The Ministry of Commerce prohibits printing the names of God on bags and packaging

The Ministry of Commerce issued an urgent and firm directive prohibiting the use of the “Beautiful Names of God” on all types of commercial bags and containers, in a step aimed at protecting religious symbols, glorifying God’s rituals, and ensuring that they are not subjected to disrespect when disposed of in the waste.

Details of the decision and its reasons

This official move came in response to observations and complaints about the widespread practice of printing some of God's beautiful names or Quranic verses on consumer products and packaging bags, which often end up in trash bins or are discarded on the streets after use. In its circular addressed to chambers of commerce, companies, and institutions, the Ministry emphasized the absolute necessity of refraining from placing these sacred names on any perishable or disposable product, stressing that this measure stems from the religious and moral duty to glorify the name of God Almighty.

religious and social context

This decision is of paramount importance in Muslim societies, where the "Beautiful Names of God" are considered sacred and inviolable. From a religious perspective, numerous scholars and Islamic legal councils throughout history have issued rulings prohibiting the desecration of papers or materials bearing the name of God, a practice that often occurs when these names are printed on food packaging or shopping bags that ultimately end up in the trash. This decision reflects the commitment of relevant authorities to reconciling commercial activity with deeply rooted religious values ​​within the community.

Impact of the decision on the commercial sector

Under this decision, local manufacturers, importers, and brand owners will be required to immediately review their packaging and bag designs. This includes removing any mention of God or His Most Beautiful Names (such as Al-Aziz, Al-Karim, As-Salam) if used as part of the visual identity on consumer goods. The Ministry of Commerce's inspection teams are expected to conduct intensive inspection tours in the coming period to ensure that markets are free of these violations, and will apply the prescribed penalties to non-compliant establishments.

The importance of compliance and social responsibility

This directive serves as a reminder of the private sector's responsibility to consider public taste and Islamic values ​​when designing products. It also reinforces the consumer's role as a partner in oversight, as relevant authorities have previously called for reporting any commercial practices that may infringe upon religious principles. This decision resolves the debate surrounding the use of religious symbols in the marketing of fast-moving consumer goods, emphasizing that commercial profit should not come at the expense of the sanctity of religious symbols.