SPORT AND THE MU’MIN

Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: ‘EVERY SPORT OF THE MU’MIN IS BAATIL” (FALSEHOOD, HARAAM, EVIL AND SATANIC). By: Mujlisul Ulama of South Africa PO Box 3393 Port Elizabeth 6056 SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 1 SPORT AND THE MU’MIN Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: ‘EVERY SPORT OF THE MU’MIN IS BAATIL” (FALSEHOOD, HARAAM, EVIL AND SATANIC). With its usual forked tongue, the NNB JAMIAT (NO NAME BRAND JAMIAT) also known by the alias, Jamiatul Ulama of Fordsburg, in support of the haraam fisq and fujoor world cup games, ludicrously states in a recent pamphlet: “Sport is undoubtedly among the activities through which man seeks release from the stresses of everyday life. Sport in many ways offer an escape from the pressures of our daily responsibilities. It satisfies the human need for joy and entertainment. It is a legitimate means of developing life skills, engendering love within members of a family, developing a robust physique and a means of refreshing a tired and weary mind.” While the Qur’aan and Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) unequivocally and emphatically denounced and outlawed sport – every kind of sport – for the Mu’mineen, the NNB Jamiat shamelessly seeks to legalize and halaalize haraam sport in the Name of Allah Azza Wa Jal. Let us analyze the ghutha (haraam rubbish) of which the aforementioned averment of the NNB Jamiat comprises. (1) Man seeks release from the stresses of everyday life through sport Man also seeks such release through liquor, hashish, drugs, flirting with females, zina, music, and other haraam acts. All such release valves are haraam and do not form part of the life of Muslim Man about whom Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Verily this world has been created for you while you have been created for the Aakhirah.” The primary purpose of man’s creation and despatch to this ephemeral earthly abode as declared SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 2 by the Qur’aan Shareef is: “I have not created jinn and man but for worshipping Me.” Since sport – all sport, not only western sport, is the very antithesis of worship which in this particular Qur’aanic context means permanent Thikrullah, Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) banned it by declaring: “Every sport of the Mu’min is baatil, except his play with his wife, training his horse and practising with his bow.” The three exceptions are significant and require no elaboration for ready comprehension. Instead of Thikrullah, sport in fact diverts from the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala and engenders massive disobedience, fisq and fujoor. It is not permissible for the Mu’min to find relief for his stresses in haraam activity. Just as it is haraam to seek release for stress in liquor, gambling, dagga and zina, so too is it haraam to seek such release in the baatil of sport. The first and foremost medium which Allah Ta’ala has ordained for the release of stress is His Remembrance, hence the Qur’aan Majeed states: “Verily, in the Thikr of Allah do hearts find rest (peace and comfort).” Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has further instructed the Ummah to find release for stress and fear and to seek aid in Salaat. It was the practice of Nabi-e-Kareem (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) to hasten towards Salaat and perform two raka’ts when fear, etc. settled on him. The Qur’aan Majeed commanding obedience to Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) in every detail says that “in the Rasool there is a beautiful pattern of life.” But this pattern is adopted by only those about whom the Qur’aan says: “…for them who hope to meet Allah and (believe) in the Last Day.” It is just axiomatic that men of the NNB Jamiat’s ilk who have halaalized the billion condom event are excluded from those who derive rest and comfort in Thikrullaah. Instead of Thikrullah, they require indulgence in fisq and fujoor which they legitimize for the sake of finding a valve to release their pent-up haraam, inordinate, carnal lusts. Thus, instead of taking the route to the Musjid as Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and the SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 3 Sahaabah used to practise when ‘stress’ settled on them, the fraudulent ulama-e-soo’ take the road to the stadium of fisq and fujoor, fuhsh and munkar. (2) Sport provides an escape from the pressures of daily responsibilities Leave alone the fisq of sport, it is not permissible to engage in even ibaadat to escape responsibilities. The only solution for responsibilities is to execute them within the confines of the Shariah and with courage. Responsibilities may not be escaped. Responsibilities come with Huqooq (rights and obligations), especially Huqooqul Ibaad or rights and obligations related to others. A man may not shirk his responsibility to maintain, train and care for his family by deserting them to relieve him of the ‘burden’. The Muslim can find relief from the pressure of responsibilities only by fulfilling the essential rights and obligations of the responsibilities which Allah Ta’ala has imposed on him as Amaanat (Sacred Trust). The pressure cannot be effaced in haraam, baatil sport. Correct fulfilment of responsibilities itself brings pleasure, satisfaction and comfort in its wake. It is of the ways of the fussaaq and fujjaar to indulge in liquor, sport and futility to escape their responsibilities, and many of them when failing to find escape despite such haraam indulgence, commit suicide. (3) Sport satisfies the human need for joy and entertainment We are living in an abode which Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) described as a ‘prison’. Thus he said: “This world is a jail for the Mu’min and a paradise for the kaafir.” If the NNB Jamiat’s so-called ulama, had the faintest idea of the goals of Islam and the purpose of Insaan on earth, and if they had ever experienced a whiff of the fragrance of Ilm-e-Wahi, never would it have been possible for them to have blurted out the rubbish of SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 4 the ‘need for joy and entertainment’. To crown this disgusting attitude they have the shameless audacity to advocate gratification of joy and entertainment through immoral haraam practices – by indulgence in fisq and fujoor. When the Mu’min is constricted and constrained by a thousand fetters of the Shariah, how does ‘joy and entertainment’ and that too by way of haraam sport feature in his life? When the Qur’aan Majeed repeatedly reminds us: “The life of this world is but play and amusement while the abode of the Aakhirah is best for those who fear (Allah). What! Do you have no intelligence (to understand this obvious reality and truth?.)”, then by what stretch of Imaani logic does a Mu’min explore avenues for the satisfaction of ‘joy and entertainment’ which Allah and His Rasool have negated here on earth and confirmed for us in Jannat? Furthermore, sight should not be lost of the fact that the NNB Jamiat made its baatil averment in the context of the current world cup event which is infested with fisq and fujoor of the vilest kind. When even sport minus the other numerous haraam paraphernalia usually attached to it is baatil and haraam, what has happened to the brains of the NNB Jamiat’s molvis who have miserably failed to understand the glaring hurmat of the innumerable vices connected to the billion condom event? Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has made one exception for joy and entertainment, and that is a man’s wife. The Hadith unambiguously prohibits all sport except with the wife. It should also be understood that this solitary exception has been made for the sake of the wife, not for the husband to find an outlet for ‘joy and entertainment’. Woman is naaqisatul aql, hence the husband is allowed to satisfy her natural inclination for futility. He is allowed to have sport with his wife in order to keep her happy. This concession has not been ordained for man’s enjoyment and entertainment. As for his horse, the objective is not enjoyment and entertainment, but training the horse and practising with the bow SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 5 (the instruments of Jihaad in those days), is to acquire the necessary skills for Jihad. The objective is not the derivation of carnal joy and entertainment as the NNB Jamiat propagates. As far as such ‘joy’ is concerned, even plain laughter in abundance is forbidden. In this regard Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Much laughter kills the (spiritual) heart.” With regard to the NNB Jamiat’s propagation of joy and entertainment to forget the stress of the worry of the Qabr and Jahannum, the Qur’aan Majeed says: “Say (O Muhammad!): ‘The Fire of Jahannum is hotter. If only they can understand. Therefore they should laugh little and cry much as a compensation for the (mis) deeds they perpetrate.” (Surah Taubah, aayats 81 and 82) In the tafseer of these verses is mentioned: “If people contemplate their plight in the Hereafter, they will forget their worldly pleasures (advocated by the NNB Jamiat), especially mocking at the sincere ones (who prohibit this haraam joy and entertainment).” “Hadhrat Abu Musa (radhiyallahu anhu) narrated that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: ‘The people of Jahannum will shed tears in such profusion that ships will be able to sail in the ocean of their tears, and when their tears dry, they will shed tears of blood.” (Mustadrak of Haakim) Hadhrat Abdullah Ibn Abbaas (radhiyallahu anhu) narrated that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Two eyes (i.e. two types of people) will not be touched by the Fire: the eyes which cried because of the fear of Allah, and those eyes which remained awake guarding the Muslims in the Path of Allah (during Jihad).” (Tirmizi) Hadhrat Uqbah Bin Aamir (radhiyallahu anhu) narrated that he asked Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam): ‘In what is salvation?’ Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Guard your tongue; remain in your home and cry much.” (Tirmizi) This then is the teaching, spirit and ethos of Islam. There are innumerable Ahaadith which emphasize seclusion, meditation, SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 6 abstention from futility, sport, amusement even if such futility is lawful initially. As far as the haraam perpetrations which are the shi-aar (outstanding features) of all sport tournaments, matches and the like are concerned, the question of participation, enjoyment and entertainment does not arise just as the question of consuming pork can never even be considered by Muslims even if some filthy haraam halaalizer has halaalized it with a haraam certificate. If the NNB Jamiat deems the sounds of the braying of asses with vuvus to be joy and entertainment, let them take the pathway to Hell Fire. Part of the ‘joy and entertainment’ – integral constituents – of the world cup event supported and advertised by the NNB Jamiat and the other marauder of Imaan, the MJC, is music, liquor, zina, prostitution, intermingling of sexes, gambling, viewing scantily dressed faajiraat, clowns and buffoons with painted faces, viewing the satr of players, viewing female players immodestly and immorally gyrating on the playing field like a troop of baboons, watching adult human beings running like monkeys after a ball, tripudiating kuffaar, fussaaq and fujjaar, hero worship, raucous shouting, jeering and insulting of drunken louts, wasting of huge amounts of money, adjusting Salaat times, especially Jumuah time to enable the fussaaq and fujjaar to be in time for the viewing of the haraam baatil, emulating all the ways, styles and attitudes of the kuffaar players, deifying the fussaaq, fujjaar, kuffaar drunken players etc., etc. These are the practices which the NNB Jamiat and the MJC by implication of their condonation of this colossal event of baatil advocate and promote. HERO WORSHIP Hero worship is akin to idolatry. Such ‘worship’ is not condoned by Islam for even Sahaabah and Auliya. It shifts the servant’s praise and trust (Hamd and Tawakkul) from Khaaliq (Allah, The Creator) to his makhlooq (creatures). The episode of Hadhrat Khalid Bin Walid (radhiyallahu anhu) by Ameerul SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 7 Mu’mineen, Hadhrat Umar Ibn Khattaab (radhiyallahu anhu) is a salubrious Naseehat for Muslims. One of the main reasons for Hadhrat Khalid’s dismissal from his position as Commander-in-Chief of the Muslim army, was the cult of hero worship which Hadhrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) saw developing in the ranks of Muslims. Hadhrat Khalid’s intrepidity, invincibility, battlefield victories and conquests of lands for Islam had endeared him to the Ummah and had made him a veritable hero. The name ‘Khalid’ was on everyone’s lips. When Hadhrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) observed that instead of attributing the battlefield victories to Allah Ta’ala, Muslims were looking at Khalid. He feared that this cult of hero worship would be the undoing of Muslim success. Thus, with conviction and the firmest faith and trust in Allah Ta’ala, Hadhrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) dismissed Hadhrat Khalid (radhiyallahu anhu) in the thick of a crucial battle, and he appointed Hadhrat Abu Ubaidah Bin Jarraah (radhiyallahu anhu) the commander-in- chief. Compared to Hadhrat Khalid (radhiyallahu anhu), the new Commander, Hadhrat Ubaidah (radhiyallahu anhu) was a ‘weakling’. He lacked the intrepidity of Hadhrat Khalid Bin Walid whose title was Saifullah (The Sword of Allah). But with gaze focused on only Allah Ta’ala, Hadhrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) acted to decisively eliminate the seeds of hero worship which he had discerned germinating among Muslims. Now when hero worshipping such a great Sahaabi as Hadhrat Khalid Bin Walid (radhiyallahu anhu) was intolerable, and it culminated in his dismissal at an extremely delicate moment in the nascent history of Islam, what then does the Mu’min’s Imaan decree regarding hero worshipping fussaaq, fujjaar and kuffaar players wallowing in physical and spiritual janaabat? The ghutha ‘advice’ emanating from forked tongues, with which the NNB Jamiat has satanically attempted to mislead the unwary and ignorant masses makes it abundantly clear that the molvis of that outfit have absolutely no conception of the SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 8 Shariah, neither of its express teachings nor of its spirit. The Qur’aan and Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) emphatically negate sport and amusement with their accompaniment of ‘joy and entertainment’ in every dimension with the three exceptions mentioned in the Hadith. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “If you knew what I know (of the life in Barzakh, Qiyaamah and Jahannum), then you will laugh little and cry much, and you will derive no joy (and entertainment) with your wives on your beds. You will flee to the wilderness and wish that you were a blade of grass.” For whose benefit did our beloved Nabi (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) express this heart rending naseehat? Should the Ummah’s response to this Call emanating from the throbbing heart of Nabi-e-Kareem (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) be participation in an event which puts even Iblees to shame? Is the response to this naseehat, ‘joy and entertainment’ by participation in baatil and haraam – in the billion condom event of zina, fisq and fujoor? Are there no molvis in the NNB Jamiat who are aware that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “What truck do I have with this world? My similitude is that of a horse rider (on a long arduous journey). He rests (for a short while) in the shade of a tree (in the desert, then he again sets forth on his journey)”. Are Muslims not required to be influenced by this ethos of the Aakhirah? Throughout his blessed life, the Sahaabah never heard a sound of laughter from Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). The furthest he ventured was to smile. It comes in the Hadith that our beloved Nabi (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) was Daa-imul Fikr, i.e. he was perpetually absorbed in worry – worry about his Ummah, worry about Barzakh, worry about the Aakhirah. But about what is this Ummah today worrying? And, to what level of degradation have the Ulama of this Ummah sunk? Every vestige of shame and SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 9 honour has been extinguished by the ulama-e-soo’ who are today digging at the foundations of Islam. On his mubaarak deathbed Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) repeatedly said: “There is no life of joy except the life of the Aakhirah.” But the NNB Jamiat seeks joy and entertainment in filth, fisq and fujoor. Let them hang their heads in shame if they believe that they still have a flicker of Imaan in their hearts. What joy and entertainment can a true Mu’min ever experience on earth when he knows and understands that Malakul Maut is stalking him and calling him five times a day? What joy and entertainment does a Mu’min pursue when the Qabr calls him five times a day? We wonder if these molvis ever make tilaawat of the Qur’aan. If they are making tilaawat, it is clear that they do not understand a word of what they are reciting. How can a Mu’min who recites aayaat depicting the terrors of Qiyaamah, the painful punishment of Jahannum and the wonders of Jannat ever derive joy and entertainment in najaasat, haraam, fisq and fujoor? The vile attitude of the NNB Jamiat convinces us that they belong to the category of damned people about whom Hadhrat Ibn Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) said: “There will dawn an age over the people when they will congregate in the Musaajid and perform Salaat while not a single one of them will be a Mu’min.” Reverends and pundits! Take heed! This warning should be more than adequate to shock any Muslim in whose heart there is a flicker of Imaan. Furthermore, the searchers of joy and entertainment should understand that they are plodding the path of Jahannam, for Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “The Fire is covered with (things of) desire, and Jannat is veiled with hardships.” Now those who choose these haraam and baatil sports with their accompaniment of the worst kinds of fisq and fujoor, should know that they are plodding the path to Jahannum. There is not a single Mu’min on earth who will venture to believe that even a single act of the SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 10 multitude of immoralities attached to the billion condom event is a deed of Haqq or an act of permissibility or an act leading to Jahannum. Anyone claiming to be a Muslim but who believes that any of the baatil and haraam activities of this event of immorality is legitimate and halaal should understand that his Imaan is extinguished. Besides the conglomeration of haraam elements accompanying the billion condom event, the senior Muftis have outlawed kuffaar sport on just one ground, Tashabbuh bil kuffaar (emulating the kuffaar). Expressing deep fear for his Ummah, Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Of the things I fear for you after me is that the glitter and adornment of the world will be opened for you.” Just ponder at the haraam glitter and adornment of the baatil event whose ‘virtues’ the NNB Jamiat is extolling and encouraging Muslims to attend the worst event of fisq and fujoor in mankind’s history. Even futility devoid of flagrant sin and transgression is banned for Muslims. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said in this regard: “The beauty of a man’s Islam is that he shuns futility.” Describing the praiseworthy attributes of the Mu’mineen, Allah Ta’ala says in the Qur’aan Shareef: “Verily, the Mu’minoon have attained success. They who are humble in their Salaat, and they turn away from futility…” (Surah Al-Mu’minoon, aayats 1, 2 and 3) “When they hear laghw (nonsense, futility and the like), they turn away from it and they say: ‘For us are our deeds and for you are your deeds. Salaam on you. We do not follow the jaahileen.” (Surah Al-Qasas, aayat 55) What transpires at the billion condom sporting event is not just laghw. It is fisq and fujoor of the worst kind legitimized by the NNB Jamiat. Do the joy and entertainment advocated by the NNB Jamiat draw Muslims to the Aakhirah – to the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala or to Jahannum? Men of the Deen are supposed to remind SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 11 Muslims about the abode of the Aakhirah and discourage them from engrossment in even halaal worldly pursuits. But the NNB Jamiat does the exact opposite and with its advocacy of finding joy and entertainment in baatil sports, it is in fact diverting Muslims from the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala and making them oblivious of Maut, the Qabr and Qiyaamah. Once Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) recited the aayat: “When Allah intends to guide a person, He expands his breast for Islam.” Someone asked: ‘O Rasulullah! Is there a sign for this to recognize it (the expansion of the breast)?’ Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: ‘Yes. It is to turn away from this abode of deception (the world), and to turn towards the everlasting abode (Jannat), and to be prepared for Maut before its arrival.” Is there any relevance between what the NNB Jamiat is advocating and what Rasulullah had advocated? Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) also said: “When you see that a man has adopted zuhd in the world (i.e. renunciation of the world) and he is of little speech (he hardly speaks), then be close to him, for verily, hikmat (wisdom) is revealed to him.” Is there any relationship between the vile sporting activities, the joy and entertainment advocated by the NNB Jamiat with this portrayal of the Mu’min presented by Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam)? Nabi (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “When Allah loves a person, He saves him from the world.” But NNB Jamiat propagates that Muslims should plunge into evil and immorality – joy, entertainment, baatil sports, and all the fisq, fujoor and khuraafaat which accompany the billion condom even of the century.` It advocates honour for the droves of fussaaq, so-called “Muslim” players who are all renegades (Murtadds). “When the faasiq is praised, the Arsh of Allah shudders.” (Hadith) In the pursuit of haraam joy and entertainment, the NNB Jamiat has legitimized the billion condom sporting event, promoting support for it, and encouraging Muslims to identify with all the haraam calamities flowing in the wake of this colossal misfortune. In every aspect of haraam, Muslims are SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 12 emulating the kuffaar. In so doing they have become the subject for the materialization of Rasulullah’s prediction: “Most certainly you will follow the ways of those before you cubit by cubit to such an extent that if they enter into a lizard’s hole, you will follow them (into the hole).” Muslims who identify with the haraam sporting event are emulating every aspect, every act, every attribute and every attitude of those wallowing in physical and spiritual janaabat. Yet, this is the advocacy of the NNB Jamiat, and it is doing so in Allah’s Name with forked tongues, pretending holiness while advocating haraam. It piles on itself kufr upon kufr. The conduct of the NNB Jamiat is an utter disgrace. They have become a disgusting lot of waste matter. They are not even a shadow of the original Jamiatul Ulama Transvaal. They are aptly portrayed in the following Hadith of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam): “The original Saalihoon (Men of Piety) will depart one after the other. Then there will remain only the rubbish such as the rubbish of barley or dates. Allah cares not a bit for them.” And why should Allah Ta’ala care for these ulama-e-soo’ who direct Muslims to the path of Jahannam with their concept of joy and entertainment – baatil, haraam joy and entertainment? Let them laugh, enjoy and entertain with their haraam sport. Jahannum waits for them patiently. All the