Pathway to Paradise — Page 67
67 The term “halal” means “that which is lawful for you”; thus halal meat is that which has been slaughtered in the name of Allah, and has had the blood drained out from it. The term “haram” means that which is unlawful for you, and includes blood, pork and alcohol. Allah ha s further commanded that you eat only what is “tayyab,” that is, food that is good and wholesome. Something may be halal, but it may not be tayyab, and thus should be avoided. Islam teaches that the condition of the body affects the conditi on of the spirit, and thus great care should be taken to keep one’s body healthy and fit. Islam further teaches that all food should be taken in moderation, and nothing should be indulged into excess. There is no good reason for not eating halal meat at all times, unless you are somewhere where it is absolutely unavailable. Halal meat can usually be obtained in Muslim stores. However, if it is totally unavailable, then it is permissible to eat meat from regular markets and invoke the name of Allah over it before cooking and eating it. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) never ate his fill. He has said: Kill not your hearts with excessive eating and drinking. There is no vessel worse for a person to fill than his stomach. A few mouthfuls should suffice to keep him on his feet. But if he must eat more, then let him fill one - third of his stomach with food, one - third with drink and leave one - third for easy breathi ng. When you begin to eat, pronounce the name of Allah the Exalted. If you forget in the beginning, say “In the name of Allah first and last. ”