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Hadith on Intoxicants: The Prohibition of Every Intoxicant

📖Sunan Ibn Majah 3392
It was narrated from ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: “Every intoxicant is unlawful and whatever causes intoxication in large amounts, a small amount of it is (also) unlawful.”

This hadith, found in Sunan Ibn Majah (3392), conveys the prohibition of all intoxicants and emphasizes that even a small amount of a substance that causes intoxication is also prohibited. From this hadith, we can learn several lessons that are applicable today:

  1. The Prohibition of Intoxicants: The hadith confirms that consuming intoxicants is unlawful in Islam. This includes alcohol, drugs, and any substance that alters one’s mental state and impairs judgment.
  2. The Comprehensive Nature of the Prohibition: The hadith states that every intoxicant is prohibited, indicating that Islam takes a comprehensive stance against all forms of intoxication. It is not limited to a specific type of substance but encompasses all substances that have the potential to intoxicate.
  3. Avoidance of Intoxication: This hadith highlights the importance of staying away from anything that can lead to intoxication. Muslims are encouraged to be mindful of their actions and to avoid situations and substances that can impair their judgment or harm themselves or others.
  4. Prohibition of Small Amounts: The hadith emphasizes that even a small amount of an intoxicating substance is prohibited. This indicates the seriousness with which Islam views intoxication and highlights the need for complete abstinence rather than attempting to justify or rationalize small quantities.
  5. Personal Responsibility: This hadith underscores the individual responsibility Muslims have in avoiding intoxicants. It is not solely the responsibility of others to prevent a person from consuming intoxicants; rather, it is a personal duty to abstain from them.
  6. Health and Well-being: Islam promotes the well-being and preservation of human life. Intoxicants can have severe negative effects on physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and societal harmony. By prohibiting intoxicants, Islam seeks to protect individuals and society from the harmful consequences associated with intoxication.

Overall, this hadith serves as a reminder for Muslims to abstain from intoxicants completely and to recognize the importance of leading a sober and responsible life. It highlights the Islamic principles of self-discipline, personal responsibility, and the pursuit of a healthy and balanced lifestyle.