Islam is a religion that has a strong focus on morality and self-discipline. One of the key aspects of Islamic teachings is the prohibition of alcohol, which is considered to be a major vice that can lead to numerous moral and physical problems.

In this article, we will explore why alcohol is prohibited in Islam, and how this ban helps to promote a healthy and wholesome lifestyle for followers of the religion.

The first and most important reason for the prohibition of alcohol in Islam is its potential to cause harm to both the individual and society. The Qur'an states that alcohol is "the work of satan" (5:90)

that leads to "more evil than good" (2:219).

This is because alcohol can have a negative impact on a person's judgment, inhibiting their ability to make rational decisions and leading them to engage in behavior that is harmful to themselves and others.

In addition to the physical harm that alcohol can cause, such as liver damage, addiction, and impaired coordination, it is also a major contributor to social problems like crime, domestic violence, and sexual exploitation. These negative consequences of alcohol use can have a ripple effect throughout society, leading to broken families, financial instability, and other problems that can harm communities.

Another reason for the ban on alcohol in Islam is its potential to interfere with religious obligations and spiritual growth. Alcohol can impair a person's ability to perform their daily prayers, attend religious gatherings, and engage in other spiritual practices that are central to the religion.

This can lead to a decline in moral and spiritual values, making it more difficult for Muslims to live a life that is in line with Islamic teachings.

Islam emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and moderation, and the consumption of alcohol is seen as a violation of this principle. The Qur'an instructs believers

The ban on alcohol is seen as a way to encourage Muslims to maintain control over their actions and avoid engaging in behavior that is harmful to themselves or others.

In recent years, scientific research has confirmed many of the concerns expressed in Islamic teachings about the dangers of alcohol consumption.

This research has shown that alcohol can indeed have a number of harmful effects on both the individual and society.

For example, studies have found that alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage, increase the risk of certain types of cancer, and impair cognitive function. It has also been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, depression, and other mental health problems.

Additionally, research has confirmed the relationship between alcohol and crime, as well as its potential to contribute to domestic violence and other forms of violence. This has been demonstrated in studies that have found that the availability of alcohol is positively correlated with an increase in violent crime and aggressive behavior.

The negative impact of alcohol on families and communities has also been well documented by science. Studies have shown that alcohol abuse can lead to financial instability, job loss, and family breakup, among other problems.

In light of this scientific evidence, it is clear that the ban on alcohol in Islam is based on a deep understanding of the potential harm that alcohol can cause.

By prohibiting its use, Islam aims to protect its followers from the many negative consequences that can arise from excessive alcohol consumption. It is important to note that while science has confirmed many of the concerns expressed in Islamic teachings about alcohol, it is not the only factor that informs the ban. The Qur'an and Hadith, which are the primary sources of Islamic law, also provide guidance on the importance of self-discipline, moderation, and avoiding behavior that can harm oneself or others.

The recommended amount of alcohol that can be consumed has been reduced recently due to increasing evidence of the health risks associated with even low levels of alcohol consumption.

In 2016, the UK Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) reduced the recommended weekly limit for alcohol consumption to 14 units for both men and women. This change was based on the latest evidence on the health risks associated with alcohol, including cancer, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease.

The CMOs also noted that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption and that the best way to reduce the risks is to not drink at all. However, for those who choose to drink, the recommended limit of 14 units per week is considered to be a low-risk level of consumption.

Similarly, in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that people should limit their alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. The CDC has also stated that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption and that the best way to reduce the risk of alcohol-related harm is to not drink at all.

The reduction in recommended alcohol consumption is a result of growing evidence of the health risks associated with even low levels of alcohol consumption. The health risks associated with alcohol, including cancer, liver disease, and cardiovascular disease, have become more widely recognized, and the evidence has become stronger that even low levels of alcohol consumption can have a significant impact on health.

This is another example of Science catching up with Islam and confirming its guidelines which were introduced to civilization more than 1400 years ago.