Is a person who utters the word of disbelief (Kufr) under compulsion considered an apostate?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of the Apostate

Book 50 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

A person coerced into uttering the word of disbelief does not become an unbeliever. This position is held by Malik, Abu Hanifa, and Al-Shafi'i. The evidence rests upon the saying of Allah Almighty: {Except for one who is forced, while his heart is at rest with faith. But whoever opens his breast to disbelief, upon them is the wrath of Allah} (Quran 106:16). Furthermore, it is narrated that Ammar was tortured by the polytheists until he spoke what they demanded; when he reported this weeping to the Prophet (peace be upon him), the Prophet replied, "If they return [to torturing you], then return [to what you said]." Another narration states that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "My Ummah has been pardoned for error, forgetfulness, and what they are forced to do." When the compulsion ceases, the person is commanded to manifest his Islam. If he does so, he remains a Muslim. If he manifests disbelief, he is ruled an apostate from the moment of utterance, as this reveals he was content with disbelief and chose it at that time.

Supporting text

Muhammad ibn Al-Hasan holds that the person is outwardly an unbeliever, which invalidates his marriage, prevents Muslims from inheriting from him or washing or praying over him upon death. He remains a believer only between himself and Allah, because uttering the word of disbelief makes him resemble one who chose it willingly.