(a)Define the term Shirk
(b)Explain with three examples each, the two types of Shirk.
Explanation
(a)Shirk means associating partner(s) with Allah and it is the opposite of Monotheism (Tawḥīd).
(b) Types:
*Shirkul- Akbar(Major Shirk).
*Shirkul- Aṣghar (Minor Shirk).
Shirkul- Akbar is a major Shirk which constitute apostasy.
Shirk condemns the persons who practice it to Hell.
Examples:
*Atheism- Disbelief in Allah.
*Idol Worship.
*Hero Worship.
*Dualism.
*Trinity.
*Ancestral worship.
*Making a vow with other being other than Allah.
*Seeking supernatural help and aid from other than Allah.
*Making a middle- man (intercessor) between oneself and Allah.
*Palm reading or fortune telling.
Shirkul-Aṣghar is a minor shirk which does not constitute apostasy.
Its defects could lead to major Shirk.
Examples:
*Utterances, such as swearing by another deity other than Allah.
*Actions, such as wearing a ring or an amulet to ward off evil.
*>Ar-Riyā'u- show off.
*Hidden Shirk i.e. inwardly dissatisfied with the decree of Allah.
*Belief in superstitions.