Historical accounts and specific references indicate that Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second Caliph of Islam, expressed a preference for a particular drink referred to as "alcohol called nabidh" when offered by his physician on his deathbed. However, understanding the exact nature and context of this drink is crucial to accurately answer the question.
Understanding "Nabidh"
Nabidh is a traditional drink typically made by soaking dates or raisins in water. Historically, its consumption was common for refreshment and nourishment. Depending on the fermentation process, nabidh could either remain a non-intoxicating sweet drink or become alcoholic if left to ferment for an extended period.
In Islamic jurisprudence, intoxicating beverages (known as khamr) are strictly prohibited. The permissibility of nabidh often depended on whether it had reached an intoxicating state. Early Islamic society consumed various forms of nabidh, and there was a clear distinction between that which intoxicated and that which did not.
The Incident on Umar's Deathbed
When Umar was severely wounded and on his deathbed, his physician sought to alleviate his suffering and provide nourishment. In this critical state, the physician asked Umar, "Which alcohol would you like to drink?" Umar responded, "alcohol called nabidh is my preferred choice." This specific instance highlights a medicinal context, where the "nabidh" offered was likely intended for its nutritional or a perceived therapeutic effect, rather than as an intoxicating recreational beverage.
This scenario is also framed against a backdrop where intoxicating drinks were condemned. It has been recorded that a strong rejection was voiced against such substances, with a statement declaring, "Throw it to this wall, for this is a drink of the one who does not believe in Allah and the Last Day." This general sentiment underscores the Islamic prohibition against intoxicants.
Distinguishing Between Drinks and Context
To clarify the situation, it's important to differentiate between general intoxicating alcohol and the specific "nabidh" mentioned in Umar's deathbed account:
| Aspect | Forbidden Intoxicating Drinks (Khamr) | "Alcohol Called Nabidh" in Context |
|---|---|---|
| Description | Any drink that causes intoxication; considered a "drink of the one who does not believe." | A beverage made from soaked dates or raisins. Could be non-intoxicating or mildly fermented. |
| Purpose/Context | Strictly forbidden for consumption under normal circumstances. | Offered by a physician during a severe illness, likely for medicinal purposes, nourishment, or pain relief. |
| Umar's Stance/Action | Implicitly rejected due to strong condemnation of intoxicating substances. | Expressed preference for this specific type of drink when medically offered. |
Conclusion
While the term "alcohol" is used in the specific historical account related to Umar's deathbed, referring to "nabidh," it is crucial to understand this within its historical and medicinal context. The "nabidh" preferred by Umar was likely a non-intoxicating or mildly fermented form used for nourishment or therapeutic purposes, distinctly separate from the generally forbidden intoxicating beverages. Therefore, it is inaccurate to conclude that Umar habitually drank intoxicating alcohol.
