Islamic Views on Smoking:

Through tobacco or smoking in general is not explicitly mentioned in the Quran and hadith, contemporary scholars have condemned it as completely harmful, and have at times prohibited smoking outright as a result of the severe health effects that it causes.

Quran says against smoking: 

This is based on the general statement in the Quran describing the Prophet: He makes lawful to them what is good and pure and prohibits them what is good and pure and prohibits them what is foul and impure. Since tobacco can only be classified as foul, considering the effects it produces on human health, its prohibition is most certain.

Is drinking and smoking against Islam:

The response was tobacco was unknown until many centuries after Islam was introduced and was not mentioned in the Quran but alcohol was known and is explicitly forbidden.The consensus of Islamic scholars is that tobacco and other harmful drugs are forbidden by analogy.

Islamic views on smoking have evolved over time, but the general consensus among scholars is that smoking is harmful and discouraged in Islam, even though it is not explicitly mentioned in the Qur'an or Hadith. In the past, smoking was not widely known in the Muslim world, but with the advent of modern tobacco products, Islamic scholars have addressed the issue.

Here are some key points on Islamic views regarding smoking:

1. Preservation of Health: Islam places a strong emphasis on preserving one’s health and well-being. The Qur'an and Hadith encourage Muslims to avoid things that can harm the body. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Do not harm yourselves or others” (Sunan Ibn Majah). Since smoking is widely recognized as harmful to health, it is considered incompatible with the Islamic principle of avoiding self-harm.
2. Addiction and Wastefulness: Smoking can lead to addiction, and Islam teaches against indulging in addictive substances. The Qur'an advises moderation and discourages excessive consumption: “Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils” (Qur'an 17:27). Spending money on a habit that causes harm to the body can also be seen as wasteful, violating the Islamic principle of using resources wisely.
3. Scholarly Opinions: Islamic scholars across various schools of thought (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, Hanbali) have largely agreed that smoking is either makruh (discouraged) or haram (forbidden), depending on its harmful effects. Many contemporary scholars consider it haram because of its clear health risks and addiction potential.
4. Social and Moral Responsibility: Smoking can also affect others through secondhand smoke, which is harmful. Islam teaches that Muslims should avoid actions that negatively impact the community or cause harm to others. Thus, smoking in public spaces where others are exposed to the smoke is seen as inconsiderate and contrary to Islamic ethics.

While smoking was not present during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), modern Islamic scholars emphasize its harmful effects and generally advise against it, calling it an undesirable and harmful practice in light of Islamic teachings on health, addiction, and social responsibility. Muslims are encouraged to avoid smoking and to seek alternatives that preserve health and well-being.

Islamic Views on Smoking:

In 2000, the Grand Mufti  of Egypt, Dr. Nasr Farid Wasil, ruled that smoking was haram (forbidden) in Islam because of its detrimental health effects.

Islamic views on smoking have evolved over time, especially with the increasing awareness of the health risks associated with tobacco use. While smoking was not prevalent during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Islamic teachings provide guidance on health, cleanliness, and the well-being of the body, which can be applied to smoking. The Islamic perspective on smoking is generally understood through several core principles, including the preservation of health, avoidance of harm, and the concept of personal responsibility.

Here are key points about Islamic views on smoking:

1. Prohibition of Harmful Substances

Islam emphasizes the preservation of life and health. The Qur'an states that "Do not kill yourselves" (Qur'an, 4:29), which is interpreted by scholars to mean that Muslims should avoid actions that harm the body. Smoking, which is widely recognized to cause serious health problems such as cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues, is considered harmful to the body. Therefore, many Islamic scholars conclude that smoking is haram (forbidden) because it intentionally harms one's health.

2. Concept of Halal and Haram

In Islam, actions and substances are categorized as halal (permissible) and haram (forbidden). The majority of contemporary scholars view smoking as haram due to the harmful effects of tobacco. While smoking was initially seen as a neutral or even permissible activity when it was first introduced to Muslim societies, the growing evidence of its health risks led to a shift in understanding. Many modern scholars argue that since smoking causes significant harm, it falls under the category of haram, even if it wasn't explicitly prohibited in the early Islamic texts.

3. Preservation of Cleanliness

Islam places a strong emphasis on cleanliness and personal hygiene, as seen in practices like wudu (ablution) and the requirement to maintain clean clothing and environment. Smoking, especially in public spaces, can produce unpleasant odors, which may violate these cleanliness principles. Additionally, secondhand smoke harms others, which further reinforces the argument against smoking in Islam, as it goes against the concept of causing no harm to others.

