A top cleric’s verdict: whether you may touch the national emblem depends on how people treat it — if it’s seen as the Divine Name, touching without purity is forbidden.
Ayatollah Khamenei has stated on this matter: If, in ordinary social usage, the emblem is regarded and pronounced as the Divine Name (Ism-e Jalālah), then touching it without ritual purity is forbidden; if not, there is no problem — although the safer practice (aḥwaṭ) is to avoid touching it without purity.
The question of whether touching the emblem of the Islamic Republic of Iran is permitted is a juristic issue on which scholars differ. There is no single unanimous ruling; for personal certainty it is best to consult your own marja‘ (source of emulation).
Ruling as if it were the Divine Name: Some jurists argue that the emblem, because it symbolizes the Islamic system and carries religious connotations, should be treated like the Divine Name. On this view, touching it without wudu (ritual purification) is not permissible.
Precautionary obligation: Other jurists, out of respect for religious symbols, recommend the precaution of not touching the emblem without ritual purity; they advise against it even if they do not label the act strictly forbidden.
No special ruling: A third group of jurists maintains the emblem has no special legal status; touching it is like touching any other symbol and no ritual requirement applies.
Social custom (ʿurf): The community’s common understanding matters. If, by social convention, the emblem is treated as sacred or equated with Divine Names, then the precautionary posture is warranted — do not touch it without wudu.
Respect for Islamic symbols: Regardless of jury interpretation, showing respect toward religious and national symbols is expected of a practicing Muslim.
Tip | |
|---|---|
If uncertain about your personal duty, ask your marja‘ (religious authority) for guidance. | “Better to consult your marja‘ for certainty.” |
If society treats the emblem like the Divine Name, avoid touching it without wudu. | “If, in popular usage, the emblem is considered as a Divine Name, touching without purification is forbidden.” |
Out of respect, take the precautionary stance and avoid touching national/religious emblems without ritual purity. | “Some jurists recommend precaution due to the symbol’s importance.” |
Remember that views differ — don’t assume a single universal ruling applies to all contexts. | “Scholars disagree; there is no single definitive ruling.” |
If you need a definitive legal ruling for ritual or legal consequences, consult a qualified religious authority. | “For personal certainty, ask your marja‘.” |
