Question
I’m currently writing an art essay for University and I have chosen Islamic Art. I find the religion very interesting so I thought I could learn more at the same time as writing my essay.
I found out that the colour Green is a pure colour in Islam and you are not allowed to stand on it or sit on it etc. I wondered if you could tell me where and what is written in the Qur’an about this?
Also is the colour Red a symbolic colour?
Answer
I applaud you on your endeavors to write an essay regarding Islamic Art. Indeed, in my personal opinion, it is quite beautiful and distinct evoking tremendous respect and admiration for it. I would suggest that you also look into Arabic calligraphy as it plays a major role in artistic Islamic expression. Unfortunately, that is the limit of what I can advise. We are students of the religion of Islam and, regrettably so, unable to give you enough information to fulfill your essay. Please feel free to look through our articles regarding symbolism in Islam. As regards to the green color, I would like to clarify that it has no significance to the Islamic doctrine. It has been adopted by several Muslim countries and groups but has no status of “purity” in the religion. As a matter of fact there are prayer mats that are entirely green or have green patterns in them and are stepped and stood on all the time. Also, there is nothing in the Qur’an that speaks of any special status of any color. The simplest way I can put it is that colors have nothing to do with the religion, there are no “pure” colors nor are there any colors that are symbolic to the faith itself. Islam is a religion of moral uplifting, guidance and the development of a relationship with the Almighty. Colors have no edifying purpose in the practice of the religion.
I wish you the best in your search.
I hope I have clarified the issue.
God knows best.