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Nike slapped with Islamic fatwa for ‘promoting polytheism’ via Greek goddess symbol
Libya’s Dar al-Ifta, the country’s top religious authority, issued a fatwa saying Muslims should not buy, sell or wear Nike clothing. It argues that the brand’s swoosh is based on the Greek goddess Nike and wearing it promotes polytheism; the ruling also cites Nike’s alleged support for Israel.
Fatwas are religious opinions and are not legally binding. Nike has no stores in Libya, though local retailers sell its products, alongside counterfeit goods. Dar al-Ifta issued a similar ruling against jewellery brand Van Cleef & Arpels in 2025 over its four-leaf clover design.
In short
- Libya’s top religious authority issued a fatwa against Nike products.
- It links the swoosh to the Greek goddess Nike.
- Fatwas are influential but not legally binding.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters of the fatwa may see the swoosh’s association with a Greek goddess as conflicting with Islamic monotheism, and argue that avoiding the brand is a reasonable way for Muslims to express their religious commitments. They may also regard the cited concerns about Nike’s alleged support for Israel as a legitimate ethical reason to boycott it, while treating the ruling as guidance rather than law.
The case against
Critics may argue that a modern logo is widely understood as a brand mark, not an act of worship or an endorsement of ancient religion, so wearing it does not necessarily promote polytheism. They may also question whether the allegation about Nike’s support for Israel is sufficiently established, and contend that a broad religious warning risks overstating what can be inferred from a symbol and may unfairly burden consumers and local sellers.