Definition
Major kufr exits a person from Islam (e.g. denying Allah, mocking the religion, prostrating to an idol). Minor kufr is a grave sin without exiting Islam (e.g. fighting another Muslim, attributing rain to the stars).
Pronunciation: kufr
Etymology & Root
From the root ك-ف-ر (k-f-r), meaning 'to cover, to conceal.' The disbeliever 'covers' the truth that has been made clear to him.
Usage in the Qur'an
'Whoever disbelieves in Allah after his belief... upon them is wrath from Allah, and for them is a great punishment.' (an-Naḥl 16:106)
Scholarly Notes
The Salaf distinguished kufr akbar (which exits Islam) from kufr aṣghar (which does not). Takfīr of an individual requires the conditions to be met and the impediments removed — it is the prerogative of qualified scholars, not laymen.
Common Misconceptions
The Khawārij rush to declare every sinner a disbeliever; the Murji'ah refuse to acknowledge any action as kufr. Ahl us-Sunnah affirm kufr where the texts affirm it, with care for the conditions.
Practical Application
Be cautious about declaring individual Muslims to be disbelievers — leave that to scholars. But know what statements and actions constitute kufr so you yourself avoid them.
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Related Terms
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The people of the Sunnah and the unified body of Muslims.
Faith — statement, action, and belief.
Loyalty to Islam and disassociation from disbelief.
Directing all worship to Allah alone.
Stripping Allah of His attributes.
Singling Allah out for worship.