What is Taghut? What is its status in Islamic teachings?

In Pakistan’s social media landscape, debates and sometimes intense disputes arise on various topics daily, continuing until a new controversy takes its place. Recently, such a dispute began from a private TV program.

A clip from the private TV channel Samaa’s program “Mukaalma” became the center of attention on social media, quickly dividing the nation into two opposing camps.

In the program, the host was joined by two guests: renowned screen and drama writer Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar and well-known social activist and blogger Saheel Adeem.

During the discussion, a woman raised questions about Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar and Saheel Adeem’s controversial views on women’s rights and demanded an apology from them.

The aggressive questioning by the woman provoked both guests. During this, Saheel Adeem responded to the woman’s question by asking if she knew the meaning of “Taghut.” When she replied negatively, Saheel Adeem called her ignorant and extended this insult to claim that 95% of women are ignorant.

As soon as this part of the program appeared as a separate clip on social media, it caused an uproar, which continues to be intense. The word “Taghut,” emerging from this controversy, is now being widely discussed.

There is a flood of sarcastic and humorous memes about this word, and various jokes are being created. Let’s also delve into what Taghut means.

Saheel Adeem’s Explanation

Following this controversy, another clip of the same program was broadcast by Samaa News, in which Saheel Adeem explains the meaning of the word “Taghut.”

He also clarifies his statement about calling women ignorant, explaining that instead of fighting for freedom from their fathers and brothers, women should struggle for freedom from Taghut, which would solve all their problems.

What is Taghut?

Saheel Adeem linked Taghut to Islamic teachings. Let’s explore its meaning within Islamic teachings.

The Holy Quran, the primary source of Islamic teachings, mentions the word Taghut a total of eight times. For further details, we consult the Darul Ifta of Jamia Binoria Town.

An online question was posed to the Darul Ifta of Jamia Binoria Town asking for the definition of Taghut. Is rejecting Taghut a fundamental condition of faith? If so, what does this practically entail? Can a Muslim be considered Taghut? And is a ruler who enforces non-Islamic laws considered Taghut?

In response, it was explained that Taghut is an Arabic word derived from “Tughyan,” meaning to exceed limits and rebellion. It was further explained that according to commentaries, Taghut applies to any false deity and devils, meaning Taghut refers to any idol or devil that is worshipped and followed. In this sense, rejecting Taghut is essential and a condition for faith.

The fatwa further stated that rulers enforcing non-Islamic laws are indeed disobedient and rebellious against Allah but applying the specific term “Taghut” to them is difficult. However, in the linguistic sense, anyone defying Allah’s commands, whether rulers or subjects (i.e., the entire system), can be considered Taghut.