Why Salman Rushdie’s Book Has Stirred Muslims To... (Press, 22 February 1989)

The controversy surrounding Salman Rushdie's novel "The Satanic Verses" escalated significantly following a fatwa issued by Ayatollah Khomeiny of Iran in February 1989, calling for Rushdie's execution for blasphemy. This directive sent shockwaves through both the Muslim world and the secular West, prompting widespread horror and outrage. The book, though likely read by only a few thousand people globally, sparked intense reactions reminiscent of historical blasphemy cases in Christian contexts. Khomeiny's announcement did not just express disapproval; it was a death sentence that reflected deeper religious tensions. While secular perspectives might dismiss the gravity of the situation, historical parallels show that western societies have also reacted vehemently to perceived blasphemy. For instance, a British newspaper was prosecuted for printing a poem that suggested Christ might have had homosexual inclinations. Such comparisons underscore the sensitive nature of faith within diverse cultures and belief systems. Rushdie, whose background as an Indian-born Muslim now residing in Britain complicates the narrative, faced immediate repercussions. His book has incited protests, including a notable incident in Bradford, England, where copies of "The Satanic Verses" were burned, leading to violent riots and fatalities in India. The outrage stems from two primary accusations against Rushdie: abandoning Islam and insulting the Prophet Muhammad. Specific elements of the book have been particularly provocative, including a section that incorporates names of the Prophet's wives into a narrative about brothels, and a suggestion that the Koran, rather than being divinely revealed, was authored by Muhammad, who was misled by Satan at one point. These assertions, though grounded in historical interpretations by a Persian historian from the 10th century, have provoked a modern backlash that appears unprecedented. Rushdie is labelled as mahdur ad-damm, signifying that his blood is deemed unclean and thus warranting his death at the hands of true Muslims. He is accused of being an agent of corruption, of declaring war on Allah, and of being a murtad—one who has forsaken their faith—each carrying a death penalty under Islamic law. While Rushdie’s position as a well-educated and prominent figure in British literature suggests he might have anticipated some backlash for his provocative work, the severity of the threats and the resulting violence were unforeseen outcomes. Critics within the literary community have provided mixed reviews of Rushdie’s writing, with some calling his prose elaborate yet self-indulgent. Ultimately, the incident reflects a broader clash between free expression and religious sensibilities, highlighting the potential perils of literature that challenges deeply held beliefs. As tensions flare, there is hope that the uproar will diminish, allowing for a return to a calmer discourse around sensitive topics.

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