Halal or Zabihah?

Halal is an all encompassing Arabic word that literally means permissible. The Holy Quran and Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad give detailed guidelines on what exactly is considered permissible, and therefore Halal and what is considered forbidden or Haram.

Islamic Services of America refers to the Holy Quran and Prophet’s traditions in our philosophy, methods, and standards.

The word 'zabihah' is a specific Arabic word that literally means ‘slaughtered’. It is derived from the Arabic word “Thabih” which means slaughter. In some cultures this word is pronounced “zabih”. Hence the term zabihah.
In order for a consumable product to be Halal, the Quran and Sunnah give guidance on how to slaughter. Zabihah, however, does not in any way substantially define or encompass what is truly Halal. It is only one specific element that relates to how or if an animal is slaughtered. An example of this is that one can slaughter a pig or a human, but neither is permissible to consume. Similarly ‘zabihah’ makes no reference to the consumption of blood, or meat that is contaminated with impurities, witchcraft or dead carcasses. All of which are prohibited in the Quran and Sunnah. To be recognized as Halal all of the above must not be present in the product or process.

The term ‘zabihah’ is a human, cultural innovation that should not be confused with ‘Halal’ which is from the Quran and Sunnah. As such, ISA will vigilantly uphold Halal standards and avoid confusing concepts like 'zabihah'.