ERYKAH BADU's blasphemy

The last time i checked, the dictionary described blasphemy as: 'Behaviour or language that insults or shows lack of respect for God or religion.' Well, this is precisely what popular singer, Erykah Badu did in a recent promotional photo where she has the Islamic name of God (Allah) tattooed over her bare shoulders.

It therefore didn't come as much of a surprise when she was instantly banned from her scheduled performance in Malaysia. Many Nigerians have wondered what fate would have befallen the singer if she had done this in this part of the world especially now that religious tension has hit a new high?

Well, Erykah Badu has responded to being banned from her scheduled performance in Muslim-majority Malaysia. (The country's government objected to her performance due to a promotional photo showing the Arabic for "Allah" tattooed across her bare shoulders.) As the Associated Press (via Spinner) reports, she accepts the government's decision.

"It's sad, because we traveled a long way", she said. "But I'm totally understanding of [the minister's] protection of the laws and its people. He doesn't want anything to happen. I'm good with that." She went on to explain: "I think art is often misunderstood in the realm of religion, and it's okay... I am learning and understanding about Islam in other countries more as we travel."

Badu took to Twitter to elaborate. She tweeted, "...The gov. Of Malaysia had to be responsible to its people's beliefs .. Even If it were just 1 or 2 complaints. I understand."

Malaysian Information Minister Rais Yatim had said the Allah tats were "an insult to Islam and a very serious offense." While Badu was banned from her actual performance, she was still permitted to stay in the country as a tourist.