Source: http://qa.muftisays.com/?3593
Question ID: #3593
 
Question: Sea food
Dear respected Mufti, Assalam-u-alaikum.

As a follower of the Hanfi Madhab we are told that sea food such as lobsters and crabs are Halal. I travel alot and particularly to countries which have a bigger majority of followers of the Shafi Madhab. In this environment sometimes we may inadvertently eat lobster, crab etc which the Shafis consider Halal particularly when you are a guest at someones house that serves you many dishes and youy may not be aware of the ingredients. What is the ruling on this scenario and is it permissible in a Shafi environment to eat as the Shafis do?

Jazakallah kheir,
 
 
Answered by: Ulamaa ID 04 (London)
Date: 15/05/2012 23:21pm

Bismillah

Al-jawab billahi at-taufeeq (the answer with Allah's guidance)



According to the Hanafi Madhab, only fish is Halal. All the other sea animals are Haram. (Fataawa Hindiyyah Vol.5 Pg.357)

Lobsters and crabs are not fish. Hence, it is not permissible. A Hanafi should adhere to his Madhab and request his host to prepare a meal which is in accordance with the Hanafi Madhab.



And Only Allah Ta'ala Knows Best.
Mufti Qamruzzaman

London, UK
 
www.MuftiSays.com