What are the types of greater polytheism (Shirk Akbar)?
There are four types of greater polytheism (Shirk Akbar): 1. The polytheism in invocation [i.e. involving supplications to other than Allah (SWT)]. 2. The polytheism in intentions [i.e. purpose and intentions not for the sake of Allah (SWT) but directed towards other deities]. 3. The polytheism in obedience [i.e. rendering obedience to any authority against the Order of Allah (SWT)]. 4. The polytheism in love [i.e. showing love to others which is due to Allah (SWT) Alone]. What is lesser polytheism (Shirk Asghar)? The lesser polytheism (Shirk Asghar) is Ar-Riya, that means the acts of worship done to gain praise or fame rather than to please Allah (SWT), this type of polytheism, however, does not cast the person committing it out of the fold of Islam. What is inconspicuous polytheism (Shirk Khafi)? The inconspicuous polytheism (Shirk Khafi) implies being dissatisfied with the conditions ordained by Allah (SWT). What is the proof of the inconspicuous polytheism (Shirk Khafi)? The proof
