MUTAWA Meaning and
Definition
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Mutawa refers to a term primarily used in Saudi Arabia, referring to the religious police force responsible for enforcing the moral code and religious laws of Islam in public spaces. The word Mutawa, also known as "Hay'ah," originates from the Arabic root "tawā'a," meaning "to follow" or "to adhere to." They are appointed by the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, a Saudi government agency tasked with enforcing Islamic laws.
The Mutawa's main responsibilities include ensuring public adherence to Islamic rules and regulations, such as modest clothing, women's segregation, prohibition of alcohol and drugs, and discouragement of any behavior that contradicts Islamic values. They patrol streets, public places, and occasionally even private gatherings to prevent any violations and to maintain the societal purity they believe is required by Islam.
Their enforcement methods often involve counseling, verbal warnings, dispersing gatherings, confiscation of prohibited items, and reporting violators to the police if necessary. However, it is important to note that the powers and methods of the Mutawa have been subject to criticism due to instances of abuse, infringement on personal freedoms, and the perception of excessive moral policing.
In recent years, several reforms have been undertaken to modernize and restrain the power of the Mutawa force, allowing greater personal freedom and reducing the influence of the religious police. Nonetheless, the Mutawa remain an integral part of the Saudi Arabian society, charged with maintaining public morality and religious values in accordance with the country's interpretation of Islam.
Common Misspellings for MUTAWA
Etymology of MUTAWA
The word "Mutawa" is derived from the Arabic term "Mutawwa'een" (مطوعين), which is the plural form of "Mutawwa'" (مطوع).
The term "Mutawwa'" comes from the root word "tawa'a" (طوع), which means "to obey" or "to be submissive". In Arabic, the term "Mutawwa'" refers to someone who is obedient or compliant.
In Saudi Arabia, "Mutawwa'een" specifically refers to the members of the religious police force called the "Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice". The Mutawwa'een enforce conservative interpretations of Islamic law, ensuring compliance with religious and moral codes in public spaces.
Similar spelling words for MUTAWA
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