KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 22 — The country’s top Islamic body has issued an edict banning Muslims from practising yoga.
The body says the globally popular practise of yoga has elements of Hinduism that could corrupt Muslims. Yoga originated in India.
National Fatwa Council chairman Abdul Shukor Husin says yoga involves not just physical exercise but also includes spiritual elements, chanting and worship.
He told reporters today "it is inappropriate. It can destroy the faith of a Muslim."
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. — AP
No comments:
Post a Comment