by Zainib Ahmad

Created on: May 19, 2008

Obesity is a condition that affects every facet of an individual's life and religion is certainly a vital part of life. But how can religion affect something with multiple causes like obesity? If we trust the media, we have a different cause of obesity almost every day. Some days it is our genes and others, it is our anxiety level, milk intake or protein consumption that are critical. I would say that there are many fingers in the pie of obesity and we should try to understand all the factors instead of rushing to judge.

I am a Muslim and I believe that my religion is a complete way of life, not something to be worn only on Sundays along with the fancy duds. I think there are many factors contributing to obesity that could be influenced by religion. The philosophy of life taught by Islam advises moderation in every undertaking. "Eat, drink and be not prodigal" is the command given. Islam teaches us a lofty purpose of life and to achieve that purpose, we need to eat and drink in order to survive. Healthy food is a blessing, and it is commendable to try to achieve optimum health by eating well.

Caring for our health is akin to taking care of the precious gift of life and health that God has blessed us with. Hard work is also encouraged in Islam and that must translate into exercise. Islam teaches us that we should eat in order to live, not live to eat. There is no harm in enjoying all the wonderful things Allah has made for us to eat. In fact we should eat a variety of foods and be grateful and appreciative for those blessings. We should also reduce waste as much as possible and share with others in every way we can. That attitude curbs an obsession with eating. A person who is always seeking to please God and serve humanity, can be fond of food, but cannot make eating a major league sport.

Muslims are required to pray five times a day. This prayer is like yoga, in that different postures are assumed and the body is stretched and relaxed. There is a mind-body connection and has a beneficial effect on health. If all the five prayers are offered properly, they probably cover the exercise needs of the average individual.

Obesity is often caused by emotional eating; eating to make one feel better, in response to harsh life events. I believe religion can be a source of solace in such circumstances. A Muslim who knows that God is near and listens to her pleas, does not usually have to turn to food to be comforted.

Obesity can be caused by many things that cannot be controlled by an individual. Many illnesses and drug treatments lead to obesity. Life-saving steroids are notorious for putting on the pounds. Obese individuals deserve love, care and respect just like the trimmest person around. Another connection that obesity and religion have, is that no religion would ask us to judge an obese person or behave unkindly towards them. Obesity is a tough issue. The best thing is to judge people by their manners and attitude, not their body fat. Treat others as you want to be treated yourself. The golden rule holds true in Islam as in other religions.

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