For many Muslims, questions about the permissibility of various activities under Islamic law are important, and shisha smoking is no exception. This article explores the Islamic perspective on shisha, considering religious teachings, health implications, and scholarly opinions. It aims to provide a balanced and informative view for Muslims seeking guidance as well as those curious about the cultural and religious context of shisha use.

Understanding Haram in Islam
In Islam, the term haram refers to anything explicitly forbidden by religious law based on evidence from the Quran, Hadith, and scholarly interpretation. Activities or substances that cause harm to the body or mind, lead to addiction, or detract from one’s religious duties are often deemed haram. Determining whether shisha is haram involves examining its effects on health and behaviour and its alignment with Islamic principles.

Health Risks and Harmfulness of Shisha
Shisha smoking involves inhaling tobacco smoke filtered through water, but this does not eliminate harmful substances. Scientific evidence shows shisha exposes users to nicotine, tar, carbon monoxide, heavy metals, and carcinogens similar to or greater than cigarettes. Given the well-documented health risks including cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems, many Islamic scholars view shisha as harmful to the body, which Islam prohibits.

Scholarly Opinions on Shisha Smoking
There is no unanimous consensus among scholars on shisha, but the majority consider it either haram or makruh (disliked). Those declaring it haram cite the health damage and addictive nature of tobacco smoke. Others view it as makruh due to its potential harm and association with unproductive behaviour. Some scholars emphasise the principle of avoiding harm and preserving health as reasons to prohibit or discourage shisha use.

Ethical and Social Considerations
Islamic teachings stress avoiding habits that harm oneself or others. Shisha often involves social gatherings where smoking is prolonged, increasing exposure to harmful chemicals and second hand smoke. This communal aspect, while culturally significant, does not override concerns about health and addiction. Furthermore, spending money on harmful substances can be viewed as wasteful, which Islam discourages.

Contemporary Views and Fatwas
Many Muslim-majority countries and religious authorities have issued fatwas or public health advisories discouraging or forbidding shisha smoking. These rulings align with global health recommendations and reflect growing awareness of tobacco harms. Individual Muslims may follow different interpretations based on their understanding and local guidance.

Common Misconceptions
Some believe shisha is less harmful than cigarettes or permissible because it is smoked socially or less frequently. However, the presence of toxic substances and addiction risks contradict these assumptions. Others assume legality in certain countries implies permissibility in Islam, which is not necessarily the case.

Summary
While views vary, the predominant Islamic perspective is that shisha smoking is either haram or strongly discouraged due to its harmful health effects and addictive nature. Muslims concerned about religious compliance and health are advised to avoid shisha and seek guidance from knowledgeable scholars.