“Pattern of Anarchical Interpretations” by Tayyab Tariq delves into the misguidance prevalent in certain religious interpretations, particularly within some Madrassas in Pakistan. This work critically examines how some mullahs selectively cherry-pick Quranic verses, presenting them out of context to promote a narrow and often extreme worldview. By doing so, they mislead young minds, diverting them from the comprehensive and balanced teachings of Islam.

In recent years, reports and news from Pakistan have highlighted how certain Madrassas, which are supposed to be centers of religious learning, have sometimes been used to propagate extremist ideologies. These institutions, often lacking proper oversight, become breeding grounds for radicalization when religious teachings are manipulated to serve political or militant agendas. The selective use of Quranic verses, stripped of their broader context and interpretative traditions, creates a distorted version of Islam that can justify violence and intolerance.

Tayyab’s artwork addresses this critical issue by symbolically representing the fragmented and chaotic nature of these anarchical interpretations. Through his deconstructionist approach, he visually depicts how the manipulation of religious texts leads to a fractured and misleading understanding of Islam. The work calls for a return to a more holistic and contextual interpretation of religious teachings, one that emphasizes peace, compassion, and rational discourse.

“Pattern of Anarchical Interpretations” thus serves as a powerful critique of the systemic issues within certain religious educational frameworks in Pakistan. It underscores the urgent need for reform in these institutions to ensure that religious education fosters a true and nuanced understanding of Islam, free from political manipulation and extremism. This call for reform aligns with broader societal efforts to counter radicalization and promote a more inclusive and enlightened interpretation of faith.