What is the ruling on one who consumes odorous food and then approaches the Mosque?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Hunting and Slaughter

Book 56 · Issue 3 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

Consumption is disliked if one approaches the Mosques, but it is not rendered forbidden (Haram) for them to enter. This is supported by the narration of Al-Mughirah ibn Shu'bah, who ate garlic and entered the Prophet's prayer place a step ahead of the Prophet. When the Prophet detected the smell after prayer, he commanded that whoever ate from that plant should not approach until the smell left. Al-Mughirah approached and received pardon from the Prophet after revealing his situation.

Supporting text

A view attributed to Ahmad holds that the person incurs sin (Ya'tham) because the apparent command of prohibition implies prohibition, and causing harm to Muslims is Haram, which is entailed by the odor.