Food Between Curse and Cure: Islam, Health, and the Good Life

Food Between Curse and Cure: Islam, Health, and the Good Life by Nacim Pak-Shiraz examines the complex relationship between food, health, and ethics in the Islamic context. Through an exploration of Islamic teachings, cultural practices, and historical insights, Pak-Shiraz reveals how food functions not only as sustenance but also as a symbol of moral and spiritual wellness.

The book discusses how Islamic dietary guidelines—such as halal and tayyib (pure and wholesome)—align with concepts of physical health and ethical living, viewing food as a means to attain a "good life" rooted in balance and moderation. At the same time, it addresses how certain foods can be seen as both beneficial and harmful, depending on their use, context, and the individual's intentions, thus reflecting the dual potential of food to act as a "curse" or "cure."

By bridging historical Islamic texts with contemporary discussions on diet and wellness, Food Between Curse and Cure provides an insightful perspective on how Islamic teachings about food inform the pursuit of holistic health, well-being, and ethical consciousness in everyday life.