Why pigs and alcohol are forbidden in Islam

Why pigs and alcohol are forbidden in Islam, many ask about the reasoning behind some major dietary rules, with cultural context. In this article, we will provide you with the answer, supported by evidence from the Qur’an and Hadith.

The reasoning behind why pigs and alcohol are forbidden in Islam

Pigs and Alcohol impair judgment, lead to harmful behaviour, and are impure, as clearly stated in the Qur’an and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad PBUH. Among the most well-known prohibitions are the consumption of pork and alcohol. Muslims across the world avoid these substances not only out of religious obligation but also due to the wisdom found in Islamic teachings.

Why is pork haram in Islam?

The ban on pork stands as one of the most explicit dietary rules in Islam. The Qur’an addresses the reason for its prohibition clearly across several verses.

1- The Qur’an states:

(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:173):

“He has only forbidden to you dead animals, blood, the flesh of swine, and that which has been dedicated to other than Allah.”

This directive is also in Surah Al-An’am 6:145, Surah An-Nahl 16:115, and additional passages. Pork is unclean (rijs) and detrimental to both body and spirit. Thus, when Muslims ask “Why is pork haram?”, the answer lies in its impurity, confirmed both by divine revelation and modern science, which links pork to various diseases like trichinosis and parasitic infections.

2- The Hadith also reinforces this. The Prophet Muhammad PBUH said:

“Allah has cursed the one who eats the flesh of swine.”
(Ibn Majah)

Why is alcohol haram in Islam? Why pigs and alcohol are forbidden in Islam

There is clear evidence in the Quran and Hadith as follows:

1- The Quran

(Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:90):

“O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, sacrificing on stone alters, and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.”

2- The Prophet Mohammad PBUH warned:

“Whatever intoxicates in large quantities, a small quantity of it is also forbidden.”
(Abu Dawood)

Modern medicine also supports this, linking alcohol to liver disease, addiction, and impaired decision-making, aligning with the Islamic principle of preserving life and health.

Related posts: Islamic dietary laws

In conclusion, the prohibitions of pork and alcohol are not merely religious rituals, but are based on principles of purity, health, and spiritual consciousness. By avoiding these substances, Muslims uphold a lifestyle that aligns with both faith and well-being.

FAQs

Why are pork and alcohol forbidden in Islam?

Because they have harmful physical and spiritual effects, as prohibited in the Qur’an and Hadith, to protect health and morality.

Where in the Quran does it say not to eat pigs?

The Qur’an forbids eating pork in many verses, like Surah Al-Baqarah (2:173): “He has only forbidden to you dead animals, blood, the flesh of swine.”

Recent Posts

Does Islam force conversion?

Does Islam force conversion? This question often sparks curiosity and debate. Understanding the truth behind it reveals Islam’s teachings about… Read More

3 days ago

Proofs that Islam is the true religion

There are many Proofs that Islam is the true religion, based on divine revelation, historical evidence, and scientific findings that… Read More

5 days ago

Does Islam really oppress women?

Does Islam really oppress women? Many misconceptions surround this question. In reality, Islam honors and protects women, granting them dignity,… Read More

7 days ago

What makes the Quran Unique among holy books?

What Makes the Quran Unique Among Holy Books? The Qur’an stands out among all holy books as the final, preserved… Read More

1 week ago

Beginner’s guide to read Quran

Beginner’s guide to read Quran (Translations, Tajweed) is designed to help newcomers connect with Allah’s words by learning correct recitation,… Read More

1 month ago

Is circumcision required for new Muslims?

Is circumcision required for new Muslims? This question concerns many converts. Understanding the Islamic perspective, drawing on evidence from the… Read More

1 month ago