Consumption of pork is strongly prohibited for several reasons. On one hand, for theological foundations based on verses from the Quran and Hadith, on the other hand, for health reasons. If you have ever wondered why pork is Haram in Islam? You have the answer here.

Why is pork forbidden in Islam?

Pork is Haram for two reasons in Islam: theological reason, and health reason:

Theological reasons

Pork is considered impure, thus Haram on a theological level. Islamic teachings state that pork is associated with negative characteristics, so it is considered an impure animal. To purify themselves spiritually, the consumption of pork is prohibited.

On the other hand, the prohibition on consuming pork is also linked to a test of faith among Muslims. In other words, by abstaining from eating pork, they demonstrate their obedience to Allah and their submission to His commandments. This can involve personal sacrifices.

Health reasons

Pork plays a role in digestion and metabolism. It contains parasites and infections that can be transmitted to humans, especially if it is not cooked sufficiently or contaminated. Diseases like trichinosis, cysticercosis, etc. can be mentioned among these illnesses. Furthermore, pork is also associated with bacterial contamination and diseases related to meat consumption. Indeed, its metabolism and digestive system are different from those of other domestic animals. The meat is thus subject to deterioration and contamination.

What does the Quran say about consuming pork?

The Quran and Hadith are teachings and words of Muhammad. They contain references related to the prohibition of consuming pork and other food products such as nutmeg, alcohol vinegar, among others. Here are the writings in the Quran:

“Forbidden to you (for food) are: dead meat, blood, the flesh of swine, and that on which hath been invoked the name of other than Allah; that which hath been killed by strangling, or by a violent blow, or by a headlong fall, or by being gored to death; that which hath been (partly) eaten by a wild animal; unless ye are able to slaughter it (in due form); that which is sacrificed on stone (altars); (forbidden) also is the division (of meat) by raffling with arrows: that is impiety. This day have those who reject faith given up all hope of your religion: yet fear them not but fear Me. This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion. But if any is forced by hunger with no inclination to transgression, Allah is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” Quran – Al-Baqara (2 : 173);

A verse that states the prohibition of consuming pork. It also emphasizes that this prohibition can be lifted in exceptional circumstances. In other words, when one is compelled by necessity and without intending to transgress the limits imposed by Allah.

“Say: ‘I do not find, within what has been revealed to me, anything forbidden to one who wishes to eat but the dead, running blood, the flesh of swine—I tell you—in whom there is impurity—or, it be, what is carnally profane (animals) for the sake of false gods.’ But whosoever is compelled—without seeking to provoke—neither to sinfuln