Lesser polytheism, or Shirk Asghar, refers to actions or attitudes that do not remove a person from Islam but still diminish the purity of worship. Unlike major shirk, lesser shirk does not involve directing worship to other deities but includes behaviors that subtly affect one’s sincerity toward Allāh.
Examples of lesser shirk include:
- Showing off in worship (Riyā’): Performing acts of worship, like prayer or charity, to gain admiration or recognition from others rather than seeking Allāh’s pleasure alone. For instance, a person might make a prayer more elaborate if others are watching to impress them.
- Swearing by others besides Allāh: Saying phrases like “I swear on my mother’s life” or “I swear by my honor” is considered lesser shirk. Swearing should only be by Allāh, as He alone is deserving of such reverence.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned of the dangers of lesser shirk, saying:
“The thing I fear most for you is minor shirk.” When asked what that was, he replied, “Riyā’ (showing off).”
— Sunan Ibn Majah 4204