INTOXICANTS IN ISLAM AN OVERVIEW Section Articles

Abstract

This paper discussed intoxicants in Islam: an overview. Content analysis was used. It is established that the Qur'an contains the messages, code of conduct, stories of past prophets and nations and above all predicts the future for those that abide by or disobey the rules of Allah. Islam advocates improvement in the quality of human life which is often undermined with drug abuse. Thus the Qur'an and prophetic traditions have forbidden the use of drugs (intoxicants) and termed such act unlawful. The Qur'an used four consecutive and sequential stages in order to prohibit the use of intoxicants. It stated; the use of intoxicant is evil deed that excite enmity and hatred among the believers, and that Muslims should therefore abstain from them. This applies to prophetic traditions that condemned the use of anything that intoxicates in order to protect against the spread of disease and loss of life and properties among the Muslim Ummah. The paper finally recommended the adherence of Muslim Ummah to Allah's injunction as well as prophetic tradition in order to stay away from the use of drugs. It further reiterates the effort of parents, community leaders and most importantly government in order to enforce drug laws for better life and prosperity which are ingredients of attaining social, political and economic freedom in Kano State and Nigeria at large.