Person Uttering A Lyrics/Word Of Disbelief Without Believing In It
A’ssalamu alaikum, In Islam, intention is certainly very important, but it is also necessary to understand that the Shariah does not look only at what is in the heart; outward words and actions also have their own legal weight. Faith consists of conviction in the heart, affirmation by the tongue, and manifestation through actions. Therefore, some words and actions are considered extremely serious in and of themselves. Regarding the first question, the general principle is that if a person knowingly and willingly, without any compulsion, utters clear words of disbelief or shirk, this is extremely dangerous and a grave matter. According to many jurists, certain explicit statements of disbelief, if spoken consciously and by choice, can themselves constitute disbelief, even if the person claims that he does not believe in them in his heart. The reason is that verbally affirming such beliefs is, in itself, contrary to faith. However, if the words are not being spoken as a personal affirmation of belief but are merely being quoted, such as in poetry or narration, and there is no mockery or inner acceptance involved, some scholars do not classify it as disbelief but rather as sinful and highly inappropriate. A Muslim is expected to avoid even verbal expressions that contradict his creed. Therefore, staying away from such songs or statements is the safer and more pious approach. As for the second question, acting is a more delicate issue. If a person, in a drama or film, plays the role of a non-Muslim and, as part of that role, utters words of shirk or performs an act that in reality is worship of other than Allah, scholars have differed on this matter. Some hold that since the person is not truly holding that belief but is merely portraying a character, it does not amount to actual disbelief, though it may still be impermissible or at least a serious sin, because he is presenting himself outwardly in a form that resembles disbelief. Others consider it a very serious issue and argue that deliberately performing explicit acts or statements of shirk, even in acting, is not permissible and may put one’s faith at serious risk. In summary, intention is indeed crucial, but it is not sufficient in every situation. Especially in matters related to creed, extreme caution is required. The safest path for a Muslim is to completely avoid statements and actions that are described as disbelief or shirk in the Shariah, even if they appear in the form of entertainment, songs, or acting. Faith is a serious way of life. It is not something superficial or merely cultural; it is a conscious commitment before Allah. True success does not lie in temporary enjoyment or social approval, but in attaining taqwa, which is a deep awareness of Allah that leads a person to guard his faith and actions. Therefore, a believer should fear Allah and avoid matters that may endanger his iman or bring him close to shirk or disbelief, even if they appear small, entertaining, or socially acceptable. Caution in matters of creed is itself a sign of sincerity and God-consciousness.