Answered by Muftī Yūsuf Badāt
Question:
Is GMOs for agriculture purposes allowed in Islam?
Answer:
In the Name of Allāh, the Almighty, the Most Merciful, the Most Kind.
Thank you/ Jazāk Allāh Khayr for contacting Mathābah for your question.
Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) in agriculture refers to a plant, animal, or microorganism that has had its genetic material (DNA) altered using technology that usually involves the specific modification of DNA, including the transfer of specific DNA from one organism to another. Much of the common foods in today’s markets include ingredients that have been created through this method of genetic engineering.
This GMO in agriculture is permitted in Islam provided there is no ḍarar (harm or injury) in general to humans, animals and the eco-system, as well as the adherence to general islamic jurisprudence surrounding ḥalāl and ḥarām consumables. If it becomes certain through science and evidence that GMOs are harmful, then it would be prohibited in Islam. This is the position of various Islamic fiqh councils and organizations across the globe.
(See: Rad Al-Muẖtār, Vol 1, Page 105, Dār Al-Fikr[1], Maqāsid Al-Shari’ah, Al-Ma’had Al-Orubīy, Page 25[2], Al-Qawāid Al-Fiqhiyyah, Page 31, Dār Al-Tirmidhī)[3]
“He [Allāh] makes lawful for them the good things and prohibits for them the impure [and injurious].” – (Qur’ān 7:157)[4]
The Prophet (peace and blessing be upon him) said, “Harming others or reciprocating harm of others is not permissible [in Islam].” – (Muwaṭṭa Mālik 1435)[5]
[1] أَنَّ الْمُخْتَارَ أَنَّ الْأَصْلَ الْإِبَاحَةُ عِنْدَ الْجُمْهُورِ مِنْ الْحَنَفِيَّةِ وَالشَّافِعِيَّةِ – كتاب حاشية ابن عابدين رد المحتار ج١/ ص ١٠٥ دار الفكر
[2] حفظ النفس وهو حفظها من جميع أسباب التلف والفساد – مقاصد الشرعية لعبد الله بن يوسف الجديع ص ٢٥
[3] الضرر يدفع بقدر الإمكان – القواعد الفقهية ص٣١ دار الترمذي
[4] وَيُحِلُّ لَهُمُ الطَّيِّبَاتِ وَيُحَرِّمُ عَلَيْهِمُ الْخَبَائِثَ – الأعراف ١٥٧
[5] لا ضرر ولا ضرار – رواه مالك في المؤطا ١٤٣٥
