Halal and Healthy:

Zabiha or Non-Zabiha

Two Scholorly Opinions

Author Unknown

Amongst North American Muslims, there are two predominant views about Zabiha meat. Below, we have provided explanations from scholars representing each view.

The late scholars Syed Abul A’la Maududi and Al Phahim Jobe both argue that the meat must be slaughtered in accordance with Islamic guidelines.

Scholar Yusuf Al-Qaradawi argues that the meat of the Jews and Christians (called the ‘People of the Book’) is acceptable for Muslims to eat.

Below are the two views.

ONLY ZABIHA MEAT MUST BE CONSUMED

1.Opinion of Syed Abul A’la Maududi

(On a discussion about Qur'an 5:5): “The food of the People of the Book includes the animals slaughtered by them. The rule that ‘our food is lawful to them and theirs lawful to us’ signifies that there need be no barriers between us and the People of the Book regarding food.

We may eat with them and they with us. But this general proclamation of permission is preceded by a reiteration of the statement: ‘All good things have been made lawful to you.’ This indicates that if the People of the Book either do not observe those principles of cleanliness and purity which are considered obligatory by the Law or if their food includes prohibited items, then one should abstain from eating them.

If, for instance, they either slaughter an animal without pronouncing the name of God or if they slaughter it in the name of anyone else but God it is not lawful for us to eat that animal.

Likewise, if intoxicating drinks, the flesh of swine, and any other prohibited thing is found on their dining table we may not justify our partaking of such items on the ground that the persons concerned are People of the Book.

The same applies to those non-Muslims who are not People of the Book, except for one difference-that whereas the animals slaughtered by the People of the Book are lawful provided they have pronounced the name of God at the time of slaughtering them, we are not permitted to eat the animals killed by non-Muslims who are not People of the Book.”

(Towards Understanding the Qur'an by Sayyid Abul A’la Mawdudi, Volume 2, Tafseer of Surah Al-Maidah, verse number 5)

2. Opinion of Shaikh Al Phahim Jobe

In response to the question, “is it permitted to eat the supermarket meat? Some people say America is a Christian country, and eating the food of the People of the Book is allowed,” Shaikh Al Phahim answered: “Supermarket meat is not Halal. For the Halal animals meat to be Halal, it has to meet the requirements of slaughter in the Islamic way. This includes invoking Allah’s name before slaughtering it, so that we may remember that all forms of life are sanctified, and we are killing the animal because Allah has given us the right to do so to satisfy our hunger.

Another requirement is that it is slaughtered in a way that most of its blood is drained away.

These principles are derived from the Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him): “Forbidden unto you (for food) are carrion, blood, the flesh of swine, on which has been invoked the name of others than Allah, the strangled, and the dead through beating, and the dead through falling from a height, and that which has been killed by (the goring of) horns, and the devoured of wild beasts, saving that which you make lawful (by slaughtering)...” (Qur'an 5:3).

“Eat not (of meats) on which Allah’s name has not been pronounced...” (Qur'an 6:121).

Ibn Abbas narrates that the Prophet forbade the cutting of the spinal cord of the animal when it is slaughtered (Tabarani).

The second part of the question dealing with the People of the Book also has its answer in the Qur'an: “this day (all) good things (Tayyabat) are made lawful to you. The food of the people of the Book is lawful for you, and your food is lawful to them.” (Qur'an 5:5).

It is clear that the food of the Book has to be from among the “Tayyabat”, that means the meat has to meet the Islamic requirements of slaughter as explained in the beginning of my answer.

There are some scholars who are of the view that the supermarket meats are Halal, but their arguments are weak and even they say that the Muslims should try to establish the Islamic way of slaughtering of animals (Zabiha).

I also differ with the statement that America is a Christian country, it is a secular and capitalists nation.”

3. A SIDE NOTE ABOUT “HALAL” MEAT IN NON-MUSLIM COUNTRIES

During a 1997 Islamic Fiqh Academy Meeting, the issue of Zabiha was also brought up.

This is a summary of the discussion.

“The third important topic of discussion was the new methods of slaughtering animals. The meeting discussed which of these new methods are in accordance with Shariah and which are not.

In many Muslim countries, especially in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries, meat imported from non-Muslim countries is widely used. The Academy was told by its researchers, based on their personal experience, that the Halal label put on such imported meat is not reliable. The producers exporting this meat from non-Muslim countries to the Muslim countries do not take care to meet the requirements of the Shariah.

Therefore the Academy appealed to the Muslim businessmen that before importing such meat, they should ensure that the slaughter is certified to be performed in accordance with the Shariah, the certification being given by observing Muslims who are knowledgeable about Shariah requirements regarding animal slaughter. The Academy also appealed to the Muslim governments that they should use their embassies in the exporting countries to keep the exporters from using the Halal label without proper Halal certification by reliable Muslim agencies.” (Source: Al-Balagh website)

THE MEAT BY NON MUSLIMS CAN BE EATEN

BY Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi

“Since Allah did not prohibit it, the food of the Jews and the Christians is permitted to you on the basis of the original permissibility of things, and likewise you can share your food with them. Accordingly, you can eat the flesh of the animals they have slaughtered or hunted, and they can eat what you have slaughtered or hunted.” (The Lawful and The Prohibited in Islam by Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, page 59).