Saalihoon of the old and original Jamiatul Ulama have departed from this dunya. Now is left only the ghutha’. Ibn Abi Shaibah records in his Al-Musannaf a Hadith in which it is mentioned that when the Sahaabah began joking and laughing much, then Allah Ta’ala revealed the aayat: “What has the time not yet arrived for the hearts of the Believer to become tender for the Thikr of Allah?” Another narration states that this aayat was revealed when the Sahabah indulged a bit in joking.” When Allah Ta’ala reprimanded the Sahaabah for even indulging in laughter, what then shall we conclude about the baatil, haraam sports with its avalanche of filth and immorality? There is absolutely no compatibility between Imaan and sport. SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 13 (4) It (i.e.this haraam and baatil sport) is a legitimate means of developing life skills, engendering love within members of a family, developing robust physique and a means of refreshing a tired and weary mind. Most of this ghutha which the NNB Jamiat has gorged out in this statement is a regurgitation of the haraam joy and entertainment already explained above. By what stretch of Islamic logic and on the basis of which Shar’i daleel did the NNB outfit find the rubbish baatil to be Islamically legitimate? The cranks in the NNB Jamiat need to have their brains checked by a doctor who is an expert in diagnosing satanic madness. When Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) branded all sport baatil and on the basis of this very Hadith have all the Fuqaha of all Math-habs proclaimed all sport haraam, on what basis then does this fraternity of ulama-e-soo’ claim that sport is ‘legitimate’? The Qur’aan derides and outlaws lahw and la’b (play and amusement), but these NNB Jamiat miscreants shamelessly say that these baatil sports with their accompaniment of a multitude of evils are legitimate. Developing ‘life skills’? Besides this being ludicrous and laughable it is a sign of mental derangement with which Allah Ta’ala has afflicted the brains of these maghaabee (plural of ghabi – morons) who have legitimized even the symbols of kufr and shirk, praying in churches under crosses and masquerading as Hindu pundits in the Musjid. Now they are halaalizing flagrant acts of immorality with their promotion of the billion condom sporting event. The only skills that could be developed from haraam sport is the skill of admission into Jahannum. When Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) harshly banned ‘intelligent’ games such as chess and backgammon by saying: ‘Whoever plays backgammon has dyed his hand in the blood of a swine.’, despite some authorities acknowledging that it does develop wit, then what verdict should be issued for the haraam, SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 14 baatil billion condom games with its accompaniment of almost every immorality under the sun? Can the morons of the NNB Jamiat show where in the Shariah is it advocated that ‘life skills’ (whatever this rubbish means) should be developed via the medium of baatil, lahw and la’b? What ‘life skills” can be developed by viewing kuffaar, fussaaq and fujjaar chasing after balls, hitting balls, dancing and prancing like apes? This contention is too stupid and ridiculous to even apply intelligence for its refutation. It is sufficient to say that the NNB Jamiat miscreants have finally been digested by shaitaan. How does indulgence in haraam engender love within members of a family? When Allah Ta’ala wants to punish the ulama-e-soo’ He initiates the process by deranging the brains of those who propagate baatil in the name of the Deen. They seek honour, name and glory with baatil. But they will be rudely disappointed and shocked. Hadhrat Junaid Baghdaadi (rahmatullah alayh) said: “He who seeks honour with baatil, Allah will disgrace him with the Haqq.” Instead of engendering love, haraam sport engenders hatred and malice. Hooliganism, drunkenness, insult, abuse and vulgarity are regular features of sport. This applies to even amateurs who play haraam sport to wile away the ni’mat of Time. For runs and goals they become mutual enemies. Indulgence in sport frequently leads to deteriorating relationship between husband and wife. We are aware of acts of moral turpitude which are consequences of playing sport even in a private environment. There is a lot of shaitaaniyat involved when people go off on a Sunday to play sport with their friends – friends who in reality are fiends. A friend according to Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) is a man –‘When you see him, he reminds you of Allah. When he speaks, he increases you in knowledge, and when he acts, he reminds you of the Aakhirah.” Hadhrat Yahya Bin Muaaz (rahmatullah alayh) said: “Your true fried is he who warns you of your sins.” Love is built on the basis of the Deen, not on the basis of baatil. The Mashaaikh say SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 15 that every relationship initiated on the basis of the dunya will end in acrimony and disaster. How can this haraam sport engender love in the family when lustful men unconcerned with the Deen and oblivious of the grave and its torments, focus their filthy sights on scantily dressed immoral sportswomen and females in the haraam environment and immoral atmosphere created by baatil sport? How can participation in sport engender love in family members when it is seen that for the sake of baatil sports husbands miserably fail to uphold the huqooq of their families? In the past many wives have written to us complaining of being neglected by their husbands who spend more time with their ‘friends’ indulging in baatil sport. The molvi who wrote the trash of sport engendering family love must be crucified on the cross he had worshipped in the church. As for ‘developing a robust physique, this is another display of stupidity. Even if it be assumed that sport – baatil sport – does engender or develop ‘robust physique’, pork too satiates hunger and provides food. Riba also provides easy money and zina provides gratification for immoral and inordinate carnal lust. Worldly benefits may not be pursued, and needs may not be satisfied by haraam means. To develop robust physique it is haraam to adopt baatil and haraam methods such as vulgar and immoral sport. Furthermore, robust physique is not reliant on baatil sports. Sport has never been the method for developing robust physique and stamina. In fact, the robust physique necessary for these haraam games of sport is developed in ways which produce physical fitness and robust physique. Thus, sportsmen who indulge in haraam sport undergo much physical training, doing numerous and prolonged physical fitness exercises to develop the stamina necessary for their sporting activities. A boxer does not indulge in sport for developing the necessary stamina and robust physique for his profession. There are legitimate ways of developing the body physically and to gain stamina and robust physique. There are numerous SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 16 physical exercises, swimming, running, horse riding, martial arts, etc. which produce robust physique. Indulgence in baatil sports with all its concomitant vulgarities, immoralities and evil is never for Muslims. For those for whom this earth is a paradise, indulgence in carnality, nafsaaniyat and shaitaaniyat is quite logical and acceptable. But for an Ummah who has been created for the Aakhirah, the vile and satanic advocacy of the NNB Jamiat defies all Imaani logic. It is in violent conflict with Imaan. As far as possible Muslims are required to compulsorily refrain from adopting alien methods even in lawful physical exercises. When Hadhrat Umar (radhiyallahu anhu) was the Khalifah he sent instructions to the governors of the various regions of the Islamic empire banning emulation of the dress styles of the non-Muslims. He also issued an order prohibiting Muslims from mounting their horses in the style of the Ajam (non-Muslims). While non-Muslims would hold the horse and mount it, the Arab way was to run and leap on to the horse. The Sahaabah were the best soldiers and fighters. They humbled and utterly defeated and routed the armies of the then super powers, the Persians and the Romans without them ever having had a formal military training. Yet their physique was robust and their spirituality was celestial. Can you ever imagine Khalid Bin Walid (radhiyallahu anhu) or the Khulafa Raashideen or Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) running stupidly after a stupid ball, prancing and galumphing ludicrously and arguing that they are doing so for ‘robust physique’? Summing up the character and spirit of the Sahaabah, a Christian who stealthily spent sometime in the Muslim camp reported to the king: “At night they are ruhbaan (monks), and during the day they are expert fighters.” From whence did they acquire their robust physique? Definitely not from conducting themselves as baboons and braying like asses who are supported by the NNB Jamiat and the MJC. About these robust Sahaabah who had no formal military training programme, Allah Ta’ala says in the Qur’aan Majeed: “If among you there SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 17 are twenty Saabiroon, they will defeat two hundred (of the enemy).” For the success and victory of Muslims they need to be robust in obedience to Allah Ta’ala and in emulation of the Sunnah of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Then the little physical activity they engage in with dignity and within the prescribed limits of the Shariah will suffice for them. The NNB Jamiat outfit believes itself to be a representative of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) by virtue of them being molvis. Yet, they advocate everything which is contrary to the Shariah. They are in diametric conflict with Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) for they advocate vice and immorality and endeavour to camouflage all their haraam rubbish with Islamic hues. They are indeed scraping the very bottom of the barrel of villainy and evil. There are many ways of developing good and robust physique without adopting the baatil practices of the kuffaar. Follow the Sunnah and the effect will be physical and spiritual health and strength. The Mu’min’s success and salvation do not lie in emulation of aliens and obsequiously and disgracefully following them into the ‘lizard’s hole’ as the NNB Jamiat is advocating and promoting with its haraam support for the baatil sport of the world cup billion condom event. Allah Ta’ala says in the Qur’aan Majeed: “Verily, We have created Insaan in hardship.” On earth which is the Mu’min’s prison, he is saddled with toil, struggle and hardship. In every sphere of his life there is considerable hardship. Along with his worldly duties, obligations, toil, struggles and hardship, there is the constant worry and fear of Maut, the torments of the Qabr, Qiyaamah and Jahannum. How will be my end on earth? No one has any guarantee that he will depart from this ephemeral earthly abode with Imaan intact. This life is not for play, joy and entertainment. Only kuffaar who have no conception of the Aakhirah and the dangers lying ahead of them, and only Muslims who are totally oblivious of these SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 18 transcendental realities squander away their lives in baatil sport, joy and entertainment. The day these NNB molvis see Malakul Maut, they will be rudely and harshly shocked into reality. They will then be cured of their spiritual and mental paralysis which is today making them impervious of the rijs, fisq and fujoor in which they are indulging and which they are propagating as virtues. That is the day about which the Qur’aan Majeed says: “That day the hearts and eyes will be upturned.” Lahw-La’b (sport, amusement, futility): What the Fuqaha say “Every sport is impermissible because Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “Every sport of the son of Aadam is baatil except his play with his wife, training with his horse and practising with his bow.” (Al-Jaamius Sagheer, Vol. 1, page 483) Explaining the prohibition of backgammon and chess, it is mentioned in Tabyeenul Haqaaiq, Vol. 