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The Quran => Q&As with Joseph Islam - Information Only => Topic started by: Reader Questions on April 04, 2014, 09:07:03 AM

Title: How Does the Quran Deal with Poisonous Fish?
Post by: Reader Questions on April 04, 2014, 09:07:03 AM

Dear Joseph

I pray to God you’re in good health.

I have a quick question related to halaal food:

I was reading about poisonous foods like poisonous fish and mushrooms and some fruits.

Does the Qur’an tell us anything about this?

The Qur’an says we can eat seafood, but some are poisonous.

How do we deal with this?

Thank you.

Title: Re: How Does the Quran Deal with Poisonous Fish?
Post by: Joseph Islam on April 04, 2014, 09:09:44 AM

As-salam alaykum

The Quran actually provides two requirements. (1) The food is lawful (halal and (2) That it is 'Tayyib'. The word 'tayyib' means good, wholesome, pleasant things.

"O mankind! Eat from whatever is on earth [that is] lawful (halal) and good (tayyiban)..." 2:168

Please also see verse 16:114.

Of course, if we are allowed to eat from generally permissible categories such as fruits and sea-food (halal), we must also be careful to steer clear of food which is harmful / poisonous to us within those categories. I would find the word 'tayyib' providing sufficient coverage for that.

I hope that helps, God willing
Joseph