Part 1
Written by: Rashid Shafiq
The Khawārij (Kharijites) have a historical reputation as an ideological group inclined towards violence, their involvement in various conflicts and events throughout Islamic history is well-documented. Their misguided beliefs persist even in the present era. Today’s Daesh are considered the Khārijites of the past.
Definition of “Khuruj” and “Khawārij”
1. Imam Shafi’i, may Allah have mercy on him, outlines: The Khawārij are those who, instead of adhering to the consensus of Muslims and scholars, interpret the Quran and Sunnah in an extreme and unfounded manner, thereby undermining the unity of the Muslim Ummah.
2. Imam Abu al-Hasan al-Ash’ari, may Allah have mercy on him, expounds: The Khawarij are those who declare Muslims as disbelievers due to sins or mistakes and believe that rebellion against Muslim rulers is obligatory if they perceive any faults in them.
3. The Historian and Mufassir Ibn al-Athir (may Allah have mercy on him):
In his book Al-Kamil fi al-Tarikh, he describes the Khawarij as a group that, based on their extreme interpretations, declared Muslims as disbelievers and revolted against Islamic governments.
4. Al-Shahrastani, in his book “Kitāb al–Milal wa al-Nihal,” provides a political definition of the Khawarij, stating that “Khuruj” applies to anyone who opposes an imam upon whose leadership the Ummah has agreed through Islamic legitimacy.
He further clarifies:
“Any act of rebellion against a rightful Imam, whether during the era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs or the subsequent period of the Tabi’un, signifies a Khariji stance.”
Furthermore, other scholars assert that individuals who adopt the beliefs of the Khawarij or engage in their activities share a common fate of being identified as Khawarij. Such beliefs and actions entail:
– Rejecting arbitration (Tahkim) as a method of resolving disputes.
– Deeming major sinners as non-believers.
– Advocating for rebellion against unjust rulers.
– Firmly believing that individuals committing grave sins will reside in Hell perpetually.
Names and Titles of the Khawarij
Various names have been attributed to the Khawarij in historical and theological sources. Some of these names are accepted by them, while others were rejected. One of the most well-known names is “Khawarij,” which is closely related to their beliefs and actions and has significantly impacted the political and theological life of the Muslim Ummah throughout history.
1. Khawarij: This is their most prominent and frequently used name, appearing in various articles and historical writings. Other names have nearly faded in comparison. This term encompasses all their sects and may carry either praise or condemnation.
If the term “Khawarij” is derived from the following noble verse:
“وَمَن يَخْرُجْ مِن بَيْتِهِ مُهَاجِرًا إِلَى اللَّهِ وَرَسُولِهِ ثُمَّ يُدْرِكْهُ الْمَوْتُ فَقَدْ وَقَعَ أَجْرُهُ عَلَى اللَّهِ”
(النساء: ۱۰۰)
Then this name is praiseworthy. From their perspective, they have chosen this name based on this meaning and have called themselves Khawarij accordingly, as will be discussed later.
However, if this name is taken to mean rebellion against imams, people, religion, or against Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him), then undoubtedly, it is a derogatory term for them, likely given by their opponents. This latter interpretation aligns with the views of many scholars and historians; however, the Khawarij have opposed this meaning, as they believe their rebellion against imams or people was justified in their view.
Historians of sects unanimously agree on referring to them as “Khawarij.” In Fath al-Bari, various narrations from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regarding the Khawarij are mentioned.
In a narration by Al-Bazzar, transmitted through Al-Sha’bi from Masruq, who narrated from Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), it is stated: The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) mentioned the Khawarij and said:
“هُم شِرَارُ أُمَّتِي، يَقتُلُهُم خِيَارُ أُمَّتِي.”
Translation:
“They are the worst of my Ummah; the best of my Ummah will kill them.”
Ibn al-Jawzi reported from Abdullah ibn Abi Awfa (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“الخوارج كلاب النار.”
Translation:
“The Khawarij are the dogs of Hell.”
