The important work written by Imam al-Ghazali (may Allah have mercy on him) in the 12th century serves as a response to the many tribulations that have emerged in our age regarding matters of faith and disbelief.

Those who adhere to the principle of "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger" and do not act contrary to it should refrain from declaring the "people of the qibla" as disbelievers (takfir)!

Acting contrary to this means to affirm that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) lied, regardless of any excuse. Declaring the people of the qibla as disbelievers is dangerous; however, there is no danger in remaining silent.

Do not forget that no one can be declared a disbeliever over secondary issues. The only exception where takfir can be applied is the denial of a fundamental religious principle known through the Prophet (peace be upon him) via tawatur (mass transmission). The work titled "The Line of Faith and Disbelief," written by Imam al-Ghazali and translated by Muhammed Emin Demiryent, is available from Semerkand Publications.