“The application of the phrase, [part of the verse of the Qur'an, 5:5] ‘the food of those who were given the Scripture,’ is general and includes their meats, produce, and other foods. All of these are halal for us excepting what is haraam in itself, e.g., the flesh of a dead animal, pork, and flowing blood, as these are haraam regardless of whether they are obtained from a Christian, a Jew or a Muslim. “ (The Lawful and The Prohibited in Islam by Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, page 60)

“If one does not hear from a Christian or a Jew that a name other than Allah’s such as that of Jesus or a saint, was mentioned at the time of slaughter, the meat he offers is halal. If, however, he says that a name other than Allah’s has been mentioned, it is haram, according to the opinion of some jurists who argue that it falls under the heading of what has been dedicated to other than Allah. Some others hold the opinion that the food of the People of the Book has been permitted to us by Allah, Who is aware of what they say when slaughtering an animal.” (The Lawful and The Prohibited in Islam by Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, page 60)

“...we know that imported meats, such as chicken and canned beef, originating with the People of the Book are halal for us, even though the animal may have been killed by means of electric shock or the like. As long as they consider it lawful in their religion, it is halal for us. This is the application of the above verse from Surah al-Maidah.” (Sheikh Qaradawi is referring to Qur'an 5:5) (The Lawful and The Prohibited in Islam by Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, page 62)

It should be noted that at a conference of the Muslim Arab Youth Association (MAYA) in the U.S. a few years ago, where Sheikh Qaradawi is a regular speaker, he became exasperated upon being asked this question. He has encouraged, in the North American context, where Muslim businesses are present, that Muslims buy from these stores as opposed to purchasing from the supermarket.

4 BIG REASONS TO CHOOSE ZABIHA OVER NON-ZABIHA MEAT

Choose what you will, but Zabiha clearly has more advantages over non-Zabiha meat available in supermarkets. Here are some MAJOR reasons why:

1. YOU CAN BE SURE THERE’S NO PORK IN IT

In the last few years, revelations of pork being mixed with meat have surfaced. According to Ahmad Sakr, Professor Emeritus of Food Science and author of “A Muslim Guide to Food Ingredients”, a group of prisoners in San Francisco sued the food industry after discovering this happened to the meat they were being served.

This type of an incident ensures NO Muslim can consume such beef or chicken, for example, which has been mixed with pork, as the consumption of pork is Haram. A more recent and widespread example of this is found in an NBC Dateline consumer investigation report that aired last month. Although in the United States it is illegal to sell “mixed meats” as pure ground beef, the report found it still takes place. This mixing is called adulteration and it is considered a health hazard. Adulteration happens when lamb, poultry, and of special attention to Muslims, pork, are added to and sold as pure ground beef. NBC Dateline went to small supermarkets, large chains and discount stores all over the U.S. that sell food. In each of the ten cities sampled NBC Dateline found supermarkets that failed the ground beef test. Read the whole report at NBC Dateline

2. SUPPORT MUSLIM BUSINESS

Buying Zabiha meat is an almost sure way to support a Muslim business. This way, you’re not only getting your next meal (or meals) by buying straight from a Halal grocery store, but you’re also helping another Muslim gain a livelihood. You’re giving back to the community more than you could if you bought your meat at the nearest supermarket. Today, there are Halal grocery stores in virtually every major city in North America. These were, in most cases, the second type of “institution” established by Muslims on this continent after the mosque. After all, following our need to worship in the house of Allah and gather together in an Islamic atmosphere, what could be as important as eating in accordance with Islamic guidelines, not to mention buying the necessary spices to make Muslim meals from the Middle East and Indian subcontinent? We should be giving them precedence, even if it means driving a little farther out of town, or paying an extra dollar or two for items.

3. ARE YOU SURE IT’S FROM THE PEOPLE OF THE BOOK?

And the clincher is this: in today’s farms and slaughterhouses, what guarantee does anyone have that the meat they are eating has been slaughtered by a Jew or a Christian? There is not, to my knowledge, anything in any existing labour code in Canada or the U.S. which allows only Jews and Christians to slaughter meat in “regular” farms and slaughterhouses. That means, it could be ANYONE-Hindu, Sikh, atheist, agnostic, etc. cutting the meat you decide to eat. So the the people whose meat we think we are eating (the Jews and Christians) may not even be directly involved in the slaughter of the meat.

4. ZABIHA IS AGREED UPON

While there are a few scholars who reluctantly allow some type of supermarket meat, all Islamic scholars agree that Zabiha must be preferred and is clear of all doubts.

