Discuss the teachings of Islam on Shirk.

Shirk means associating partners with Allah, that is, ascribing to any created being the qualities, rights or worship that belong to Allah alone. It is the opposite of Tawhid (the Oneness of Allah) and is the greatest sin in Islam. The teachings of Islam on Shirk are as follows.

1. Shirk is the gravest sin: Allah says He forgives all sins for whom He wills except that a partner be set up with Him (Q.4:48). One who dies upon Shirk without repentance is forbidden Paradise (Q.5:72).
2. Types of Shirk: Major Shirk (Shirk Akbar) is worshipping idols, spirits, the sun, moon or any being besides Allah; it takes one out of Islam. Minor Shirk (Shirk Asghar) includes showing off in worship (riya'), swearing by other than Allah, and excessive reliance on charms and amulets.
3. The whole mission of the Prophets was against Shirk: Every Prophet, from Adam to Muhammad (S.A.W.), called people to worship Allah alone and to shun false deities (Q.16:36).
4. Shirk nullifies good deeds: The Qur'an warns that if a person commits Shirk his works become worthless (Q.39:65).
5. Forms condemned in the Qur'an: worship of idols, angels, jinn, prophets, saints and graves; belief that others can independently give benefit or cause harm; and directing supplication, sacrifice or vows to other than Allah.
6. Cure of Shirk: firm belief in Tawhid, sincere worship of Allah alone, reliance (tawakkul) on Him, and seeking help and refuge in Him only.

Islam therefore condemns Shirk in all its forms and commands pure monotheism as the foundation of faith.