The Apple in the Perspective of Islam and Its Significance to Health

LUBOK JONG - In the teachings of Islam, fruits are considered among the blessings (ni‘mah) from Allah, created for the benefit and nourishment of humankind. The Qur’an frequently mentions various fruits as symbols of sustenance, purity, and divine generosity. While the apple (tuffāḥah in Arabic) is not directly named in the Qur’an, classical scholars and Islamic literature have long regarded it as a fruit that represents beauty, wisdom, and healing. In Islamic tradition, the consumption of fruits such as apples is associated with gratitude, moderation, and the maintenance of both physical and spiritual health.

The image shows a branch filled with smooth, round, pure white apples surrounded by fresh green leaves. These fruits appear perfectly shaped and glossy, creating a surreal and striking visual. Such white apples, however, are AI-generated or digitally created, as no naturally white apple variety exists in reality.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to eat wholesome and natural foods, as stated in the Qur’an: “Eat of the good things which We have provided for you” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:172). This verse emphasizes the importance of choosing pure and healthy foods, which includes fruits like apples. According to Tibb an-Nabawi (Prophetic Medicine), foods that are fresh, clean, and grown naturally contribute to bodily balance and strengthen the immune system. Although apples are not mentioned specifically in hadith collections, scholars of Prophetic Medicine such as Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah highlighted the general principle of maintaining health through moderate eating and the consumption of fruits rich in nutrients and natural sweetness.

From a scientific perspective, the apple has long been known for its health-promoting properties. Modern research supports the proverb “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and polyphenols, all of which contribute to cardiovascular health, digestive function, and immune system enhancement. According to a study by Boyer and Liu (2022), regular consumption of apples reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and certain types of cancer due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

In addition, apples can serve as an example of halalan tayyiban—foods that are lawful and wholesome. The concept encourages Muslims to consume food that is not only permissible but also beneficial to health and produced ethically. Eating an apple, therefore, becomes an act of both gratitude and mindfulness, reminding believers of the Creator’s wisdom in providing simple yet powerful sources of nourishment.

In conclusion, the apple, though not explicitly named in the Qur’an, embodies the Islamic values of moderation, health, and gratitude. It stands as a symbol of both physical and spiritual nourishment. The teachings of Islam and the findings of modern science align in emphasizing that consuming natural fruits such as apples contributes to overall well-being. Thus, in every bite of an apple, a Muslim is reminded of the balance between faith and health—between caring for the body as a trust from Allah and appreciating the divine bounty bestowed upon the earth.

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