Are the Khawaarij considered to be from the people of the Qiblah?
Question:
Are the Khawaarij considered to be from the people of the Qiblah? And can one pray behind them? And what is the general rule regarding those who can be prayed behind, from the people of the Qiblah?
Answer:
The ulemaa have differed as to whether the Khawaarij are disbelievers or merely deviants and sinners. And the opinion that they are disbelievers is closer to the truth since the proofs indicate that they are disbelievers. As for praying behind them then it is not permissible except when they gain authority over a nation, as has been mentioned by the ulemaa. In this case, the Muslim should pray behind them and not abandon the congregational prayers.
Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan
Al-Ijaabaat al-Muhimmah fee Mashaakil il-Mudlahimmah, compiled by Muhammad bin Fahad al-Husayn
Translated by Abul-Irbaad Abid Zargar
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