Definition and Meaning
The Rushdie Affair refers to the significant global controversy and conflict that arose following the publication of Salman Rushdie’s novel, The Satanic Verses, in 1988. The novel was perceived by many in the Muslim community as blasphemous, leading to widespread protests, bans, and a fatwa issued by Ayatollah Khomeini of Iran, demanding the death of the author and related individuals.
Etymology, Background, and Historical Facts
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Etymology: The term “Rushdie Affair” is derived from the name of the author Salman Rushdie and the subsequent conflict or ‘affair’ arising from his controversial novel.
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Background: “The Satanic Verses” is a magical realist novel inspired partly by the life of the Prophet Muhammad, featuring a fictional narrative that some Muslims interpreted as deeply offensive to their religious beliefs.
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Historical Facts and Dates:
- 1988: The novel was published.
- 1989: Large-scale protests erupted; books were burnt, and violent demonstrations occurred.
- 14 February 1989: Ayatollah Khomeini issued a fatwa calling for the execution of Rushdie and anyone connected with the book’s publication.
- Late 1990s: The fatwa was progressively moderated under President Mohammad Khatami.
Cultural Differences and Similarties
- Western vs. Muslim World Reactions: In the West, many defended the novel citing freedom of expression, while many in the Muslim world viewed the book as a grave insult to Islam.
- Varying Interpretations: Not all Muslims condemned the book with violence. Some called for intellectual rebuttals or peaceful protest.
Synonyms, Antonyms, and Related Terms
- Synonyms: “Satanic Verses Controversy”, “Rushdie Fatwa”
- Antonyms: There are no direct antonyms, as this is a specific historical event.
- Related Terms:
- Blasphemy: Insulting or showing disrespect toward a religion or deity.
- Fatwa: A ruling on Islamic law given by a recognized authority.
Exciting Facts
- Global Impact: The Rushdie Affair heightened awareness and sparked debates about censorship, freedom of speech, and the limits of artistic expression.
- Authors and Academics: Over time, scholars and writers have analyzed the incident to understand its implications on global cultural and political landscapes.
Quotations
“The challenge of contemporary literature is to shape our civilization without being destroyed by it.” - Salman Rushdie
Suggested Literature and Sources for Further Studies
- Books:
- The Satanic Verses by Salman Rushdie
- Homelands: A Personal History of Europe by Salman Rushdie
- Freedom of Expression in Islam by Muhammad Hashim Kamali
- Articles and Journals:
- “The Satanic Verses Controversy: A Case Study in the Politics of Protection” by Kenan Malik
- “Rethinking Blasphemy and Secrecy: Salman Rushdie’s The Satanic Verses and Fatwa,” in The Harvard Theological Review.
Translations and Names in Other Languages
- Arabic: قضية رشدي (Qadiyat Rushdi)
- Urdu: رشدی معاملہ (Rushdie Ma’alla)
- Turkish: Rushdie Olayı
- Persian: حادثه رشدی (Hawades-e Rushdie)
- Indonesian: Peristiwa Rushdie
In understanding the indistinguishable complexities between literature and faith exemplified by the Rushdie Affair, may we continue our pursuit of knowledge with care, respect, and an open heart towards differing beliefs.
Leila Al-Yasmeen
October 14, 2023
“The world needs less intrigue and more empathy, especially where devout and creative minds intersect."
