The Quaker Soup

Q: A type of soup known as Quaker Soup is sold on the markets. Made from wheat and barley, it is served as a favorite soup dish during Ramadan. I put five or six spoonfuls of the package in a water container and leave it to soak for six or seven hours. Then I start heating it for fifteen minutes until it boils. I wait until it cools down before starting to sip it. I prepare it this way, as I suffer from a stomach disease and weakness. (Part No. 22; Page No. 114) Though it is a useful and nutritious drink, I ask Your Eminence whether preparing it this way makes it similar in ruling to alcoholic drinks, which are forbidden. Please enlighten me, and may Allah have mercy on you.

A: There is no harm if you drink this Quaker Soup - made from barley or wheat - after soaking it for six or seven hours. However, it is not permissible to drink it after boiling has caused it to ferment.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.