Valentine's Day in the Muslim world faced stiff opposition

15 February, 2013

In most Muslim countries, Valentine's Day is either a non-event or is observed in very subdued way. All the religious groups in Muslim countries often denounce the holiday as an insult to Islam. Most Muslims find Valentine's Day is not in conformity with their religious and cultural ethos. The conservative Islamic groups hold huge sway in many Muslim-dominated countries and clerics blasted observation of Valentine's Day as un-Islamic and warned people not to observe it.

In Pakistan, huge billboards decorated with a black heart were put up urging citizens to “SAY NO TO VALENTINE’S DAY”. There are reports of demonstrations denouncing the western festival and burning Valentine’s Day cards. Women wearing black robes held signs denouncing the tradition of Valentine's Day at many places.

In Iran, Valentine's Day was vehemently criticized as a celebration opposed to Islamic culture and printing and distribution of goods promoting the holiday were not allowed by the conservative groups.

In many Muslim-dominated countries, there is a ban on Muslims against celebration of Valentine’s Day to the extent of being charged in the Shariah Court for defying the ban and punished.

In Indonesia, there was protest against the celebration by Muslims and they carried signs reading "Valentine, Infidel Culture" at rallies. Muslim clerics warned people against Valentine’s Day calling it a 'sex holiday' blaming that it did not reflect love in accordance with Islamic teachings.

A website 'islamweb' says, "In Islam, the festivals are clearly defined and well established, and no additions or subtractions may be accepted. They are an essential part of our worship and there is no room for personal opinion.

Calling Valentine’s Day observance by Muslims as Haaram , the website adds, "Imitating non-Muslims in general - whether they are idol-worshippers or People of the Book - is Haraam (prohibited), whether that imitation is of their worship - which is the most serious form - or of their customs and behaviour. This is indicated by the Quran, Sunnah and Ijmaa.