Halal and Haram
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How halal and haram are known
Halal means permitted and haram means forbidden. The ruling comes from the Quran and the authentic Sunnah, and where the texts are silent, from the work of qualified scholars.
The Quran says that the Prophet ﷺ makes lawful for people the good things and forbids for them the evil (7:157). Scholars generally explain that things are permitted unless there is evidence that forbids them.
Between the clear halal and the clear haram there are doubtful matters. The Prophet ﷺ advised us to keep away from them to protect our religion and honour.
This page explains well-known rulings for general learning. It is not a fatwa. Scholars may differ in details, and personal situations vary. For your own case, ask a qualified scholar or your local Islamic authority.
Our sources
- Quran: the Arabic text in Uthmani script, with a published translation for each language. Every verse links to its place in the surah.
- Hadith: taken from the open Hadith database. Each hadith is matched by its text, shown with its collection and number, and with the grade given by scholars where the database has one. Hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim are in the two collections whose contents are agreed to be sound.
- Each answer states only what these texts say. Where scholars differ, the topic says so.
Questions about halal and haram
What does halal mean?
Halal means permitted by Islamic law. It is used for food, drink, earnings, behaviour and more.
What does haram mean?
Haram means forbidden by Islamic law. Doing it is a sin, and avoiding it for Allah's sake is rewarded.
What if I am unsure whether something is halal?
The Prophet ﷺ advised keeping away from doubtful matters. Ask a knowledgeable scholar, and check for a trusted halal certification when it is a product.
Can something haram become allowed?
Only in real necessity, for example to save life when nothing else is available, and only as much as needed (Quran 2:173).
What is the basic rule of halal and haram?
The default for things (food, clothes, trade and tools) is that they are permitted unless there is evidence that they are forbidden. Allah says that He created for you all that is on the earth (2:29). The prohibitions are specific and limited, and the evidence for each is shown on its page.
How can I check if packaged food is halal?
Read the list of ingredients for pork, alcohol, gelatin and animal-based items, and look up the source of E-numbers such as E471 or E441. Look for a trusted halal certification mark, or ask the maker. If it stays unclear, leave it, as the Prophet ﷺ taught.
What should I do when scholars differ on a ruling?
Where scholars differ, the page states the difference. You follow a qualified scholar or the opinion of your school, and being careful is better when a matter is doubtful. Ask a scholar you trust about your own situation.