Sahil Adeem

By Theprint.in

An argument on Pakistani television has taken the country by storm. Motivational speaker and internet personality Sahil Adeem and screenwriter Khalil–ur–Rehman Qamar have found themselves in hot water after referring to 95 per cent of Pakistani women as “jahil”—

"Jahil" is an Arabic-origin word that is commonly used in several South Asian languages, including Urdu, Hindi, and Bengali. The term is often used pejoratively to describe someone who is not only illiterate but also ignorant or lacking in knowledge and understanding. It implies a lack of education and awareness and can be a strong criticism of someone's intellectual or social behavior. The word has a broader cultural significance as well, sometimes being used to denote a person who is considered backward or uncivilized.

In an ‘open discussion’ on Samaa TV with Ayesha Jehanzeb, a member of the audience, Azba asked the two men to apologise for calling women “jahil” pointing out that “it is a male-dominated society that forces women to stay illiterate”.

“A man sitting here has no right to decide that women are illiterate and discuss their percentages,” she argued.

 A snippet of an argument between the two has been going around on the internet where users are calling out Adeem’s misogyny and even going to the extent of seeking a ban on him being on TV.

“Instead of boycotting Western brands and outlets, it’s these two misogynists who should be permanently banned and boycotted from all platforms

In the context of the word "jahil," it is important to understand the nuances it carries in different languages and cultural settings. Here is a more detailed explanation:

1.      Literal Meaning: The word "jahil" literally translates to "illiterate" in English. This implies a lack of formal education or the inability to read and write.

2.    Extended Meaning: Beyond its literal sense, "jahil" is often used to describe someone who is ignorant or uninformed. This usage highlights a broader deficiency in knowledge, awareness, or understanding, extending beyond just formal education.

3.    Cultural Connotation: In many South Asian cultures, "jahil" carries a strong negative connotation. It is used pejoratively to criticize someone's behavior or attitudes that are seen as backward, uncivilized, or lacking in refinement. This can include a lack of social etiquette, outdated beliefs, or refusal to adapt to modern norms and knowledge.

4.    Examples of Usage:

o    Interpersonal Criticism: When someone makes a statement or behaves in a way that is seen as particularly uninformed or foolish, they might be called "jahil" as a rebuke. For example, "He's so jahil, he doesn't even know basic history."

o    Social Commentary: The term can be used in social or political commentary to describe groups or individuals perceived as resistant to progress or education. For example, "The policies are designed to educate and uplift the jahil population in rural areas."

Understanding "jahil" in this context helps to grasp not only its meaning but also the social and cultural weight it carries when used in conversation or writing.