Muslim Scholars Issue Fatwa Against Wearing Nike Products - ProPakistani

Muslim scholars in Libya have issued a fatwa on Nike, prohibiting Muslims from buying, selling or wearing Nike-branded clothing, arguing that the sportswear company promotes symbols associated with polytheism.

The Dar al-Ifta linked its ruling to the brand’s name and logo. It said Nike takes its name from the ancient Greek goddess of victory and claimed that wearing its logo amounted to worshipping more than one god.

Grand Mufti Sadiq al-Gharyani approved the fatwa. Although the religious body holds considerable influence, its rulings do not carry legal force.

In its ruling, the Dar al-Ifta’s religious committee said Nike’s name comes from Greek mythology. It also said the company’s tick-shaped logo draws inspiration from the goddess’s wings.

The American sportswear company traces its origins to 1964 and uses the Greek goddess’s name.

Meanwhile, archaeological remains in Cyrene, an ancient Greek city in northeastern Libya, prominently feature images of the goddess. Cyrene holds World Heritage status.

Nike does not operate stores in Libya. However, sportswear retailers sell products carrying its branding.

The brand also enjoys popularity across North Africa, where traders frequently sell counterfeit sportswear in local markets.

Alongside its objections to Nike’s branding, the religious authority accused the company of supporting Israel. It also urged Muslims to boycott countries that support Israel.

The ruling referred to a 2023 statement by the Council for Research and Sharia Studies. That statement called on Muslims to avoid Western companies the council considered supportive of Israel during the genocide in Gaza.

Get the latest international news and global stories wherever you prefer.

See more ProPakistani stories in Google Search and Top Stories.