Q: Many years ago I was having a heated argument with an individual. This individual at the time and now does not pray, rather rarely they do and I think it was in Ramadan and I think this individual was not fasting on this particular day and it was something like they were going out with their friends. I am not a knowledgeable person now nor was I then and I said something like this: “You are not a Muslim,” Astaghfirullaah. I don’t think I realised the seriousness of what I said and I realise the graveness of the words I uttered. From then till now I have repented for saying this, and obviously have had ghusl and said Shahadah many times. What do I have to do? What affect do my words have on me?
A: Not fasting in the month of Ramadhaan despite having the ability to do so is a grave sin. However this does not warrant one to call such a person a non Muslim. One should in such a situation politely educate the person and guide him to Islam. Sincerely repent for what you have done and make a firm resolve that you will not repeat the sin in the future.
And Allah Ta’ala (الله تعالى) knows best.
Answered by:
Mufti Zakaria Makada
Checked & Approved:
Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)