Quran Bans Insulting Others’ Sanctities

TEHRAN (IQNA) – There is a verse in the Holy Quran that underlines the prohibition of insulting disbelievers’ idols, and the views of Quran interpreters and jurisprudents about this verse and the reason for this ban are interesting.

Speaking in a recent forum, Hojat-ol-Islam Mohammad Soroush Mahalati explained about it. Here are excerpts from his speech:

Is there any limitation in terms of the method used for those who seek to introduce reforms and rectify the society? What methods could he use and what methods should be avoided? I mention one of those things that should be avoided: We are not allowed to use insults and foul language even if our objective is holy.

Fighting oppression and injustice is a duty but the way we do it and the language we use are important. That is the same in fighting the arrogant powers. Here is what the Quran says about this issue.

Verse 108 of Surah Al-An’am clearly tells us what we should do: “Believers, do not say bad words against the idols lest they (pagans) in their hostility and ignorance say such words against God. We have made every nation's deeds seem attractive to them. One day they will all return to their Lord who will inform them of all that they have done.”

This verse has three parts. The first part introduces a ban. The second is a social analysis and the third has a psychological analysis. I haven’t seen this style in any other verses. The first part explicitly orders not to use bad language against disbelievers. What the reason? The reason comes in the second part, which says if you do so, disbelievers may do the same against your sanctities. You insult their idols and they insult your God. The third part says that every nation has sensitivity about their beliefs and thoughts so you cannot insult them and expect no reaction.

This verse is quite clear and its concepts have no ambiguity. If we abide by it, there will be a change in our behavior and conduct as Muslims. No matter what your objective, you should obey this rule.

Moreover, this verse and the rule it mentions are forever not temporary.        

Another thing to note here is that we should be careful not only about our words but also about our behavior when dealing with disbelievers because our behavior could also draw reaction from the other side.