Haram (unlawful) definition
“Haram” is an Arabic term that defines anything that is prohibited according to Islam. Every deed or act that violates Allah’s (SWT) rules is a sin. (May Allah (SWT) the most Merciful, forgive us and all Muslims). Allah (SWT) has given us countless goods and allowed us to enjoy the beauties of this world that He has created. He has prohibited several things like:
- Associating Allah (SWT) with a partner (Shirk)
- Disbelieving Muhammad (PBUH) and other Prophets (Peace Be Upon Them)
- Lying, stealing, fortune telling, adultery, raping
- Pork-based product, intoxicants, alcohol and by-products
- Etc…
“Therefore eat of what Allah has given you, lawful and good (things), and give thanks for Allah’s favor if Him do you serve.” Qur’an (16:114)
Halal (lawful) definition
The term “Halal’’ means permitted or lawful in Islam, it describes anything that is permitted to use or engage in. They can be goods or acts that are allowed according to the Islamic Law. Halal is the opposite of Haram.
“They ask you as to what is allowed to them. Say: the good things are allowed to you, and what you have taught the beasts and birds of prey, training them to hunt; you teach them of what Allah has taught you, so eat of that which they catch for you and mention the name of Allah over it, and be careful of Allah; surely Allah is swift in reckoning.” Qur’an (5:4)
Halal Animals are:
- All domestic birds, sheep, goats, all cattle breeds, camels, rabbits, all types of bucks, fish, locusts.
Haram Animals are:
The consumption of the following animals is against the dietary laws of Islam. Likewise, any ingredient or product derived from them or is contaminated with them, also is prohibited for a Muslim to consume, as described by the list below:
- Meat of swine (pig) including all it’s by products.
- Meat of an animal that was not blessed with the name of Allah (SWT) at the time of slaughter.
- Animals killed in a manner, which prevents their blood being fully drained from their bodies.
- Meat of dead animals (carrion).
- Meat of animals that were strangled or beaten to death.
- Meat of animals that died due to falling from a height.
- Meat of animals that were gored to death by a horn.
- Meat of animals that were devoured by wild beasts.
- Mules and Asses.
- Carnivorous animals with fangs, example: lions, dogs, wolves, tigers, etc…
- Birds of prey, example: falcons, eagles, owls, vultures, etc…
- Reptiles, snakes, crocodiles.
- Pest’s example: rats and scorpions.
- Insects excluding locusts.
Unlawful Organs of Animals Slaughtered as Halal:
- Flowing Blood
- Male reproductive organ
- Female reproductive organ
- Testicles
- Pancreas
- Gall bladder
- Bladder
