith serves as the foundation for Islamic legislation regarding intoxicants, reinforcing the Quranic prohibition in Surah al-Ma'idah and other authentic prophetic traditions in The Book of Drinks.