kiffar

Kiffar is a term used in some Islamic contexts, primarily by certain extremist groups, to refer to non-believers. The word is derived from the Arabic word "kafir," which generally means one who conceals or denies the truth, and is often translated as "infidel" or "unbeliever" in English. Within mainstream Islamic theology, the term "kafir" can describe individuals who reject the core tenets of Islam. However, the usage and interpretation of "kiffar" by extremist factions often carry a more aggressive and condemnatory connotation, sometimes extending to Muslims who do not adhere to their specific, narrow interpretation of the faith.

The application of the term "kiffar" by these groups can be a justification for violence and persecution against those they deem as such. It serves to create a stark dichotomy between their own group and all others, fostering an "us vs. them" mentality. This exclusionary language is a key rhetorical tool used to legitimize their actions and recruit followers. Mainstream Islamic scholars and organizations generally condemn the extremist appropriation of this term and its associated violent interpretations, emphasizing that the concept of disbelief within Islam is a matter for God's judgment and not a license for human aggression. The term's meaning and implication are therefore highly contested, with its most extreme and violent connotations being specific to radical interpretations rather than representing the broader Islamic understanding.