haram
Definition
Meaning: Haram refers to anything prohibited or forbidden in Islam, encompassing actions, behaviors, or substances deemed sinful by Islamic law (Sharia).
La signification : Haram désigne tout ce qui est interdit ou illicite dans l'Islam, incluant les actions, comportements ou substances considérés comme péchés selon la loi islamique (Charia).
Example: "Eating pork is considered haram in Islam."
Grammar: Typically used as an adjective ("haram food") or noun ("this is haram").
Quote: "Haram is haram, even if everyone's doing it." [not credited]
Word Analysis
French equivalents »» Interdit »» Illicite Ⓐ La consommation d'alcool est haram en Islam. Ⓑ Ce contrat contient des clauses illicites (haram). English equivalents »» Forbidden »» Prohibited »» Sinful (contextual) Ⓐ Charging interest is haram in Islamic finance. Ⓑ Gossip can cross into haram territory.
Dialogue
Yusuf: "Can I invest in this company? They sell alcohol."
Leila: "No, it’s haram. Look for halal alternatives instead."
Yusuf: "You’re right—I’ll check the Islamic mutual funds."
Poem Extract
Beauty [excerpt]
My older sister soaps between her legs, her hair
a prayer of curls. When she was my age, she stole
the neighbour's husband, burnt his name into her skin.
For weeks she smelt of cheap perfume and dying flesh.
It's 4 a.m. and she winks at me, bending over the sink,
her small breasts bruised from sucking.
She smiles, pops her gum before saying
boys are haram, don't ever forget that.
Warsan Shire
Read the Full Poem
Etymology
Origin: From Arabic ḥarām (حَرَام), meaning "forbidden" or "sacred." The term is rooted in Islamic jurisprudence (Sharia) and contrasts with halal [permissible]. It entered English through Islamic texts and cultural exchange.
Modern Usage: Predominantly used in religious, ethical, and legal discussions within Muslim communities and beyond. Also appears in secular contexts (e.g., finance, food labelling).
Grammar Note: Functions as both an adjective ("haram meat") and a noun ("This is haram"). Uncountable in Islamic contexts but may pluralise as harams in rare, non-religious usage (e.g., discussing cultural taboos or harams).
Audience
Haram is essential vocabulary for Muslims and those studying Islamic culture, law, or halal practices. It also appears in global discussions about ethics and compliance.
When to use: Use this term when referring to Islamic prohibitions (e.g., food, finance, behaviour). Example: "Interest-based loans are haram in Islamic banking."
Extra! Extra!
For a fun and engaging exploration of our word of the day, watch the following…What does haram mean?
DEFINITION OF HALAL | HARAM
WordReference
For more on idiomatic usage, visit the WordReference Forums for discussions, translations, and examples in context.
Here are some quick links for further exploration:
» English⇄English – Discuss and learn about words and their usage.
» English⇄French – Explore translations and linguistic nuances.
» Synonyms⇄Antonyms – Contextual variations, etc.
Common Idioms & Expressions Related to "Haram" and "Halal"
That's haram!
Used to strongly disapprove of something considered morally or religiously wrong.
Example: "You're wasting food? That's haram!"
Haram police
A humorous or critical term for people who harshly judge others' actions as sinful or forbidden.
Example: "I posted a selfie and the haram police were in the comments instantly."
Halal way
A path or method that follows moral, ethical, or religious guidelines.
Example: "We’re trying to do this business the halal way, with full transparency."
Halal lifestyle
A way of living in accordance with Islamic principles and permissible practices.
Example: "She promotes a halal lifestyle on her blog—food, fashion, finance."
Haram or halal?
A rhetorical question used when uncertain about the moral or religious acceptability of something.
Example: "Buying crypto—haram or halal? That’s the big debate right now."
Comments
Post a Comment