Miscellaneous

Muslims cycling

Q: It is this time of the year when a few bicycle races take place. E.g. Argus, Tour Durban, etc. Many Muslim people with big beards etc. take part in these. It is done with thousands of people all scantily dressed. Some so called pious Muslims claim it is exercise and that they lower their gaze. Allah Ta’ala knows best how they avoid accidents like that.

1. Is it permissible to take part in a cycle race?

2. On a weekly basis to cycle as a group, early in the morning, along a similar route, would that be permissible?

Replying to salaam at the time of azaan, while eating or reciting Qur'an

Q: The Fuqaha have mentioned that at the time of tilawaat, azaan and eating, if salaam is made to a person then the salaam does not have to be returned. What is the hukam if a person returns the salaam at these times? Is there karaaha in a person doing so or will it be permissible to reply although the salaam does not have to be returned?