Living a halal lifestyle is not limited to one’s food choices but a way of life that aligns with the teachings of Islam. “Halal” is a term for what is allowed or lawful in Islam, directing not just what Muslims eat but also their behavior and actions. The Halal lifestyle is holistic, and its adherent experience, among others, is spiritual fulfillment, physical well-being, and ethical integrity.
5 Reasons Why a Halal Diet Is Good for Your Body and Soul
1. Spiritual Benefits
The halal lifestyle is a form of observance of Allah’s law that connects the believer with his Creator by consuming only what Allah has allowed. The Quran highlights consuming only what is lawful and pure;
“O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship.”
Surah Al Baqarah- 2:172
Halal also represents worship, purifying the soul and strengthening Muslims’ faith. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him said:
“The flesh nourished by haram deserves the Fire.”
Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 614
This Hadith underscores the importance of consuming only what is permissible to maintain spiritual purity.
2. Physical Health Benefits
The halal diet itself encourages well-being and good health. Islamic dietary laws prohibit the consumption of harmful substances such as alcohol and pork, which are associated with various health risks. Moreover, dhabīḥah or halal slaughter techniques are used, which provide a complete draining of blood from the animal’s body, so the risk of contamination is reduced and the meat becomes cleaner and healthier.
Moreover, the halal principles promote the intake of healthy and nutritious food. Here are some beneficial foods that are mentioned in the Quran:
“And from the fruits of the palm trees and grapevines you take intoxicant and good provision.”
Surah An-Nahl, 16:67
Incorporating such foods into one’s diet contributes to overall health.
3. Ethical and Humane Treatment of Animals
The halal lifestyle mandates ethical treatment of animals, emphasizing humane slaughtering practices. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) instructed:
“When you slaughter, slaughter well. Let each one of you sharpen his blade and let him spare suffering to the animal he slaughters.”
Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1955
This guidance ensures that animals are treated with compassion, reflecting Islam’s broader commitment to mercy and ethical conduct.
4. Social and Community Benefits
Living a halal life promotes a sense of community and belonging among Muslims. Halal meals and communal worship act as the glue that strengthens social ties and encourages unity. In addition, this focus on ethical relations applies to business and commerce, promoting fairness and integrity in every transaction.
5. Mental and Emotional Well-being
When you follow halal ways, you can enjoy serenity, tranquility, and ultimately, mental peace and emotional well-being. Knowledge of secret reflection and whether your lifestyle is the one that is aligned with divine commands gives you a sense of purpose and relief. The Quran assures:
“Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.”
Surah Ar-Ra’d, 13:28
This inner peace is a profound benefit of living a halal lifestyle.
Conclusion
Living a halal lifestyle is beneficial in a myriad of ways for the body, mind, soul, and society collectively. Muslims believe that they abide by divine order in this world and the next by following along the path outlined in the Quran and Sunnah, thereby making this world and the next richer in quality. The all-embracing nature of halal living reflects Allah’s detailed understanding of the human condition and what truly benefits us.
