Marvel Comics have been forced to pull an issue of X-Men Gold from circulation after it was revealed that the artist had inserted hidden anti-Semitic and anti-Christian messages in the illustrations.
Indonesian artist Ardian Syaf reportedly added hidden references to the Koran, as well as the number 212 which references the Muslim protests against the Christian Governor of Jakarta.
Of this particular reference, Syaf said "This is a special memory for me. The number is a peace act, when a governor did blasphemy to our holy book."
In one strip, Jewish character Kitty Pryde can be seen next to the word 'Jew' and there is also a man wearing the number '51' on a t-shirt beside her. This is believed to be in reference to a verse of the Koran which says "O you who have believed, do not take the Jews and the Christians as allies."
In another scene, Colossus is seen wearing a t-shirt which features the letters an numbers “QS 5:51”. This reportedly makes reference to a Quranic verse that, according to fundamentalist interpretations, prohibits Muslims from electing a Christian or Jewish leader.
Marvel Comics released a statement over the weekend claiming they had no knowledge of the references and insisting that disciplinary action will be taken against Syaf.
"The implied references do not reflect the views of the writer, editors or anyone else at Marvel and are in direct opposition of the inclusiveness of Marvel Comics and what the X-Men have stood for since their creation."
"This artwork will be removed from subsequent printings, digital versions, and trade paperbacks and disciplinary action is being taken."