Halal is an Arabic word that means "permissible" or "lawful". It is the opposite of haram, which means "forbidden". The term halal is particularly associated with Islamic dietary laws and especially meat processed and prepared in accordance with those requirements. Here are some key points about halal:
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Halal food: Halal food is that which adheres to Islamic law, as defined in the Quran. It is the only type of meat that observant Muslims are permitted to eat. Halal food must be prepared with minimal suffering to the animal and the pronouncement of Gods name during the slaughter, as the animal is being sacrificed to Him.
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Halal certification: For a meat to be certified halal, it cannot be a forbidden cut (such as meat from hindquarters) or animal (such as pork) and it must be slaughtered in a specific way. Many Muslims can shop with ease at a local halal market, where all of the products are designated halal.
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Other aspects of halal: Halal is not just about dietary restrictions. It also covers other aspects of life, such as the treatment of animals. Islamic jurists disagree on whether the term halal covers the first two or the first four of the "five decisions" classification: mandatory, recommended, neutral, reprehensible, and forbidden.
In summary, halal refers to what is permissible or lawful under Islamic law, and it is particularly associated with Islamic dietary laws and meat processed and prepared in accordance with those requirements.
