When it comes to hookah/shisha, it is a topic of debate regarding its permissibility among different Muslim individuals. Many scholars and communities seem to have different opinions on hookah. So is hookah haram?
It is very much known that hookah has potential health risks due to its resemblance to smoking. It involves inhaling flavored smoke through a water pipe. Therefore, it may be considered haram(forbidden) in Islam. Some scholars believe it to be makrooh(disliked) and not outright haram. A large portion of the Muslim community contends that if used or taken in moderation and without harmful additives, hookah can very well be permissible and not explicitly forbidden.
Just like seafood, such as oysters, hookah is also enjoyed by many at cultural gatherings and parties around the world. However, whether it is halal or haram, we will find it in this article.
Is Shisha Haram or Makrooh?
As per most sects of Islam, Shisha is considered Makrooh, but as it is harmful to our body so better be avoid it.
Islam prohibits all that is harmful as the Prophet said, “There should be no harming nor reciprocating harm.” As we all know, there are loads of foods and drinks that are on the healthier side but there are also many of them that are harmful for human consumption. Allah describes the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) in the following terms, “He allows them as lawful At Tayyibaat (i.e. all good and lawful as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons and foods), and prohibits them as unlawful Al Khabaa’ith (i.e. all evil and unlawful as regards things, deeds, beliefs, persons and foods) [al-A’raaf 7:157] (source).
Therefore, if we consider hookah harmful for human consumption, it falls under the category of haram. Any kind of smoking is usually harmful to the human body. Though it may not have an immediate effect, if consumed for a long period it can work as a slow poison for your health. Hence if we consider poison to be haram, then hookah can also be considered haram.
On the other hand, as hookah or smoking in general has no instant harmful effect on the human body, but can be harmful if consumed for a long time, many scholars believe it to be discouraged (Makrooh) in Islam.
Is flavored hookah haram in Islam?
Just like hookah, flavored hookah also sparks debates among Islamic jurisprudence and believers. Whether some believe it to be Makrooh(discouraged), others categorize it as outright Haram.
One primary concern about flavored Hookah is the substances used in the preparation. The traditional flavored hookah has moist tobacco in it. As these tobacco blends may contain additives in them, it raises doubt about their halal status.
Furthermore, the act of smoking itself is a matter of health concern as the preservation of one’s well-being is encouraged in Islam, and the act of harming oneself or others is strictly prohibited.
Also check the Halal status of Bovine Gelatin
Side effects of consuming Hookah/ Shisha
Consumption of hookah may be popular due to its appeal and hookah bars may seem usually very nice and chill places to hang out but it can also bring potential side effects.
Hookah works by passing hot air through moist tobacco. It becomes moist due to the presence of artificial flavors in it. The tobacco then gets heated by the hot air, unlike cigarettes where it is directly ignited.
Hookah smoke contains harmful substances like carbon monoxide, heavy metals, and carcinogenic compounds (source). It also increases heart rate and blood pressure, therefore increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Hookah may contain a lower amount of nicotine compared to cigarettes, but prolonged use can lead to nicotine addiction as nicotine is a highly addictive substance.
Besides this, there are numerous side effects of hookah, you can read more in detail in a report published by the American Lung Association. Thus is it suggested to avoid consumption and look for alternative leisure activities that don’t cause any harm to the body.
Do Check Out, Is Quesada Halal?
FAQs :
Is hookah haram in Islam?
Hookah or Shisha is generally considered Haram because any kind of smoking is detrimental and harmful to health. However, some people say it’s Makrooh and not outright Haram because tobacco is not an intoxicant by nature.
What do Muslims call Hookah?
Muslims call Hookah ‘Shisha’. It is also known by the name ‘arghileh’ or ‘narghile’ by some people.
Is Shisha a big sin?
Shisha is a big sin, don’t let the modern-day world deceive you and justify the wrong you are doing. As it causes harm to your body, avoid it at any cost.
What does Islam say about smoking in general?
The Quran or Hadith does not explicitly mention smoking tobacco. While there may not be a unanimous agreement regarding smoking among Islamic scholars, many believe it to be harmful for human consumption and therefore strictly advise against it.
Is it Haram to sell Shisha?
Yes, it is haram to own a shisha business. (source)
Conclusion on Hookah Permissible or Not
Ultimately, the question of whether Hookah is Haram or not remains a subject of personal choice and interpretation. While some consider it Makrooh(discouraged) due to health concerns, others view it as outright Haram as it is addictive and does direct harm to the human body.
Therefore, despite your choice, it is best to take advice and guidance from Islamic scholars around you when deciding whether to use Hookah or not.
