Religious Perspective

Islamic angleImam Munyandekwe Abdnul of Gatsata affirmed that, there is no general prescription for sports, including girl’s and women’s sports.

Friday, June 18, 2010
Iranian wome playing soccer.

Islamic angle
Imam Munyandekwe Abdnul of Gatsata affirmed that, there is no general prescription for sports, including girl’s and women’s sports.

"In fact, prophet  Mohamed (SAW) advocated living a healthy life, he advised Islamic adherents to participate in sports such as running, horseback riding, swimming and archery,” Abdnul said.

The Islamic perception of a woman’s body has a huge impact on the Moslem women’s sports. The Islamic law has a focus on the need for men and women to be shielded from sexual enticement.

"That’s why our women and daughters are supposed to put on below- the- knee coats and head scarves; these are the minimum requirements of correct dress for women,” the Imam said, adding, "Moslem women if interested in sports, must contend with the fact that whenever sports is practiced, Islamic laws must be followed, this means their bodies must be covered.”

Christian’s angle
Titus Karengera, the senior Pastor of ‘Living Church of Christ’ in Nyakabanda said that, the bible doesn’t impede any gender from sports, however, the sacred book advises Christians not to allow sports to become a deity, according to (1john 5; 21).

"Christians should never allow sports to become more important than their relationship with God,” Karengera said.
"Our precedence in life as Christians should be structured in such away that they honor and glorify God,” the clergyman reminded.

"The difference between women and men’s soccer, is the mental aspect of the game. Men tend to rely on muscle and mass, while women, being cerebral and better able to multi-task; use a little delicacy and logic to achieve these same goals.”

"Whatever the reasons, if our sisters want to play, let them play, as pioneers, lets support them and maybe even toss them a few tricks,” Karengera said.

Ends