Is it permissible to apply Quranic verses that speak about disbelievers to Muslims in general, or are they specific to disbelievers only?
The descriptions of disbelievers in the Quran are of two types: The first type describes qualities of disbelief for which they deserve disbelief in this world and eternal damnation in the Fire. It is not permissible to apply the verses describing these qualities to non-disbelievers to avoid declaring Muslims as disbelievers; this is the approach of the Khawarij. The second type describes qualities that are not considered disbelief, such as engaging in falsehood and following whims. These qualities do not necessitate disbelief for their practitioner, but the Quran warned against them because they are precursors to disbelief. It is permissible to apply a quality of the second type to a Muslim without bestowing upon them the description of disbelief. Many evidences support this, including the tacit consensus of the Companions, the actions of the Prophet (peace be upon him), the actions of the Companions, and their application of verses concerning disbelievers to themselves.
Summary from Ftawy's records · added here
Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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- 139413
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- Summary from Ftawy's records, reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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