Libya’s Grand Mufti Bans Nike Clothing Over Greek Goddess Connection

by · Greek City Times

Libya’s highest religious authority has issued a fatwa prohibiting Muslims from buying, selling or wearing clothing featuring the Nike logo, arguing that the brand’s connection to the ancient Greek goddess Nike conflicts with Islamic teachings.

The ruling was issued by Tripoli-based Dar al-Ifta and approved by Libya’s Grand Mufti, Sadiq al-Gharyani.

The religious authority argues that Nike takes its name from the ancient Greek goddess of victory, while the company’s famous swoosh logo is inspired by her wings.

According to the committee, wearing clothing bearing the logo promotes symbols associated with polytheism, the worship of multiple gods, which is prohibited under Islamic teachings.

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The ruling has also revived attention on Libya’s ancient Greek heritage. The country is home to Cyrene, one of the most significant ancient Greek cities in North Africa, where archaeological remains include representations of the Greek goddess.

Nike accused of supporting Israel

The fatwa also accuses Nike of supporting Israel and renews calls for Muslims to boycott companies considered supportive of the country.

The committee referenced an earlier statement issued on 5 November 2023, calling for a boycott of Western companies it believes support Israel during the war in Gaza.

No official government ban

Despite the strong wording of the religious ruling, it does not amount to a legally enforceable government ban.

Libya remains politically divided, with rival authorities and institutions operating in the country’s east and west following the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011.

Dar al-Ifta is an influential religious institution, and its rulings can carry considerable social weight, but the latest fatwa does not specify penalties for people who continue to purchase or wear Nike products.

It follows a similar ruling last year targeting jewellery and watches featuring the four-leaf clover design of French luxury brand Van Cleef & Arpels. The institution argued that the symbol was associated with Christian beliefs and the pursuit of good luck.

Wider debate over religious conservatism

The Nike ruling comes amid growing debate over religious conservatism and cultural restrictions in Libya.

In 2025, authorities in eastern Libya introduced restrictions on rap music, theatre and dance performances, citing concerns about public morality and Islamic values. The measures were later extended to western Libya.

Nike does not operate an official store in Libya, although its branded products are available through local sportswear retailers. Counterfeit versions of popular international brands are also widely sold in local markets.

Social media reactions to the latest ruling have been mixed, with some welcoming the decision while others question its significance and argue that Libya faces more pressing challenges.

The BBC said it had contacted Nike for comment.

Source: BBC News

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