Fear of Shirk
FEAR OF SHIRK
Shirk in Islam means Idolatry or Polytheism. The word Shirk is derived from Arabic (s-r-k) which means Sharing.
Shirk means the sin of associating partners with Allah. In other words, attributing divine qualities to someone other than Allah.
Surely Allah does not forgive associating others with Him in worship but forgives anything else of whoever He wills. Indeed, whoever associates others with Allah has clearly gone far astray.
[Surah An-Nisa, 116]
Shirk is against the fundamental principle of Tawheed (the Oneness of Allah).
To avoid falling into Shirk (associating partners with Allah), it is important to uphold the principles of Tawheed - believing in and worshiping Allah alone. This can be achieved by seeking knowledge about Islamic beliefs, understanding what pure monotheism is, and being cautious of any actions or practices that might compromise it.
It is also important to self-reflect regularly. Taking time to assess our beliefs and actions, and turning to Allah in sincere repentance when we make mistakes, can help us stay on the right path and avoid unintentionally committing Shirk.
If you fear Shirk, recite the following dua with sincerity and humility to deepen your faith and be more mindful of your intentions and actions:
"اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ أَنْ أُشْرِكَ بِكَ شَيْئًا وَأَنَا أَعْلَمُ، وَأَسْتَغْفِرُكَ لِمَا لَا أَعْلَمُ"
Allahumma inni a'uzu bika an ushrika bika shay an wa ana a'lam, wa astaghfiruka lima la a'lam
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from associating anything with You knowingly, and I seek Your forgiveness for what I do unknowingly.
[Hisn al-Muslim 203]
Regularly reciting this dua strengthens the relationship with Allah which makes the faith strong and protects us from the sin of hypocrisy.
