Questions & Answers

Alcohol is certainly forbidden in Islam and undoubtedly referred to in the Quran as the handiwork of Satan.  The Question above misses out the reason for it being the handiwork of Satan, which too is mentioned in the Quran. Alcohol consumption [and indeed any intoxicant for that matter] has been classified as such due to the befogging of mind and subsequent loss of the intellectual faculty leading to erratic and irresponsible behaviour which could be embarrassing at best and dangerous at worst. Alcohol consumption can also lead to alcoholism which has the potential to cause domestic violence, family breakdown, loss of health and money, among many other disastrous effects. Alcohol has also been associated with many illnesses and diseases too. These are a few of the many negative aspects related to alcohol consumption. Notwithstanding this, the Quran does not shy away from saying [in regard to alcohol consumption] -- "but the benefits are outweighed by its harms --" This verse acknowledges some possible benefit and pleasure associated with alcohol, but declares the prohibition of it due to the predominance of its harms. It is this negativity and harmfulness that is considered the handiwork of Satan.

As far as the Afterlife is concerned, it is free from all negativity and harm, hence the alcohol provided there carries the pleasure [multiplied manifold] without the negative effects. This distinction has been made out in the Quran. So the alcohol enjoyed in the Hereafter is merely for enjoyment and pleasure and has no potential to lead to any harm as is the case in the world.

Also, Satan's handiwork is Satan's influence, and since there is no existence of the Devil in Paradise, there can be no influence, hence anything that is prohibited in the world will be allowed in the Afterlife.

Moreover, all prohibitions in this world are there to test us whether we adhere to the instructions of God or fall a prey to satanic influences and our base desires. Hence since the test ends with the end of the world, all prohibitions cease to be prohibitions. As such, alcohol is not the only prohibition that will be permitted, and it is therefore surprising why the question singles out alcohol for that purpose.