4. Personal Responsibility and Accountability

Muslims believe they are responsible for their bodies, as they are considered a trust (amanah) from Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “There should be no harming or reciprocating harm” (Hadith, Ibn Majah). Smoking, being an addictive and harmful habit, may compromise the ability to fulfill one's duties and responsibilities, both in the spiritual and worldly sense. Hence, Muslims are encouraged to refrain from habits that impair their health and hinder their ability to worship or perform daily activities.

5. Gradual Approach to Smoking

While smoking is generally viewed as haram, some Islamic scholars advocate for a gradual approach to quitting smoking rather than an immediate and harsh condemnation. They emphasize the importance of compassion and understanding for those who struggle with addiction and encourage counseling and support to help individuals overcome this harmful habit. Some scholars also recommend substituting smoking with healthier alternatives, like chewing gum or using herbal remedies, to aid in the cessation process.

6. Legal Rulings and Fatwas

Islamic fatwas (legal rulings) on smoking vary depending on the country and school of thought. For instance:

• Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries: Many Islamic scholars in these regions consider smoking to be haram due to its severe health risks.
• Egypt: The Al-Azhar University, one of the most influential centers of Islamic learning, has issued fatwas declaring smoking haram.
• Turkey: The Directorate of Religious Affairs has also issued a fatwa deeming smoking to be harmful and therefore forbidden.

In contrast, some scholars in earlier times did not have a clear stance, as smoking was not a widespread practice, but today the consensus is leaning toward prohibition due to the overwhelming evidence of its harmful effects.

7. Islamic Health and Well-being

Islam encourages Muslims to seek knowledge and understand the impact of their actions. The teachings of the Qur'an and the Hadith suggest that everything in moderation is acceptable, but when a behavior or substance becomes harmful, it should be avoided. The well-being of an individual and the community is a priority, and smoking directly contradicts these values.

Smoking was not explicitly mentioned in the Qur'an or Hadith, the broader Islamic principles of health, cleanliness, and personal responsibility strongly suggest that smoking is harmful and, therefore, haram. Many contemporary scholars agree that Muslims should avoid smoking due to its detrimental effects on both personal health and the well-being of others. Efforts to quit smoking are seen as part of fulfilling one's duty to protect the body and maintain the trust that Allah has given.

Islam forbids everything that is harmful:

Perhaps you know that all nations of the world-Muslim and kafir alike-have now started to fight smoking, because they know that it ois very harmful.Islam forbids everything that is harmful because the Prophet said: " There should be no harming or reciprocating harm.:

Undoubtedly there are foods and drinks which are beneficial and good, and others which are harmful and bad. Allah described our Prophet in the following terms 

   "he allows them as unlawful as regards things, deeds, beliefs, person and foods."

Spending on Smoking is spending on something harmful:

It was narrated that the Prophet said: 

    "Allah forbids you to trade gossip, to ask too many questions and to waste money."And Allah forbade wasteful extravagance when he said:

 "and eat and drink but waste not by extravagance certainly, He (Allah) likes not Al-Musrifun 

If the money which is spent on smoking worldwide were to be collected, or could have saved  entire populations who have died of starvation. Is there anyone more foolish than one who holds a dollar bill  and sets fire to it. Indeed, the smoker is more foolish because the folly of the one who burns a dollar bill ends there, whilst the one who smokes burns his money and also harms his body.

Smoking has caused many disaster:

How many disasters have been caused by smoking, because of cigarette butts which are thrown away and cause fires. Other disasters have been caused in other ways, as when a house wan the smell of the smokers and his mouth.as burned down with its occupants inside, when a man lit his cigarette when there was a gas leak.

Principles about Islamic Views on Smoking:

Islamic views on smoking are guided by several principles that emphasize the importance of health, well-being, and the avoidance of harm. Although smoking was not known during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Islamic scholars have drawn on foundational Islamic teachings to address the issue. The following principles guide the Islamic perspective on smoking:

1. Preservation of Health (Hifz al-Nafs)

• Islam places great importance on the preservation of one's health and body. The Quran and Hadith encourage actions that protect one's well-being. Smoking, which can cause severe health problems like lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues, is seen as detrimental to the body.
• Allah says in the Quran, “And do not throw yourselves into destruction with your own hands...” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:195), which is interpreted to mean that harming one's health is forbidden.

