Khamr (خمر)
Definition
Khamr (خمر) refers to wine or any substance that causes intoxication. According to the Qur’an, it is explicitly mentioned as something with both sin and profit, but its sin outweighs its benefit. This term has significant implications in Islamic jurisprudence and ethics, extending beyond just alcoholic beverages to potentially include other intoxicants such as opium and narcotics.
Etymology
The Arabic word Khamr (خمر) originates from the root kha—meem—ra (خ-م-ر), which means to cover or to veil. This is indicative of its effect in clouding or veiling one’s judgment and reason under the influence of intoxicating substances.
Qur’anic Reference
In the Qur’an, Khamr is referred to in Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:219):
<p>“They will ask thee about wine (khamr), and games of chance: say in both is sin and profit to men, but the sin of both is greater than the profit of the same.”</p>
This affirms the Islamic stance that while Khamr may have certain benefits, the associated sins are far greater, thus justifying their prohibition.
Broader Implications
Islamic Jurisprudence
The orthodox Islamic perspective views Khamr as encompassing all forms of intoxicants, not limited to alcohol. This broader interpretation includes substances like opium and various narcotics. Some Islamic scholars have even extended the prohibition to tobacco, leading to historical instances like the Wahhabi destruction of tobacco pipes in the streets of Makkah. This extended understanding aims at preserving the mental clarity and moral integrity of Muslims.
Cultural Context
In various Islamic cultures, this broad definition of Khamr has implications for everyday life, extending to food, medicine, social practices, and trade involving intoxicants. The prohibition of Khamr is a fundamental aspect of Islamic ethical and legal frameworks.
Translations
- Arabic: خمر (Khamr)
- Turkish: İçki or Sarhoş Edici
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Lawful and the Prohibited in Islam” by Yusuf al-Qaradawi
- “Alcohol in Islam” by Mufti Muhammad Siddiqi
- “Intoxication and Its Discontents in the Islamic World” by Daniel Morgan
Takeaways
- Khamr primarily refers to any intoxicating substance, particularly alcohol.
- The Qur’an acknowledges the dual nature of Khamr, noting its sin as greater than its benefit.
- Islamic jurisprudence often adopts a broad interpretation, including various intoxicants and sometimes tobacco.
- Understanding Khamr in Islam requires consideration of both ethical and legal frameworks, rooted in the intention to maintain moral and mental clarity.
Conclusion
Khamr holds a critical place in Islamic teachings, fundamentally representing substances that impair human reasoning and ethics. Recognized formally in the Qur’anic text, its implications extend significantly into Islamic jurisprudence. Essential readings and continuous study into the various perspectives provide insights that align with a holistic Islamic lifestyle dedicated to moral integrity and mental sobriety.
