Fatwa bars yoga for Muslims

Malaysia’s top Islamic body banned Muslims from practicing yoga, saying the Indian physical exercise contains elements of Hinduism that could corrupt Muslims.

The national council that has the authority to rule on how Muslims must conduct their faith, issued a fatwa, or edict, saying that yoga involves not just exercise but also includes Hindu spiritual elements, chanting and worship.

Decisions by the council in Malaysia are not legally binding on Muslims, who make up nearly two-thirds of the country’s 25 million people, unless they are enshrined in national or Sharia laws.