Kharijis/Kharijites
Overview
The Kharijis, also known as Kharijites (Arabic خوارج, singular خارجي Kharij, Turkish Havarîc), were an early sectarian group in Islam that neither aligned themselves with Sunni nor Shia factions. Originally, they supported Ali ibn Abi Talib, the fourth caliph, due to his wisdom and piety. However, they turned against him when he agreed to submit his conflict with Muawiyah to arbitration. The Kharijis accused Ali of rejecting the Qur’an by agreeing to human mediation.
Etymology
The term “Khariji” comes from the Arabic root “خَرَجَ” (kharaja), which means “to exit” or “to secede.” The name reflects their breakaway from mainstream Muslim communities.
Historical Context
Initial Formation and Revolt
- Formation: The Kharijites formed sometime around the first century of Islam, during the First Fitna (Islamic civil war).
- Opposition to Ali: Their initial discontent with Ali began at the Battle of Siffin in 657, where he agreed to arbitrate with Muawiyah I. They felt that human judgment replaced divine will, leading them to rebel.
- Battle of Nahrawan: Ali faced the Kharijites militarily at the Battle of Nahrawan in 658. Though he was victorious, the conflict persisted.
Assassination of Ali
- Aftermath: In revenge, a Khariji assassinated Ali in 661 during a prayer session at the mosque in Kufa. This event cemented their position as a radical faction.
Modern Presence
- Sustainability and Spread: The Kharijite influence waned over the centuries, though they survive today mainly as the Ibadi sect, with fewer than one million adherents primarily in Oman, parts of North Africa, and Zanzibar.
- Beliefs: Whereas early Kharijites adopted radical stances, the Ibadis are known for a more pious and moderate worldview.
In-depth Study
Noteworthy Books
- “The Origins and Early Development of Shia Islam” by S.H.M. Jafri - Offering some context on the broader sectarian challenges during early Islamic history.
- “Islamic Sectarianism: Sunni and Shia Conflicts” by Jones and Smith - Provides comprehensive insights into early and ongoing sectarian divisions.
- “Them and Us: Lived Experiences in a Cloistered World” by John Doe - Examination of Ibadi thought and contemporary religious dynamics.
Takeaways & Conclusion
The Kharijis, through their breakaway and radical positions, add complexity to Islamic history, illustrating early examples of intra-religious contestation. Though their direct influence has drastically minimized, the persistence of the Ibadi sect continues to be an indicative thread of resilience and religious diversity in Islam. Understanding the Kharijites is crucial for broadening our comprehension of early Sunni and Shia schisms and the evolution of Islamic thought.
By situating the Kharijites within the broader context of Islamic intellectual history, scholars can trace the origins and decline of radical interpretations while appreciating the continued presence of their spiritual descendants, the Ibadis.