2. Avoidance of Harm (Darar)

• Islam forbids actions that bring harm to oneself or others. Smoking is harmful not only to the smoker but also to those around them due to secondhand smoke.
• The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “There should be neither harm nor reciprocating harm.” (Ibn Majah). This principle extends to all behaviors, including smoking, as it can harm both the smoker and others.

3. Intention (Niyyah)

• Islam emphasizes the importance of intention in all actions. If smoking is pursued knowingly for pleasure or addiction, it is considered harmful. If someone smokes due to ignorance or addiction and later repents, they are encouraged to seek forgiveness from Allah.
• The Quran mentions: “Say, ‘My prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds.’” (Surah Al-An’am, 6:162), emphasizing that everything should be in service to Allah, and harmful actions contradict this purpose.

4. Moderation (Iqtisad)

• Islam encourages moderation in all aspects of life. Smoking, even in moderation, is discouraged because it involves ingesting harmful substances that can damage the body over time.
• The Quran advises: “Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:27). Smoking, especially in excess, is seen as wasteful because it consumes money and resources while endangering health.

5. Avoidance of Addictions (Irritation of the Soul)

• Islam encourages self-control and avoiding substances that lead to addiction or loss of self-mastery. Addiction to smoking is seen as a negative influence on one's spiritual and physical well-being.
• The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: “The strong person is not the one who is able to overpower others, but the one who controls himself when angry.” (Sahih Bukhari), highlighting the importance of self-control, which smoking disrupts.

6. Social Responsibility

• Islam stresses the importance of social responsibility and caring for the welfare of others. Smoking in public places can harm others through secondhand smoke, making it a socially irresponsible behavior.
• The Quran says: “Help one another in righteousness and piety, but do not help one another in sin and aggression.” (Surah Al-Ma'idah, 5:2).

7. Islamic Scholars' Consensus (Ijma')

• Islamic scholars across various schools of thought have generally agreed that smoking is harmful and therefore, discouraged. Some scholars even classify it as haram (forbidden) due to its harmful effects on health, while others consider it makruh (discouraged) but not strictly forbidden.

8. Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness

• Islam encourages individuals to seek repentance if they have engaged in harmful behavior, including smoking. The act of quitting smoking and turning toward better habits is seen as an act of self-improvement and a step toward pleasing Allah.
• The Quran encourages repentance: “And those who, when they commit an immorality or wrong themselves [by sin], remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins…” (Surah Al-Imran, 3:135).

Islam’s stance on smoking revolves around the protection of health, the avoidance of harm, and the responsibility to be mindful of the impact of one’s actions on oneself and society. As smoking is harmful both physically and socially, Islamic teachings guide Muslims to avoid it, seek alternatives, and maintain a lifestyle that is pleasing to Allah.

Characteristics about Islamic Views on Smoking:

Islamic views on smoking are shaped by the broader principles of health, morality, and personal well-being in Islam. While smoking is not explicitly mentioned in the Qur'an or Hadith, Islamic scholars have developed perspectives based on the general teachings of the faith. Here are key characteristics of Islamic views on smoking:

1. Harmfulness to Health: Islam places great emphasis on the preservation of health. The Qur'an encourages believers to avoid actions that harm the body (e.g., "Do not kill yourselves" – Surah An-Nisa 4:29). Smoking, being harmful to health and a leading cause of diseases like cancer and respiratory issues, is considered a violation of this principle. This understanding has led many scholars to declare smoking as haram (forbidden) or at least discouraged.
2. Impurity and Pollution: Smoking creates a physical and environmental pollution, which is contrary to the Islamic value of cleanliness and purity. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that believers should maintain both personal hygiene and environmental cleanliness. Smoking can create an unpleasant atmosphere and is viewed as harmful to others, particularly in public spaces.
3. Wastefulness (Israf): Islam prohibits israf (wasting resources) and encourages moderation. Smoking is often seen as wasteful of both financial resources and time, which could be better spent in productive and beneficial activities. The money spent on cigarettes, which provide no real benefit, is considered wasteful in Islam.
4. Avoiding Addictions: Islam warns against anything that leads to addiction or loss of self-control. While smoking itself might not be classified as an addiction for everyone, it has the potential to develop into one, leading to a lack of discipline. Islam encourages self-restraint and avoiding anything that impairs a person’s ability to make responsible decisions.
5. Shahwa (Desires): Islam teaches the importance of controlling base desires (shahwa). While smoking may not directly involve indulgence in prohibited desires like alcohol or illicit relationships, it still represents a form of submission to a harmful desire that could undermine a person’s ability to live a balanced and healthy life.
6. Encouragement of Health: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is reported to have said that a Muslim should not harm themselves or others. With the knowledge of the harmful effects of smoking on both the individual and those around them (through second-hand smoke), many Islamic scholars and health experts encourage Muslims to avoid smoking.
7. Preventative Measures and Fatwas: Due to the increasing awareness of the dangers of smoking, many Islamic scholars and health organizations have issued fatwas declaring smoking haram or makruh (discouraged). Some scholars base this ruling on the hadiths that prohibit actions leading to harm, while others may classify smoking as a form of makruh if it does not cause direct harm but still involves wastefulness and addiction.

