Kufr Isn’t Just “Not Being Muslim” – Here’s What It Actually Means
You think kafir means “non-Muslim.” That’s not entirely correct. The word kufr comes from the Arabic root meaning “to cover” or “conceal.” A kafir is literally “one who covers the truth.” Iblis (Shaytan) is called a kafir in the Quran—yet he believes in Allah ﷻ, saw the Prophet Adam عليه السلام with his own eyes, and never doubted Allah’s existence. His kufr? Pride. Refusal to submit. Ingratitude. The Quran also warns Muslims: certain actions are kufr. Denying Allah’s decree. Mocking the religion. Claiming to be Muslim while rejecting core beliefs. Classical scholars like Ibn Taymiyyah documented this: There’s major kufr (takes you out of Islam) and minor kufr (major sin, but you’re still Muslim). Most Muslims don’t know the difference. And that ignorance is dangerous.