I DON’T understand what the big fuss is over the preventive measures adopted by PAS and other Islamic bodies against Muslims who indulge in Valentine’s Day celebrations.

Muslims should have no business celebrating such an occasion as it is forbidden to do so in Islam.

Only Eid-ul-Fitr, which marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadhan, and Eid-ul-Adha, commemorating the annual pilgrimage to Makkah, are Muslim festivals.

There is no other.

Muslims should be aware of this and if they are not, they should be educated. Ignorance is no excuse.

Second, only unmarried Muslim couples who are involved in illicit affairs forbidden by Islam need to be concerned.

Islam is not against love per se but it must be expressed within proper boundaries as allowed in its teachings. Coupling, dating and being in close proximity with members of the opposite gender in isolated and private venues is strictly prohibited as it would entail unhealthy consequences for both parties.

Baby-dumping is one such outcome we are faced with today.

Islam, in its practical dimension, endeavours to block the many winding paths to sinning and wicked conduct that attracts God’s displeasure.

It lays down basic rules and principles on how to identify the nature of sin and keep away from it.

Prevention is better than cure is an Islamic dictum.

A Muslim is expected to play his part not only in keeping away from things that have been forbidden but to ensure his fellow Muslims avoid the many roads to perdition.

Valentine’s Day is another sorry excuse to promote reckless consumerism and persuade gullible people to part with their hard-earned cash.

How could true love be measured with the likes of roses, chocolates and diamond rings?

For the young and immature, they tend to confuse love with lust and the seemingly romantic atmosphere just urges them on to have a go at their willing partner. Thus, it leads to gratuitous sex with far-reaching consequence for the couple.

It contributes to further increase in sexual immorality and perverse conduct, which are contrary to the true meaning and spirit of love itself.

Furthermore, if you truly love someone you don’t need a Valentine’s Day to express it.

I agree that crackdown against sinful activities should not be confined to occasions like Valentine’s Day but should be a 24/7 operation.

We must ever be vigilant against this soul-ravaging menace.

source : http://thestar.com.my/