For centuries, Afghan men have taken boys, roughly 9 to 15 years old, as lovers. Some research suggests that half the Pashtun tribal members in Kandahar and other southern towns are bacha baz, the term for an older man with a boy lover. Literally it means "boy player." The men like to boast about it.Islamic law also forbids homosexuality. But the pedophiles explain that away. It's not homosexuality, they aver, because they aren't in love with their boys.
Again, i struggle with myself. These are Muslims just like me, but its obvious that our understanding of the religion is remarkably different. Their version of Islam allows, perhaps even encourages (according to them) this behaviour, mine doesn't.
During Friday prayers, the imam asks us to pray for our brothers and sisters around the world where Muslims are having a tough time. He often cites Afghanistan as being one of those places. Can i insert a disclaimer in my prayers? I pray for all Afghans except the ones who rape little boys.
Amen.
More reading on the bacha baz phenomenon here:
