The Reality of Extremism

THE REALITY OF EXTREMISM A narration has been reported in various books of Hadith. Its translation is: “Beware of extremism in religion (iyyakum wal-ghulu), for the people before you were destroyed because of extremism in religion” (Musnad Ahmad, Hadith No. 3248). The literal meaning of the word ghulu is extremism. Extremism invariably becomes a cause of destruction. The fact is that religion has two aspects. One is the basic aspect, and the other is the secondary aspect. If emphasis is placed on the basic aspect of religion, no harm is caused. But when excessive emphasis is placed on the secondary aspect, this gives rise to extremism and becomes a cause of destruction. For example, in religion, the real importance lies in the spirit, while the form has a secondary status in comparison. In prayer, humility (khushu‘) holds a fundamental position, whereas the outward form of prayer occupies a secondary position. If excessive emphasis is placed on the form of prayer, and the