The permissibility of ethyl alcohol (ethanol) in Islam is a subject of scholarly discussion. The ruling on ethyl alcohol’s halal or haram status depends on its source, use, and the context in which it is found.
Understanding Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol)
Ethyl alcohol (C₂H₅OH) is a type of alcohol commonly found in alcoholic beverages. It is also used in many industrial and pharmaceutical applications, including as a solvent, in perfumes, and as a disinfectant.
Differentiating Uses and Contexts
Consumption as Intoxicants
Any beverage or substance containing ethyl alcohol intended for intoxication is unequivocally haram. This includes all alcoholic drinks.
Non-Consumable Products
Ethyl alcohol used in products not intended for consumption, such as:
- Medicinal Products: Some scholars permit the use of ethyl alcohol in medicinal products when no suitable halal alternative is available, based on the principle of necessity (darurah).
- Cosmetics and Perfumes: There is a difference of opinion. Some scholars allow its use if it evaporates quickly and does not intoxicate, while others discourage it to avoid any association with haram substances.
- Cleaning Agents and Disinfectants: Generally considered permissible because they are not consumed and serve the purpose of cleanliness and hygiene, which are highly valued in Islam.
Principles from Fiqh (Islamic Jurisprudence)
Istihalah (Transformation)
Istihalah refers to the chemical transformation of a substance. If ethyl alcohol undergoes a complete transformation into another substance that is non-intoxicating, it may be considered pure (tahir) and permissible. This principle is applied in various madhabs (schools of thought) to determine the permissibility of certain products.
Darurah (Necessity)
When a product containing ethyl alcohol is the only available option for treatment or use, and avoiding it would cause significant harm or hardship, it may be permissible under the principle of necessity.
Conclusion
The permissibility of ethyl alcohol in Islam is context-dependent. It is haram when used as an intoxicant but may be permissible in non-consumable forms such as medicines, disinfectants, and cosmetics, especially when no halal alternatives exist.