Islamic Studies Paper 2 WASSCE (SC), 2018

Question 4

  1. Define the term Shirk.
  2. Explain with three examples each, the two types of Shirk.



This was a very popular question and was attempted by many candidates. Generally, candidate’s performance was commendable except for the few who did not attempt it. The question demanded the candidates to define Shirk, explain its types with examples.  Thus:
 

  1. Shirk means associating partner(s) with Allah and it is the opposite of   Monotheism (Tawīd)  [Definiton]
  2.  Types:
  1. Shirkul- Akbar (Major Shirk).
  2. Shirkul- Aghar (Minor Shirk).

 

Shirkul- Akbar   is a major Shirk which constitute apostasy.
Shirk condemns the persons who practice it to Hell.
Examples:

  1. Atheism- Disbelief in Allah.
  2. Idol Worship.
  3. Hero Worship.
  4. Dualism.
  5. Trinity.
  6. Ancestral worship.
  7. Making a vow with other being other than Allah.
  8. Seeking supernatural help and aid from other than Allah.
  9. Making a middle- man (intercessor) between oneself and Allah.
  10. Palm reading or fortune telling.

Shirkul-Aghar   is a minor shirk which does not constitute apostasy.
Its defects could lead to major Shirk.
Examples:

  1. Utterances, such as swearing by another deity other than Allah.
  2. Actions, such as wearing a ring or an amulet to ward off evil.
  3. Ar-Riyā'u- show off.
  4. Hidden Shirk i.e. inwardly dissatisfied with the decree of Allah.
  5. Belief in superstitions.