What Happens to My Prayers if I Consume Unlawful Food by Mistake?

Question

I came across an answer stating that if one unknowingly consumes Haram meat, even after investigating its Halal status and being deceived regarding its legality, they are not held accountable for the sin. However, the consequences of their prayers and supplications may persist.

To the best of my knowledge, it is believed that a person who knowingly consumes Haram is likely to have their supplications unanswered. In my case, I unintentionally consumed Haram meat because there were two dishes on the table, one with cheese and the other with meat. I initially thought they were all cheese-filled, but upon realizing that one contained meat, I immediately ceased eating it, spat it out, and cleansed my mouth.

Given this situation, I am concerned about the acceptance of my supplications, repentance, and seeking forgiveness. Can you guide me on whether they will be accepted or not?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.

May Allah alleviate our difficulties and guide us to what pleases Him. Amin.

Allah has lifted accountability for genuine errors and mistakes. However, one should beware of dereliction and seek refuge in Allah from acting without caution.

Allah (Most High) says: “Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear (…).” [Quran, 2:286]

This verse emphasizes that Allah does not hold a person accountable for more than they can handle. It acknowledges the human capacity for making mistakes and falling short, and Allah’s mercy in not burdening us beyond our ability, and Allah knows best.

Related: What Is the Ruling Regarding Accidentally Consuming Haram Food?

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.