Padel Tennis – Does the Harm outweigh the Benefit? – Jamiatul Ulama KZN
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Padel tennis has recently gained popularity around the world, including within the Muslim community. A fusion of tennis and squash.
However, as Muslims seek to balance their engagement in popular sports with adherence to Islamic principles, certain aspects of Padel raise potential concerns. As Muslims, we must examine the specific challenges it poses, including issues related to free mixing, time management, family obligations and the environment of the venues, including music.
- Free Mixing of Genders
In our Deen, boundaries around interaction between men and women aim to prevent situations that might lead to indecency. Many Padel venues encourage a social atmosphere where men and women play together in a relaxed setting, which lead to free mixing. For Muslims, maintaining modesty and respectful interaction in recreational settings is important, and this mixing is seen as a potential distraction and deviation from Quranic injunctions. While some Muslims may choose to participate only in same-gender matches, the overall environment of padel venues often does not support such separation.
- Time Wasting and Prioritizing Recreation
Padel often requires time to travel to venues. Matches themselves can last several hours, and players may also socialize afterward, sometimes late into the evening. Islam encourages efficient time use and productive pursuits, emphasizing activities that contribute to personal growth, family welfare, and society. Recreation has its place in Islam, but excessive time spent on it, particularly when it detracts from other responsibilities, can be problematic. If participating in Padel encroaches upon essential obligations or delays more constructive activities, it becomes essential to reconsider one’s priorities.
- Neglect of Family Responsibilities
Islam places a high value on family unity and involvement, encouraging Muslims to actively support and spend time with their families. Engaging too frequently in recreational activities such as Padel, particularly if done at the expense of family time, can result in strained relationships. If a sport or activity begins to dominate one’s schedule or become a frequent excuse for absenteeism from family obligations, it may be wise to reflect on the appropriate balance between recreational interests and family responsibilities.
- Presence of Music in Venues
Many modern sports venues use music as part of the ambiance, intending to make the environment lively and energetic. For Muslims, music is a taboo topic, as this has been been categorically declared impermissible. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam said, “Music causes hypocrisy to grow in the heart just as water causes vegetation to grow.” [Bayhaqi] Muslims attending these venues may find themselves in environments that do not align with their values and will not maintain focus on the sport without being distracted by such external elements.
Balancing Benefits with Harms
Codes of sport offer physical exercise, social bonding, and a chance to develop discipline. Engaging in sports can provide mental relief, enhance fitness, and promote a balanced lifestyle, all of which align with Islamic teachings on health and well-being. However, “Whilst there may be benefits, the presence of these harms cannot be overlooked.” This means that while padel may indeed offer valuable benefits, it is essential not to become blind to the potential negative impacts it may have on one’s religious and personal obligations. Islam encourages moderation and mindfulness; hence, Muslims are called to evaluate both the positive and negative aspects of any activity.
For Muslims, the challenge lies in finding ways to engage in recreational activities without compromising Islamic principles. This might involve setting boundaries around time spent, choosing venues that respect Islamic values, or organizing such activities with like-minded individuals in environments that have zero exposure to distractions. With thoughtful choices, it is possible to participate in recreational activities while upholding one’s values and remaining true to the principles of Islam.
Bear in mind the verse of the Holy Qur’an in which Allah Ta’ala mentions, “Did you think that We had created you for a playful purpose and that you will not be returned to Us (for accountability)?” [Surah Muminoon ; V:115]
Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)
Council of Muslim Theologians
223 Alpine Road, Overport
Durban, South Africa
Tel : +27 (0) 31 2077099
Fax : +27(0) 31 2074163
Website : www.jamiat.org.za
