I found this post at Free-Minds.org which definitely will create a lot of debate.  I decided to include the entire text of the article below.  I know many of you may disagree with the assertion that it “may” be okay to drink alcohol as a Muslim.  I also know some that may agree.

Is alcohol forbidden in Islam?

In many discussions I have witnessed regarding the subject of alcohol, the conclusion predominantly is that it has been `forbidden` or that it is `off-limits` regardless if the person debating is a follower of the Hadiths or is researching based on the laws of the Quran only.

This short article will attempt to put an end to the questions and debates on this issue by analyzing the straightforward verses relating to alcohol in the Quran:

“O you who believe, do not approach the Salat while you are intoxicated, until you know what you are saying. Nor if you have had intercourse, unless travelling, until you bathe. And if you are ill, or traveling, or one of you has excreted feces, or you had sexual contact with the women, and could not find water, then you shall select from the clean soil; you shall wipe your faces and hands. God is Pardoning, Forgiving.” (4:43)

“O you who believe, intoxicants, and gambling, and altars, and arrows of chance are tools of affliction used by the devil. You shall avoid him so that you may be successful.” (5:90)

“They ask you about intoxicants and gambling. Say: “In them is great harm, and a benefit for the people; but their harm is greater than their benefit.” And they ask you how much are they to give, Say: “The excess.” It is thus that God clarifies for you the revelations that you may think.” (2:219)

“And from the fruits of the palm trees and the grapes you make wine and a good provision. In that is a sign for a people who comprehend.” (16:67)

“Is the example of Paradise; that the righteous have been promised with rivers of pure water, and rivers of milk whose taste does not change, and rivers of wine that are delicious for the drinkers, and rivers of strained honey, and for them in it are all kinds of fruits, and a forgiveness from their Lord; like that of those who abide in the Fire, and are given to drink boiling water that cuts-up their intestines?” (47:15)

The usual arguments presented on this subject are listed below with their relevant responses:

Argument # 1: Alcohol is `haram/forbidden` [Read more...]

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