Many people know that Muslims are forbidden to eat pork, but they cannot understand the reasons for the ban and the origin of the taboo. In every culture, there are animals whose meat is extremely undesirable to see on the table. In Europe, no one would think of eating cat or dog meat, horse meat lovers are very rare, but in some regions of East Asia, dog meat is part of the usual cuisine. Hindus do not imagine beef as a dish because the cow is considered a sacred animal. Almost all religions have the right to certain prohibitions, so it is worth understanding why pork is prohibited in Islam. The laws of religion in relation to pork are prescribed in the Holy Quran, the principles of which are observed by Muslims.
Muslims’ Ban on Pork: Basic Principles
Judaism provides the rules and traditions of eating kosher meat. Possible reasons for the ban:
- Pork is considered unclean, it contains many toxic substances, bacteria and fats. In addition, in hot countries in ancient times, there could be difficulties with storing this type of meat. If improperly processed, it becomes a source of pathological bacteria.
- Pigs prefer to spend time in dirt and filth, they can eat their own excrement, so they cause disgust not only among Muslims.
- In terms of its composition, pork is not particularly useful, it is a heavy food that can cause various diseases and pathologies.
- According to legend, one person was turned into a pig, which could, along with others, become one of the dishes. History has no scientific evidence, but pork is really very close in biochemical parameters to the parameters of people.
Pork can be present in products as gelatin, so Muslims have to select food options carefully. The only case of eating pork is the complete absence of other products and the desire to satisfy hunger. If a person is in captivity and is trying to save his life, he must look for all possible ways to save himself. In extreme situations, there is no choice. As soon as the danger is behind him, the Muslim must return to observing the law.
Halal and haram
Muslims, for religious reasons, should not consume alcoholic beverages and some types of meat. What products are available to prepare daily meals? The classification determines this point:
- halal – completely permitted;
- makruh – undesirable;
- haram – strictly prohibited.
The debate on whether donkey meat can be eaten continues to this day, but pork is a strictly prohibited product. Improper slaughter of animals can result in them being placed on the prohibited list. The rules are as follows:
- Before slaughtering, you should make sure that the animal is healthy;
- the killing process is done by stabbing;
- this can be done by an adult who professes Islam, Judaism or Christianity.
The restrictions on individual designs are fairly simple, but the rules are easy to follow.
Halal products are not only for Muslims
If you are preparing for Muslim guests, you need to make sure in advance that the menu does not contain pork or other prohibited ingredients. You cannot use gelatin; it is better to buy pectin or agar-agar. When buying baked goods, it would be a good idea to make sure that they do not contain pork fat.
You can replenish your stock of halal products at specialized retail outlets or large chain stores. Manufacturers make it easier for those who place the “halal” mark on the labels of meat or semi-finished products.
Halal products are consumed with pleasure by people who belong to other religious denominations because this is an indicator of high quality. Animals receive GMO-free feed, and the dishes do not contain any foreign additives or suspicious components.
The Scientific Point of View on the Ban on Eating Pork
Islam is considered a relatively young religion from a historical point of view. Its formation took place under the influence of two teachings – Judaism and Christianity. These three faiths have similar provisions and prohibitions. For Muslims, there are no restrictions related to sheep and cows, the ban applies to the consumption of pork and animals that died themselves.
The practical purpose of the restrictions is quite clear. The ban on the use of alcohol or intoxicants has a positive effect on health, the absence of pork in the diet reduces the amount of heavy fatty food. Eating carrion and wild animals can lead to a huge number of poisonings, but the ban allows you to avoid this.