6, page 414: “Playing with backgammon, chess and every sport is not permissible because Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: ‘Every sport of Ibn Aadam (i.e. of man) is haraam except three: his play with his wife, his training with his horse, and his practising with his bow.” Al-Bahrur Raaiq, Vol. 8, page 236: “Playing with chess, backgammon and every sport are not permissible because Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: ‘Every play of Ibn Aadam is haraam except three……..” In the kitaab, Majma-ul Anhaar fi Sharhi Muntaqil Abhur, Vol. 4, page 222 it is mentioned: “Playing with backgammon, chess and arba’ ashar which is a sport adopted by the Yahood, and every other sport are haraam because Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: ‘Every sport of Ibn Aadam is haraam……..” In Fataawa Hindiyyah is stated that there is consensus of all Math-habs that every sport is haraam except chess which SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 19 according to the Ahnaaf, Hanaabilah and Maalikiyyah is haraam while Makrooh according to the Shaafi Math-hab. Besides this slight difference pertaining to chess, there is Ijma’ of the Math- habs that all sport is haraam. In Nisaabul Ihtisaab, two narrational proofs for the prohibition of sport are mentioned: (1) The Qur’aanic aayat: ‘What! Do you think that We have created you abath (to indulge in sport and futility)?” (2) The Hadith in which Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “The sport of the Mu’min is baatil except three…..” (Vol.1, page 153) There is really no need to even present proofs from the kutub to understand the prohibition of sport. This prohibition applies to sport per se, that is to pure sport unaccompanied by all the other haraam and immoral elements and factors which incumbently are attached to sport nowadays. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has made three exceptions which have already been explained in the aforegoing pages. Displaying stark hypocrisy, the NNB Jamiat cites the following Qur’aanic aayat in its pamphlet: “Know that the life of this world is but play and a passing delight and a beautiful show (the course) of boastful vying with one another and of (your greed) for more and more riches and children….57:20” The word lahw in this aayat has been translated by the NNB Jamiat: ‘a passing delight’. This is not the meaning of lahw. Lahw means ‘amusement’. It is sport and play which amuses. It is for this reason that the woman with which a man amuses himself is also termed lahw. The aayat ends with the statement: “The life of this world is nothing but a deceptive provision.” The NNB Jamiat cites this as well as another aayat to convey the false haraam impression that they are still people of the Deen offering Deeni guidance. This is what we mean that they speak with forked tongues. Their active support for the haraam games, their haraam hosting of the fussaaq, fujjaar and vile so-called ‘Muslim’ players, their physical presence at the haraam games SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 20 and their general attitude of connivance and promotion more than adequately expose their hypocrisy. While on the one hand they are at pains to portray themselves as Ulama concerned with the Deen, on the other hand, they depict their true colours of nifaaq and fisq. Despite listing in their pamphlet several evils of sports, they present the world cup event as an honourable event, hence their support. The NNB Jamiat does mention the following evil and haraam events: • Becoming blind disciples of sport • Sport stadiums becoming the shrines of our culture • Behaviour excesses • Violence • Booze and drugs • Flirting (with the prostitutes) • Irresponsible binging • Television serving as pulpits • Coaches and commentators serve as priests offering their wisdom and advice to the masses • Insults and jeering contemptuously • Hero-worshipping players (making them idols and gods) • Musjids becoming the forums for exchanging scores • Sports gear becoming a status symbol. Subhaanallaah! Despite all these evils and much more which the NNB Jamiat has chosen to remain silent on, these molvis cannot understand that sport is HARAAM. They list so many evils which are Waajib elements accompanying all sports, yet they fail to guide the masses of the Ummah with a firm proclamation of HARAAM. Even if due to ghabaawat they believe that baatil sport is per se halaal if unaccompanied by the formidable list of evil elements, are they then so stupid and blind to dupe themselves into believing that sport, especially professional sport and all the haraam tournaments which take place and in which SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 21 Muslims are encouraged to indulge are devoid of these evil haraam factors? Don’t they know that the Qur’aan proclaims all factors leading towards zina to be haraam just as zina? The Qur’aan states: “Don’t come near to zina.” It does not say: Don’t commit zina. Don’t these molvis understand the Fiqhi principle of Hurmat li ghairihi? This principle should have been adopted by those ghabi molvis who say sports is per se halaal, to proclaim sports in general haraam, and the world cup event haraam in particular. It is on account of their nifaaq, their total lack of fear for Allah Ta’ala, and their total obliviousness of the Hisaab of Qiyaamah that these NNB molvis are speaking with forked tongues and sitting on the fence, and concealing the Haqq by abstaining from Amr Bil Ma’roof Nahy anil Munkar. On the contrary, they are conspicuously guilty of the capital crime stated in the following Qur’aanic aayat: “They command (the commission of) munkar (evil) and they prohibit ma’roof (righteousness)……They have forgotten Allah, hence Allah has forgotten them (i.e. abandoned them to their evil).” (Surah Taubah, aayat 68) Those who abstain from Amr Bil Ma’roof Nahy anil Munkar are accursed. Stating the curse on such supporters of baatil, the Qur’aan Majeed says: “Those among Bani Israaeel who committed kufr were cursed on the tongues of Daawood and Isaa Ibn Maryam. That is because they sinned and used to transgress the limits. They would not prohibit evil which they committed. Indeed evil is that which they perpetrated.” (Surah Al-Maaidah, aayats 78, 79) They are among those about whom the Qur’aan says: “They take their deen as (an object) of play and amusement, and this worldly life has deceived them.” (Al-A’raaf, aayat 51) As far as the Mu’mineen and Islam are concerned, sport is a morally and spiritually destructive activity. It diverts man from the purpose of life. Life is a serious affair. It is extremely short. In relation to the never-ending billions of years of the Aakhirah SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 22 there is absolutely no relationship and no comparison of this world with the Aakhirah in terms of time. Allah Ta’ala despatched us into this dunya for a few years to prepare ourselves for the everlasting stay in Jannah which is the Mu’min’s Home of joy and entertainment. This life is not the abode of play, amusement, joy and entertainment for the Mu’min. The precious moments of this life may not be squandered in idle sport, baatil joy and entertainment. These are the pastime occupations of the people of fisq, fujoor and kufr. Joy and entertainment for the Believers are in their Homes in Jannat. This dunya is not their home, hence Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: “This dunya is the home for him who has no home (in the Aakhirah). It is wealth for him who has no wealth. And, he who has no aql (intelligence) accumulates it (wealth).” When even legitimate wealth pursued legitimately is viewed in Islam with disdain if pursued unnecessarily, what does the Aql then decree regarding baatil lahw and la’b? It is Waajib for the Mu’mineen to adopt the life style and pattern of life of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and his Sahaabah. Thus, the Qur’aan Majeed states: “Verily in the Rasool of Allah there is for you a beautiful pattern (of life), for him who has hope in meeting Allah and the Aakhirah, and he remembers Allah much.” (Al-Ahzaab, aayat 21). Did sports feature in the Uswah Hasanah (the Beautiful lifestyle) of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and the Sahaabah? Indeed, in terms of the Hadith, the NNB Jamiat has betrayed Allah, His Rasool, the Ummah and Islam. “And upon us is to only deliver the clear message.” (Qur’aan)









KUFFAAR SPORTS SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 23 RASULULLAH (SALLALLAHU ALAYHI WASALLAM) said: “Every lahw (sport, futility) of the Mu’min is baatil except his play with his wife, bow and horse.” Kuffaar sports which have become an integral satanic institution of the culture of mania’ism of the west, have absolutely no accommodation in Islam. Every sport of these kuffaar is baatil in the Shariah. While play with the wife, archery and horse-riding, fencing (sword-fighting), swimming and the like have been excluded from the Islamic ban on sport, these activities are NOT sport as is believed, and peddled in some quarters. These activities are essential ingredients for the healthy social, spiritual and worldly life of the Mu’mineen. Jihaad is incumbent until the Day of Qiyaamah. Activities associated with the serious affair of Jihaad are similarly incumbent. Healthy family relationship is necessary for the social order of Islam, hence ‘play’ with the wife is incumbent. The noble and necessary ends of certain facets of life require that such activities be given impetus. If the niyyat (intention) accompanying activities such as swimming, horse-riding, etc., is corrupt, then these activities too will be corrupt and not permissible. Some people, for example, dupe themselves into believing that their gun-shooting practice and their horse-riding etc., are acts of jihaad, hence they are gaining thawaab, while deep down their hearts they know that their motives are nafsaani. They ride horses to show off, hence their western, kufr horse-riding outfits. They practise shooting to impress others and for the sake of vanity (ujub). There is no Shar’i merit and no thawaab for these good activities accompanied by base and nafsaani motives. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) explained that on the Day of Qiyaamah a Mujaahid will be brought in the presence of Allah Ta’ala. After he will have claimed that his jihaad was for the sake of Allah Ta’ala it will be ordered that he be flung into Jahannam because he had actually wielded the sword and rode the horse to impress others and to advertise himself as a great SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 24 mujaahid. People in a similar category with their so-called jihaad stunts should ponder well this episode which will be enacted in Qiyaamah. BASELESS ARGUMENTS A plethora of baseless arguments is presented for the supposed permissibility of kuffaar sports. Even sincere Muftis have mis- read the situation and have condoned sports believing it to be physical exercise. But those aware of the multitude of evils accompanying kuffaar sports will readily understand that in Islam there can be no room for activities which are negatory of all the goals of Islam. Kuffaar sports are indulged in purely for nafsaani pleasure. The question of physical fitness is furthest from the mind and heart. It diverts man from Allah’s remembrance, from Allah’s laws and from respect and dignity. Muslims who indulge in these kuffaar activities imitate the kuffaar in almost every aspect associated with sports. In justification of kuffaar sports, dim-witted Muslims present the Ahaadith extolling the virtues of archery, horse-riding, etc. – the arts of Jihaad. Yet, these Muslims dwelling in self-deception never make any attempt to learn archery despite the fact that archery has not completely outlived its utility even in this day of planes and tanks. In fact kuffaar have to this day persevered the art of archery and are still promoting it. However, Muslims never ever consider imitating this aspect of the kuffaar inspite of the Ahaadith emphasising the virtues of the bow and arrow. Why do kuffaar promote archery? Why do Muslims abandon it? Why do Muslims imitate the kuffaar sporting activities of soccer, rugby, cricket, tennis and the numerous other kinds of kuffaar sports? Since there is nafsaani motives and an outlet for vanity and riyaa as well as carnal pleasure for the nafs, we find so many Muslims nowadays also having become fanatics of kuffaar sports. The craze of these haraam activities has gripped the western colonized brains of Muslims to such a degree of insanity that kuffaar sports idols are emulated, admired and idolized. Men and SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 25 women grovelling in spiritual and physical najaasat (janaabat and kufr), men and women who have no understanding of life, of Allah and the Aakhirah are given high pedestals of honour in the lives of present-day Muslims. In fact, the ignorant youth of this age have greater concern, respect and regard for their respective kuffaar sports heroes than for the Ambiya and the Sahaabah. