Is the consumption of prohibited things permissible under duress?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Hunting and Slaughter

Book 56 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

The consumption of prohibited items is permissible in cases of necessity, equally in residence (hadr) and travel (safar). This ruling is established because the relevant verse is general and unrestricted by either condition. The phrase regarding the one compelled, "Fa-man idturra" (Quran 2:173), applies generally to every person in dire need. Necessity can occur while residing in an area, such as during a famine. The justification for this permissibility is the need to preserve life from destruction, as this benefit supersedes the benefit of avoiding impurities or refraining from consuming repulsive things, a principle applicable in both states.

Supporting text

The apparent stance of Ahmad is that carrion (maitah) is not permissible for one who can avert their necessity by begging (mas'alah).