Halal Ways of Dealing With Natural and Human-Caused Emergencies

The occurrence of natural calamities is increasing around the world. Some connect to climate change. Other emergencies stem from human failings and errors, affecting people monetarily and emotionally. Islam has clear instructions on handling emergencies as a devout Muslim. These principles can help in testing circumstances that make us question everything.

As a Muslim, following halal practices is essential in day-to-day behavior. They pervade various aspects, from ethical personal care products to sustainable purchase decisions and cultural sensitivity. They also apply during emergencies. But making a considered call can sometimes be confusing in adverse situations.

Accepting Non-Halal Food During Disaster Relief

Consuming halal foods is a crucial tenet of Islam. Halal dietary principles permit some items, while others are considered haram. These guidelines also cover butchering practices for meat. WebMD notes that following halal guidelines for food is a sensitive subject in Islamic communities, which has prompted more restaurants to align with these practices.

However, accessing halal food becomes challenging in natural calamities. In 2022, CBC News reported that halal meat had become expensive and daunting to procure during the floods in Fort McMurray. Rising transportation costs and staff shortages are also to blame for food supply issues during calamities.

Rising living costs have become an immense problem, even in regular circumstances. The BBC notes that increasing fuel and energy costs have made food prices soar past the budget of many average households. It becomes more conspicuous during Ramadan, when hosting iftar dinners for the extended family becomes expensive.

During natural calamities like floods and tsunamis, emergency services may be unable to offer halal food. Not accepting aid can pose a serious threat of starvation. In these circumstances, one can consume non-halal items. IslamWeb notes that there is no sin if someone is forced to consume such food by necessity and does not intend disobedience or transgression.

Some countries now provide halal emergency food options that are convenient to prepare and affordable. For example, Hijoushoku, or Japanese emergency food, has many halal options, like noodles and self-heating meals. Countries like Malaysia and Indonesia, where natural calamities are common, also provide these options.

Exposure to Danger During Firefighting

A core principle of Islam is protecting oneself and not endangering the body. It often raises doubts about firefighting as a viable profession for Muslims. Scholars on About Islam assert that firefighting is a noble profession that saves people’s lives. It is a collective obligation that the community must fulfill. 

Staying safe during firefighting is essential for professionals and other involved parties. The fire department may choose AFFF, or Aqueous Film Forming Foam, to extinguish a blaze caused by flammable liquids, such as gasoline. In recent years, it has received a poor reputation for its health implications. 

This foam contains PFAS, or forever chemicals that dwell in the body for years. The AFFF lawsuit update reveals that exposure to this foam can increase the risk of cancer and aggravate other medical conditions. It can contribute to high cholesterol, poor liver function, and even high blood pressure.

The halal way to manage this situation is to remain vigilant and avoid exposure to harmful chemicals as far as possible. Islam prohibits putting oneself into destruction or harm. 

TruLaw recommends that people living near airports, military bases, and factories be extra cautious. These establishments often use AFFF to put out fires. If you are an emergency personnel, you should partner in efforts to formulate fluoride-free foams without health repercussions. 

Confronting Theft and Loss of Property

The incidence of theft and fraud is on the rise globally. After the global COVID-19 pandemic and its socio-economic repercussions, many feel pushed to the end of their tethers. Losing valuable possessions due to theft or robbery can be highly stressful. 

The moral challenge comes from the following situation: 

Scholars emphasize that Muslims must endeavor to protect themselves and their families. They also reiterate that Muslims should safeguard their wealth and property. So, what is the right thing to do when confronted by social evils like theft? It may be hard to assess whether you should give up your belongings or fight against the culprits.

IslamQA observes that dying whilst defending your wealth is martyrdom. So, it is allowed to try to safeguard your things from being stolen. However, you must be cautious if you suspect that you might get overpowered and injured in a struggle.

Islam also allows legal means to recover lost goods, like seeking professional help and reporting the crime. Islamic Networks Group notes that state authorities must be responsible for appropriate punishments. 

Vigilantism is not allowed in Islamic jurisprudence. Also, supplicancy is of utmost importance. Personal tribulations can be genuine testing grounds for one’s beliefs. 

Likewise, following morally upright practices is crucial. Theft is particularly damning and has evoked strong reactions across the globe. Recently, Al Azhar University in Egypt suspended a professor for allowing the theft of utilities like electricity. Not paying the required fees for state utilities is akin to theft and violates religious principles.

Living per halal principles is frequently portrayed as restricting. However, it is connected to ethical and sustainable lifestyles, showing consideration to fellow humans and other living creatures. Remembering this way of life and adhering to it in crisis can be all the support you need.