What is the ruling for an apostate who does not repent?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of the Apostate
Primary text
The apostate who does not repent must be executed. This is the position held by the majority of jurists. The execution must be carried out with the sword, as it is the instrument of killing. The evidence for the obligation to kill the apostate is the Prophet's saying: "Whoever changes his religion, kill him." Furthermore, the manner of killing must be done with excellence (*Ihsan*), based on the Prophet's statement: "Indeed, Allah has prescribed excellence in all things, so when you kill, kill well."
Supporting text
It is prohibited to execute the apostate by burning with fire. While it is reported that Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him) commanded the burning of apostates, and Khalid (may Allah be pleased with him) did so, the prohibition against using fire is prioritized based on the saying of the Prophet, peace be upon him: "Do not torture with the torture of Allah," meaning fire.