Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs player, recently sparked discussion after appearing in a thobe. The outfit led to speculation about whether Wembanyama is Muslim.
Wembanyama’s Thobe and Eid al-Adha
Wembanyama confirmed he wore the thobe in observance of Eid al-Adha. Eid al-Adha is an Islamic holiday. It begins on the 10th day of Dhu’l-Hijja.
The outfit is a flowing, ankle-length garment traditionally worn by men in the Muslim world. Also known as a kandura or dishdasha, the thobe is designed to be modest, breathable, and comfortable.
No Religious Affiliation But Open to Faiths
Despite wearing the thobe, Wembanyama does not identify with any particular religion. This is according to L’Equipe’s Maxime Aubin. However, Wembanyama has shown a willingness to engage with different forms of religion, including Buddhism.
Wembanyama hails from France, a country with a history of Catholicism but home to numerous religious practices, including Islam.
Time with Buddhist Monks
Wembanyama spent a week living in the Shaolin Temple in Henan province. While there, Wembanyama ate in accordance with Buddhist principles. He also spent time with Buddhist monks.
The Shaolin Monastery is one of the most significant sites in Buddhism. Bodhidharma, the monk credited with bringing Zen Buddhism to China, is said to have meditated on the nearby Wuru Peak in 527 A.D.
Wembanyama is not a monk. Different Buddhist traditions call for different prerequisites to be met for people to become monks.
Spurs Star Shines on the Court
Wembanyama was at the heart of the action on Thursday night against the Thunder. He tallied 28 points, 10 rebounds, three blocks and two steals during the contest.
The Spurs battled back from a Game 5 defeat against the Thunder to pull the Western Conference Finals even in Game 6 on Thursday night.
Wembanyama was by far the best player on the floor.
Wembanyama seems to have embraced different religions despite not identifying with one.