Khawarij

Overview

An early sect that emerged during the caliphate of Ali ibn Abi Talib, rebelling against both Ali and Muawiyah after the Battle of Siffin. Known for extreme positions on takfir (declaring Muslims as disbelievers for sins). Their ideology has influenced modern extremist groups.

Key Beliefs

• Major sins make one a disbeliever
• Rebellion against sinful rulers is obligatory
• Extremely strict interpretation