Is breeding pigs forbidden?
Question
Is breeding pigs forbidden?
Answer
God the Almighty describes the Prophet Muhammad in the Quran as one who "makes lawful for them [i.e. his followers] all things that are good and forbids them all that is evil." Therefore, anything which is clearly forbidden in Islam must be evil. Otherwise, it would not have been proscribed.
This is a general statement of universal application. It is sufficient for us to know that pork is clearly forbidden to conclude that it is evil. When we examine religious teachings, we find that certain prohibitions are clearly related to their causes. We are told that this particular thing is forbidden because it results in such-and-such. In such cases, when we are certain that the effect no longer applies, the prohibition is relaxed. In other cases, there is no cause stated for the prohibition. This means that the prohibition will continue for all time. In the case of pork, no cause has been specified. Therefore, pork will remain evil and forbidden for all time to come.
It is perfectly in order for Muslims to try to determine the cause of the prohibition of any matter. When they reach an answer, they must not make their conclusion final in the sense that they will say that the prohibition is only linked to this particular aspect. If they do, they run the risk of superimposing their conclusion on God’s legislation. This is not permissible for anyone.
In the case of pork, people have suggested a number of causes for its prohibition. Any or all of these may be relevant and correct. However, we cannot say that it was only for these reasons that pork has been forbidden. Let me say that pork is forbidden because it is evil and will remain so for all time.
In Islam, it is forbidden to produce, sell or breed what is of no benefit. What is forbidden is without benefit whatsoever. It is forbidden to sell or produce intoxicants. The same prohibition applies to pigs.
God the Almighty knows best.