Understanding the principles that can invalidate one’s faith is important for maintaining a true connection with one’s religion. Here, we explore ten key concepts that could invalidate a person’s Islam according to traditional teachings.
Shirk, or ascribing partners to Allah (the Most High), is considered one of the gravest sins. The Quran highlights the seriousness of this action:
“Indeed Allah does not forgive that partners are ascribed to Him, however, He forgives anything other than that for whoever He wills.” [4:116]
Additionally, it states:
Verily, whoever sets up partners with Allah (in worship), then Allah has made Paradise forbidden for him and the Fire will be his abode. There will be no helpers for the Oppressors. [5:72]
This includes acts like sacrificing for entities other than Allah, such as for Jinn or at graves.
Setting up intermediaries between oneself and Allah, such as supplicating to them or requesting intercession, is a form of disbelief agreed upon by scholars.
Failing to recognize the disbelief of polytheists (*Mushrikun*), doubting their disbelief, or accepting their ideology as correct is considered an act of disbelief.
Believing that guidance or laws other than those of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ are superior is seen as an act of disbelief, as it undermines the divine guidance provided through Islam.
Hating any aspect of the teachings brought by the Messenger ﷺ, even if one practices them, signifies disbelief.
Mocking any part of the Prophet ﷺ’s religion, including its rewards or punishments, is considered disbelief. The Quran states:
Say: Was it at Allah, His Signs, His Messenger that you used to make a mockery of? Do not make any excuse, indeed you have disbelieved after your Iman. [9:65-66]
Engaging in or approving of magic, especially forms that manipulate someone’s emotions or actions, is an act of disbelief. The Quran warns against this:
They (the two Jinn) would not teach this to anybody except saying: we are only a trial so do not disbelieve. [2:102]
Helping or supporting polytheists against Muslims is considered an act of disbelief. The Quran says:
Whoever wholeheartedly supports them and takes them as friends is surely from amongst them. Verily Allah does not guide the oppressive people.[5:51]
Believing that anyone can be exempt from the Shariah of Muhammad ﷺ, as Khizr was from the Shariah of Musa (A.S), is an act of disbelief.
Completely neglecting the religion of Allah, by neither learning nor practising it, is a form of disbelief. The Quran states:
Who is oppressing than the one who, when the Verses of his Lord are mentioned, completely turns away from them. Indeed, we will exact retribution from the criminals (disbelievers). [32:22]
These ten invalidators are serious actions that can lead one away from the faith, regardless of whether they are done in jest, with intent, or out of fear, except when under compulsion. It is crucial for Muslims to remain vigilant and cautious, seeking refuge in Allah from His displeasure. May peace and blessings be upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, his family, and companions.