The Islamic view on smoking leans toward discouraging or prohibiting it, based on its harmful effects on health, its wasteful nature, and its potential to lead to addiction. Muslims are encouraged to protect their health and well-being and to avoid actions that negatively impact themselves or others.

Aspects about Islamic views on Smoking:

Islamic views on smoking have evolved over time, and while smoking was not explicitly mentioned in early Islamic texts, contemporary Islamic scholars and health experts have studied the issue in light of Islamic principles. Here are some key aspects of Islamic views on smoking:

1. Preservation of Health (Hifz al-Nafs)

Islam strongly encourages the preservation of health, as it is considered a trust from God. The Qur'an and Hadith emphasize the importance of maintaining one’s body in good condition. Smoking, due to its harmful effects, is viewed as detrimental to one’s health. The Islamic principle of not causing harm to oneself or others (la darar wa la dirar) applies here, meaning smoking is prohibited as it harms the smoker’s body.

2. Prohibition of Harm (Haram)

Although smoking was not known in the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), modern Islamic scholars often consider smoking to be haram (forbidden) due to its well-documented harmful effects. In the context of Islamic law (Sharia), actions that directly harm the body or mind are typically prohibited. Since smoking can cause diseases like cancer, heart disease, and respiratory issues, it is seen as a form of self-harm, and thus prohibited.

3. Avoiding Wastefulness (Israf)

Islam encourages moderation and warns against wastefulness (israf). Smoking, especially with the high cost of tobacco products in many places, is seen as a waste of money that could be used for more beneficial purposes. Islamic teachings promote using resources in a way that benefits one’s family, community, and society, and spending money on smoking is seen as an act of extravagance.

4. Social Responsibility

Islam stresses the importance of considering the well-being of others, and smoking can negatively impact others through secondhand smoke. The health risks to those around the smoker, especially in enclosed spaces, can be considered a violation of the Islamic principle of not causing harm to others.

5. Cleanliness (Taharah)

Islam places great emphasis on cleanliness and personal hygiene. Smoking can leave lingering odors, stained teeth, and bad breath, which contradicts the Islamic value of maintaining personal cleanliness. This has led some scholars to argue that smoking goes against the values of taharah (purity).

6. Fatwa on Smoking

Different Islamic scholars and schools of thought have issued various fatwas (legal opinions) on smoking. Initially, many scholars did not classify smoking as haram because it was not understood to have the harmful effects it does today. However, with modern knowledge about the health risks of smoking, many scholars have issued fatwas declaring smoking to be haram. Others consider it "makruh" (discouraged), though the prevailing opinion is that it should be avoided.

7. Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness

For Muslims who smoke, there is an emphasis on seeking forgiveness from Allah. Islam teaches that if someone commits a harmful act or a sin, they can always repent and seek God's mercy. Muslims are encouraged to avoid harmful substances and seek to improve their lifestyle by making positive changes, such as quitting smoking.

8. Encouragement of Healthy Alternatives

Islamic teachings encourage a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Smoking is viewed as a habit that can be replaced with healthier alternatives, such as engaging in physical activity, eating nutritious food, and avoiding harmful substances. Muslims are encouraged to seek medical help if they are addicted to smoking, and many Islamic scholars support initiatives that help people quit smoking.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while smoking may not have been addressed directly in early Islamic texts, the principles of protecting health, avoiding harm, and promoting cleanliness lead many contemporary Islamic scholars to view smoking as harmful and, in most cases, prohibited.

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