Torchbearing in sports

22-4-2004 | IslamWeb

Question:

Are there any accounts of torch bearing for sporting events in the Islamic history? Is it a sin for a Muslim if she or he is involved in carrying the torch in a sports event? What is the view of the Qur'an and Sunnah and also the Islamic scholars regarding the torch procession in a sports event?

---

Answer:

Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds; and may His blessings and peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad and upon all his Family and Companions.

 

There is no text that proves or denies bearing torches during celebrations to demonstrate happiness and joy; it comes under the practice of people. If it is done only for enjoyment then it is permissible provided the following conditions are met;

A)   It should not cause any harm and should be free from lavishness,

B)   It should not be a practice that is peculiar to non-Muslims.

C)   It should not be practised on prohibited and unlawful occasions.

 

Allah knows best.