Is fear of the oppressor or the arrogant, and the dread of tribulation and perishment at their hands, considered a blameworthy fear that leads to polytheism, such that it is said, "Whoever fears other than Allah has associated partners with Him"?

Fear of Allah is among the most excellent stations in religion, and with it, angels, prophets, and righteous people have been described. As for fear of creatures, it is divided into three categories:

1. Fear of a secret (khawf as-sirr): This is polytheism (shirk) because it is a belief in something other than Allah, attributing to it characteristics that belong exclusively to divinity. 2. Fear of the oppression of an unjust person: This is forbidden (haram), such as someone who abandons a duty or commits a forbidden act because of it. It may become permissible if there is coercion that allows the commission of a forbidden act or the abandonment of a duty. 3. Natural fear: This is permissible (mubah), such as the usual fear of predatory animals or drowning. This is an innate matter and is not blameworthy in the Shari'ah.