The term “infidel” is often used as an English translation of the Arabic word kāfir (plural: kuffār), which is sometimes used by some Muslims to describe individuals who do not adhere to Islamic faith or practice. When this term is applied to Indians—particularly Hindus—it is generally rooted in theological, rather than necessarily hostile, interpretations of religious belief.
Here is a breakdown of why this term is sometimes used, along with necessary context:
1. Theological Definitions
- Definition of Kafir: In Islam, a kāfir literally means “one who covers up” or “conceals” the truth. It is used to describe those who disbelieve in the central tenets of Islam, specifically the oneness of Allah (Tawhid) and the prophethood of Muhammad.
- Polytheism (Shirk): Hinduism is generally viewed as polytheistic or pantheistic, involving the worship of multiple deities or idols. From a strict Islamic theological perspective, this is often classified as Shirk (associating partners with God), which is considered the most serious sin.
- Rejection of Specific Tenets: Because many Indians (particularly Hindus) do not accept the Quran as the final revelation or Muhammad as the last prophet, some strict interpretations label them as kāfir.
2. Contextual and Variable Usage
It is important to note that the use of this term is not universal among Muslims:
- Nuanced Views: Many Muslims do not routinely call non-Muslims kāfir. While it is a technical theological term, it is often seen by modern scholars as unnecessarily inflammatory.
- Alternative Terminology: Many Muslims prefer to use more respectful terms for people of other faiths, such as Muwathinun (citizens) or simply non-Muslims.
- Indonesian Context: For instance, the Nahdlatul Ulama, one of the world’s largest Muslim organizations (based in Indonesia), has officially urged Muslims to refrain from using the word kafir to describe non-Muslims in a modern nation-state, arguing it is hurtful and politically unnecessary.
3. Misconceptions and Nuance
- Not All Non-Muslims are the Same: In Islamic theology, there is a distinction between different types of non-believers. While strict views exist, historical, and many modern interpretations, view polytheists differently from “People of the Book” (Jews and Christians).
- Cultural Context: In some contexts, the term is used simply as a descriptive, legalistic label for someone outside the faith, similar to the term “heathen” or “pagan” in older English contexts, rather than as a slur.
Summary: The usage stems from a strict theological stance that identifies anyone not adhering to Islamic monotheism as a kāfir (one who conceals or rejects the truth). It is heavily rooted in theological disagreement rather than mandatory, blanket hostility, and its usage varies greatly depending on the individual’s interpretation, background, and cultural context. (Courtesy: Gemini AI)
As there are many Hindi movies, based on India-Pakistan conflicts and a portrayal of Indians as being called as infidels by some cast in the movies, if there is a potential fear that hindu muslim unity could be disturbed among others as there is a raise of conservatism in the tones of people, it is essential to remember Sathya Sai Baba Shirdi among others who fought for Hindu-Muslim unity and had celebrated Diwali even though he was a muslim saint and pray for peace. Here are his 11 vachans,
The 11 Promises of Shirdi Sai Baba
| 1 | No harm shall befall him who sets his foot on Shirdi soil. | Visiting Shirdi is seen as a way to wash away one’s troubles. |
| 2 | He who climbs the steps of my Samadhi (tomb) will find his suffering ended. | Even after death, his physical resting place is considered a source of relief. |
| 3 | Though I be no more in flesh and blood, I shall ever protect my devotees. | He is an eternal presence, not limited by a physical body. |
| 4 | Trust in me, and your prayer shall be answered. | Total faith (Shraddha) is the only requirement. |
| 5 | Know that I am ever-living to help you. | He rejects the idea that he is “gone”; he is “living” in a spiritual sense. |
| 6 | Show me the one who sought refuge in me and was turned away. | He claims to never reject anyone who sincerely asks for help. |
| 7 | In whatever form you worship me, I will respond in the same way. | He validates all paths and religions. |
| 8 | Cast your burden on me, and I shall surely bear it. | You don’t have to carry your worries alone; give them to him. |
| 9 | If you seek my advice and help, it shall be given to you at once. | He is an immediate guide for those who listen. |
| 10 | There shall be no want in the house of my devotee. | He promises that the basic needs of his followers will always be met. |
| 11 | I am indebted to him who surrenders to me completely. | He feels a “responsibility” toward those who trust him fully. |
The Secret Ingredient: Faith & Patience
While these promises are powerful, Sai Baba always reminded his followers that they work best when you bring two things to the table:
* Shraddha (Faith): Believing without doubt.
* Saburi (Patience): Understanding that help comes in its own time, not necessarily when we demand it.
(Courtesy: Google Gemini)