The Ruling on the Khawarij and an Explanation of Their Departure from the Religion

The questioner:
Is there a ruling for the disbelievers derived from his saying (peace and blessings be upon him), “then he does not return to it”?

The Shaykh:
The issue of declaring specific cases to be disbelief is a matter of disagreement among the people of the Sunnah. The correct view is that they are not disbelievers. The correct view, and the view held by the majority, is that they are not disbelievers. However, they are misguided and in error. They fight because of their rebellion and their transgression against the Muslims. As for the evil of their evil, yes. As for their departing from the religion, departure varies; it may be a total departure, which is disbelief, or it may be a partial departure. Yes.

The presenter:
Correct.

The Shaykh:
The view held by the majority is that the Khawarij are not disbelievers; rather, they are among the misguided sects. They do not return to the truth and to righteousness, but they remain upon their belief.

The presenter:
May Allah reward you