Exploring Unique Cultures and Traditions Before Sharia Law

The video titled "Unique Cultures and Traditions Before Islam" on Imgur has sparked a lively and, at times, heated discussion among viewers. It provides a visual journey through various cultural practices and traditional dress from regions including Iraq, Afghanistan, Malaysia, Iran, India, Morocco, P***stan, Algeria, and the Kabyle people. The video captures intricate and colorful attire that some viewers have likened to high fashion. However, the deeper narrative is about how these cultures have evolved over time, especially in relation to religious and political influences.

One notable comment points out that many of the cultural shifts in these regions were influenced by the US and its allies during their fight against communism. In Iran, for example, a democratically elected leader was replaced by a Western-friendly authoritarian ruler, which allowed mosques to become centers of resistance and political leadership.

Several viewers have drawn parallels between Islamic fundamentalism and other forms of religious extremism, such as Wahhabism, which developed in the last hundred years. They argue that such movements have contributed to the erosion of rich cultural traditions, much like how Christianity and other religions have impacted cultures worldwide.

There is also a strong sentiment among commenters that the control and subjugation of women have more to do with insecure men and totalitarian regimes than with religion itself. Some believe that mandates for women to cover their faces and dress modestly are more about control than faith.

Interestingly, one viewer noted that none of the costumes shown in the video are from before Islam, which has been practiced in these regions for nearly 1500 years. Instead, the changes in cultural practices are attributed to more recent developments like Sharia Law and ultraradical movements.

The discussion also touches on how these issues are mirrored in other parts of the world. For instance, some commenters see parallels in the US, where religious rhetoric is used to justify various forms of social and political control.

In summary, the video and ensuing discussion shed light on the complex interplay of culture, religion, and politics. It highlights the impact of religious extremism on traditional practices and raises questions about the true drivers behind such changes. For those interested in cultural history and the ongoing dialogue about religion and politics, this video offers a compelling glimpse into the past and present of several diverse communities.