- Disgusting: US Imam Sobs with Jealousy Over Not Being “Martyred” in Gaza
https://www.atheistrepublic.com/news/disgusting-us-imam-sobs-jealousy-over-not-being-martyred-gaza
Location: United States
In an emotionally charged sermon at the Islamic Institute of Torrance on December 22, 2023, Imam Mohammad S. Ahmed of Torrance, California, passionately expressed his distress and envy over not being chosen as martyrs, like those in Gaza. He poignantly asked, "What have we done wrong to not be martyrs for the sake of Allah? What have we done wrong to not be blessed like the people in Palestine have been blessed?" These questions underscore his deep longing for the perceived spiritual status of Palestinian martyrs. Ahmed further condemned the Israelis, saying, "The Children of Israel have a long history of cowardice, a long history of wickedness, a long history of murder and occupation, and all kinds of things that Allah has punished them for.” His sermon also highlighted the unique position of Palestinians in his view, as he reflected, "They were chosen for this. This is not our choice, it is the choice of Allah, and He chose them to be the best people living on the face of the earth nowadays." Ahmed's words vividly convey a mix of religious devotion, political opinion, and intense personal anguish.
- Iran's Khamenei Said Something So Blasphemous It Carries the Death Penalty
Location: Iran
Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei sparked a major controversy and criticism, especially on social media, after claiming that God had spoken through him. This statement was made during a meeting with the family of the slain IRGC operative, Qasem Soleimani. Khamenei recounted an incident from over two decades ago where, after prayers with IRGC commanders, he felt divinely inspired during a speech. "It was my mouth and God's words," he claimed, adding that the speech had a significant impact. This assertion, however, is considered blasphemous in Islamic theology, which holds that Allah last communicated exclusively with the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel. The claim has led to widespread criticism, with one Iranian social media user writing on X that "If an ordinary person had uttered the same statement, they would have been executed on charges of blasphemy, insulting sanctities, insulting the Supreme Leader, blasphemy against the Imams, and more." The incident reflects deep tensions and contradictions within Iran's political and religious discourse.
- Saudis Call for Return of Pre-Islamic Pagan Goddesses, Sparking Outrage
https://www.atheistrepublic.com/news/saudis-call-return-pre-islamic-pagan-goddesses-sparking-outrage
Location: Saudi Arabia
In a bold move diverging from its ultraconservative roots, Saudi Arabia is witnessing a growing trend on social media advocating for the recognition and celebration of ancient Arabian, pre-Islamic deities as part of the nation's cultural heritage. This movement has ignited controversy among religious Saudis and Muslims, challenging the kingdom's traditionally strict Islamic identity. A notable post by a Saudi user highlighted the significance of the goddess Al-Uzza, stating, "From [the] past to [the] future, al Uzza is always there... we’re as Saudi Arabians, deeply connected with our past. Doesn’t matter if we’re Muslims or not. It’s an Arabic history.” This perspective reflects a broader sentiment that embraces these ancient deities, not only as historical symbols but as integral parts of Saudi Arabia's evolving national identity. Critics, however, view this trend as an attempt to undermine Islamic beliefs, with accusations of governmental or foreign manipulation. Muslim American YouTuber Daniel Haqiqatjou criticized the movement, saying, "A major component of secularizing Muslim countries is creating a nationalistic narrative that revolves around an ancient and long-lost forgotten religion that predates Islam.” The debate underscores a significant cultural and ideological shift within Saudi society, as it grapples with modernization and a redefinition of its identity.
- “Hinduism is Deceit” Controversial Comments by Indian Politician Cause Row
Location: India
Swami Prasad Maurya, a prominent figure in the left-wing Samajwadi Party, stirred a heated debate in India with his controversial remarks about Hinduism, labeling it a deception rather than a religion. During the National Buddhist and Bahujan Rights Conference in New Delhi, Maurya referred to a 1955 Supreme Court judgment, asserting, "Hinduism is a deceit... In 1955, the Supreme Court said in its order that Hindu is not a religion but a way of life. It is a conglomeration of more than 200 religions." His statement has incited widespread reactions. Maurya argued that when similar views are expressed by Hindu nationalist figures or Prime Minister Modi himself, there's no public outcry, but his own remarks have led to nationwide controversy and legal actions. He also criticized the political exploitation of the “backward caste” community by the upper castes and the subsequent neglect of their needs, including the cancellation of reservations for marginalized groups. "Reservations" in India refers to a system of affirmative action designed to improve the socio-economic status of historically disadvantaged groups. This incident reflects the complex interplay of religion, politics, and caste dynamics in India, provoking discussions about the interpretation and understanding of Hinduism in modern society.
- Lesbian Christmas Nativity Scene Declared “Blasphemous” in Italy
https://www.atheistrepublic.com/news/lesbian-christmas-nativity-scene-declared-blasphemous-italy
Location: Italy
In Capocastello di Mercogliano, Italy, the Church of Saints Peter and Paul sparked a heated debate with its unique Nativity scene featuring two mothers, challenging the traditional depiction of Joseph and Mary. This decision drew sharp criticism from various conservative and religious figures in Italy. The Pro-Vita & Famiglia group condemned the scene as “dangerous, as well as shameful and blasphemous,” while Italian Senator Maurizio Gasparri expressed offense on behalf of those devoted to the Holy Family. Father Vitaliano Della Sala, defending the church's choice, emphasized inclusivity, stating, “I wanted to show with this scene that families are no longer just the traditional ones.” He highlighted the church's role in embracing diverse family structures, including children from gay couples and single parents. This controversy reflects broader societal tensions in Italy, especially in the context of recent measures against LGBT rights under the new leadership of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. The incident underscores the ongoing debate between traditional religious beliefs and the evolving understanding of family and inclusivity within the Catholic Church and society at large.
- Why Iran is the Key to Peace in the Middle East
https://quillette.com/2024/01/04/why-iran-is-the-key-to-peace-in-the-middle-east/
We're excited to announce the publication of a compelling new article, "Why Iran is the Key to Peace in the Middle East" by our founder, Armin Navabi. Published in Quillette, this read delves into the nuanced relationship between Iran and Israel, and the potential for peace in the region. Navabi, bringing a personal perspective, explores how many Iranians, especially the younger generation, are increasingly viewing Israel as a potential ally against Islamic oppression. The article examines the historical ties between Iran and Israel, the impact of the Iranian Revolution on these relations, and the current state of affairs in the Middle East. Navabi insightfully notes, "The Iranian people and the Israeli people have the same enemy, both ideologically and politically because their enemy is Islamic fascism and it’s coming from the same source… which is the Islamic Republic of Iran." Don't miss this thought-provoking piece that offers a fresh perspective on one of the world's most complex geopolitical challenges, make sure to read it here!
