Is the conversion to Islam of a person while intoxicated valid?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of the Apostate
Primary text
The conversion to Islam of an intoxicated person, whether an original disbeliever or an apostate, is valid during their intoxication. This ruling is supported by analogy: since their apostasy, which is a harmful statement and falsehood, is considered valid, their conversion to Islam, which is a true statement and pure benefit, is more valid. If the intoxicated person subsequently retracts their conversion, stating they did not know what they said, their statement is disregarded. They are compelled to remain Muslim; if they refuse, they are to be executed.
Supporting text
A dissenting scholarly view exists, suggesting that the conversion of an intoxicated person is invalid, drawing upon the principle that their apostasy is invalid. By this reasoning, one whose apostasy is invalid, such as a child or a mentally incapacitated person, would also have an invalid conversion to Islam.