What are the actions that contradict one’s Islam?
There are many individuals who profess the Kalimah and are familiar with the pillars of Imaan, yet they still engage in behaviors that could potentially lead them outside the fold of Islam. Scholars have identified ten significant and widespread actions that contradict one’s faith in Islam:
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Shirk in Worship: Associating partners with Allah is considered one of the gravest sins in Islam. Allah clearly states that He does not forgive the sin of shirk, saying, “Allah forgives not (the sin of) joining other gods with Him; but He forgives whom He pleases other sins than this.” He further emphasizes the severity of this act by declaring, “Whoever joins other gods with Allah will be forbidden from entering Paradise, and their final abode will be Hell, with no support for the wrongdoers.” Engaging in practices such as calling upon deceased individuals for help, making vows to them, or performing sacrifices on their behalf constitutes shirk.
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Using Other Creatures as Means of Worship: Seeking intercession from other beings or asking them to mediate on one’s behalf is universally considered a form of disbelief. Believing that other creatures can aid in worshiping Allah contradicts the core principles of monotheism.
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Not Recognizing Polytheists as Disbelievers: Anyone who fails to view polytheists as disbelievers, harbors doubts about their disbelief, or attempts to accept their beliefs is regarded as a disbeliever. This reflects a serious misunderstanding of Islamic teachings about the nature of belief and the consequences of polytheism.
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Belittling the Prophet’s Guidance: Believing that the guidance provided by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is less perfect than other sources of guidance is a significant transgression. Those who perceive his judgment as inferior, particularly those who favor the rule of Tawagheet (tyrannical authority), fall into disbelief. Accepting the Prophet’s guidance as the ultimate truth is fundamental to Islamic faith.
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Disliking Any Aspect of the Prophet’s Teachings: If someone harbors hatred towards any part of the message that the Prophet brought, even if they continue to practice it outwardly, this is considered disbelief. Allah says, “That is because they hate the Revelation of Allah; so He has made their deeds fruitless.” Discontent with the teachings of the Prophet undermines one’s faith.
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Mocking the Prophet’s Teachings: Ridiculing any aspect of the Prophet’s message, including the rewards and punishments he communicated, amounts to disbelief. Allah commands, “Say (O Muhammad): ‘Was it at Allah, and His Signs, and His Messenger, that you were mocking?’ Make no excuses; you have rejected Faith after you had accepted it.” Chapter (9) sūrat l-tawbah (The Repentance) This highlights the seriousness of mocking sacred beliefs.
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Engaging in Magic: Practices involving magic, including forms of distraction and manipulation (such as causing two people to hate or love each other), are serious offenses. Those who practice or accept such actions are considered disbelievers. Allah cautions against this, saying, “But neither of these taught anyone (such things) without saying, ‘We are only for trial; so do not blaspheme.’” Engaging in magic directly contradicts reliance on Allah.
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Supporting Polytheists Against Believers: Providing aid or support to polytheists in opposition to believers is also seen as a betrayal of one’s faith. Allah states, “And whoever among you turns to them for friendship is one of them. Verily Allah guides not a people unjust.” This action indicates a severe misalignment with Islamic principles.
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Thinking One Can Live Without Islamic Law: Anyone who believes they can function outside the framework of Islamic law is deemed a disbeliever. Allah warns, “If anyone desires a religion other than Islam, never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter, he will be among those who have lost (all spiritual good).” This underscores the necessity of adhering to Islamic teachings in all aspects of life.
- the actions that contradict one’s Islam: Turning Away from Islam: Turning away from the teachings of Islam, including neglecting to learn or teach the faith, constitutes disbelief. Allah says, “And who does more wrong than one to whom are recited the Signs of his Lord, and who then turns away therefrom? Verily, from those who transgress, We shall exact (due) Retribution.” This emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with and upholding the teachings of Islam.
These contradictions apply to everyone, regardless of their level of seriousness or fear, except in cases of compulsion, as Allah mentioned, “…Except under compulsion, while his heart remains firm in faith.”
Recognizing and understanding these contradictions is crucial, as they represent some of the most dangerous and common challenges faced by individuals. It is imperative to educate ourselves about these issues to avoid falling into such traps. May Allah protect us from actions that could lead to His anger and punishment.
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