The Book of Drinks - Sunan an-Nasa'i 5700

"The Messenger of Allah [SAW] said: 'Allah has forbidden Khamr, and every intoxicant is unlawful.'"

Commentary on the Prohibition

This noble hadith establishes the fundamental Islamic ruling regarding intoxicants. The term "Khamr" specifically refers to grape wine, but the Prophet's clarification that "every intoxicant is unlawful" extends the prohibition to all substances that cause intoxication, regardless of their source or form.

Scholars of jurisprudence have derived from this that any substance which clouds the mind, impairs judgment, or alters consciousness is haram (forbidden). This includes alcoholic beverages, narcotics, and other mind-altering substances, whether consumed in small or large quantities.

Wisdom Behind the Prohibition

The prohibition serves to protect the intellect ('aql), which Allah has honored humanity with. Intoxicants destroy this noble faculty, leading to loss of dignity, improper worship, and harm to oneself and society.

This ruling also preserves religion, as intoxication leads to neglect of prayer and other religious obligations. It protects lineage by preventing immoral behavior and maintains wealth by preventing its wasteful expenditure on harmful substances.

Legal Implications

The consensus of scholars holds that all intoxicants are absolutely forbidden. This includes consuming, selling, producing, or facilitating their trade. Even a small amount is prohibited, as the Prophet said: "Whatever intoxicates in large quantities, a small amount of it is also forbidden."

The prohibition applies equally to all Muslims, and there is no distinction made between different types of intoxicants based on their source or method of production.