In very straightforward terms, yoga is an ancient form of exercise to combines the union of mind, body and spirit through physical postures or poses called asanas. Thus the basis of yoga are its asanas or postures which I believe most people would have come across these postures at least once in their lives.

Hinduism is the religion of yoga. Which means every aspect of yoga is based on references to Hinduism. To understand what this means is to liken it to this situation: Islam is the religion of Malaysia. But it does not mean all Malaysians must be Muslims. At the time when yoga was initiated, all its practitioners as well as teachers were Hindus. So naturally yoga took on a Hindu front and is integrated into Hinduism.

First of all, it should be interesting enough to point out that a lot of Christians think that Yoga can erode their faith in Christianity too. Secondly, I think erode is a strong as well as inappropriate term. Certain aspects such as mantras, meditation, believe in enlightenment, reincarnation, cakras etc. are subjects and practices that are subtly introduced.

Thus, I believe Yoga CAN DIVERT a person’s current faith and probably has already to most Muslims and Christians without them even knowing. Whether it’s a good thing or a bad thing is subjective to the individual. I think it’s inevitable. Consider it a form of globalisation. I know a lot of Muslims have taken a very defensive stand due to this and have argued that Yoga has in fact made them better Muslims and a lot of Christians make the same arguments too but I honestly believe that is not true. While I do believe Yoga can make a Muslim or a Christian a better person, I doubt it can make a Muslim a better Muslim or a Christian a better Christian.

I don’t think Yoga should be banned from Muslims (or Christians) because I believe Muslims (and Christians) in general should be given the benefit of the doubt that the are matured enough to know and understand which aspects of Yoga is haram or forbidden.

But what I believe is that the right awareness should be created. Which means living in a multi-racial, multi-national, multi-religious country, it’s important for Yoga teachers to not be too pro-Hindu and be sensitive to other religions. I also believe that the Fatwa Council is doing the right thing in bringing up the subject because it is an important and relevant issue to address. I just don’t agree with the ban.

Yoga minus Hinduism is still Yoga. Give it a try! For those Muslims who are Yoga practitioners and are hurt by the fatwa, I think instead of taking a defensive stand, use this opportunity to create awareness.

*********

If you’d like to know more about yoga and to personally ask him more questions pertaining to this issue, you may always contact Brandon personally and forward him your inquiries. He’s really a friendly guy. Here’s his business card.

Cheers and Thanks Brandon!