Fatwa ID: 08147

Answered by: Maulana Abdoullah Limvoonheek

Question:

What’s the hukm on the Batini Isma’ilees, Agha Khani, and Druze? Kuffar or Murtadeen?

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمنِ الرَّحِيم

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

Answer:

The Isma’ilees are a branch of Shia Islam, and their beliefs diverge significantly from the beliefs of Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama’ah (the mainstream Sunni community). The Isma’ilees were present from the time of the Prophet Muhammad (saw) and have historically been known as the Sabaiyyah. Today, they are gaining popularity again under various names, with their beliefs often being in opposition to the fundamentals of Sunni Islam.

The Agha Khan is the title of the Imam of the Nizari Isma’ili Shia sect. This position has political and historical significance, particularly in British imperial history, where the British saw value in having control over such a sect for political and strategic reasons. This sect does not adhere to the core beliefs and practices of Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama’ah.

The Druze faith developed from Isma’ilism, but the Druze do not identify themselves as Muslims. They believe in concepts such as reincarnation and in the hidden nature of their beliefs, practicing Taqiyyah (concealing their true beliefs when necessary). The Druze maintain the Arabic language and culture but do not follow the basic tenets of Islam.

Given their beliefs and practices, the Isma’ilees, Agha Khani, and Druze are not considered Muslims. They hold beliefs that are at odds with core Islamic principles, and as such, they do not fall under the category of Murtad (apostates) because they never truly adhered to Islam. Instead, they are considered Kuffar (disbelievers) due to their rejection of key aspects of the faith.

Hope this answers the question.

Only Allah (عز و جل) knows best.

Written by Maulana Abdoullah Limvoonheek
Checked and approved by Mufti Mohammed Tosir Miah
Darul Ifta Birmingham

References:

Seven Pillars of Ismailism

Aga Khan

Druze