5 Questions to Ask Your Halal Grocer Making Sure You’re Getting Your Money’s Worth

You may think everything you get from your local Halal grocery shop is as Halal to the tee: Islamically slaughtered, pretty fresh, free of germs, etc. But you may be in for a surprise. Some of the meat sold in smaller Muslim grocery stores may actually be bought from the non-Muslim wholesale market with little connection to Muslim food standards.

Hussain Iftikher is a partner in the company Halal Farms U.S.A., which is marketing products under the name Rehmat Meats in Illinois.

“Most of the people who market Halal products to the mainstream supermarket do not sell Halal products,” he says.

“The [Muslim] store owners would buy 10 to 15 carcasses from me and in most of the cases buy products from American slaughter plants where the cost is a little cheaper,” he explains. “They show the receipt to customers that they are buying [meat certified by] Rehmat Meats but in fact only 10 to 15 percent of the meat is Islamically slaughtered.” “Muslim consumers should not be complacent,” says Mohammad Mazhar Hussaini, Executive director of Islamic Food And Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA), which is involved with Halal certification in the U.S. and abroad. “It is their right, they should ask their manufacturers, retailers and the certifying bodies about the meeting of Halal standards.”

He advises Muslims to ask five questions if they suspect malpractice or wrongdoing involving Halal meat of food products:

1. Ask at the retail store (Halal grocery store) whether or not a given product or products are Halal.

2. When it comes to meat, if it is Halal, who is the certifying agency. The certification should be by a third-party, not the manufacturer and not the retailer.

3. How do you contact the certifying agency? This information has to be public. Muslim grocers, store owners and meat manufacturers have to be accountable to the public because the certifying agencies are supposed to be protecting the consumers’ rights.

They are not there to make profit. They will make profit to run the organization, but they are accountable to the public because they are the ones who are taking the responsibility for saying the meat or product is Halal or not to the satisfaction of the consumer.

4. When you contact the certifying agency, ask who is slaughtering the meat and what are the procedures.

This must be verified because the Muslim consumer should not shrug away his or her responsibility, saying that the retailer or the certifying agency is saying it is Halal, and therefore they are not responsible.

“This attitude has to go away,” notes Hussaini.

5. This enquiry should be ongoing because every so often a certifying agency may be good today, but then becomes lax for one reason or another. The Muslim consumer should keep inquiring, for example, after every six months.

“A vigilant consumer can bring about a respected Halal system and once the system is in place, then we will refine our procedures, we will refine our methods,” says Hussaini. “Until then we must keep inquiring, that way we will keep the certifying agencies on their toes, and they will be cautious, vigilant, and compliant.”

“And eat not of that whereon Allah’s name hath not been mentioned, for lo! it is abomination. Lo! the devils do inspire their minions to dispute with you. But if ye obey them, ye will be in truth idolaters” (6:121).

“Forbidden unto you (for food) are carrion and blood and swine-flesh, and that which hath been dedicated unto any other than Allah, and the strangled, and the dead through beating, and the dead through falling from a height, and that which hath been killed by (the goring of) horns, and the devoured of wild beasts, saving that which ye make lawful (by the death-stroke), and that which hath been immolated unto idols.

DATES: RICH IN PROTEINS AND VITAMINS

Author Unknown

Muslims generally break their fast by eating dates. Prophet (saws) is reported to have said, "If anyone of you is fasting, let him break his fast with dates. In case he does not have them, then with water. Verily water is a purifier." The Prophet (saws) used to break his fast by eating some dates before offering Maghrib Salaat, and if ripe dates were not available, he used to substitute them with some dried grapes. When they too were not available, he used to have a few sips of water, according to some reports. Modern science has proved that dates are part of a healthy diet. They contain sugar, fat and proteins, as well as important vitamins. Hence, the great importance attached to them by the Prophet.

Dates are also rich in natural fibres. Modern medicine has shown that they are effective in preventing abdominal cancer. They also surpass other fruits in the sheer variety of their constituents. They contain oil, calcium, sulphur, iron, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, copper and magnesium. In other words, one date satisfies the minimum requirements of a balanced and healthy diet. Arabs usually combine dates with milk and yoghurt or bread, butter and fish. This combination indeed makes a self-sufficient and tasty diet for both mind and body.

Dates and date palms have been mentioned in the Noble Qur'an twenty times, thus showing their importance. The Prophet likened a good Muslim to the date palm, saying, "Among trees, there is a tree like a Muslim. Its leaves do not fall."

Dates are rich in several vitamins and minerals. When the level of trace elements falls in the body, the health of the blood vessels is affected leading to an increased heart-rate and a consequent inability to perform its function with normal efficiency. As dates are also rich in calcium, they help to strengthen the bones. When the calcium content in the body decreases, children are affected with rickets and the bones of adults become brittle and weak.

