The Associated Press
Malaysian clerics are considering an edict to ban yoga for Muslims because it might contain religious elements that violate Islamic teachings, an official said Thursday.
The National Fatwa Council, the main grouping of clerics, will likely issue a ruling by February on whether the ancient practice of yoga is permitted for Muslims, said Harussani Idris Zakaria, the mufti of northern Perak state.
The clerics were studying the issue because some Malaysian Muslims have voiced concerns that yoga might promote Hinduism or religious beliefs that contradict Islam, Harussani said.
"If it's something that is against our beliefs, of course we cannot practice it," Harussani told The Associated Press.
The Fatwa Council's decisions are not legally binding on Muslims, who comprise nearly two-thirds of Malaysia's 27 million people, unless they are enshrined in national or Shariah laws. However, many Muslims abide by the edicts out of deference.
Social activist Marina Mahathir criticized the council for considering a yoga ban, saying it could be "a classic case of reacting out of fear and ignorance."
"Yoga may have spiritual roots but most of us do it for the exercise, both for the mind and body," Marina wrote on her blog.
The clerics drew criticism from some Malaysians last week when they issued an edict banning tomboys, ruling that girls who act like boys violate the tenets of Islam.
Aiyo! Open minded sikit lah.
Just about 1 minute walk from my apartment lies a Japanese restaurant by the name of Nihon Kai. The food is fresh, the staff friendly and the service excellent but more importantly in these trying times, the price is reasonable.
Posts
