Video - Why Islamic Art Avoids Faces: The Story Behind the Tradition
Did you know that in Islam, depicting the face of the Prophet Muhammad is strictly forbidden? This rule dates back centuries and is observed to avoid idolatry. Early Muslims were worried that showing his face might lead people to worship him instead of Allah. They took the commandment "You shall not make for yourself a carved image" very seriously. Instead, they used beautiful calligraphy and geometric patterns to celebrate their faith. Imagine a world where instead of seeing a portrait, you see stunning Arabic script that says "Peace be upon him." It's like tweeting emojis instead of selfies! And here's a twist: it's not just Muhammad. Many Islamic traditions avoid depicting any prophets, like Jesus or Moses. So, next time you see intricate Islamic art, remember, it's not just a style choice—it's a way to honor their beliefs. Question for you: What do you think would happen if someone accidentally broke this rule today? Let me know in the comments!