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Offline Reader Questions

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Drinking and Prayer
« on: December 31, 2011, 10:56:14 PM »
Salam Joseph,

In verse 4:43, Momineen are warned not to go for Salaat when their minds are beclouded. Does it mean only becloud or does this mean under the influence of intoxicants (such as wine)? Secondly if intoxicating is Haram why is Allah asking the Momineen not to perform prayers because Momin do not drink (as it is haram). Is this command earlier to declaring intoxicants Haram?

Offline Joseph Islam

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Re: Drinking and Prayer
« Reply #1 on: December 31, 2011, 10:59:34 PM »
Salamun Alaikum,

Verse 4:43 does not mention 'intoxicants'. The Quran uses the word 'sukara'. The Quranic and classical usage of the term 'sukara' includes any state in which a mind loses clarity whether it is anger, rage, confused thought or judgment, distraction, or any state in which there is mental disequilibrium. Therefore, any mental state when focus is compromised falls within the understanding of the term 'sukara'. Intoxicants are merely one example.
 
It can be argued therefore, that the real essence of the verse is not so much with regards 'sukara' or the gradual prohibition of intoxicants. Rather, the focus of the verse is to underscore the understanding that one must be in a state where they can concentrate on their prayers and know what they are saying during it. [1]

The word for intoxicants such as wine etc is 'khamar' which is not the word used here.

I hope that helps.

Your brother,
Joseph.

[1] DO WE HAVE TO PRAY IN ARABIC?
http://quransmessage.com/articles/do%20we%20have%20to%20pray%20in%20arabic%20FM3.htm

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