Saudi Gazette report
BAHA — A number of tribal heads here denounced the exorbitant blood money amounts some families demand before they pardon the convicted killer of their relatives, adding that such a practice was unknown in the tribal culture in the past.
They stressed the role of religious scholars, Friday sermons and the media in educating society of the dangers of such practices, and to enforce a culture of forgiveness according to Islamic teachings.
The head of the Bin Kabeer tribe, Sheikh Othman Suwaied, said God has decreed the execution of killers, which is the right of the victim, to deter destructive behavior in society.
"However, those who demand huge amounts in blood money are placing a great burden on the relatives of the killer, forcing them to turn to philanthropists for help," he said.
He pointed out that this in turn might encourage some people to commit murder, knowing someone will pay for their blood money.
The head of Baidhan tribe of Baha, Atiyah Al-Soghayer asked for implementing the directives of the Custodian of the Holy Mosques regarding reconciliation and forgiveness and that blood money should be fixed at reasonable levels.
"Philanthropists who contribute to paying the blood money are paying from their Zakat money, which can be put to better use, and for the benefit of the needy and poor," he said.
He asked families of victims to pardon killers and seek reward from God.
The head of the prisoners care committee (Tarahum) and member of the reconciliation committee, Sheikh Abdulaziz Bin Raqoosh, said forgiveness is greatly encouraged by Islam and society should abide by such teachings.
"Official bodies have set up reconciliation committees in courts throughout the Kingdom. These committees are under the direct supervision of the emirs of the provinces and governorates, and were successful in solving many disputes through reconciliation," he said.
He added that human lives should not be traded for money because the value of a human is much larger than any amount paid in blood money.
