Title: Prominent Russian Muslim Cleric Sparks Outrage for Remarks on Domestic Violence
Moscow, Russia – A prominent Russian Muslim cleric has sparked widespread outrage after recently instructing followers on the “proper ways” to beat one’s wife. Sheikh Ismagilov, the spiritual leader of Russia’s largest mosque in the capital city, made the comments in a speech during a religious event last weekend.
According to eyewitnesses, Ismagilov claimed that physically punishing one’s wife was necessary for the sake of discipline and was not a form of abuse. He went on to offer a set of guidelines for the appropriate manner in which to carry out this type of punishment, advising Muslims to be gentle and avoid inflicting physical harm.
The cleric’s comments were met with immediate backlash from both the religious and secular communities in Russia. Critics pointed out that such rhetoric undermines international efforts to combat domestic violence and promote women’s rights.
“This type of toxic thinking has no place in our society, let alone in our places of worship,” said Maria Korneeva, head of the Russian Women’s Center Against Domestic Violence. “Beating one’s wife is never justified and can never be considered a means of discipline.”
Human rights organizations, too, expressed deep concern over the cleric’s statements, citing the numerous women and children who are victims of domestic abuse each year in Russia.
“We call on Russian authorities to take immediate action against the cleric and ensure that his harmful remarks do not inspire further violence against women and girls,” said a statement from Human Rights Watch.
Reactions were not limited to secular leaders. Several prominent Muslim leaders in Russia spoke out against Ismagilov’s remarks, emphasizing that Islam condones and promotes respect and love within families, not violence and abuse.
As the controversy surrounding the cleric continues to unfold, many have begun to question the role of religious leaders in Russian society and the impact their beliefs have on the broader community.
It remains unclear at this time whether the Russian authorities will take action against Ismagilov. However, one thing is clear: his remarks have brought unwanted attention to the issue of domestic violence and served as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to combat this critical social issue in Russia.
https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2024/07/18/prominent-russian-muslim-cleric-gets-into-hot-water-over-wife-beating-guidance-a85749