Definition
Loving for Allah's sake and disassociating for Allah's sake. Loving the believers and the truth they carry; disassociating from disbelief, shirk, and the people of bid‘ah — without injustice or transgression toward non-Muslims who do not fight the religion.
Pronunciation: al-wa-LĀ' wa al-ba-RĀ'
Etymology & Root
Walā' (ولاء) = allegiance, friendship; Barā' (براء) = disavowal, freedom from. Together they describe the heart's orientation in love and hatred.
Usage in the Qur'an
'You will not find a people who believe in Allah and the Last Day having affection for those who oppose Allah and His Messenger.' (al-Mujādilah 58:22)
Scholarly Notes
The Salaf clarified that walā' to disbelievers (in religion, secrets, and authority over Muslims) is forbidden, but justice, kindness, business, and good neighbourliness with peaceful non-Muslims are permitted and even commanded (al-Mumtaḥanah 60:8).
Common Misconceptions
Some confuse al-barā' with hatred of all non-Muslims as persons. Rather, it is disassociation from their disbelief, while still treating peaceful ones with justice and kindness.
Practical Application
Love a Muslim sinner for the imān he has and hate the sin he commits; befriend peaceful non-Muslims with kindness while never approving of their disbelief.
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