Seeing how the thread ghostings made, unfortunately, got derailed— I decided to create my own thread to give my two-cents on the situation because the vile behaviour in response to this controversy just ain’t it.
People, per usual, are either completely disregarding Muslims and the issue to project their hate towards Jake and Enhypen.
People need to realize that Jake’s accessory is not a simple necklace, it’s considered sacred for Muslims because it has the name of God, “الله” (Allah) engraved in it. Most Muslims are not enraged because Jake wore it, they are upset by the fact he wore it while he was performing, an act which is frowned upon in Islam. Even as Muslims, you can’t even enter bathroom while wearing accessories with God’s name on it in Islam, much less use it as an aesthetic. It’s considered highly disrespectful in the circumstance it was worn. Generally, Muslims don’t even wear necklaces or bracelets with God’s name on it in fear they might accidentally disrespect it unconsciously. That being said, I, personally don’t believe it’s appropriate to scapegoat Jake, when the stylist and the company that manufactured the necklace is at fault. It’s their job to be aware and educated about the accessories and clothes they choose to purchase/ sell. I wouldn’t expect Jake to know much about Islam, or Arabic to know what’s written on his necklace. Sure, it would be nice if he tried to be aware and educated of his stylist’s fashion choices, but, it’s highly unrealistic and it’s not his responsibility to know unless he himself was the one picking out his stage outfits. As employees, they will likely follow what the stylists prepare for them for their public appearances without much thought.
As for the few Muslims that are using this opportunity to “cancel” Jake and Enhypen, it’s honestly disappointing. As Muslims, we can not assume that he intentionally intended to wear and disrespect it. There is something in Islam called “husn al dhan,” one of the main ethics we are taught is to give the person benefit of the doubt rather than holding onto the extreme end of the stick. I understand they are upset, but the way they showcase their concern for their religion is in opposition of its teachings. Personally, I would even go as far as giving the stylists the benefit of the doubt— because the company, Forchaser, named the necklace “Ghetto-Hustle-Swag,” the stylist wouldn’t have known it held a religious significance to Muslims, but even then as a stylist they should have known better. It’s their job. Glad the company took down the “Allah” necklace, but either way, I wouldn’t expect much of an apology from Jake. It would more understandable if the stylist and the company apologized. I hope Belift responds soon, because people on Twitter and Tiktok love blowing things out proportion.