Ruling on the Buying and Selling of Alcohol (Including Cologne)

Author: Dr. Muhammad Zia-ur-Rahman Azmi (رحمه الله)

The Issue:

Cologne is a mixture of alcohol and water often used in the production of perfumes. The question pertains to its permissibility in terms of buying and selling, especially if it contains intoxicating substances.

Ruling:

  1. If Cologne Contains Intoxicants (Alcoholic Content):
    • If cologne is used as a beverage or contains intoxicants that can induce intoxication, its sale is haram (prohibited). Preventing its trade becomes obligatory to block the path to evil.
  2. If It Is Sold for Legitimate Purposes:
    • If cologne is sold for legitimate uses (e.g., perfume making) and the seller is unaware of the buyer’s intentions, the seller is not sinful.
    • However, if the seller knows that the buyer will misuse it (e.g., for intoxication), then selling it becomes impermissible because the seller is aiding in sin and transgression.
  3. Responsibility of Authorities:
    • Authorities must take action against sellers who knowingly sell such items for impermissible purposes. The seller should be warned or penalized for facilitating sinful behavior.
    • The authorities must regulate its sale, ensuring it is only used for lawful purposes.
  4. Use of Alcohol-Based Products (Such as Spirit):
    • If cologne contains intoxicating substances like alcohol (spirit) that are harmful or lead to intoxication, its use is prohibited, and one must avoid it altogether.

Conclusion:

The permissibility of buying and selling cologne or alcohol-based products depends on the intended use and knowledge of the seller. If these products are prone to misuse or intoxication, their trade is impermissible.

Reference:
  • Sheikh Ibn Baz: Majmoo’ al-Fataawa wa al-Maqalaat, Vol. 19, Page 44.
 
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