Dates are also important in keeping up the health of eyes. It is quite effective in guarding against night-blindness. In the early years of Islam, dates served as food for Muslim warriors. They used to carry them in special bags hung at their sides. They are the best stimulant for muscles and so the best food for a warrior about to engage in battle.

The Prophet (saws) used to combine dates with bread sometimes. At other times he mixed ripe dates with cucumber, or dates combined with ghee. He used to take all varieties of dates, but he preferred the variety called Ajwah.

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HALAL VS. HARAAM

Author Unknown

"Oh People of Imaan! Eat of the pure things (Halal) that We have provided for you, and be grateful to Allah" - (Al-Baqarah 2:172)

The growing indifference with regards to halal foods is indeed disturbing and shocking. How greatly has our Imaan degenerated! Where are those days gone when a Muslim would rather go hungry than consume anything Haraam or doubtful? The morbid sight of Muslims heartily enjoying meals in non-Muslim restaurants and the great increase in the purchase of food items having dubious "halal" stamps on them is frightening. One cannot help but reflect on the profound prophecy of Muhammad (SAW) that, "There will come a time upon my Ummat when people will not be concerned over what they take. It will not matter for them whether it is Haraam or Halal". (Bukhari, Nasai)

It is further reported that, "When this time comes, then none of their Duas will be accepted" (Razeen).

This is actually the ploy of the enemies of Islam to paralyse this Ummat by cutting off their connection with Allah (SWT) by duping them into consuming Haraam. The recent upsurge of Haraam food items being marketed as "Halal" is a clear indication of this.

The grave nature of this problem and the level of caution that should be exercised in this regard can be clearly understood from the following Hadith where the Prophet (SAW) said, "It is better for you to consume sand rather than eating anything Haraam" (Ahmed).

It is narrated in another Hadith, "That flesh which has grown out of Haraam food will not enter Jannah. Hell has more right to it" (Ahmad,Tirmithi).

A brief perusal of the lives of our pious predecessors cannot help but fill one with a sense of awe over the overwhelming extent to which they exercised caution with regard to their food. They understood the great effect that Halal food had on spiritual development and the implications of the warnings sounded out by the Shari'ah for carelessness in this regard.

HALAL SIGNS What is greatly disheartening is the number of bogus 'Halal' signs floating around and the number of unscrupulous organizations who for the sake of monetary benefit are compromising the Muslim masses. Muslims have repeatedly been warned, but it sadly appears that to a large extent the warnings are falling on deaf ears.

HALAL AND YOU

When we reflect over the magnitude of the problems it appears as if we are caught in a trap from which there is no escape. However the problem is simple, should we get things in the correct perspective. Of utmost importance is the realization that the duty is upon us to ensure the purity of our food.

We cannot blindly rely upon some 'Halal' sign or Arabic writing on the packing of an article. Sweets, canned food, etc. should not be consumed without at least a brief perusal of the ingredients. When we have doubt over some item, we should first clarify the matter with the Ulama. Let us realize that exercising caution is not a burden on ourselves but an act of Ibaadat and will in fact take us closer to Allah (SWT). The Prophet SAW) said, 'Abstention from doubtful things is the best of Deen" (Tabraani: Bazzaar).

Very often we will be tested by Allah (SWT): the item which has no doubt in it maybe more expensive as in the case of the local meat when compared to the imported one, etc. Here our steadfastness will bring us immense reward from Allah (SWT). We must reiterate our call to our Muslim sisters and brothers to be careful.

Ya Muslimeen please be careful, and in matters of doubt PLEASE abstain. May Allah Ta'ala give every one of us the Taufeeq ameen.

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HONEY & CINNAMON

Author Unknown

Surah An-Nahl 16:68-69

And your Lord inspired the bee, saying: "Take you habitations in the mountains and in the trees and in what they erect. "Then, eat of all fruits, and follow the ways of your Lord made easy (for you)." There comes forth from their bellies, a drink of varying colour wherein is healing for men. Verily, in this is indeed a sign for people who think.

Surah Muhammad or Al-Qitâl 47:15

The description of Paradise which the Muttaqûn (pious - see V.2:2) have been promised is that in it are rivers of water the taste and smell of which are not changed; rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine delicious to those who drink; and rivers of clarified honey (clear and pure) therein for them is every kind of fruit; and forgiveness from their Lord. (Are these) like those who shall dwell for ever in the Fire, and be given, to drink, boiling water, so that it cuts up their bowels?

Sahih Al-Bukhari 007.065.342 Narrated 'Aisha: Allah's Apostle used to love sweet edible things and honey.

Sahih Al-Bukhari 007.071.584 Narrated Ibn 'Abbas: (The Prophet said), "Healing is in three things: A gulp of honey, cupping, and branding with fire (cauterizing)." But I forbid my followers to use (cauterization) branding with fire." Sahih Al-Bukhari 007.071.588 Narrated Abu Said Al-Khudri: A man came to the Prophet and said, "My brother has some abdominal trouble." The Prophet said to him "Let him drink honey." The man came for the second time and the Prophet said to him, 'Let him drink honey." He came for the third time and the Prophet said, "Let him drink honey." He returned again and said, "I have done that ' The Prophet then said, "Allah has said the truth, but your brother's abdomen has told a lie. Let him drink honey." So he made him drink honey and he was cured.

