In the world of terrorism analysis and OSINT (open-source intelligence), small physical details can reveal bigger stories. One such detail is the black mark often seen on the foreheads of top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commanders. This article looks at why many of these men have this mark, what it means, and how it plays a role in their image and propaganda.
This mark, while seemingly a personal or religious feature, often holds deeper meaning when it appears consistently among leaders of a terrorist group. Many top LeT figures have this same mark, and it’s often prominently visible in photos released by the group. When Islamic Maulanas regularly press their foreheads against rough surfaces like prayer mats or hard floors, the friction causes a mark to appear. Many see this mark as a sign of their devotion.
What is the Black Mark on the Forehead?
The black mark on the forehead is called a prayer mark or “zabiba” in Arabic. A zabiba is a dark patch of skin that forms on the forehead from praying a lot. During Islamic prayer, Muslims touch their forehead to the ground.
Why Do Lashkar Commanders Have It?
Many Lashkar terrorists, like Hafiz Saeed, Saifullah Kasuri, Faisal Nadeem and Abdul Rauf have this mark. It’s seen in their photos and videos. But is it just because they pray a lot? Or is it part of how they want to look?
In groups like LeT, looking very religious helps terrorists gain trust. The forehead mark can:
- It helps with recruiting new members who see the leaders as very religious. In propaganda and recruitment videos, these marks help portray them as “spiritually superior” or “chosen warriors”.
- Make the leader look more powerful and respected inside the group. Most jihadists intentionally create or emphasize the mark, openly signaling their piety
- They use it in propaganda to portray themselves as fighting a ‘jihad,’ not just committing violence. This crafted image of deep religiosity helps them recruit and strengthen their ideological credibility.”
- LeT commanders often begin their journey in madrassas, where they study religion for years and actively participate in missions, consistently praying five times a day and waking at night for tahajjud.
Zabiba becomes a visual symbol of religious commitment, reinforcing their image among followers. It helps them command respect and obedience within the terror hierarchy. In areas where the group operates, a forehead mark can signal status, even to illiterate recruits. So, the mark becomes a way to show others that they are very serious about their religion. For terror groups, controlling their public image is crucial. They want to appear as not just terrorists but defenders of faith. The forehead mark helps push that image.
The forehead mark is more than just a skin patch. It sends a message. Just like flags, clothes, or slogans, it helps build group identity. In some places, like in POK, people respect visible signs of piety. This can help terrorists gain support.
When a commander walks into a village with a beard, a prayer cap, and a zabiba, it builds an image of a “holy warrior.” This image holds powerful influence, especially in areas where people deeply respect Islam. People see the commander as someone doing God’s work, not someone leading a terror organisation.
This kind of psychological influence can make it easier for terror groups to recruit young men, hide from security forces, or even collect donations. The visual impact of the zabiba becomes part of a larger strategy.
