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Is pluralism one of the objectives of Sharia? What is the ruling on sectarian and religious pluralism? Is rejecting pluralism fanaticism? What is the ruling on fighting sectarian pluralism for dividing Muslims?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

The Quranic verses indicate that the diversity of human languages and colors, as well as the different colors of fruits, mountains, and animals, are among Allah's signs, demonstrating the perfection of His power and His sole right to be worshipped. They show that the true influencer is Allah, not nature.

As for sectarian and religious pluralism, it is divided into two categories: 1. Reprehensible disagreement: This refers to disagreements concerning beliefs and fundamental principles of rulings that are established by consensus. Opposition to this type of pluralism is rejected and combated because it contradicts the Qur'an, Sunnah, and the consensus of the early generations (Salaf). However, this rejection and denunciation must be carried out with wisdom and good counsel. 2. Non-reprehensible disagreement: This refers to disagreements in jurisprudential branches and issues on which the Muslim community has not reached a single opinion (such as the differences among the four Madhhabs). This is permissible, provided there is no fanaticism. Moving from one Madhhab to another is permissible under certain conditions, including not seeking out dispensations (rukhsa).

The truth lies in the middle, between those who reject adherence to a Madhhab entirely and those who advocate for rigid adherence to it. Adhering to a Madhhab is permissible for following specific scholarly arrangements, but it is not permissible if the intention is fanaticism.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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