Understanding Why the Muslim Don’t Eat Pork: Religious and Health Reasons

Is the Islamic prohibition against pork merely a test of faith, or is there a deeper, rational framework underpinning this centuries-old decree? The question of why the Muslim don’t eat pork stands out among the many inquiries directed at Islamic practices. This essay posits that the rule is not isolated but is, in fact, integral to Islam’s holistic approach to life, linking physical health, spiritual purity, and moral conduct. We will meticulously examine the primary religious texts, weigh the historical and scientific perspectives, and explore the common threads that connect this Islamic teaching to the dietary laws of other major faiths.

The Religious Reason Behind Why the Muslim Don’t Eat Pork

As for why the Muslim don’t eat pork, it is because Allah Almighty has forbidden it and declared it impure, making it unlawful for Muslims to consume. Allah says in the Qur’an:

“Say, I do not find within that which was revealed to me [anything] forbidden to one who would eat it unless it be a dead animal, or blood poured forth, or the flesh of swine — for indeed, it is impure — or a sinful offering dedicated to other than Allah. But whoever is forced [by necessity], neither desiring [it] nor transgressing [its limit], then indeed, your Lord is Forgiving, Merciful.” (Surah Al-An‘am, 6:145)

In the Sharia (Islamic law), the reason mentioned for the prohibition of pork  is Allah’s statement: “for indeed, it is impure.” The term “impure” (rijs) refers to something considered filthy or detestable in both Islamic law and the sound human nature (fitrah). This explanation alone is sufficient.

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However, there is also a general reasoning that applies to pork and all other prohibited foods, as Allah says:

“He forbids them from all that is impure.” (Surah Al-A‘raf, 7:157)

This means that everything Allah has forbidden is impure and harmful. In this context, “impurities” refer to anything that brings corruption or harm to a person’s life — whether in their health, wealth, or morals.

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Scientific Explanations Supporting Why the Muslim Don’t Eat Pork

Muslims in earlier times were not aware of the detailed reasons behind the impurity of pigs and the wisdom behind their prohibition. However, with modern scientific discoveries, it was found that pigs carry numerous harmful diseases and dangerous germs. 

1. Parasitic and Viral Infections

One of the key reasons why the Muslim don’t eat pork  is a deadly worm that develops in the flesh of pigs and infects humans who consume it. This worm lodges itself in the human intestines in a way that cannot be treated by regular anti-parasitic medicines. 

To this day, modern medicine has not found a cure to remove it once infection occurs. This poses a serious threat to human life and is known as the *Trichina* (Treichine). From this, we can understand the divine wisdom behind the prohibition of pork in Islam.

The French *Larousse Encyclopedia* states that this harmful worm (*Trichina*) is transmitted to humans, travels to the heart, and then settles in the muscles — especially those of the chest, sides, throat, eyes, and diaphragm. Its larvae can remain alive and active in the body for many years.

2. High Fat and Cholesterol Content

Pork is rich in saturated fats, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. For a faith that values health as a form of trust (amana) from God, avoiding such foods supports the principle of protecting one’s body.

3. Toxins and Waste Retention

Because pigs have a limited ability to sweat, toxins in their bodies are not efficiently removed. This means that substances harmful to humans can accumulate in the meat. The Qur’anic emphasis on purity (taharah) and cleanliness is thus consistent with the idea that pork is unsuitable for consumption.

How the Qur’an and Sunnah Clarify Why the Muslim Don’t Eat Pork

Pork is prohibited in the Qur’an, as Allah the Almighty says:

“Forbidden to you are carrion, blood, and the flesh of swine…” (Surah Al-Ma’idah: 3).

It is also forbidden in the Sunnah, as it was authentically reported that the Prophet ﷺ said:

“Indeed, Allah has forbidden alcohol and its price, the dead (unslaughtered) animal and its price, and the pig and its price.” — Narrated by Abu Dawood.

Allah also described it as impure, saying:

“…or the flesh of swine—for verily, it is filth (rijs).” (Surah Al-An’am: 145)

Thus, both Qur’an and Sunnah offer a comprehensive understanding of why the Muslim don’t eat pork—it is a matter of faith, purity, and protection for both the body and the heart.

Comparing Dietary Laws: Why the Muslim Don’t Eat Pork vs Other Faiths

The question of why the Muslim don’t eat pork cannot be separated from the broader Abrahamic tradition. Islam did not invent this rule; it preserved a divine law that existed in earlier revelations.

1. Judaism

In the Torah (Leviticus 11:1-8), pork is explicitly forbidden: The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying to them:

“These are the animals you shall not eat… the pig… it is unclean for you. You must not eat their flesh or touch their carcasses.” Practicing Jews therefore avoid pork just as Muslims do. This shared principle reflects the continuity of divine guidance through the prophets.

2. Christianity

Jesus said to his followers:
“The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat. So whatever they tell you to observe, observe and do.” — Matthew 23:2–3

This means, in this context, that the prohibition of eating pork also applies to those who believe in Christ.

Teaching Kids About Why the Muslim Don’t Eat Pork in a Simple Way

Parents often wonder how to explain why the Muslim don’t eat pork to their children without making it sound harsh or confusing. The key is to combine faith, science, and kindness in the explanation. By nurturing understanding instead of fear, parents ensure that their children grow up proud of their values.

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Conclusion

When we explore why the Muslim don’t eat pork, we uncover a balance between faith and wisdom. The prohibition is not arbitrary—it is rooted in divine command, supported by health insights, and reinforced by moral discipline.

Islam teaches that the body is a trust from Allah, and caring for it through lawful and wholesome food is part of worship. Avoiding pork thus becomes an act of gratitude and obedience, not deprivation

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FAQs

Why the Muslim don’t eat pork even if it’s clean or cooked well?
Because prohibition is a divine command, not dependent on cleanliness or cooking. It is about obedience to Allah, not personal preference.

What happens if a Muslim eats pork by mistake?
If it happens unintentionally, there is no sin. Once the person realizes it, they should stop immediately, seek forgiveness, and continue avoiding it.

Do other religions forbid pork too?
Yes. Judaism forbids pork, and some Christian groups also avoid it.

Can Muslims eat food cooked with pork utensils?
No. Muslims are advised to avoid contamination from pork utensils or oils, ensuring their food remains pure and halal.