BURKA AVENGER & ISLAM
Teachings and Principles
NONVIOLENCE
The core values of Islam constitute the foundation of nonviolent action in the tradition. One of the main principles of nonviolence in Islam is stated in the well-known saying of the Prophet, "not to harm and not to be harmed." In his teaching, violence against all creatures is prohibited. Although he did defend himself when he and his followers were attacked, he made peace dominate as soon as possible (Saritoprak, 2005).
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This expression of nonviolent is prevalent throughout the entire Burka Avenger series. The storyline emphasizes a level of defence against inequalities and injustice, but always in a manner of minimal conflict and always highlighting the theme of peace thereafter.
DRESS AND MODESTY
[24:30] Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty.
[24:31] And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty.
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Burka Avenger acknowledges this Islamic teaching in more than one way. Interestingly, Jiya presents herself in more Western "normative" clothing, while still encompassing modest values, whereas Burka Avenger presents herself in niqab, meaning her body and face are covered apart from her eyes, hands and feet. It could be argued then, that Rashid's intention was to abolish discriminatory views against the niqab (and any other traditional Islamic garments), by making Burka Avenger the powerful, independent, justice-seeking heroine, and Jiya a calmer, more passive personality in non-traditional clothing.
EDUCATION
Within the Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), there are several that speak to education for both men and women. An important teaching is that education is not a right but a responsibility on every Muslim, male or female. Another speaks volumes about the superiority of the person who seeks knowledge over the one who does not. The reference here to superiority is to the person who seeks knowledge, man or woman.
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Due to gendered social norms within the culture of Pakistan (primarily rural Pakistan), girls do not receive the same level of education as boys. Although drastic progress has been made over the past couple of decades, statistics read that 12 million girls are out of school, and that only 13% reach grade nine (Malalafund.org). Not to say that this progress can be entirely attributed to Burka Avenger, but it cannot be ignored that the show has continuously challenged said social norms, and in combination with other stories and contributions, such as that of Malala Yousafzai, some obstacles are being overcome. It is clear that the purpose of Burka Avenger is meant to draw awareness to these statistics, and highlight Islamic teachings in order to support the idea of challenging such norms.
