Part 5
Author: Ahmed Shakib
In the previous parts of this series, we explored ten major sins attributed to the Khawārij. These transgressions are not merely indicators of their individual deviation but represent a deep betrayal of the Muslim Ummah as a whole. This installment continues the discussion, shedding light on three additional destructive behaviors characterizing the Khawārij throughout history.
11. Distorting the Image of Islam
Islam is a divine religion founded upon peace, mercy, justice, and compassion. Yet, the misconduct and extremist tendencies of certain individuals have severely tarnished this noble image. Through their actions and rhetoric, they present Islam as a religion of harshness, violence, and intolerance—largely due to their ignorance or deliberate misinterpretation of its authentic teachings.
Allah the Almighty states:
“وَمَنْ أَظْلَمُ مِمَّنِ افْتَرَىٰ عَلَى اللَّهِ كَذِبًا أَوْ كَذَّبَ بِآيَاتِهِ”
“And who is more unjust than one who invents about Allah a lie or denies His verses?”
(Surah al-An‘ām: 21)
The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) also warned:
“من كذب علي متعمداً فليتبوأ مقعده من النار”
“Whoever intentionally lies about me, let him prepare his seat in the Hellfire.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
Historically, extremist factions such as the Khawārij have misrepresented Islam as a faith of rigid severity and indiscriminate violence, rather than one of balance, mercy, and justice. Their actions have led many non-Muslims to associate Islam with oppression and bloodshed—an outcome that directly contradicts Islamic values, which condemn such atrocities in the strongest terms.
12. Enabling the Enemy to attack Muslim Lands and Mock the Religion
Among the gravest consequences of internal strife instigated by the Khawārij is the empowerment of external enemies. Through their rebellion, extremism, and misrepresentation of Islam, they create opportunities for adversaries to attack Muslim territories, occupy Islamic lands, and desecrate religious sanctities.
Allah Almighty warns in the Noble Qur’an about supporting oppressors:
“وَلَا تَرْكَنُوا إِلَى الَّذِينَ ظَلَمُوا فَتَمَسَّكُمُ النَّارُ”
“And do not incline toward those who do wrong, lest the Fire should touch you.”
(Surah Hūd: 113)
This verse serves as a severe admonition against any action or ideology that supports or strengthens the hand of oppressors. Yet the Khawārij, through their divisive rhetoric and rebellion, have repeatedly weakened the Ummah from within, inadvertently facilitating enemy aggression and blasphemy against the sacred symbols.
13. Undermining the Islamic State
The Islamic state is the backbone of societal order, justice, and the implementation of divine law. Any attempt to destabilize it or act in opposition to its legitimate authority directly threatens the unity of the Muslim community and incites fitnah (tribulation).
Allah Most High commands:
“وَاعْتَصِمُوا بِحَبْلِ اللَّهِ جَمِيعًا وَلَا تَفَرَّقُوا”
“And hold firmly together to the rope of Allah and do not be divided.”
(Surah Āl ‘Imrān: 103)
Disunity among Muslims erodes their collective strength and invites chaos. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) declared:
“من فارق الجماعة شبراً فقد خلع ربقة الإسلام من عنقه”
“Whoever separates himself from the community even to the extent of a handspan has removed the noose of Islam from his neck.”
(Sahih Muslim)
The Khawārij have consistently violated this principle, rising against legitimate rulers, sowing discord, and fragmenting the Ummah. Rather than preserving unity and stability, they have repeatedly undermined the Islamic order and opened the door to prolonged conflict and devastation.
