In Islam, taqiyya (Arabic: تقیة, romanized: taqiyyah, lit. 'prudence') is a concept that refers to a Muslim concealing their faith or religious identity to protect themselves from danger. Although the term stems mainly from discrimination against the minority Shiite tradition, it is also considered a legitimate practice under certain conditions in Sunni sources. The practice of concealing one's beliefs has existed since the early days of Islam; early Muslims did so to avoid persecution or violence by non-Muslim governments or individuals.
The use of taqiyya has varied in recent history, especially between Sunni Muslims and Shia Muslims. Sunni Muslims gained political supremacy over time and therefore only occasionally found the need to practice taqiyya. On the other hand, Shia Muslims, as well as Sufi Muslims developed taqiyya as a method of self-preservation and protection in hostile environments.
