The image is from a video produced by Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) entitled “jahim al-murtaddin fi swat” (“Apostates’ Hell in the Swat valley”).
The caption in the image reads: “shari‘at ya shahadat” (“shari‘a [Islamic law] or shahada [here: martyrdom]”). Thus, the image sums up the TTP’s goal and tactics in one neat slogan, and expresses the notion that for the TTP there are only two directions in which to advance (double arrow): implementation of Islamic law (goal) or martyrdom (the means by which to achieve the goal). Finally, the image takes for granted and plays into the “path metaphor” in Islam (according to which being righteous means following “a correct or straight path”), as it posits a sign for the viewer, evoking the idea of choosing one’s path at a given time and place.
Group Name
Tehrik-i Taliban Pakistan (TTP) - Swat
Group Type
Jihadist Group
Group Affiliation
AQ Affiliates / Associates
Dominant Colors
Gray, White
Secondary Colors
Black
Language
Urdu
Isolated Phrases / Mottoes / Slogans
Shari`at ya shahadat
Image Number
0377
Groups Region of Operation
South Asia
Groups Country of Operation
Pakistan
Geopolitical Symbols
Country Flag, Slogan
Geopolitical Analysis
Black and white flags
Religious Symbols
Black / White / Green Banners
Religious Symbols Analysis
Black and white
Visual Themes
According to prophetic tradition (hadith), the black flag was the battle flag of the Prophet Muhammad and it was carried into battle by many of his companions. The image of the black flag has been used as a symbol of religious revolt and engagement in battle (i.e., jihad). In the contemporary Islamist movement, the black flag with the shahada (Islamic testimony of faith holding that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is his messenger) is used to evoke notions of jihad and of reestablishing the Islamic Caliphate.
