Halal Beer Today...
What's Tomorrow; Halal Pork?
Was that beer being served during The 6th Malaysia International Halal Showcase?
People in attendence saw several drink products that were bottled and canned to resemble Beer and similar Alcoholic products at this year's event.
As the bottles of fake beer were hoisted up to awaiting mouths and sparkling (imitation champagne) was being sipped one has to ask the question:
Who are we as Muslims trying to emulate and why?
Although we are instructed not to consume alcohol; it seems that our mad rush to try these imitation products is our way of saying “Now we fit in”.
While one would almost expect that Muslims would take a some what wide berth a way from these display booths; the opposite was in fact the case. Some Muslims were reaching for samples as if they were reaching for a long lost friend.
So the question that begs to be asked is:
Why do we (Muslims) desire products that look like items that are forbidden to us?
It is much like a person who becomes a vegetarian and yet asks for a vegetarian hamburger. Who is being deceived here?
Is there a secret desire that is being fulfilled when imitation items resembling forbidden items are consumed?
If so…one would have to wonder what would happen, if someone someday offered “Halal Pork”!
Now, if perception is reality; how do non Muslims view us when we are seen drinking out of these cans and bottles?
As far as they know; Muslims are consuming alcohol…Period!
Beyond that; what is the possible social implication associated with these products?
Let’s look at this highly probable scenario:
These beer bottles and cans of non alcoholic products become so common place among the young and “mature” on the street that they no longer warrant a second glance.
Next, this social acceptance will give rise to a few who will see, if they can get away with drinking “the real thing” in public as well.
Their successful attempts would give courage to others (especially the youth) to do the same thing.
Eventually, Muslims will be suffering from the same alcohol related illnesses and problems which are found throughout other communities.
This seems like all too high of a price for a community to pay just to fit in or be accepted.
And after all, isn’t it the underlying desire to emulate a champagne guzzling, beer belching intoxicated world at the root of this.
The question we have to ask the producers of these products is:
Would these “refreshments” taste just as refreshing, if they were offered in different containers and called different names?
And shouldn’t Muslims be less anxious to consume items which should be at the outset cause for concern and hesitation?
So am I advocating censorship of Muslims. Far be it!
However, I do suggest that we ask ourselves this the following before we partake of public questionable activities:
If my action is the cause of my brother/sister to stumble then where is the value/love in that which I do.
As-Salaam Alaikum
Muneer A. Rasheed
International Advisor & Consultant (PPIM)
The World Muslim Consumer Association
Asia Source Consulting
From Hala Beer back to Muneer's Blog!
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