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) spoke about the virtues of archery, not about any virtues of a ball being kicked and chased like madmen or some trained dogs. In fact, Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) declared imitation of the kuffaar to be haraam. It is inconceivable that the Shariah can permit emulation of the kuffaar in such silly and morally destructive activity as their sports. There is absolutely no benefit in kuffaar sports. The little physical fitness which such sports have to offer can be acquired in many other ways whereby a Muslim is not required to demean himself nor to emulate the kuffaar nor to become involved in the many evils and haraam acts associated with kuffaar sports. Even madaaris have become the victims of kuffaar sport. Instead of encouraging the students to take up some really beneficial physical activity in their free time after Asr, it is seen that they are allowed to indulge in the nafsaaniyat of chasing after a ball, kicking a ball and hitting a ball in emulation of the kuffaar. Madrasah authorities should understand better than others. The islaah (moral reformation) of their students is also their responsibility. Students should not be permitted to indulge in any activity which is inimical to Ilm and Taqwa. TASHABBUH Islam abhors imitation of the kuffaar (Tashabbuh Bil Kuffaar). It is a mental disease which not only stagnates the mind, but which enslaves it to the kuffaar. The Muslim who adopts kuffaar emulation begins to think and behave like a kaafir. He then seeks justification for kuffaar destructive practices in the Qur’aan and Hadith. It is for this reason that archery, swimming, etc. are presented as basis for the attempt to legalize kuffaar haraam SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 26 sports. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) abhorred kuffaar emulation so much that he forbade the Sahaabah from acquiring even beneficial items of the kuffaar. Once during a Jihaad campaign Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) saw a Persian bow in the hand of a Sahaabi. On enquiring about it, the Sahaabi said that he had acquired the Persian bow on account of its superiority. This was a weapon of superior quality which the Sahaabi was using in Jihaad against the kuffaar. Notwithstanding the need of the superior weapon, Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) ordered the Sahaabi to discard the Persian how and to take an Arabian bow. He commented that Allah Ta’ala suffices for the Mu’mineen. We are not in need of emulating the kuffaar. When a superior quality weapon was intolerable to Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) merely on account of its kufr origin, how can Islam ever accept and condone Muslims kicking a kaafir ball in kaafir style or hitting a ball in the style of the kuffaar? How can Islam ever accept the baseless arguments of physical fitness by way of kuffaar sports when the Persian bow was rejected right in the midst of a Jihaad notwithstanding its superior quality and its real value and utility? When a bow which was vital for Jihaad was rejected, how can the Shariah accept kuffaar balls and kuffaar sports which have absolutely no relationship with Jihaad. In fact its relationships is with only nafsaaniyat and nothing else. The Qur’aan Majeed says: “This worldly life is but play and amusement while the Abode of the Aakhirah is best for those who fear (Allah). What, have you no intelligence?” Truly those who indulge in kuffaar sport lack intelligence. Only people whose intelligence has been demented will be unable to discern the evil in kuffaar sports. Allah Ta’ala did not create man for indulgence in futility and sport which divert him from life’s goal and bring about his moral and spiritual ruin. Life is a short and serious affair. The short life has been vouchsafed to us for engrossment in the task of preparation for the Aakhirah. All SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 27 other necessary and important worldly activities permitted by Islam are of secondary importance. Of primary importance is the preparation for Maut and the Meeting with Allah Ta’ala. It is not permissible to allow even valid and essential worldly occupations to encroach into the domain of spiritual preparation for the Aakhirah. When even essential and lawful occupations and activities have to be assigned a secondary role and if necessary, abandoned, when they become detrimental to the goal of life on earth, how could kuffaar sport with its accompaniment of evil and immorality ever be permissible for People of Imaan – for People who perform Salaat, recite the Qur’aan and pursue the Knowledge of the Deen? BACKYARD SPORTS There is no distinction between professional and non- professional kuffaar sports. Even the sport indulged in by amateurs – the kuffaar sport played in the backyard – comes with its evils. The pivot of all such sport is nafsaaniyat. Then comes the evil factor of Tashabbuh bil kuffaar. The player begins to think like kuffaar sportsmen. He tends to copy and emulate them. One thing leads to another. The backyard kaafir sport is the introductory step to greater participation and greater drift from Islam. A huge fire burning uncontrollably is started with a little flame or a spark. The seed of a huge tree is a tiny speck. Permission for non-professional kuffaar sports is extremely short- sighted to say the very least. Once the child has been introduced to kuffaar sport at a kaafir school or in his backyard, he has become hooked to the evil which will dominate his emotions later on. He will later fully participate in all the evils concomitant with kuffaar sport. LIZARD’S HOLE We are now living in the era of the ‘lizard’s hole’. Depicting the insane craze of kuffaar Tashabbuh (imitation) which will destroy the Ummah, Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said that even if the kuffaar would creep into a lizard’s hole, Muslims would follow suit. The mental derangement would have attained SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 28 such a degree that creeping into a lizard’s hole in emulation of the kuffaar would also appear intelligent, beautiful, honourable and heroic. Let Muslims hang their heads in shame, especially those ulama who condone kuffaar sports.









THE WORLD CUP 2010 By Maulana Yunus Patel The hype and talk presently is the World Cup 2010. Soccer- mania has gripped the mind, the heart, the speech, the time and the money of many, many Muslims. And these many, many Muslims argue: “It’s ONCE IN A LIFETIME…We are the HOST country … It’s the World Cup which cannot be missed at any cost…”. And we naively believe that these reasons give us the go-ahead to support, promote and participate. But there is one serious fact which makes us unsuitable and incompatible for what I would describe as an International “upsurge of sins” – and that reason is: We are Muslims. And we are very fortunate that we are Muslims. As such, there is no compatibility between a Muslim and sin. Let us discuss why we, as Muslims, cannot and should not align ourselves to the World Cup. Let us read with an open heart and mind. REASONS Why MUSLIMS should NOT ATTEND and NOT SUPPORT the World Cup: 1.) SALAAH It is a common observance, that many, many Muslims are totally neglectful of Salaah when it comes to International, National or local sporting events. Even those who have some link with the Masaajid, will choose to forego Salaah in Jamaat and even the Salaah itself, so as not to miss a moment in watching men run after a ball. Let us relate this to real life and the inevitable: How SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 29 will this benefit us in this world and the hereafter? Will any one of these sports players be able to intercede on our behalf, before Allah Ta’ala, when we have to account for our actions, for our indulgence in futile and even Haraam activities? Our Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) said: “…Do not forgo Salaah intentionally, lest you should get out of the fold of Islam. Do not perpetrate disobedience to Allah, lest you deserve His Wrath…” Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) also said: “The dividing line between kufr and Imaan is Salaah.” And : “A person who has missed one Salaah is like one who has lost all his family and wealth.” Just as we would be grief-stricken at the loss of all of our beloved family members and the loss of all of our wealth, properties, etc. similarly should we grieve over losing just ONE Salaah? Those few who do perform Salaah at the stadium or grounds, whilst the shouting, screaming, music, drink and other sins are being engaged in simultaneously, should think for themselves of what a display of hypocrisy they make. 2.) WASTAGE AND EXTRAVAGANCE Allah Ta’ala states explicitly: “…And do not squander recklessly. Surely, squanderers are brothers to Shayateen, and Shaytaan is very ungrateful to his Lord.”[Surah Bani Israeel 17: 26/27] Spending R800 or R1000, whether more or less, on one ticket – and we know many are spending much, much more, on many tickets - is money wasted, and wastage and squandering are categorized as sin in Islam – whether on that which is permissible or otherwise. Moreover, the sin is compounded when it is being spent to view something which is at a place hosting a combination of evils. Besides the tickets for the various matches, much more money will be spent on travel and accommodation – with airfares and rates going through the roof. Consider how many loaves of bread, how many litres of milk or necessities of life, could have been provided for thousands that live below the bread line or thousands more that are in dire need of medical assistance … How can we SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 30 be so complacent when so many are without food, water, electricity, medicine and other such needs ? Doesn’t our Imaan and conscience trouble us in the least? Moreover, wastage and extravagance are a cause of drought, high cost living and other forms of punishment. 3.) MUSIC Almost every venue, event and occasion today seems to demand “music” as part of the entertainment. As Muslims, we know full well, that music is not the “pleasure” of a true believer because Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) specifically mentioned that one of his objectives was to destroy musical instruments. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) said: “My Rabb has commanded me to destroy all musical instruments…” and also: “Music causes hypocrisy to grow in the heart just as water causes crops to grow.” According to another Hadith of Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa- Sallam): ‘Music is from Shaytaan and accommodating it in any way is nifaaq (hypocrisy).’ Ibn Walih (RA) said: “Beware of music because music reduces shame, it increases lust and destroys one’s dignity and respect. Its effect is like the effect of alcohol.” Then, would it be morally correct for a MUSLIM to be present at such an event where Music is ‘a must have’? 4.) ALCOHOL The Ahadith make mention: “Wine is the gatherer of sin.”, “Wine is the route to indecency and is one of the major sins.” Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) also said: “….and do not take to drinking, for that is the mother of all evils.” Every person that is associated to alcohol – be it the manufacturer, the one who transports, the one who sells, buys or serves comes under the curse of Allah Ta’ala. And those that keep company and incline towards the transgressors have to contend with the same consequences, for Allah Ta’ala warns us: “Do not incline to the transgressors for then the fire will touch you.” 5.) ZINA (ADULTERY / FORNICATION) Allah Ta’ala says: “AND COME NOT NEAR TO ZINA. SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 31 VERILY IT IS A SHAMEFUL AND EVIL PATH” [SURAH AL- ISRA 17 : 32] It is a very evident fact that these events promote Zina in abundance. Besides adultery of the eyes which is also categorized as zina (adultery) and which is very common at these types of venues with the indecent and revealing attire, there is actual zina that is being promoted and advertised. With the thousands of prostitutes that are visiting our country and the thousands more that are local – what else can be expected, except an escalation in adultery and fornication and a much higher risk of very severe punishment descending... (May Allah Ta’ala protect us from His punishment.) The summary and outline of Ahadith, is that plague, poverty, diseases which were unheard of previously, earthquakes, drought and destruction, birth of illegitimate children, and even escalation of deaths will follow in the wake of adultery and immorality. If a person commits adultery, then the priceless and invaluable commodity of Imaan leaves his body. Hazrat Anas (RA) narrated that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) said: “Imaan is a garb with which Allah clothes whomsoever He wishes. If a person commits adultery, this garb is snatched away and if he repents, it is again returned.” Then what will be the condition of the person who dies whilst committing zina? 6.) HERO-WORSHIPPING Allah Ta’ala has mentioned in the Qur`aan Sharief, in Surah Munafiqoon: “BUT HONOUR BELONGS TO ALLAH, HIS MESSENGER AND THE BELIEVERS...” And in Surah An- Nisaa: ‘…TO THOSE WHO TAKE FOR FRIENDS UNBELIEVERS RATHER THAN BELIEVERS: IS IT HONOUR THEY SEEK AMONG THEM? NAY, - ALL HONOUR IS WITH ALLAH.’ To deal honestly and truthfully with disbelievers or to assist the poor and needy amongst them, are from the teachings of Islam. However, to integrate with them in such a manner, that we lose our Islamic identity or give up on our Islamic culture is SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 32 prohibited because it is inevitably extremely harmful to one’s Imaan. Many have given up Imaan and Islam due to very close friendship and relationship with those who do not believe in Allah Ta’ala, His Final Messenger (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa- Sallam) and the Day of Judgement. …So we find people going crazy and wild over soccer players, cricket players and their likes. And one wonders, what is all the clamour and fuss about?... when their “outstanding” achievement in life seems to be, kicking, throwing or hitting a ball…? Does this call for hero-worship? Is this our SHALLOW understanding of success as Muslims? Do we not know that the most successful of all people are the Ambiyaa (Prophets) and their followers? Are we even aware of the tremendous successes of the Sahabah? They were MEN. And Brave Men. Their history, their feats, their conquests drown out the thousands of insignificant goals scored by soccer players. We should reflect over our obsession, veneration and craze of filmstars, sport-stars and others who are presently the enemies of Allah Ta’ala. …A warning has been sounded, directing us to make sincere taubah. Allah Ta’ala states in the Qur`aan Sharief : ‘O PEOPLE OF IMAAN! DO NOT TAKE MY ENEMIES AND YOUR ENEMIES AS FRIENDS, INCLINING TOWARDS THEM WITH LOVE. VERILY, THEY HAVE REJECTED THE TRUTH WHICH HAS COME TO YOU (FROM YOUR RABB)…’ [SURAH MUMTAHINA 60 : 1] We seem to forget that we are Muslims and all Muslims have dangerous enemies: So whilst our enemies shrewdly convince us to spend thousands of Rands, waste our energy and time on useless, futile sports such as the World Cup, they gleefully bomb, kill, rape, oppress and harass our brothers and sisters in other parts of the world … but we are so intoxicated with World Cups that we don’t even know our enemies have deceived us. Have we not witnessed enough enmity in Occupied Palestine, in Pakistan, Kashmir, Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan, Sudan, Somalia and other parts of the world? Those who were considered friends and companions were the first to assault, kill, maim and even SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 33 rape our Muslim brothers and sisters, for no other reason than that they are Believers in Allah Ta’ala. …Have we not taken any lesson? Have we not witnessed blood of the Muslims flowing in Bosnia, like rivers? When we claim to have love for Allah Ta’ala, how then can we love these types of sporting events? Allah Ta’ala advises us: “O YOU WHO BELIEVE! TAKE NOT FOR FRIENDS UNBELIEVERS RATHER THAN BELIEVERS: DO YOU WISH TO OFFER ALLAH AND OPEN PROOF AGAINST YOURSELVES?” …In other words, we should not make them bosom pals. Once again, it does not mean that we should not treat them with kindness, deal honestly and assist when there is need. …However: Will participation and support in the World Cup attract them towards Islam? 7.) DRESS Islam has gifted us with a dress code, which identifies us as Muslims – which makes us flagbearers of Islam, representatives of Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam), Inviters to Islam. We have been expressly forbidden from adopting any semblance with the cultural or religious dressing style of people of other faiths. By wearing soccer t-shirts, caps, bags with the 2010 football logos clearly indicates our love for the event and the culture. Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) said: “The one who imitates others is not of us.” And: “Whoever imitates a nation is of them.” We are the nation of Islam, and should be rightly proud of our beautiful culture and dress because it is the culture and dress of the greatest after Allah, Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa- Sallam). …Is it not the height of foolishness to exchange diamonds for stones ? 8.) MIXED GATHERINGS The disbelievers have no concept of segregation. They advocate mixed gatherings because it facilitates more sins and immorality. It works in their favour because there is easy gratification of sensual desires and sinful pleasures. The Shariah instructs us : ‘IT IS NOT PERMISSIBLE TO BE PRESENT IN A GATHERING WHERE ALLAH TA’ALA IS BEING DISOBEYED.’ SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 34 THE PURPOSE OF CREATION & OBJECTIVE OF LIFE “We created not the heavens, the earth and all between them, merely in (idle) sport.” [Surah Dukhaan :38] “Do you then think that We created you in jest and that you would not be brought back to Us (for an account)?” [Surah Mu`minoon 23 :115] Our purpose in this world is definitely not play and amusement. Moreover, deliberate and planned sins do not feature in a Muslim’s life. Allah Ta’ala and His Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) certainly do not want to deprive us of enjoyment and entertainment. The Shariah and the Sunnah accommodate and give guidance for a Muslim with regards to Halaal, permissible entertainment, humuor, laughter, play and relaxation. However there is certainly no scope for events which feature Haraam indulgences. The reality of the “World Cup” is that it is a dangerous fusion of major sins. And when sins increase and multiply then we invite a punishment in proportion to that disobedience. …Haven’t we taken lesson from Tsunamis, Gale-force winds, Hurricanes and Earthquakes that left nothing but devastation in their wake ? Are we immune to such disaster? Are we safe from punishment? Let us ponder the words of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) who said : ‘[ON THE DAY OF JUDGEMENT], THE FEET OF A PERSON WILL NOT MOVE UNTIL HE IS ASKED REGARDING : (1) HIS LIFE; HOW DID HE SPEND IT, (2) HIS KNOWLEDGE; HOW DID HE ACT UPON IT, (3) HIS WEALTH; HOW DID HE ACQUIRE IT (AND) (4) HOW DID HE SPEND IT, AND (5) HIS BODY, HOW DID HE USE IT.’ It is reported that once Amr Ibn Absa (RA) asked Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) which Hijrat (migration) is the best and he said: “That you leave what your Lord dislikes.” One of our great Scholars had said very aptly: SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 35 “It baffles me to see a people who are advised to get their provision and are called upon that the departure time is due yet they sit down playing.” Our boarding passes were given to us the moment we entered this world … and that boarding pass is for boarding the flight of death. We have been informed and advised of the long journey ahead and the much needed provision for such a journey – but how strange, that we choose to while away our time and we accumulate nothing for what lies ahead. It is said : “The knife is being sharpened, and the oven is being heated up, yet the ram is still eating the fodder.” The knife of death has been sharpened, our graves have been selected and are waiting for us to take residence in them. …Despite knowing this, we “graze” complacently in disobedience – unconcerned that that knife is ready to strike us at anytime. Allah Ta’ala states: “O PEOPLE OF IMAAN! SAVE YOURSELVES AND YOUR FAMILIES FROM A FIRE WHOSE FUEL IS MEN AND STONES…” [SURAH AT-TAHREEM 66 : 6] “YOUR (REAL) FRIENDS ARE (NO LESS THAN) ALLAH, HIS APOSTLE, AND THE (FELLOWSHIP OF) BELIEVERS, - THOSE WHO ESTABLISH REGULAR PRAYERS, AND REGULAR CHARITY, AND THEY BOW DOWN HUMBLY (IN WORSHIP). AS FOR THOSE WHO TURN (FOR FRIENDSHIP) TO ALLAH, HIS RASUL AND THE (FELLOWSHIP OF) BELIEVERS – IT IS THE FELLOWSHIP OF ALLAH THAT MUST CERTAINLY TRIUMPH.” [SURAH MAA`IDAH 5 : 58/ 59] Of course, all that has been stated will not go down well with everyone. It is for those who want to be good ambassadors of Islam, pleasing to Allah Ta’ala and His Beloved Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam). This article is for my own reflection and an invitation to my Muslim brothers and sisters to SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 36 reflect with an open mind. I make dua that Allah Ta’ala protect me and the Ummah from all fitna. HARAAM SPORTS By Maulana Yunus Patel “We look at what the Qur’aan Sharief says.” There is a growing feeling of insecurity and misgiving amongst some of the South African Muslim Community – those who feel and say that there is a kind of pressure upon them to support and participate in the upcoming World Cup. So we find that some have become hesitant in their stance against the World Cup. Sadly, we have many Muslims who criticize, mock and ridicule those Muslim brothers and sisters who wish to be good, obedient Muslims, and they label them as traitors to their country, un-patriotic, orthodox, foolish – and give them other such names. But, we would like to ask all those Muslims that censure, mock and tease: What does the World Cup have to do with a MUSLIM? … Why should we feel ashamed for not participating? WE ARE MUSLIMS, AND ARE PLEASED TO BE MUSLIMS. WE WANT TO SUBMIT, OBEY AND PLEASE ALLAH TA’ALA. WE ARE HAPPY IN OUR REFUSAL TO PARTICIPATE IN THE WORLD CUP BECAUSE WE WILL BE PLEASING OUR CREATOR. Moreover, we can also ask those who disparage: What of their betrayal of Islam, their infidelity to Allah Ta’ala and Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam)? To re-iterate and to offer confidence to those Muslims who feel weak due to the pressure to participate, we take up our reasoning from a different angle. Besides the many Haraam (prohibited) engagements that will be rife at such events – whether it be intermingling, music, alcohol, indecent dressing, adultery and fornication, gambling and other such vices – which clearly make this entire event “TABOO” for the Muslim – beyond all of this, is a crime which SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 37 is a crime against the entire South African community; even the patriots..... ....Then again: Who are the sponsors? …Whether it is cricket, rugby, football, the sponsors are companies which promote sin, such as Castle Lager. It is totally Haraam for us to then be part and parcel of such events. What we are talking about is something which is building up into a tsunami of sins, on the verge of enveloping us all. …Everyone knows what happens at World Cups. Almost everyone gets carried away. But we are not talking about the non-Muslim community. We are talking about Muslims – who believe in the Hereafter, in the Day of Judgment and accountability. Our advice is to the Muslims. As Muslims, we have a responsibility, we have a duty, we have an obligation. We have been chosen for a specific purpose. Allah Ta’ala has sent us here for a purpose. If we become party to all these sporting events and spend thousands of Rands in tickets, travel and accommodation with the sole purpose to go and view these events – then look at the precious time wasted, the neglect shown to Salaah and the general indifference to the sins around us? What do we, as Muslims, gain in all of this? …Absolutely nothing, except the displeasure of Allah Ta’ala. A famous Sahabi, Hazrat Abu Zarr (ra) relates that he came to the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), who was sitting in the shade of the Ka`bah. When he saw me, he said: ‘They stand to lose.’ I said: ‘May my parents ransom you. To whom do you refer?’ “To those with an excess of riches,” he replied, “who just squander their wealth, heedless of the fact that they can be saved only if they spend generously for a Good Cause. And there are very few wealthy men of that ilk.” (Hadith of Bukhari and Muslim) My message is that we must demonstrate and project our Islamic identity, and Islam has nothing to do with World Cups. It is just a money-making event with the greatest beneficiary being SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 38 FIFA. And who does not know the strangle-hold FIFA has over business houses. They cannot market anything which is connected to the World Cup 2010, without FIFA getting some profit. Our participation would be accentuating our support for Zulm. And as Muslims, we are not here to support it in any way. Patriotism has absolutely nothing to do with a person objecting from an Islamic point of view, not condoning, not participating, not encouraging, not promoting, not purchasing tickets or whatever else – because the World Cup has no affiliation with Islam. Furthermore, giving full support and backing and encouraging the World Cup is going against the directives of Islam and Shariah. This is challenging Allah Ta’ala. This is directly or indirectly expressing disapproval of Allah Ta’ala’s Laws and Nabi’s (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) teachings. And this should not then become an invitation for Divine punishment. …We have to be very careful… Have we forgotten what happened recently in Chile, in Haiti, and other parts of the world? …Devastation on the Order of Allah Ta’ala, which no super-power could prevent or stop. Allah Ta’ala’s Might and Power is ALL-ENCOMPASSING. Everything of this world, everything in nature, is in His Full Control – the earth, water, wind, fire – EVERYTHING is owned by Allah Ta’ala. I have often stated that it is due to the generosity of the Muslim Community in South Africa, in giving in charities, that Allah Ta’ala’s punishment is kept at bay. But this too should not make us complacent. If we have purchased those tickets, sell them or throw them away. Let us be happy to say: ‘We are MUSLIMS and we cannot be in those places where Allah Ta’ala’s wrath and anger descends.’ Some argue that it would be the lesser of the two evils to view from another venue, or watch over the television. This event is not a “necessity” for any person. There is no force and coercion. SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 39 It is not a matter of life and death. And we cannot say that because there is a demand from the majority or because of the large number of our youth and even elderly are waiting eagerly to participate, that we too must now give in and accommodate. This is not a question of engaging in the lesser of the two evils because there is no need for it. We rather say boldly and fearlessly, that the World Cup should be something that should be condemned, something that should be criticized, something that should have nothing to do with the Muslim Ummah. After this, if someone participated, or even if the majority has to attend, we still cannot say that because the majority are demanding, that we have to now give the green-light to the World Cup, that we condone it. May Allah Ta’ala protect us from compromising on the principles of Deen and compromising on the Pleasure of Allah. Unfortunately, this is the general weakness of all democracies throughout the world: Whatever is demanded by the public, and votes are coming from those people, then we must condone, we must pass legislation and make everything permissible. This is what has happened. When there was the demand that abortion be legalized, so because of the demand, it was legalized. Now a 12 year old girl can walk into any hospital and ask for an abortion and the parents cannot object. As Muslims, we will not look at what the public demand; we will look at what the Qur`aan Sharief says, what the Hadith Sharief says, what our jurisprudence says. We will look towards the beautiful lifestyle and noble conduct of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and we will mould our lives accordingly. We cannot support the World Cup. We cannot condone or justify it in anyway – because it will be condoning Injustice and numerous vices. ALLAH TA’ALA INSTRUCTS US : “O YOU WHO BELIEVE! STAND OUT FIRMLY FOR JUSTICE, AS WITNESSES TO ALLAH, EVEN AGAINST YOURSELVES…” [SURAH AN-NISAA 4 : 135] SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 40 THINK: If we attend, then where will we be sitting? Amidst so much of Haraam … What if there is shake up of the earth? Who will stop and prevent that? What kind of death will that be of the person whose dead body comes out of the stadium? We have heard of janazas coming out from cinemas, clubs, prostitute quarters, hotels and other places of immorality and evil. We know of entire hotels being swallowed by the waters of the oceans when we had the tsunami; others digested by the earth during earthquakes – so can we be so confident that the same fate will definitely not befall us? STRANGE IS THE VISA OF LIFE; IT CAN BE CANCELLED AT ANYTIME. THE DURATION OF ITS VALIDITY IS UNKNOWN AND ITS EXTENSION TOO, IMPOSSIBLE. May Allah Ta’ala grant us correct understanding and acceptance of well-wishing. It is all said out of deep hearted pain and sincere love. We don’t want anyone to contend with hardship, difficulty, disgrace, humiliation … ‘WHOEVER RECOMMENDS AND HELPS A GOOD CAUSE BECOMES A PARTNER THEREIN: AND WHOEVER RECOMMENDS AND HELPS AN EVIL CAUSE SHARES IN ITS BURDEN…’ [SURAH AN-NISAA 4 : 85]









SPORT MANIA By Madrasah Taaleemuddeen, Isipingo From little children to great-grandmothers, hardly anybody has been untouched by the sportmania that has gripped the world. Those who are more deeply obsessed ride the roller coaster of emotions with the success and failure of "their" team. While at times they are elated, on other occasions they become truly depressed due to "their" team losing. Sport discussions, heated debates and even arguments abound everywhere - around the table, on street corners and even in the sacred house of Allah SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 41 Ta'ala - the Musjid. Hence, as Muslims, as the slaves of our Creator and Nourisher, as the true followers and ardent lovers of our beloved Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), what is our approach to sport? PERMISSIBLE Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) has himself encouraged certain forms of "sports." The Ahadith mention the merits of archery and horse riding. However, the bottom line in all the forms of "sport" encouraged by Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is that they were in actual fact a training for the defence of Islam and the Muslims. Outwardly it may have seemed to be just a sport, but in reality it was never just play and amusement. These forms of "sport" in reality were actual skills and expertise required on the battle field. As for modern-day sports, these are an invention of later times which have no relationship to Islam. This is what we need to examine. INFORMAL With regard to modern-day sports there are two aspects to it. One is the occasional informal "sport" perhaps in one's backyard. This is permissible provided that the intention is to freshen up one's body and mind so that one may thereafter engage in one's duties with greater vigour. Furthermore, the type of sport engaged in must not be something that is specific to any religious (kufr) group in such a manner that engagement therein associates one with that creed (such as yoga). Also, no law of the Shariah must be violated - for instance as a result of the sport salaah should not be missed nor must the satr (part of the body which is obligatory to conceal) be exposed, etc. (For more details contact the Ulama). (see Fatawaa Mahmoodia v. 12 pg. 375) The informal aspect is however not the focus of this article. Here we wish to deal with the formal involvement in sports, whether in the form of active participation, especially on a professional level, or merely as a spectator. SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 42 ALL OVER A BALL? It is necessary that we first consider the reality of modern-day sports? If one examines most modern-day sports, the sum total of these sports is that a person can either skilfully hit a fast moving ball with a bat, or catch it, chase after it or bowl it (cricket), or he can deftly kick a ball between two posts after having dribbled around some people (soccer), or whack a little rubber ball with much force against a wall (squash), or strike a little bigger ball with a racket over a low net (tennis), or smack an even bigger ball with bare hands over a higher net (volley ball), or club a small ball with a long iron over far distances and finally into a hole in the ground (golf), or grab an oblong ball and dash wildly across a field to place the ball behind a line (rugby), or other similar "skills" in various sporting codes. The crucial question is: Are these "skills" so great that intelligent, thinking people should be driven into a frenzy by them??? Is it really worth the while wasting hours watching somebody kicking, hitting, running behind, or throwing a ball??? Indeed, it is the kind of "skill" that can boast of being among the most unproductive and least beneficial to mankind at large. It can also boast of having ensnared most people to some extent despite being the least beneficial to them. MULTI MILLION Undoubtedly sports today has become a multi million rand concern. Multi millions, rather billions, are extracted from the public for the "privilege" of watching somebody kicking, hitting or running behind a ball while a handful of people enjoy the massive "spoils," operating behind the scenes. Most modern-day sports are thus a glittering display of some of the most unproductive skills that could be hatched up. These skills have been cleverly manipulated by in order to control the collective mind of the people of the world. By means of the propaganda tool of the media which is largely in the hands of the propaganda masters, sports have been hyped up to such an extent that millions of people worldwide have become addicted to SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 43 watching a bunch of people displaying their "skill" of kicking a ball around. Even in economic terms, millions of man hours are lost on working days due to people being distracted from productive work just to spectate some sport. SPORTS CULTURE Modern-day sports are also not restricted to kicking a ball around. Instead it has created a sub-culture which has enslaved many people. A small indication of this enslavement is the enthusiasm with which people fork out exorbitant sums of money for an ordinary garment, simply because it has the colours or emblem of "their" team. How many people have Imaan and the love of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) in their hearts ... yet proudly walk around with the name of their koafir sporting hero emblazoned across their chest!!!? ISLAM AND SPORTS A true Believer is primarily concerned about the commands of Allah Ta'ala and the Sunnah of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). He regards the slightest violation as a serious sin. Sins are of two categories. One is the sin that is perpetrated in secrecy. While committing it in secrecy does not diminish its severity, worse than this is the sin that is committed openly and in public. When a sin is committed openly and those not involved shirk in their duty of amr bil ma'roof and nahy anil munkor (enjoining the good and forbidding the evil), the perpetrators of that evil as well as those who maintained silence despite their ability to correct the evil are engulfed in the wrath of Allah Ta'ala. Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is reported to have said: "Verily Allah Ta'ala will not punish all the people due to the actions of a specific group until a sin is committed in their midst. Thereafter, despite their ability to repel the evil they do nothing about it. In such a situation Allah Ta'ala will punish the open sinners as well as the general masses who maintain silence" (Mishkoat). In the light of the above Hadith let us consider the following aspects with regard to sports: SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 44 ATTIRE Most sports are played in attire that does not conform to Shar'i requirements. The sporting attire is such that most of the time the thighs of the players are exposed. The satr (part of the body compulsory to conceal) for men is from the navel to the knee. Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is reported to have said: "Do not look at the thighs of a living or dead man" (Mishkaat). In the case of sports, this sin of exposing the satr is perpetrated in public. It is inconceivable that when looking at a player, one's gaze will not fall on his satr. Likewise, in some sporting codes, females participate dressed in shameless clothing. Thus zina of the eyes is committed openly and collectively by thousands of people on the field and millions of others huddled around the T.V. Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) has declared: "May the curse of Allah be upon the one who casts glances (at someone of the opposite gender who is not a mahram) (Mishkaat). By the time the match is over, how many curses one would have accumulated? Together with the zina of the eyes, the ears are also engaged in sin. Sporting events are generally accompanied by music, regarding which Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) has said: "I have been sent to destroy musical instruments" (Mishkaat). IMPEDIMENT Another serious calamity of sports is the extent to which it becomes an impediment in the way of the obligatory ibadah. Even those who are normally regular with their salaah often miss it because they were too enchanted and spellbound by somebody kicking a piece of leather. Either the salaah is completely missed or the congregational salaah in the Musjid is deliberately omitted. People have missed taraweeh salaah in the sacred month of Ramadhaan and, Allah forbid, even fasts were missed due to sports. Recitation of the Qur'an or any other ibadah cannot even be given a second thought if a match is on. SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 45 There are many other objectionable aspects in sports. Those mentioned above are serious enough to make us refrain from participating in any way. In order to truly understand how we should react to all the hype around us, we will have to consider it with the light of Imaan that Allah Ta'ala has blessed us with. Consider it in the light of what will make our beloved Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) happy and what will grieve him? After all the sacrifices he made to pass on the message of Islam, how greatly he will be grieved to know that his Ummah is captivated by people running behind a ball!!! SPORTS IDOLS Many people have greatly benefitted mankind in general in terms of worldly amenities. For instance, computers have made it tremendously easy to accomplish many tasks that previously required great effort and much time. But ask the millions of computer users worldwide and perhaps a few will know who invented the computer. Similarly, hardly anyone knows who invented the microwave oven or the cellular phone. The same can be said for a hundred other items which people benefit from daily. LEGEND Yet when it comes to the utterly useless skills of sport, the one that can keep whacking a fast moving ball with a bat becomes a hero for millions the world over. Somebody who can dribble through a bunch of people and kick a ball between two posts becomes a legend. Young and old admire him, adore him and many even idolise him. This is easily discernible from many aspects in the admirers life. AUTOGRAPH Even Muslim youth will be seen wearing garments with the name of some sports star emblazoned across it, or wearing the scarf with their team colours, with great pride. Children who will sometimes be seen carelessly handling the Qur'an-e-Kareem as if it was an ordinary book, will be seen attaching great value to a SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 46 book or a bat which was personally autographed by their favourite player. Albums of kaafir teams will be treasured as prize possessions. Walls of rooms will be found pasted with photographs of teams and players. Ask many young boys (and many old men) to name the players of- their-team--and they will rattle off twelve names as if they were reciting sura fatiha. They will even give you a bit of the history of each player. Dare anyone criticise their team or their star and they will defend their idol as if their own honour was sullied. CONQUERED Yet, ask these very Muslims, who know the details of entire teams at their finger tips, some aspects about the history of the greatest personality of all mankind, Sayyidina Rasulullah (sallallahu alalihi wasallam). Many will not know anything beyond a few simple facts they learnt in primary madrasah. Ask a few sports questions and see the answers immediately flowing out. Ask the same people about how many sons did Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) have and what were their names? Ask them in which year did Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) conquer Makkatul Mukarramah? One will be surprised as to how many are ignorant of the answers to these questions, yet they know in which year "their" team conquered all the nations competing in the world cup. Indeed, it is a time to hang our heads in utter shame if we know more about disbelieving sports stars than we know about Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). On the day of Judgement we will require the intercession of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). How ... indeed ... just how will we face him ... if we were proud to identify ourselves with disbelievers and admired sports "heroes" who have done nothing for us ... instead of following in the footsteps of our Master, Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) ??? INSULTING ISLAM One's honour has no price. People would spend all they have to protect their honour and the honour of their families. The one SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 47 who attempts to taint their honour will be repulsed in every possible manner. Alas, it is only the forlorn Deen of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) that receives negligible help when it is insulted. Sports in particular seems to be at the forefront of insulting Islam. KALIMA KICKED Not long ago, Nike incorporated apologised in the face of severe protest for putting the name of Allah on sports shoes. First they put the name of Allah on a shoe so that it will be trampled and soiled. Then they conveniently found the kalima on the Saudi flag and printed it on footballs. The footballs were manufactured by A.G. Enterprises of India and were on sale in London. First the name of Allah was being trampled. Now the kalima is being kicked around - all in the name of sport. It is naive to think that these occurrences are mere coincidences. Even before the shoe affair, Nike had once erected a billboard which depicted a basketball player. The picture was headlined with the words "They called him Allah." Again, all in the name of sport. Yet Muslims still feel proud to be associated with Nike and its products. They still find some "enjoyment" in the futile sports that is used as a ready tool to insult Islam. WORLD CUP The participation of Muslims in the world cup has led to further desecration of the Kalima. As a result of Saudi Arabia's participation, their flag has been regularly appearing in our local newspapers as well as newspapers all over the world. The flag depicts the kalima of Islam. Millions of these newspapers will be in the hands of non-Muslims. One can barely imagine the extent to which the Kalima will be dishonoured. It will be thrown around, trampled upon, become the wrapping for things unimaginable and a host of other such aspects. But, alas, participation in the world cup must go on inspite of the desecration of the Kalima! Thus in the name of the world cup the Kalima is dishonoured, but Muslims are still glued to the world SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 48 cup. Do we care for the honour of the Kalima and for the honour of Islam??? SPORTS AND VICE Drinking, lewd behaviour and other vices are closely linked to modern day sports, especially professional sports. Drunken fans are an extremely common sight. According to a newspaper report, on the night before the world cup started, fans in France packed every place "that sold alcohol" (Daily News - 10/06/98). What else can really be expected from people whose lives revolve around drink? However, many Muslims, by constant association with the drinking mobs at sporting venues have fallen into this vice. Players from Muslim countries have also disgraced themselves and embarrassed Muslims in general with their totally un-Islamic conduct. Yet Muslims cheer the very people who have let Islam down. Again, it is sporting events which streakers (people who dash around stark naked in public) choose to insult even basic human values. If at just one event one's child is exposed to such animal behaviour, the ill-effects will last a lifetime. Can a true Muslim ever risk such a situation? Depraved sexual tendencies also seem to find a special home in sporting circles. More than fifty gay and lesbian tennis clubs in the U.S. have been listed in a posting to the internet. Many sports stars have themselves declared their sexual depravity. Many youth idolise these stars. They dress like them and imitate them in many other aspects. Hence they are at great risk of following in their footsteps all the way. Allah Ta'ala has placed limits for his slaves. Sin and vice are a transgression of His limits. Allah Ta'ala declares: "Those are the limits of Allah, so do not go close to them." Therefore remain far away from venues where Allah Ta'ala's limits are transgressed. SPORT AND THE MU’MIN 49 TAKING STOCK Dear sincere Muslim, dear follower and true lover of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam): While the sportmania has gripped the world, sit back briefly and ask yourself the following questions: 1. Am I also overwhelmed by all the media hype about a bunch of people kicking a ball around? (if yes, it means the propaganda machine has found another victim.) 2. Have I ever missed any salaah, or missed performing it with Jama'ah in the Musjid, due to sports? (if yes, then sports is taking you on the path of Allah Ta'ala's wrath!) 3. Do I know more about kaafir sports stars than what I know about Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam)? (if yes, ... no words can describe something so ghastly. Stop! For Allah's sake stop ... Stop and make amends, before the heart stops and it is too late.) 4. Since most people have been caught up in this insane frenzy, will I also blindly follow the hordes irrespective of what effect it has on my Imaan? Or do I have the courage of my convictions to say "Enough is enough!?" (Let us answer that with the Imaan in our hearts!)