Halal

<<permitted by Islamic law>>

Any object or action that is permissible to use or engage in according to Islamic law. The term relates to food, drink and matters of daily life. In the case of meat (pork is strictly forbidden) it is permissible provided it has been prepared according to the Muslim ritual, which includes Allah’s name pronounced over the animal, as it’s throat is slit.

Can we, as Christians eat animals killed this way, which is specifically offered to a foreign god? The Bible teaches that there is only one true God, the Father of Jesus Christ, and all other pagan idols and gods are of no consequence and so claiming the name of a false god over it does nothing to the food physically or spiritually. However, with consideration to other ‘weaker’ believers it is wise to avoid doing anything that might cause them to stumble in their faith (Act 15:23-29; Rom 14:20,21,23; 1 Cor 8:4-13, 10:23-33). We are to be sensitive, gracious and loving in all we do, even if we don’t consider something an issue however if your host says, 'Let's eat this food in worship to our god' then you should politely refrain as this would give the message it is OK to worship Jesus and a false diety. We should live with the awareness that our actions can either damage or encourage others.

See also: Islam.