mutawas

Mutawas is a term that has been used to refer to religious police or morality police in various Muslim-majority countries. Historically, the concept of mutawa draws from the Islamic principle of "enjoining good and forbidding evil" (al-amr bi-l-ma'ruf wa-n-nahy 'ani-l-munkar). This principle is derived from the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, advocating for the promotion of virtuous behavior and the discouragement of vice within the community.

The specific roles and powers of mutawas have varied significantly across different regions and time periods. In some contexts, they have been formal government bodies with assigned duties and legal authority, while in others, they might have been more informal groups of concerned citizens. Their activities have often focused on enforcing religious and social norms, such as dress codes, public conduct, and the observance of religious practices like prayer.

The activities of mutawas have been a subject of considerable debate and international attention. Critics often raise concerns about potential abuses of power, infringements on personal freedoms, and the selective enforcement of religious laws. Supporters, however, argue that such bodies are necessary for maintaining social order and upholding Islamic values. In recent years, some countries have reformed or dissolved their religious police forces, while others continue to maintain them in varying capacities. The term itself is less commonly used today in official contexts, with many countries now referring to specific government ministries or committees responsible for moral and religious guidance.