Fatwa #729130 November 2002South Africa
What is the ruling to bow infront of a martial arts inspector which forms parts of the training process
Answer
Bowing is an act reserved for Allah Ta?ala. Martial arts is not confined to simply physical training. It has a spiritual dimension to it, such as meditation and obedience to the teacher. It can be likened in one way to a religion.
Thus, there is all the more reason that one should abstain from this type of bowing, which at times even resembles Sajdah. Try and find a Muslim instructor and explain to him that bowing in this manner is against the teachings of Islam, hence, you will not bow.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Moulana Imraan Vawda
FATWA DEPT.
Thus, there is all the more reason that one should abstain from this type of bowing, which at times even resembles Sajdah. Try and find a Muslim instructor and explain to him that bowing in this manner is against the teachings of Islam, hence, you will not bow.
and Allah Ta'ala Knows Best
Moulana Imraan Vawda
FATWA DEPT.