A Lahore woman ventured into the market donning a dress adorned with Arabic calligraphy. What ensued epitomizes the perils of a society lacking formal religious awareness. Initially, the woman’s harassers suspected the calligraphy to be Quranic in nature. However, upon realizing it wasn’t, they lodged a First Information Report (FIR), asserting that the calligraphy’s resemblance to Quranic script amounted to an insult to the Holy Quran.
The tragedy lies not only in the absence of support from scholars well-versed in religious jurisprudence but also in the flawed argumentation suggesting that donning garments bearing Quranic verses constitutes disrespect to the Quran.
Is adorning clothing with Quranic verses truly an affront to the sanctity of the Quran? Insult implies debasement, yet is the human body so base that clothing embellished with Quranic verses demeans the Holy Quran?
This sacred text was revealed for humanity’s guidance, and it’s illogical to suggest that calligraphic designs from the Quran are suitable for shops but not for individuals. Such flawed reasoning exposes the absurdity of relegating the Quran to the confines of one’s chest rather than elevating its message.
It’s crucial to understand that wearing garments featuring Quranic verses is not inherently prohibited. However, those who choose to do so must maintain ritual purity, as touching the Holy Quran requires ablution, and they should refrain from wearing such attire in impure places.
Now, why do such displays of ignorance masquerading as religious zeal occur in our country? These issues stem from the legacy of British India. During colonial rule, scholars, while engaged in education and advocacy, became embroiled in the freedom movement, adopting a militant mindset. This disposition, geared towards confrontation, persists today, manifesting in an incessant search for adversaries.
This confrontational culture, epitomized by labeling religious institutions as “fortresses” and their leaders as “Generals of Islam,” has been exploited by those in power, leading to conflict and marginalization. Despite enduring setbacks, these clerics have yet to redirect their focus towards scholarly pursuits.
This coercive approach to religion breeds aversion rather than reverence. Just as a child may resist a mother’s orders due to perceived oppression, adherence to religious mandates enforced through fear lacks sincerity. True devotion arises from love, exemplified by the willingness to fulfill every request of a beloved without coercion. Similarly, embracing religious practices out of love for Allah and His Messenger (PBUH) fosters genuine adherence, not mere compliance born of fear.
Inviting others to religion should begin by nurturing love for Allah and His Messenger (PBUH) in their hearts. When this love is kindled, religious observance becomes an expression of devotion rather than obligation. Consequently, individuals driven by love for Allah willingly engage in acts of worship and righteousness.
To cultivate this genuine piety, two approaches are suggested. Firstly, embody virtues that inspire others, demonstrating that religious devotion stems from love and kindness, not coercion. Secondly, instill religious teachings in children from a young age through engaging stories about Prophets and Companions, nurturing a deep-seated love for these figures and their teachings. Through these methods, genuine devotion to religion can flourish, transforming individuals and society alike.
As religious directives arise, your children will embrace them not out of coercion but with fervor. Even in your absence, your child will voluntarily attend mosque prayers. Moreover, as they mature, they will not approach women and admonish them saying “Why do you wear calligraphic dress? Let me condemn you to hell.”
