by Muath Freij | Feb 14,2012 | 22:59 JORDAN TIMES
AMMAN — This Valentine’s Day, the debate continues among Jordanians about whether it is appropriate to celebrate the occasion.
Observed each year on February 14, Valentine’s Day originated as a feast to honour one of several Christian martyrs, St. Valentine. Over time, the holiday came to be associated with romantic love, and is now observed around the world as a special occasion for lovers, who mark it by sharing romantic gifts like roses and chocolates.
In some Muslim countries, however, the holiday has been criticised by religious conservatives who charge that it promotes immoral behaviour and is against Islamic values.
In Jordan, one can find a range of views from both those who celebrate the holiday and those who oppose it.
Saif Awamleh said he does not celebrate Valentine’s Day because it is not Islamic.
“As Muslims, we only have two holidays to celebrate: Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha,” the 30-year-old emphasised. “These other occasions are Western ones and unfortunately, we imitate them.”
Awamleh added that he and many other Jordanians do not see the point in burdening themselves with the expenses of Valentine’s Day gifts, especially in today’s rough economy.
“Why should I pay JD7 for one rose while I have to meet other costs of living?”
Others had no religious objections to celebrating the occasion, but said they declined to celebrate it for other reasons.
Valentine’s Day flowers and gifts are displayed at a shop in Amman, Monday. Although many Jordanians celebrate the occasion, others object to it for religious or philosophical reasons (Photo by Muath Freij)