In Islam, substance abuse is generally considered to be haram (forbidden) and detrimental to a person's physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Islam places great emphasis on maintaining a sound and healthy mind and body, and any behavior that harms oneself or others is strongly discouraged.
Here are some key points about Islam's perspective on substance abuse:
Prohibition of Intoxicants: The consumption of intoxicants, including alcohol and drugs, is explicitly prohibited in Islam. The Quran, the holy book of Islam, condemns the consumption of intoxicants in several verses, including Surah Al-Baqarah (2:219) and Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:90-91).
Preservation of Health: Islam places a strong emphasis on maintaining good health and advises believers to avoid anything that may harm their bodies or minds. Substance abuse is seen as a violation of this principle, as it can lead to physical and mental health problems.
Responsibility and Accountability: Islam teaches that every individual is accountable for their actions in this life and the Hereafter. Engaging in substance abuse is viewed as a reckless act that can lead to harm, not just to oneself but also to others, and thus, individuals will be answerable for their choices.
Impact on Relationships: Substance abuse can negatively affect relationships with family, friends, and the community. Islam encourages fostering strong and healthy relationships based on trust, compassion, and mutual support.
Seeking Forgiveness and Redemption: Islam acknowledges that people may make mistakes, including falling into substance abuse. The faith offers the concept of repentance (Tawbah), where one can turn back to Allah in sincere remorse, seeking forgiveness and striving to rectify their behavior.
Encouragement to Seek Help: Islam promotes seeking help and guidance when facing challenges. If someone is struggling with substance abuse, it is encouraged to seek support from family, community members, and professionals to overcome the addiction.
It's important to note that Muslims, like people of any faith, can face substance abuse issues due to various factors. In addressing these issues, Islamic teachings often emphasize the importance of personal responsibility, accountability, and seeking help through faith, community support, and professional assistance if needed.
Muslims are encouraged to lead a balanced and moderate life, focusing on spiritual growth, compassion for others, and overall well-being. As such, substance abuse is considered antithetical to the principles of Islam, and Muslims are advised to avoid it and maintain a lifestyle that promotes their physical, mental, and spiritual health.