Discuss the teachings of Islam on Shirk.
Explanation
*Shirk (polytheism) is associating partner (s) with Allah.
*There are two forms of Shirk in Islam.
*Shirkul-Akbar (the major Shirk).
*Shirkul-Aṣghar (the minor Shirk).
*Committing Shirkul-Akbar takes one outside the fold of Islam (Kufr).
*Committing Shrkul-Aṣghar makes one a disobedient Muslim but does not take him out of Islam.
*Shirk is a grievous sin (Q.4:48).
*Example of Shirk al-Akbar is the denial of the existence of Allah.
*Other forms of Shirk include: Humanism, Trinity, Ancestor/Hero worship, Natural phenomena etc.
*The issue of Trinity is decisive on idol-worship (Q.107).
*Examples of Shirkul- aṣghar is Riyā; (show-off, eye service etc).
*One should disobey parents if they invite him to practice Shirk.
*Shirk is regarded as the highest form of hypocrisy (Q.3:13).
*The opposite of Shirk is Tawḥīd (Monotheism).