Q 169: If it is said: Prostrating oneself before an idol, mocking at the Qur'an, abusing the Prophet and religion, etc. all these are regarded as aspects of the practical disbelief. The question is! Why do these acts exclude one from the fold of Islam, while the practical disbelief in general does not?
A--- One should know that these four acts and the like are not from among the acts of practical disbelief. They are only regarded as such because they are performed by the organs as apparently noticed. But, the truth is that they do not take place unless deeds of tile heart -i.e.
intention, sincerity, passion and submission -are gone. Hence, they apparently look like practical disbelief, but they basically require the dogmatic disbelief first. Consequently, these acts can not be performed but by a malicious hypocrite or a stubborn arrogant. This explains the position of hypocrites in the Battle of Tabuk. In the beginning, {They said the word of disbelief, and they disbelieved after accepting Islam, and they resolved that (plot to murder Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)) which they were unable to carry out}. () But, when Muslims got victory, they declared, {We were only talking idly and joking}. () Here, came Allah's Word: {Say: "Was it at Allah (the Almighty), and His Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations) and His Messenger «Peace be upon him)) that you were mocking?" Make no excuse; you disbelieved after you had believed}. ()