Saudi clerics have now declared football (presumably, they mean the game we call soccer) un—Islamic. Because the players wear shorts and waste valuable Jihad time. Via Little Green Footballs:

Ulema in Saudia Arabia have issued a fatwa (religious decree) declaring football an un—Islamic sport, and have urged the youth to quit it immediately, BBC radio reported on Saturday.

According to the report, the clerics urged the youth to indulge in jihad and other constructive activities that could help the Muslim ummah, the radio reported. The ulema argued that football wastes a lot of time and the participants wear shorts, which they said was an un—Islamic dress, the radio reported.

Following the decree, some players of the famous Taif Football Club have quit the game, the report added.

I distinctly remember that championship soccer game victories have been occasions for mass demonstrations in Teheran and many other cities in Iran. Presumably, the mullahs would welcome an excuse to get rid of any pretext for mass gatherings, given the widespread discontent with their corrupt and harsh rule. On the other hand, banning soccer might bring the people to the streets, more furious than ever.

But can Shia clerics pay attention to the rulings of Wahabbi Sunnis? I haven't got a clue.

Hat tip: Dennis Sevakis

Thomas Lifson   8 29 05