Q. I would like to find out why is it that taking belly-dancing classes would be considered haraam. Taking into consideration that
(1) the students in the class as well as the teacher are strictly women,
(2) that the learning of the belly-dancing is not for public show but personal use with respect to fitness and
(3) finally that while taking the class one would be fully clothed, no skin besides hands, feet and face would be visible.
A. ‘Belly dancing’ is not permissible in Islam, even if it is done among women and they are clothed. Islam teaches Muslims (both males and females), to uphold a high standard of moral conduct and behaviour. Muslims have been prohibited from following the styles, culture and fashions of the non Muslims. There is no doubt that belly dancing is one which has been invented by non Muslims who were void of shame and modesty.
In this sort of dancing, women were required to expose their bodies and dance to the music in order to captivate their onlookers who were filled with evil passions. It is an art that is practiced widely in pubs, discos, nightclubs and other such Satanic Places. Those who enjoy belly dancing and love to see it, are indeed void of ‘Haya’ (shame) in Islam.
Looking at the history, as well as those who are involved in belly dancing, along with the places wherein it is done- all indicate to the fact that there is no room for this indecent practice in Islam. If a woman wants to remain fit, there are many different exercises she can do. The pious generations of the past were also physically fit, but they did not do belly dancing.
Today, belly dancing is nothing but a culture of the non Muslims who have no ‘sense of shame’. The night clubs, pubs and discos continue to be filled with this evil practice. The behaviour of women in ‘the belly dancing’ is not for the purpose of keeping fit. Instead, it is ‘special moves’ that are made to delight and incite the viewers. Thousands of scholars have written about this shameless practice, and there is no doubt that this is totally haram in Islam.
And Allah knows best.
Mufti Waseem Khan