"Every intoxicant is Khamr and every intoxicant is unlawful."
The Book of Drinks - Sunan an-Nasa'i
Hadith Reference: Sunan an-Nasa'i 5699
Textual Analysis
"Every intoxicant is Khamr and every intoxicant is unlawful." This profound statement establishes the fundamental Islamic position on intoxicants, categorizing all substances that cause intoxication under the prohibition of Khamr (wine).
Legal Ruling (Hukm)
The prohibition extends beyond grape wine to include all intoxicating substances, whether liquid or solid, derived from dates, wheat, barley, honey, or any other source. The determining factor is the intoxicating effect, not the substance's origin.
Wisdom Behind the Prohibition
Intoxicants cloud the intellect, which Allah has honored humanity with, leading to neglect of prayer, immoral behavior, and damage to social relations. They prevent remembrance of Allah and proper worship.
Scholarly Consensus
There is unanimous agreement among the four schools of Islamic jurisprudence that all intoxicants are absolutely forbidden (haram), regardless of quantity. Even small amounts that do not cause intoxication are prohibited as they lead to greater consumption.
Contemporary Application
This ruling applies to modern substances including narcotics, drugs, and alcoholic beverages of all types. The principle remains unchanged: whatever causes intoxication in large quantities is forbidden in small quantities.