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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Wahabism At The Crossroads Section 3: Extreme and Severe Fanaticism Fanaticism today is referred to "extreme beliefs or behaviour in connection with something", whether it is about origin and return, about an ethical issue, some kind of custom and tradition of a nation or community, or even in defense of a particular individual.

The Commander of believers, Ali (‘as) in the Nahj-ul-Balaghah[^1]in the sermon of Disparagement[^2] has divided fanaticism into two types: positive and praised fanaticism, negative and forbidden fanaticism. Regarding negative fanaticism he mentions Iblis's fanaticism that prevented him from prostrating before Adam.

The Holy Imam (‘as) calls him the leader of fanatics of all creation, and asserts: "The enemy of God (Iblis) is the leader of all fanatics and fore-runner of the haughty." [^3] And regarding the praised fanaticism, he states: "In case you cannot escape fanaticism, let your fanaticism be for noble attributes and praiseworthy acts" [^4] Despicable fanaticism has always been linked with ideological obduracy, unilateral perspectives and irrational pre-judgments, and has always been – especially in our era – the cause for hatred and underdevelopment.

An indication of this kind of fanaticism is taking implacable and extreme stands, occasionally appealing to bloodshed and plunder, humiliating others, and resorting to obscene, hot-tempered and offensive phrases. Such fanatics grant no value to other people's views, have no ears for the reasoning of their opposition, and are disdainful and proud people. All this is observed in the statements and actions of Extremist Wahhabis and unfortunately, also in the books of the leader of this group.

Samples of their behavior are evident from the fact that on the slightest pretext they call Muslims Disbelievers or Polytheists: Mushrik and consider their blood and property permissible. Those who address the scholars and esteemed individuals of its opposition as "ignorant" and greet them with "Oh you polytheist[^5], and regard whoever refuses to accept their beliefs as targets, can they ever be ready for logical discussions and dialogue or "debate in a manner which is best"?