It is found that mixture of Honey and Cinnamon cures most of the diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the world.

Ayurvedic as well as Yunani medicine have been using honey as a vital medicine for centuries. Scientists of today also accept honey as a Ram Ban (very effective) medicine for all kinds of diseases. Honey can be used without any side effects for any kind of diseases.

Today's science says that even though honey is sweet, if taken in the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm diabetic patients also. A famous magazine named Weekly World News published in Canada dated 17 January, 95 has given a list of diseases that can be cured by Honey and Cinnamon as researched by western scientists.

ARTHRITIS: Take one part honey to two parts of luke warm water and add a small teaspoon of cinnamon powder, make a paste and massage it on the itching part of the body slowly. It is noticed that the pain recedes within a minute or two.

Or arthritis patients may daily, morning and night take one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder.

If drunk regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research done at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon. Honey and half teaspoon cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week out of the 200 people so treated practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain and within a month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis started walking without pain.

HAIR LOSS: Those suffering from hair loss or baldness, may apply a paste of hot olive oil, one tablespoon of honey, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder before bath and keep it for approx. 15 min and then wash the hair. It was found very effective if kept for 5 mins. also.

BLADDER INFECTIONS: Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of luke warm water and drink it. It destroys the germs of the bladder.

TOOTHACHE: Make a paste of one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and five teaspoons of honey and apply on the aching tooth. This may be done 3 times a day daily till such time that the tooth has stopped aching.

CHOLESTEROL: Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water, if given to a cholesterol patient, it reduces the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10% within 2 hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken 3 times a day any chronic cholesterol is cured.

As per the information received in the said journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complains of cholesterol.

COLDS: Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon luke warm honey with 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder daily for 3 days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold and clear the sinuses.

INFERTILITY: Yunani and Ayurvedic have been using honey for years in medicine to strengthen the semen of men. If impotent men regularly take two tablespoon of honey before sleeping, their problem will be solved. In China, Japan and Far-East countries, women who do not conceive and to strengthen the uterus have been taking cinnamon powder for centuries. Women who cannot conceive may take a pinch of cinnamon powder in half teaspoon of honey and apply it on the gums frequently throughout the day, so that it slowly mixes with the saliva and enters the body. A couple in Maryland, America had no children for 14 years and had left hope of having a child of their own. When told about this process husband and wife started taking honey and cinnamon as stated above, the wife conceived after a few months and had twins at full term.

UPSET STOMACH: Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomachache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

GAS: According to the studies done in India & Japan, it is revealed that if honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

HEART DISEASES: Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread or chappati instead of jelly and jam and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also those who have already had an attack, if they do this process daily, are kept miles away from the next attack. Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heart beat. In America and Canada, various nursing homes have treated patients successfully and have found that due to the increasing age the arteries and veins which lose their flexibility and get clogged are revitalized.

IMMUNE SYSTEM: Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacteria and viral diseases.

INDIGESTION: Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food, relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

INFLUENZA: A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural ingredient which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu.

LONGEVITY: Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly arrests the ravages of old age. Take 4 spoons of honey, 1spoon of cinnamon powder and 3 cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, 3 to 4 times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life span also increases and even if a person is 100 years old, starts performing the chores of a 20 year old.

PIMPLES: Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

SKIN INFECTIONS: Eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections are cured by applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts.

WEIGHT LOSS: Daily in the morning, 1/2 hour before breakfast on an empty stomach and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one cup water. If taken regularly it reduces the weight of even the most obese person. Also drinking of this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

CANCER: Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month 3 times a day.

FATIGUE: Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful than detrimental to the body strength. Senior citizens who take honey and cinnamon power in equal parts are more alert and flexible. Dr.Milton who has done research says that half tablespoon honey taken in one glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3.00 p.m. when the vitality of the body starts decreasing, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

BAD BREATH: People of South America, first thing in the morning gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water. So their breath stays fresh throughout the day.

HEARING LOSS: Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder taken in equal parts restores hearing.

