Fake Turban Ceremonies; The Commercialization of Religion in Taliban Schools.
In recent months, the “turban market” in Taliban-affiliated jihadist schools has surged unprecedentedly—a trend that, according to several scholars and religious experts, reflects not genuine religious education but an expensive, competitive, and deceptive display.
Critics argue that the Taliban use these ceremonial graduations to mask their lack of religious and academic legitimacy behind superficial symbols.
Some scholars complain that many of these turban ceremonies lack real educational standards, and the majority of graduates have not learned essential Islamic knowledge, including foundational jurisprudence, interpretation, and Hadith.
According to these experts, many graduations are “fake,” conducted based on connections, pressure, or propaganda displays rather than actual merit. They warn that by cheapening religious authority, the Taliban harm both religion and public trust.
Religious analysts emphasize that what is taught in Taliban schools is not authentic religious knowledge or Sharia, but “intelligence-driven jihad, violence, hatred, and blind obedience.”
They believe these schools serve not to cultivate scholars but as factories producing extremism, and turban ceremonies merely legitimize the Taliban’s organized violence.
Critics argue that the Taliban have transformed religion into a tool for propaganda, repression, and recruitment—a dangerous reality that threatens both the essence of faith and the future of Afghan society.
