Video of pilgrim performing tawaf on 'hoverboard' sparks debate

Social media divided over whether performing ‘tawaf’ on such a device is Islamic or not

The video of a Muslim man performing tawaf on a 'hoverboard' has sparked debate on social media regarding the use of such devices during the holy pilgrimage.

The pilgrim wearing an ‘Ihram’, the usual attire worn while offering Hajj or Umrah, can be seen speeding and overtaking other pilgrims on foot or wheelchairs while balancing on the hands-free Segway-style device.

As the video circulated, people took to social media to question whether performing tawaf on such a device would be considered Islamic or not.

https://twitter.com/IslamicBoy2015/status/638520873914253312

https://twitter.com/uk_muslimah/status/638460355862265857

Yoo someone doing tawaf on a hoverboard? Thats kinda messed up maaan

— Meowal (@nawalala) August 31, 2015

However, reject the debate Zachary Wright, an associate professor of religious studies at Northwestern University in Qatar, said, “Only the person in question knows his specific ailment.”

“Muslim scholars should not judge this man on the Segway, but in no way could Islamic jurisprudence be used to justify this as normative practice. Indeed, it is very difficult to imagine a case where a person is able to mount and balance on a Segway but cannot walk.”

“I’m sure the person had a valid reason but it should be clear that the Kaabah should not suddenly be surrounding by whirring Segways,” he added.



This article originally appeared on The Guardian.