Does the Name of a Product Affect its Permissibility?
Shafi'i Fiqh
Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick
Question
Is the perfume “Christian Dior Sauvage” Halal? Mainly because of the Christian part of the name.
How about other perfume names, such as Hermes (which is based on an ancient false deity)?
Answer
In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate. May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.
The perfume’s name in question does not affect its permissibility in this case, and Allah knows best. The permissibility of perfumes with names that may have associations with other religions or deities should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. The primary consideration in Islamic jurisprudence is the content and intention behind using such products, notwithstanding the discussions around the alcohol content within the perfumes.
What’s in a Name?
Regarding the perfume “Christian Dior Sauvage,” the permissibility would depend on the intention and context. It may be considered permissible if “Christian” refers to a person’s name (which it does) rather than a religious association or promotion. However, if there is a clear intention to promote or identify with Christian beliefs, purchasing/supporting it would be problematic.
As for perfumes with names derived from ancient deities like “Hermes,” the same principle applies. The name might have historical or cultural connotations rather than a religious intent. Suppose the intention behind such a perfume is unrelated to promoting false beliefs or engaging in religious practices contrary to Islam. It may be considered permissible in that case, and Allah knows best.
Avoid the Doubtful
Nonetheless, it’s important to note that Islam greatly emphasizes avoiding anything that might lead to confusion or ambiguity regarding one’s faith. Opting for names and products free from such associations is advisable, especially when wholly lawful alternative options are available.
May Allah guide us all towards what is pleasing to Him and grant us clarity in matters of faith and practice.
I pray this is of benefit and that Allah guides us all.
[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan.
Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Mawlana Yusuf Karaan, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.
He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has served as the Director of the Discover Islam Centre and Al Jeem Foundation. For the last five years till present, he has served as the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.
Shaykh Irshaad has thirteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town). He is currently building an Islamic online learning and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy living and fitness.
