Q: If people give Khamr (intoxicant) and Riba (usury) names other than their real names; (Part No. 22; Page No. 105) does this have any affect on their prohibition?

A: Khamr is prohibited, as Allah (Exalted be He) says: O you who believe! Intoxicants (all kinds of alcoholic drinks), and gambling, and Al-Ansâb, and Al-Azlâm (arrows for seeking luck or decision) are an abomination of Shaitan’s (Satan) handiwork. So avoid (strictly all) that (abomination) in order that you may be successful. Also the Sunnah (whatever is reported from the Prophet) explains that the word "Khamr" applies to all that makes a person lose their mind. Any substance that intoxicates and befogs the mind is considered Khamr and is unlawful, even if it is given another name. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Every intoxicant is Khamr and all intoxicants are unlawful." Also, he (peace be upon him) said, "If a large amount of anything causes intoxication, a small amount of it is prohibited." It was related by Imam Abu Dawud on the authority of Abu Malik Al-Ash`ary (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Indeed, some people of my Ummah (nation) will drink Khamr, calling it by another name." This Hadith is classified as Sahih (authentic) by Ibn Hibban. (Part No. 22; Page No. 106) The same applies to Riba, as it is unlawful even if it is given other names, such as calling it an interest, a commission or the like. It is unlawful.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.