The Hierarchical Model for the Consumption of Prohibited Food Elements during Necessity for Muslims

Abstract

Islam is a religion that guides the lives of its believers by clearly explaining the lawful and the prohibited. Nevertheless, in the state of necessity (darurah), the prohibited is allowed with special boundaries, in order to preserve sustainability of life. However, the dispute among prominent scholars on this matter has led to doubt among the Muslim community. Therefore, whenever an issue arises, the Muslims become confused and are hesitant to consume food, which can be life-threatening. Thus, this article proposes a hierarchy of consumption for prohibited food elements during darurah as a sensible guide for the Muslims. For that purpose, the classical prominent jurists’ works are analysed to inductively propose two major reclassifications of prohibited food elements. Finally, based on the reclassification, a hierarchical model of consumption for prohibited food elements is presented as a summary of guidelines for the Muslims.