QUESTION:
If a person does some exercises which may correspond to yoga, although there is no intent, but merely for the sake of exercise. Would it be permissible in Islam?
ANSWER:
Allah Ta’ala has blessed us with the pure and pristine Deen of Islam hence we as Muslims should not adopt any other way of life.
Now, Yoga stems or originates from Hinduism hence, using Yoga exercises just for exercising or as a treatment for one’s illness will not be permissible. It is Allah Ta’ala that cures our illnesses and not the treatment hence we are only permitted to use permissible means of treatment and engage in permissible exercises to enjoy good health.
عَنِ ابْنِ عُمَرَ، قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ: «مَنْ تَشَبَّهَ بِقَوْمٍ فَهُوَ مِنْهُمْ (سنن ابي داؤد#4013)
Ibn Umar Radiallahu Anhu narrates, “He who imitates any people (in their actions) is considered to be amongst of them.”
ALLAH TA’ALA ALONE IN HIS INFINITE KNOWLEDGE KNOWS BEST!
ANSWERED BY:
Maulana Abdul Kader Fazlani
Date: 28 Safr 1446 / 02 September 2024
CHECKED AND APPROVED BY:
Mufti Mohammed Desai Saheb