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PORK IS SIN AND SICKNESS

Author Uknown

Muslims' abstention from pork eating is in adherence to the Qur'anic Law which states: "Forbidden to you for (food) are: dead meat, blood and the flesh of the swine and that which hath been invoked the name other than Allah." Holy Qur'an 5:4

Such prohibition is also found in the Bible: " The pig also because it is a splitter of the hoof but there is no cud. It is unclean for you. None of their flesh must you eat and carcass you must not touch. " Deuteronomy 14:8 (Bible)

Islam (an Arabic word which means submission to the will of the Almighty God) has laid down the foundation for the best approach in keeping good health. In the Holy Qur'an (The Last Testament ) God exhorts the believers to select the best food and to stay away from any harmful food to maintain good health: " Let him find out which is the best food (to be had) ... Eat of the best foods We have provided for you . " ( Holy Qur'an 18:19;7:160 )

The main purpose of a True Religion must be to build an ideal community in this world ; a religion that promotes moral, political and economic well; social harmony and peace, as well as good health of its believers or followers. Health means the physical and mental well-being and freedom from diseases and pain.There are several passages in the Bible, articulating that because of sin (a transgression of the law of God) God afflicted human beings with maladies (Ps.103:3;Exodus 15:26 and Psalms 107:16-20). Islamic instructions and teachings espousing health consciousness have scriptural and scientific support

MEDICAL ASPECT OF THE PROHIBITION Abstention from eating pork is a measure to safeguard health. Of all the domestic animals, pig is the most avaricious, eating anything including human excreta. It is the cradle of harmful germs and parasites. Its meat is carrier of diseases to man, thus making it unfit for human consumption.

CHARACTER OF PIG

All types of animals are lawful to be eaten whether those living on land or in the water except those animals specifically forbidden in the Holy Writings revealed by the Almighty Creator and the sayings of the Prophet with clear and well defined injunctions. Pig belong to the forbidden animals, and not allowed to be eaten by the believers. Pig eats almost anything dirty and they are very lazy animals. It is the most avaricious of all domestic animals. Amongst all animals, pig is the cradle of harmful germs. It's meat serves as carrier of diseases to mankind. It is this very reason that made it unfit for human consumption consumption

DISEASES CAUSED BY PORK

The following lists show germs or parasites that are found in pork and some diseases caused by them. Many of these diseases are contagious while some are proven fatal.This proves that the more science advances the more Islam is shown correct as a religion of God.

PARASITIC DISEASES

a) TRICHINELLA SPIRATIS ( Trichina worms )

It is the most dangerous parasite to man ( Rheumatism and muscular pain). The infected persons shown no symptoms, recover very slowly some die, some reduced to permanent invalids. No one is immune from this disease and there is no cure.

b) TAENIA SOLIUM ( Pork tape worm )

The worm causes malnourishment of the person leading to amenia, diarrhoea, extreme depression melancholia and digestive disturbances. Cysticercosis means that larva enter the blood stream then settle down in one or more of the vital organs of the body, for example: brain, liver, lungs or spinal cord. They grow and encapsulate, inducing pressure to the system around, resulting in dangerous diseases (diarrhoea, digestive disorder, amenia, chronic invalidation).

c) ROUND WORMS

Examples: Ascaris, which may lead to digestive disturbances, appendicitis, obstructive jaundice.

d) HOOK WORMS

Examples: Ancylostomiasis, which may lead to amenia, oedema, heart failure or retarded growth ( mental and physical), tuberculosis, diarrhoea and typhoid.

e) SCHITOSOMA JAPONICUM

Bleeding, amenia and other syndromes. If ova are settled in the brain or spinal cord, paralysis and death may occur.

f) PARAGOMINES WESTERMAINI

Infestation leading to bleeding of the lungs ( endenve haemoptysis)

g) PACIOLEPSIS BUSKI

Digestive disturbances leading to persistent diarrhoea; generalized oedema.

h) CLONORCHIS SINENSIS

chlonorchiasis-obstructive jaundice, liver enlargement.

i) METASTRONGYLUS APRI

Causes bronchitis, abscess of the lungs.

j) GIGANTHORINCHUS GIGAS

Cause amenia and digestive disorders.

k) BALATITIDIUM COLI

Causes acute dysentery and general weakness

BACTERIAL DISEASES

1. Tuberculosis

2. Fusiformis necrofurus: causing foot-rot which is very difficult to heal.

3. Salmonella Cholera suis: causing cholera

4. Paratyphoid

5. Bruceellosis: Acute, sub acute and chronic. It may lead to permanent disabilities.

6. Swine Erysipelas: causing Erypelas in man.

Viral Diseases

1. Small pox: is was a source of infection to man.

2. Japanese B-encepphalitis: It is the source of infection

3. Influenza, foot mouth disease, gastroenteritis of the new born babies.

Protozoal Diseases : Toxo plasma goundii- It is a very dangerous diseases. A new born baby of an infected woman may die within few days or weeks after delivery. But if he survives he may develop blindness or deafness. In adult chronic exhaustive fever with enlarged liver and spleen may occur. Pneumonia, or celebro- spinal meningitis which may lead to death or madness. The patient may become blind and deaf too.

Fats In Pigs:

Pork contains more fats than other meats. Therefore, people who are fond of pork are more obese than others. Cholesterol is higher in their blood thus making them more prone to asthereosclerosis cardiovascular accidents and sudden death.

