The recently published research journal “Secular Studies” investigated the spread of atheism in several Islamic countries, including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Tunisia, and Algeria. The findings of the study may come as a surprise to some, as they show a considerable proportion of the population in these countries, particularly among the younger generation, embracing atheism. The authors of the study referred to this phenomenon as the “silent tsunami of atheism” occurring in Islamic countries. It is important to note that certain terms used in this context within Muslim countries have different meanings than their Western counterparts. The researchers also highlighted that apostasy and renouncing Islam carry significant legal risks, causing some individuals to refrain from openly expressing their disbelief in societal norms due to fears of severe repercussions.
This research did not focus on Afghanistan specifically, however, there is evidence to suggest that there has been an increase in disbelief in Islamic beliefs and a tendency to avoid religious requirements in the country compared to a decade ago. If one lives in Afghan society and is inquisitive, they will come across many people who criticize religion as a whole in informal conversations and do not follow the traditional understanding of God. Nevertheless, they take precautions to keep their lack of religious adherence hidden in their daily lives, so that their irreligiosity remains undetected. In communities that do not accept diversity and pluralism, intellectual minorities are forced to live in secrecy, always feeling threatened. As a result, they pretend to be in agreement with the majority.
The prevalence of irreligiosity in Muslim societies, particularly in Afghanistan, has prompted inquiries into the factors that contribute to the detachment of certain individuals, particularly the youth, from religion and religious beliefs. Residents of Afghan society are exposed to a substantial amount of religious propaganda and guidance daily, consciously or unconsciously absorbing religious information throughout the day. Local radios continuously broadcast religious advertisements and sermons, while a significant portion of television programming is dedicated to elucidating religious matters and engaging in jurisprudential discussions. Additionally, Afghanistan‘s social media networks are inundated with religious advertising. Mullahs, through mosque loudspeakers, call people to religious observance not only on Fridays but also on other days of the week. It is assumed that this extensive religious advertising would foster an increased interest in religion and religiousness among the populace. However, it is observable that genuine interest in religious values has not only failed to grow compared to a time when religious propaganda in our society was less extensive and widespread, but it has seemingly diminished. These observations form the basis of my statement.
The prevalence of religious detachment in our society can be attributed to a variety of factors, which differ from country to country. Globalization, the growth of communication technologies, and the rise in literacy may all play a role. However, what is more significant is the inability of the dominant religious discourse to respond to the demands and needs of modern communities. This discourse, believing itself to be the sole holder of truth and exclusive knowledge, has consistently refused to take criticism and modify its practices to suit the current era. Consequently, it has been unable to adjust its approach and align its work with the requirements of our time.
By spending only a few hours engaging with religious advertising, one can quickly become aware of the many fruitless debates and trivial topics that are discussed. This can lead to the question of why these religious advertisers put so much effort into spreading religious content and providing a platform for those who criticize religion. Are these people working with those who oppose religion, in an attempt to weaken the religion, they claim to be promoting? The unfortunate truth is that many of these advertisers are unaware of the current state of affairs and lack the understanding and necessary information to address matters that could have a major effect on the lives of millions.
A person devoted an hour of radio time to praising the importance of beards in Islam, noting that in other countries they are taxed. He also mentioned that Muslims around the world are proud of those who maintain and groom their beards. Another individual discussed the fruits of paradise, claiming that the first one given to its inhabitants in the afterlife is the fish liver. A third person told stories of the Prophet‘s companions drinking his urine for healing and blessings, competing with each other in this regard. A fourth person has been studying the mysteries and secrets of ablution for several years, and his teachings are still not finished. The fifth person issued fatwas to justify killing innocents in support of the Taliban and deemed striking the enemy permissible, and now that their desired government is in power, he is encouraging people to perform the Night Prayer (Tahajjud prayer) and fast on Mondays and Tuesdays. This cycle of stories continues without end.
Those who value their religious beliefs should recognize that critics of religion are not as damaging to its place in society as those who present it in a weak and distorted way, claiming their false beliefs to be part of the religion. The presence and actions of such people in a society have negative effects on religion and give it an unpleasant and discouraging image.
It is clear that some theorists of political Islam may view the Taliban‘s takeover of Afghanistan as a positive development, believing it to be a catalyst for the global spread of Islam. Sayyid Qutb once said that creating books and educational institutions to promote political Islamic theories is not as effective as establishing an Islamic system on a remote island. This suggests that the Taliban view their acquisition of power as a chance to promote their interpretation of Islam. Nevertheless, the Taliban‘s return to power has not only failed to increase religious devotion, but may have even caused people to move away from religion.
The Taliban claim to govern in the name of Islam and enforce Sharia law, presenting their system as the only Islamic system worldwide. However, they have created an oppressive environment, denying personal, social, and political freedoms, marginalizing women, silencing the voices of university professors, school teachers, and intellectual elites, and actively targeting, imprisoning, and torturing their political opponents. Religion is unjustly blamed for any wrongdoings committed by the Taliban, which only serves to damage its reputation. It is important to note that the Taliban have not been able to create an attractive and acceptable model of governance that would motivate people towards religion and spirituality.
The Islamic Republic of Iran, our neighboring country, has been attempting to spread and strengthen its ideology for over forty years, yet it has yet to be successful. It is clear that when religion is used for political purposes, it loses its true meaning and puts its long–term presence in society in jeopardy. One of the immediate effects of this is that it reduces its appeal and causes people to turn away from it. Understandably, people are repelled by a religion and a god that gives authority to oppressors and takes away their rights and freedoms. People look to God for comfort and liberation, not for an increase in their suffering.
Read this article in Farsi here.