NEWS: Islamic Radicals Hunt Barbers in Baghdad

A new target has emerged in the insurgency, barbers. Sunni insurgent groups have added barbers to thier list of targets because they are accused of trimming beards in violation of Islamic law. Also raising thier ire is the fact that "western" style haircuts are offered. Either of these violations the groups say are punishable by death. In one area of Baghdad, five barbers have been killed in just a month.



This is an example of how extremist corrupt any religion. Its not unique to Islam either. From the radical Christian and Jewish groups they all preach the same level of intolerance when you get down to brass tacks. Our way or the highway and even that may not make them happy. Extremism in any form is simply not the way to go nor is it productive for any length of time.

[edit on 2-7-2005 by Valhall]

[edit on 2-7-2005 by Valhall]

[edit on 7-2-2005 by TrickmastertricK]

And the Islamic rule begins, well they all muslin they all intolerant, and the Islam is now in power.

Welcome to freedom of Islamic rule.

Remember the story of Samson?

Many sects of Judaism, Islam, and some of the older variants of Christianity and Catholicism mandate beards and the growth of some or all head hair. Certain subservient, worker orders of the same religions mandated their slaves shave. There is a certain cultural endowment of the hair with magical and spiritual potency.

If the militants see it as a form of degradation, they have the right to be offended by it. Of course the right to be offended does not guarantee the right to kill in our society. However, it sometimes does in their society. Take the example of blood feuds. Look on the bright side, maybe the barbers will get organized and beat back the insurgency.

Of course it's anyone's choice whether or not they want to shave. The militants should learn this. There would be no call for barbers if there were no customers. Obviously there is a need being filled. Why can't some people share their city with others who believe differently? That's the fundamental problem that needs to get solved.

Actually your are right even in the Spanish tradition back in the time of the conquerors men was not consider been a man until it grew a beard, we have in Spanish many references to the importance of a man's beards and his honor.

I remember a few of them like a "man without a beard was not trustworthy.

Or that the elders will swear on the beards of their ancestors.

And the hairs of the beard were used to close pacts and contracts.