What is Shirk? Understanding its Definition and Five Types in Islam
Pekalongan, Central Java, has come under scrutiny after a video of the Simbang Kulon Night Carnival (SKNC) 2026, held in the city, went viral on social media. Netizens have assessed the performance, which took place on 10 September 2026, as having similarities to satanic symbols or rituals. This is despite the event being organised as part of the celebrations for the Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Maulid Nabi) and a mass circumcision programme for the local community.
In the circulating video, participants can be seen wearing frightening costumes and using various props that have been linked to occult symbols. The SKNC committee stated they were not aware of the specific details regarding the performance concept. Meanwhile, a representative from Tim Simone, the group that performed, issued an apology, admitting a lack of literacy regarding the meaning of the costumes used. The costumes were reportedly rented from Malang, and the choreography was self-arranged by the team.
The Pekalongan Regency Government plans to seek clarification from the committee and coordinate with the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI). The MUI subsequently assessed that the performance, which resembled satanic rituals, was inconsistent with Islamic teachings and the spirit of the Maulid Nabi commemoration.
This controversy serves as a reminder that religious symbols, beliefs, and practices must be understood with caution. In Islam, one of the most critical issues of creed (aqidah) to understand is shirk.
So, what exactly is sh려는 (shirk) and what are its types according to Islamic teachings?
Simply put, shirk is the act of associating partners with Allah SWT in matters that are exclusive to Him. In other words, an individual attributes certain forms of belief, worship, or veneration to something other than Allah that should rightfully be directed only to Him.
The Qur’an strictly warns against this. In Surah Luqman, verse 13, it is stated: “And (remember) when Luqman said to his son, while he was advising him, ‘O my son, do not associate [anything] with Allah. Indeed, association [with him] is great injustice.’”
In Islamic teachings, shirk is not only related to the worship of idols or specific objects. Scholars explain the forms of shirk based on the degree and influence it has on tawhid (the oneness of God).
- Shirk Akbar (Major Shirk)
Major shirk is the most severe form of shirk. Generally, this occurs when a person attributes forms of worship or divine attributes to someone or something other than Allah. Examples include believing that there are beings other than Allah that possess divine power, worshipping others besides Allah, or offering acts of worship to others.
The Qur’an affirms that Allah is the One and Only God. In Surah Al-Kahf, verse 110, Muslims are commanded to do righteous deeds and not to associate anyone in the worship of Allah. This type of shirk directly relates to the foundation of tawhid and carries very serious consequences in Islamic creed.
- Shirk Asghar (Minor Shirk)
Next is shirk asghar, or minor shirk. This term is used for acts that are classified as shirk in Sharia but do not reach the level of associating partners with Allah in matters of divinity. One common example explained by scholars is riya (showing off), which is performing acts of worship or good deeds to gain praise or attention from humans. In the interpretation of Surah Al-Kaf, verse 110, riya is mentioned as a form of minor shirk. Therefore, a Muslim is encouraged to guard their intentions so that worship is performed for Allah, not merely for human recognition.
- Shirk in Intention
Shirk can also be discussed from the perspective of intention. A person may perform an act that appears outwardly good, but the primary goal is not to seek the pleasure of Allah. For example, someone might give charity not because they want to help or follow Allah’s command, but solely to be praised as a generous person. Thus, Islam teaches not only to improve actions but also to safeguard the intentions behind them.
- Shirk in Speech
Shirk can also relate to speech. In daily life, a Muslim needs to be careful when using expressions related to the power of Allah. The principle is not to equate creatures with Allah in matters that are His exclusive prerogative. The belief that only Allah possesses absolute power is a vital part of tawhid. However, not every expression that sounds imprecise automatically makes someone a mushrik (one who commits shirk). Judging someone requires an understanding of intent, belief, context, and scholarly explanation. Therefore, Muslims should not easily label others as mushrik.
- Shirk in Worship
Another type relates to practices of worship. Shirk can occur if a person directs worship, which should only be intended for Allah, towards something else. The Qur’an in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 110, provides a clear principle: humans are commanded to do righteous deeds and not to associate anyone in the worship of Allah. This highlights the importance of maintaining the purpose and the object of worship in a Muslim’s life.
Why is shirk considered a major sin?
Shirk holds a very serious position in Islam because it concerns the foundation of tawhid. The Qur’an in Surah An-Nisa, verse 48, states that Allah does not forgive shirk for those who die in such a state without repenting, whereas sins other than shirk are subject to Allah’s will. The verse reads: “Indeed, Allah does not forgive associatingty with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills.”