Zabiha or Halal?

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.

At I.S.A., the Holy Quran and Prophet’s traditions are referred to in our philosophy, methods, and standards.
The word zabiha 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 zabiha.
In order for a consumable product to be Halal, the Quran and Sunnah give guidance on how to slaughter. Zabiha, 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 ‘zabiha’ makes no reference to the consumption of blood, or meat that is contaminated with impurities, witchcraft or dead carcasses.

The term ‘zabiha’ 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 zabiha.