Other Diseases :

Flesh of the pork is hard to digest and may lead to chronic digestive disturbances. Pimples, boils, cysts are common in pork eaters. These are some of the parasites and diseases found in pork and/ or the skin of pigs and certainly there are many more. There is still no means of killing these parasites, in the tissues, neither has anyone found a method of expelling them, even produced any specific treatment for the diseases.

BIBLICAL ASPECT OF THE PROHIBITION

Old Testament

The Jews and the different Christian sects and denominations believe in the Old Testament. Adherents of other religions alleged that the prohibition was already superseded by the New Testament. This cogent argumentation is inconclusive. No one can specifically point out that Jesus Christ (PBUH) lifted the prohibition. On the contrary, he upheld it he declared: " Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets: I have come not to abolish them but to fulfil them." (Matthew 5:17 RSV)

Jesus Christ (PBUH) was obviously referring to the existing Law of his time , the Mosaic Law !- in which the Law prohibiting pig as article of food is mentioned. (Leviticus 11:7-11)

" As for any beast that is a splitter of the hoof but is not a former of the cleft and not a chewer of the cud, they are unclean for you. Everyone touching them will be unclean. " Leviticus 11:26

In addition, the book of Prophet Isaiah said: " Who sit in tombs, and spend the night in secret places who eats swine's flesh and broth of abominable things is in their vessels;... These are a smoke in my nostrils, a fire that burns all the day. " ( Isaiah 65:4,5b RSV)

The New Testament

Despite the Biblical injunction prohibiting pork as food, still people of other religious persuasions insist on finding ways and reasons to justify their consumption of prohibited animals arguing that said Biblical prohibition was already superseded in the New Testament when in certainly, no one can specifically point out that Jesus Christ (PBUH) indeed lifted the prohibition. On the contrary, Jesus (PBUH) declared: " Think not that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill them. " ( Matthew 5:17 ) The fact is, we will find in Mark 5:1-20 that Jesus (PBUH) even permitted the foul spirits (evil spirits) possessing a man to enter into the herb of swine. Since the flesh of pig is unlawful for the Jews, to eat and since it is considered unclean, (Leviticus 11:7-8) consequently, the Jews are not to keep or raise them. This Biblical account states that Jesus (PBUH) punished the owners of the swine; destroyed their unlawful livelihood and at the same time showed that pig is the habitat of unclean spirits.

MUSLIMS FOLLOW THE DIVINE LAW

Islam means" submission to the will and command of God " and a person who embraced this religion is called " Muslim " which means " one who accepts and submits himself to the will of God. A Muslim is obliged to be clean both spiritually, mentally and physically. Abstention from eating flesh of swine is one of the obligation a Muslim must observe to attain purity of the soul and of the human nature. The believers in Islam, sincerely believe in the Holy Qur'an as the Word of God, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) which says: " Allah has forbidden you only what dies of itself and blood and the flesh of swine and that over which any other name than that of Allah has been invoked; but whoever is driven to (it), not desiring nor exceeding the limit, then surely Allah is Forgiving, Merciful. " ( 16:115 )

We should bear in our mind that the abstention from eating pork by the Muslims is based on hygienic grounds and of the cultivation of purity of character. Pork is not poisonous as to kill people right on the spot but latent. It will destroys slowly. It is certainly not as nourishing as any other meat and it causes prolonged sufferings. Pondering on the wisdom of this saying: "Health is wealth " will lead you to better living and prosperity. The last Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: " There are two blessing which many people lose: health and the free time for doing good ...The stronger believer (in health) is more blessed and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer. "

It is not required of the believer to always find a scientific justification for the divine prohibitions. However, if they look and find it, they must share the information, that will increase their faith. To the contrary, lack of confirmation should not question the authenticity of the Qur'an. We believe that all Qur'anic statements are true, and if science has not confirmed some of them yet, it will do so in the future,

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FOOD AND NUTRITION IN ISLAM

Author Unknown

Milk: The Prophet SAW) said that milk wipes away heat from the heart just as the finger wipes away sweat from the brow. It strengthens the back, increases the brain, augments intelligence, renews vision and drives away forgetfulness.

Honey: Considered to be the best remedy for diarrhoea when mixed in hot water. It is the food of foods, drink of drinks and drug of drugs. It is used for creating appetite, strengthening the stomach, eliminating phlegm, as a meat preservative, hair conditioner, eye salve and mouthwash. It is extremely beneficial in the morning in warm water and is also a sunnah.

Olive oil: excellent treatment for skin and hair, delays old age, treats inflammation of the stomach

Mushroom: The Prophet SAW) said that mushroom is a good cure for the eyes, it also serves as a form of birth control and arrests paralysis.

Grapes: The Prophet was very fond of grapes, it purifies the blood, provides vigour and health, strengthens the kidneys and clears the bowels.

Dates: The Prophet SAW) said that a house without dates has no food, also to be eaten at the time of childbirth.

