What is the wisdom behind the definitive prohibition of alcohol in Islam, even in small quantities that do not intoxicate, and why was the choice not left to people to abstain from it after its harms were explained?

The prohibition of intoxicants (khamr) in Islam is for the realization of benefits and the prevention of harms. Allah Almighty has mentioned its religious harms in the Holy Quran, and the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, described it as "the mother of all evils" and "the mother of all indecencies." What is claimed about its benefits for the heart has no scientific basis; rather, modern research has proven its harm to the heart.

As for the argument that a person possesses their intellect to control drinking, it is erroneous, because Satan gradually leads a person from a little to a lot, and this is what is known as alcohol addiction. The only guarantee against addiction is not to consume alcohol at all.

Islam did not suffice with merely stating the harms of intoxicants and leaving the choice to people, because people's intellects and strengths differ in perceiving benefits and harms. Moreover, the harm of intoxicants is not limited to the consumer but extends to encompass society as a whole, through diseases, crimes, and accidents. This approach is no different from the prohibition of theft and murder; leaving the matter to people's choice leads to societal chaos.

The basis for this is the concept of servitude to Allah. Allah did not create humans in vain; rather, He has assigned them commands and prohibitions, and this is the essence of servitude.