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English
Islam and culture
24 April 2026
Culture refers to practices and norms that are passed down from generation to generation – whether in speech or in action – and are associated with a particular community or people. At times, there is an overlap between cultural practices and religious observance.
The default ruling of cultural practices is permissibility, so long as they are in line with the guidance of the Shariah.
This is because Islam is not a religion that opposes culture. Rather, Islam refines and guides culture so that it aligns with the values of faith. In this regard, scholars have explained that the relationship between Islam and culture can be understood through several approaches:
First, there are cultural practices that are recognised and reinforced by Islam.
Second, there are cultural practices that are guided and corrected by Islam.
Third, there are cultural practices that Islam dismisses as they contradict religious values.