Are Oysters and Crabs Halal?

Question: Is it true that oysters are not halal to consume? Also, are crabs and other sea creatures without scales not halal?

Praise be to Allah

Summary: No, this is not true. All seafood that is not harmful to health is halal, even if it comes out dead.

Detailed Answer:

According to Islamic teachings, all creatures from the sea are considered halal (permissible) to eat, except those that are harmful. This includes oysters, crabs, and other sea creatures that do not have scales. The permissibility of seafood is supported by a hadith where the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, “Its water is purifying and its dead (animals) are lawful” (Sunan Abu Dawood 83). Furthermore, the Quran states, “Lawful to you is (the pursuit of) water-game and its use for food, for the benefit of yourselves and those who travel” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:96). Therefore, all sea creatures, as long as they are not harmful, are halal.

References:

1. Quran: “Lawful to you is (the pursuit of) water-game and its use for food, for the benefit of yourselves and those who travel.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:96)
2. Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, “Its water is purifying and its dead (animals) are lawful.” (Sunan Abu Dawood 83)

And Allah Knows Best