By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Christian Conservative LDS
As an Iranian-American ex-Muslim who has delved deeply into the teachings of Islam and its cultural impositions, I find it fascinating and liberating to contrast my past with my present as a Christian Conservative. Among the many teachings of Islam that I have come to question and ultimately reject, one stands out: the prohibition of pork. This topic is not just about dietary preferences; it is emblematic of the broader issue of how Islam imposes its laws under the guise of divine authority, stifling cultural diversity and personal freedom.
The perspective of Mar Mari Emmanuel, a Christian bishop and theologian, sheds light on this issue in a way that resonates deeply with me. His critiques of Islam’s fixation on pork provide a theological and historical understanding that is both enlightening and empowering.
The Historical Context of Pork Prohibition
Islam’s prohibition of pork, as dictated in the Qur’an (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:173 and Surah Al-Ma'idah 5:3), is not a novel concept. It builds on the dietary laws of the Old Testament, particularly in Leviticus 11:7-8 and Deuteronomy 14:8. However, whereas Christianity transcended these dietary restrictions through the New Covenant established by Jesus Christ (Acts 10:9-16), Islam rigidly codified and enforced them.
For centuries, this prohibition has been used as a marker of religious identity, differentiating Muslims from Christians, Jews, and other groups. But what many fail to recognize is that Islam’s dietary laws were also a tool for Arab imperialists to subjugate and erase the cultural practices of conquered peoples, including my own Iranian ancestors.
Iranian Traditions of Pork and Dogs
Before the Arab Islamic conquests, Iranians, including the Scythians, Sarmatians, and Persians, had a rich history of domesticating pigs and dogs. These animals were not just integral to our economy but also held spiritual significance. In Zoroastrianism, dogs were considered sacred protectors of the household and conduits of divine blessings.
The Arab invaders sought to dismantle these traditions, replacing them with their own practices. The prohibition of pork became not just a religious decree but a cultural imposition. By rejecting pork, converts to Islam were forced to abandon a key element of their heritage, reinforcing their submission to Arab norms.
Mar Mari Emmanuel’s Perspective
Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel has eloquently criticized the Islamic prohibition of pork, emphasizing that it is rooted in fear rather than faith. He points out that the New Testament liberates Christians from the dietary laws of the Old Testament, symbolizing spiritual freedom and the universality of Christ’s message (Romans 14:14-17).
Mar Mari also highlights the hypocrisy of Islamic dietary laws. While pork is forbidden, many other practices condoned in Islam—such as polygamy, temporary marriages (mut’ah), and even certain forms of deceit (taqiyya)—are far more morally questionable. By fixating on pork, Islam diverts attention from these deeper ethical concerns.
Health and Ethical Arguments
One of the common justifications for the prohibition of pork in Islam is its supposed uncleanliness and health risks. Yet, modern science debunks this claim when proper hygiene and food safety practices are observed. Pork is no more dangerous than any other meat when prepared correctly.
As a former vegan, I have studied the ethical arguments surrounding meat consumption extensively. While I respect those who choose vegetarian or vegan lifestyles for ethical reasons, the Islamic prohibition of pork is not rooted in ethics or compassion. Instead, it is a rigid, arbitrary rule designed to control behavior.
Cultural Reclamation Through Christ
Rejecting the prohibition of pork has been a symbolic act of reclaiming my heritage and identity. As a Christian, I now understand that dietary laws are not the measure of righteousness. Christ’s teachings emphasize love, faith, and moral integrity over ritualistic adherence to rules (Mark 7:15).
For Iranian Christians and ex-Muslims like myself, embracing freedom from these restrictions is not just a dietary choice; it is a declaration of spiritual and cultural independence. It is a way to honor our ancestors who lived before Islam’s imposition and to align ourselves with the liberating message of Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
The Islamic prohibition of pork is not just a dietary guideline; it is a symbol of control, subjugation, and cultural erasure. By understanding the historical and theological context of this rule, as illuminated by thinkers like Mar Mari Emmanuel, we can see it for what it truly is: a man-made law masquerading as divine command.
As Christians, we are called to reject such legalism and embrace the freedom offered through Christ. And as Iranian-Americans, we have the opportunity to reclaim the rich heritage that Islam sought to erase, celebrating the diversity and resilience of our culture.
Citations
- The Holy Bible, New Testament, Acts 10:9-16, Romans 14:14-17, Mark 7:15.
- The Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah 2:173, Surah Al-Ma'idah 5:3.
- Mar Mari Emmanuel, Teachings on Christian Freedom from Old Testament Laws.
- Boyce, Mary. Zoroastrians: Their Religious Beliefs and Practices. Routledge, 2001.
- Keddie, Nikki R. Modern Iran: Roots and Results of Revolution. Yale University Press, 2006.
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