Ruling on Shammah

Q: We live in the district of Jizan, more specifically in the desert. We have some sort of inhalant, called “Shamah”, which most of the people who sniff it have become addicted to, even some of those who lead the congregational Salah (Prayer) in the Masjids (mosques) and religious people who never accept wrong cannot give it up, no matter how hard they try. Some of those who did give it up have been afflicted with diseases, such oral and abdominal tumors, bleeding gums, rage, inability to work, and anxiety. Some succeeded in giving it up - all praise be to Allah - but others have failed, and many others have not even tried to quit.Please advise us, may Allah grant you the best reward! What is the ruling on someone who tried to give it up, but failed? How serious is its effect on their religious life? Are their Sawm (Fasting), Salah (Prayer), and Hajj valid? Is there a Kaffarah (expiation) for those who are not able to give it up and if so, what is it?

A: It is Haram (prohibited) to take Shamah (snuff). It is obligatory for an addict to give them up. They should have determination and a firm will to give them up and they should engage themselves much in Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah) and seeking Allah’s Forgiveness. (Part No. 22; Page No. 141) Their Salah, Sawm, and Hajj are valid if they meet all the required conditions for validity. Shamah has no effect on this.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.