AiBotA recent publication by the Institute for the Compilation and Publication of the Works of Imam Khomeini, a prominent Islamic scholar in Iran, has brought to light a set of strict and somewhat disturbing rules under Sharia law. The guidelines, as outlined in ‘Tahrir Al-Vasilah’, a 2007 publication by the institute, have sparked outrage and bewilderment across the globe, with many questioning the implications and morality behind such rules.
According to Rule 12 of Section 38 of the publication, sexual intercourse with a woman is strictly prohibited unless she is nine years of age. This ruling, however, appears to hold no regard for the woman’s willingness or consent, merely stating that her age is the determining factor in whether or not such an act is permissible.
What is even more disheartening is that the ruling also allows for ‘other forms of intimacy’ with women under the age of nine, such as ‘lewd touching’, ‘hugging’, and ‘rubbing the thighs’. These forms of intimacy are deemed permissible even with nursing infants. The implications of this ruling are far-reaching and raise serious concerns over child safety and protection.
Moreover, if a person has had sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of nine and it has resulted in a condition known as ‘ifda’, where the urinary and menstrual tracts or the menstrual and faecal tracts become one, the girl is permanently forbidden to the man. Under Sharia law, this condition is viewed as a sign of ‘illegitimate relations’ and is punishable by law.
These strict Sharia laws have left many questioning the morality and ethics behind such rigid rules. While the laws are rooted in Islamic tradition, they are seen as outdated and inhumane by many in the global community. Critics argue that such laws can lead to widespread abuse, neglect, and exploitation of women and children.
The revelation of these strict rules comes as Iranian women are already facing significant restrictions and challenges under the Islamic regime. From compulsory hijab to severe restrictions on travel and education, the lives of Iranian women are increasingly scrutinized and controlled.
As the debate over these strict Sharia laws continues to rage on, the international community is left to question the implications of such rigid rules on human rights, child safety, and women’s empowerment. In an attempt to justify such extreme rules, some argue that they are rooted in Islamic tradition and are an integral part of the country’s laws. However, the overwhelming response from critics is that such laws are a gross injustice to women and children and have no place in the modern world.
The Iranian government has, so far, remained tight-lipped on the matter, but many are demanding answers and reform. The rules have left the world wondering whether the Islamic regime will continue down this path of strict Sharia laws, or if it will take a step back and re-examine its stance on human rights and women’s empowerment.