Figs: It is a fruit from paradise and a cure for piles

Barley: Good for fever in a soup form

Melon: Melon contains 1000 blessings and 1000 mercies, The prophet SAW said "None of your women who are pregnant and eat of water melon will fail to produce off spring who are good in countenance and good in character.

Pomegranate: The Prophet SAW) said it cleanse you of Satan and evil aspirations for 40 days.

Water: The Prophet SAW) said the best drink in this world and the next is H20 (water), when you are thirsty drink it by sips and not gulps, gulping produces sickness of the liver.

In the Holy Qur'an, Allah commands Muslims and all of mankind to eat of the Halal things.

O mankind! Eat of that which is lawful and wholesome in the earth, and follow not the footsteps of the devil. Lo! he is an open enemy for you. (2:168)

O ye who believe! Eat of the good things wherewith We have provided you, and render thanks to Allah if it is (indeed) He Whom ye worship. (2:172)

Eat of that which Allah hath bestowed on you as food lawful and good, and keep your duty to Allah in Whom ye are believers. (5:88)

Halal: The Arabic word Halal means lawful.

The following products are definitely Halal:

1. Milk (from cows, sheep, camels, and goats)

2. Honey

3. Fish

4. Plants which are not intoxicant

5. Fresh or naturally frozen vegetables

6. Fresh or dried fruits

7. Legumes and nuts like peanuts, cashew nuts, hazel nuts, walnuts, etc.

8. Grains such as wheat, rice, rye, barley, oat, etc.

Zabihah: Animals such as cows, sheep, goats, deer, moose, chickens, ducks, game birds, etc., are also Halal, but they must be Zabihah (slaughtered according to Islamic Rites) in order to be suitable for consumption. The procedure is as follows:. The animal should be put down on the ground (or held it if it is small) and its throat should be slit with a very sharp knife to make sure that the 3 main blood vessels are cut. While cutting the throat of the animal (without severing it), the person must pronounce the name of Allah or recite a blessing which contains the name of Allah, such as "Bismillah Allah-u-Akbar".

Haraam: The Arabic word Haraam means unlawful.

The following items have been categorically spelled out as being Haraam by jurists in light of the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Mohammad (SAW):

1. Pig

2. Blood

3. Carnivorous animals

4. Almost all reptiles and insects

5. The bodies of dead animals

6. Halal animals which are not slaughtered according to the Islamic Law.

7. Wine, Ethyl Alcohol, and Spirits.

The above mentioned items are Haraam and should be avoided by all Muslims.

Ingredients: The following ingredients should be avoided by all Muslims:

1. Alcohol (Ethanol, Ethyl Alcohol): Alcohol is a colourless liquid, produced by the fermentation of sugar or starch, that is the intoxicating agent in fermented drinks and is used as a solvent. Also called ethanol and ethyl alcohol.

2. Animal Shortening: Shortening is a type of fat such as lard that is solid at room temperature, and is used for making pastry.

3. Bacon: Meat from the back and sides of a hog that has been salted, dried, and often smoked.

4. Enzymes: Microbial Enzymes are okay A protein substance produced in living cells, that influences a chemical reaction within a plant or animal without being changed itself; an organic catalyst. Enzymes help break down food so that it can be digested. Pepsin is an enzyme.

5. Ethanol: Alcohol is a colourless liquid, produced by the fermentation of sugar or starch, that is the intoxicating agent in fermented drinks and is used as a solvent. Also called ethanol and ethyl alcohol.

6. Ethyl alcohol: Alcohol is a colourless liquid, produced by the fermentation of sugar or starch, that is the intoxicating agent in fermented drinks and is used as a solvent. Also called ethanol and ethyl alcohol.

7. Gelatine: An odourless, tasteless, protein substance like glue or jelly, obtained by boiling the bones, hoofs, and other waste parts of animals. It dissolves easily in hot water and is used in making jellied salads and desserts, camera film, and glue.

8. Gin: A strong colourless alcoholic drink distilled from grain and flavoured with juniper berries.

9. Ham: Meat cut from the thigh of the hind leg of a hog after curing by salting or smoking.

10. Lard: The fat of pigs or hogs, melted down and made clear. Lard is made especially of the internal fat of the abdomen and is used in cooking.

11. Rum: An alcoholic liquor made from sugar cane or molasses. It can be clear but is usually coloured brownish-red by storage in oak casks or by the addition of caramel.

12. Wine:

1. Alcohol fermented from grapes: an alcoholic drink made by fermenting the juice of grapes

2. Alcohol fermented from other fruit: an alcoholic drink made by fermenting the juice of fruit other than grapes, or the juice of other plants

13.. Tallow: A hard fatty substance extracted from the fat of sheep and cattle.

14. Vanilla Extract/Flavour: A flavouring extract made from the vanilla bean and used in candy, ice cream, and perfumes. The flavour extracted from vanilla beans is most commonly dissolved in alcohol. Documentation from a distributor of vanilla extract showed that the ingredient contained 50% alcohol.

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