Afghan men wrestle, spectators watch
Wrestling is one of the oldest physical sports in human history. In Islamic tradition, physical strength, discipline, and preparation have always been valued qualities. While the Quran does not specifically mention wrestling as a sport, the principles found in the Quran and the practices of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Sunnah) provide guidance on physical training and lawful recreation, including wrestling.
The Qur’an emphasizes the value of strength when it is paired with righteousness and good character.
Allah says:
“Prepare against them what you can of power and cavalry to deter Allah’s enemies and your enemies as well as other enemies unknown to you but known to Allah. Whatever you spend in the cause of Allah will be paid to you in full and you will not be wronged.” (Quran 8:60)
Translated Verse from Arabic to English
Scholars explained that “power” includes physical strength, military readiness, and skill. This verse highlights the importance of being physically capable and prepared.
In another verse, physical strength is praised as a positive quality:
One of the two daughters suggested, “O my dear father! Hire him. A strong, trustworthy person is definitely the best to hire.” (Quran 28:26)
Translated Verse from Arabic to English
Here, strength is mentioned alongside trustworthiness, showing that physical ability is commendable when balanced with integrity.
Although wrestling is not directly named, developing physical fitness through permissible means falls under these broader principles.
Wrestling is explicitly mentioned in authentic narrations about the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
It is reported that the Prophet ﷺ wrestled with a well-known strong man named Rukānah ibn ‘Abd Yazīd. Rukānah was considered one of the strongest men in Makkah. The Prophet ﷺ wrestled him and defeated him more than once. This incident is recorded in hadith collections and is regarded as authentic by several scholars.
This narration shows:
Wrestling was practiced during the Prophet’s time.
The Prophet ﷺ himself participated in it.
Physical strength was not discouraged when used properly.
There is also a famous hadith where the Prophet ﷺ said:
“The strong believer is more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, but there is goodness in both of them. Be eager for what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not be frustrated. If something befalls you, then do not say: If only I had done something else! Rather say: Allah has decreed what He wills. Verily, the phrase ‘if only’ opens the way for the work of Satan.”
Source: Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 2664 (Muslim)
Translated Hadith from Arabic to English
Scholars explain that this includes physical strength, mental strength, and spiritual strength. Wrestling can contribute to physical strength and discipline when practiced with proper intention.
While wrestling is permissible, Islamic teachings set clear ethical boundaries for all sports and physical activities:
1. Intention (Niyyah)
The purpose should be beneficial such as improving health, building strength, or training for self-defense not arrogance or showing off.
2. Modesty (Awrah)
Participants must observe Islamic guidelines of modesty in clothing. It is a condition for the wrestler’s participation that he must properly cover his awrah the area between his navel and his knees. Clothes must be loose not tight fitted.
3. Avoiding Harm
Islam prohibits unnecessary harm. Wrestling should not involve excessive injury or permanent damage.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“There should be neither harming nor reciprocating harm.” (Ibn Mājah)
Translated Hadith from Arabic to English
4. No Neglect of Obligations
Sports should not cause neglect of prayer or religious duties.
5. No Gambling or Prohibited Elements
Competitions must be free from gambling, unlawful financial dealings, or immoral behavior.
Because the Prophet ﷺ practiced wrestling, some scholars consider it among the permissible and even recommended forms of physical exercise, similar to archery, horseback riding, and swimming, which are also encouraged in Islamic tradition.
Wrestling builds:
Physical strength
Discipline
Patience
Self-control
Confidence
When practiced within Islamic guidelines, it can be a healthy and rewarding activity.
Wrestling is permissible in Islam and supported by examples from the Sunnah. While the Quran emphasizes strength and preparedness in general terms, the Sunnah provides direct evidence that wrestling was practiced during the Prophet’s time.
As with all activities, it must be done with proper intention, modesty, and within Islamic ethical limits. When these conditions are met, wrestling can be a beneficial sport that aligns with Islamic teachings on strength, discipline, and personal development.
سبحانك اللهم وبحمدك أشهد ان لا اله الا انت استغفرك وأتوب اليك