This game often includes depictions of magic and the undead, concepts that Islam discourages. Muslims are encouraged to engage in activities that are beneficial and avoid those that may negatively impact their faith or moral character.
9 Reasons Resident Evil Goes Against Our Religion Islam
Video games are popular entertainment, but not all games align with Islamic values. Resident Evil, a well-known horror game series, is often considered haram (forbidden) in Islam.
These are the main reasons below why this game may not be suitable for us:
1. Graphic Violence:
Resident Evil is known for its intense and graphic depictions of violence. The game features brutal combat, gory death scenes, and excessive bloodshed. Islam teaches peace and respect for human life, discouraging exposure to such extreme violence, even in virtual form.
2. Disrespect to Sacred Islamic Symbols:
First, they show a door design that looks like one from Masjid Nabawi, one of Islam’s holiest sites. Unfortunately, it insults this sacred imagery by adding demonic or negative symbols to the lock. Using Islamic architecture in a horror setting like this is very offensive to Muslims.
Second, the game places a book that looks very similar to the Holy Quran on the floor, while neatly arranging other books on shelves in the library. This action is very disrespectful because, in Islam, the Quran is the most sacred text and should be treated with great care. Placing a book that resembles the Quran on the floor, while properly handling other books, goes against Islamic values.
3. Horror Themes:
The game’s core focus is on creating fear and terror. It frightens players with jump scares, disturbing imagery, and tense atmospheres. Islam encourages peace of mind and tranquility, viewing unnecessary fear as harmful to one’s mental and spiritual well-being.
4. Supernatural Creatures:
Resident Evil is filled with zombies, mutants, and other unnatural beings. These creatures contradict Islamic beliefs about life, death, and the natural order created by Allah. The concept of the undead is particularly problematic, as it goes against Islamic teachings about the finality of death and the afterlife.
5. Magic and Occult Practices:
The game often features elements of witchcraft, dark rituals, and other occult practices. Islam strictly forbids involvement in sorcery and witchcraft, considering them as major sins that can lead one astray from the right path.
6. Immodest Clothing:
Many characters in the game, especially female ones, wear revealing or tight-fitting outfits. This goes against Islamic principles of modesty in dress for both men and women, potentially exposing players to images that are considered inappropriate.
7. Waste of Time:
Resident Evil games can be very lengthy and addictive. Islam encourages productive use of time and discourages excessive indulgence in entertainment. Spending many hours playing such games could be seen as neglecting more important duties and responsibilities.
8. Music and Sound Effects:
The game’s soundtrack typically includes intense, often eerie music and sound effects designed to create a horrifying atmosphere. Some interpretations of Islam consider certain types of music as impermissible, particularly those associated with negative or harmful themes.
9. Unethical Decisions:
Players often face situations throughout the game where they must make morally questionable choices to survive or progress. This can include lying, stealing, or harming others. Such decisions, even virtual, can conflict with Islamic ethics and potentially influence real-life moral judgments.
While some people might find Resident Evil entertaining, it has many aspects that go against Islamic values. Muslims are encouraged to choose entertainment that fits better with their faith and helps improve their character and community.
My Journey: Leaving Resident Evil Behind for My Islamic Faith
As a full-time gamer, Resident Evil was one of my favorites. But as I took my faith more seriously, I noticed how the game’s excessive violence and horror themes clashed with Islam’s peace. I also saw Islamic symbols, like a door resembling Masjid Nabawi, misused, and Quran-like books thrown carelessly on the floor.
This made me rethink how gaming affected me. It took time away from prayer, and the scary images impacted my focus during worship. So, I decided to stop playing. Though difficult at first, it strengthened my faith, and I found games that aligned better with my beliefs. Letting go of things that aren’t good for us, even if we enjoy them, can lead to growth. For me, my faith is more important than any game.
How Parents Can Guide Their Children From This Game
As parents, we want to make sure our children are growing up in a way that aligns with our Islamic values. But it can be tricky when it comes to video games like Resident Evil that have a lot of graphic violence and other concerning content.
- Explain to your kids why Resident Evil is not good for them as Muslims. The game has a lot of violence, scary things, and things that go against Islamic teachings.
- Set clear rules in your home no Resident Evil allowed! Stick to this rule and don’t let your kids play it.
- Find other fun games for your kids that are good for them spiritually and mentally. Games that teach positive values like kindness and honesty.
- Pay close attention to what other shows, movies, and games your kids are enjoying. Make sure it’s all okay with your Islamic beliefs.
- As parents, be a good example. Spend time as a family doing activities that bring you closer to your faith.
- Talk to other Muslim parents. Share tips and support each other in keeping your kids away from harmful entertainment.
The most important thing is to have open conversations with your children. Help them understand why certain games are not good for them as Muslims. With your guidance, they can learn to make choices that are good for their faith.
Final Advice for Muslim Gamers
As a Muslim gamer, it’s important to be aware of what you are playing and how it affects your faith. Not all games are suitable for us. First, you should know the difference between what’s right and wrong according to Islam.
Games that have a lot of violence, scary things, or disrespect towards our religion are not okay. Be careful and avoid them. To stay on the right path, learn more about your faith.
Read the Quran, study the teachings of Islam, and surround yourself with other practicing Muslims. This will help you make good choices about the entertainment you consume. Remember to offer your 5 daily prayers. This will keep you connected to Allah and give you the guidance you need.
Have trust in Allah. He knows what’s best for us. May He guide us all towards His light and help us walk on the path that pleases Him. Ameen.
