In Indonesia, some Muslim leaders have commanded the faithful not to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

The Western / Christian day has become increasingly popular among the young and liberal population of the nation’s larger cities.

Abdullah Cholil, leader of Nahdlatul Ulama, the largest Islamic organisation in Indonesia said;

“We forbid Muslims to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The day is often celebrated by young, unmarried people. They celebrate Valentine’s Day by holding hands or having free sex, which they are not supposed to be doing,”

Lalilurrahman, the East Java branch chief of the country’s highest Islamic body, the Indonesian Ulema Council, noted that the day had nothing to do with Islamic tradition and should not interest Muslims. He said;

“Valentine’s Day originated from Western culture. It’s not in accordance with Islamic and Eastern culture.”

In Indonesia’s largest cities many shops are selling both Valentine’s Day gifts and Chinese New Year memorabilia.

In Pure Spirit

What do you think? Are these religious leaders worried that Valentine’s Day is corrupting their traditional beliefs or do they simply dislike what it is supposed to stand for?

If you’re Muslim and have done something romantic on Valentine’s Day for your partner then it would great to have your thoughts in the comments below.