Question
How do we respond to those who accuse Abu Hanifa of permitting alcohol?
Answer
I say, and with God's help: It must be established at the outset that the statement of Abu Hanifa in this regard is not correct at all; rather, the disagreement is about some types of drinks that the companions consumed, such as the triangular drink. Abu Hanifa permitted it based on its transmission from the companions, nothing more. And God knows best.