The Principles of Halāl and Harām for Aquatic and Terrestrial Animals: In the Light of Jurisprudential Differences

The principles of ḥalāl (permissible) and ḥarām (forbidden) in Islamic jurisprudence govern not only the dietary practices of Muslims but also their broader ethical and legal framework. These principles extend to both terrestrial and aquatic animals, with distinct rules derived from the Qur'an, Hadith, and the interpretations of Islamic jurists across different schools of thought. The classification of animals as ḥalāl or ḥarām is influenced by a variety of factors, including the method of slaughter, the type of animal, and its characteristics, as well as the environment in which it lives. In Islamic jurisprudence, the rules surrounding the permissibility of eating animals can be traced to differing interpretations within the major schools of thought: the Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali schools. While there is general consensus on the basic principles, such as the prohibition of eating ḥarām animals like pigs and carnivorous animals, significant disagreements exist regarding the classification of specific animals, particularly aquatic species. For instance, the Shafi'i school tends to permit most aquatic animals as ḥalāl, whereas the Hanafi school has a more restrictive approach, allowing only fish as permissible. Similarly, scholars also disagree on the permissibility of consuming certain types of birds and land animals based on their characteristics and behavior. This paper aims to explore the principles of ḥalāl and ḥarām concerning both aquatic and terrestrial animals in the light of these jurisprudential differences. It will examine how the Qur'anic verses and Hadiths that discuss the consumption of animals are interpreted across the schools, and how these interpretations influence the dietary practices of Muslims worldwide. The study also highlights the evolving nature of these interpretations in response to contemporary debates, scientific advancements, and societal needs, reflecting the dynamic nature of Islamic law. By analyzing these differing views, the paper will provide a comprehensive understanding of the legal and ethical foundations of animal consumption in Islam and offer insights into how Muslims can navigate these distinctions in a globalized world.