Can a Muslim not belong to any sect?

The question of whether a Muslim can not belong to any sect is a complex issue with different interpretations in Sunni and Shia scholarship.

According to Sunni scholarship, as reflected in Tafsir Ibn Kathir, the Qur'an warns against dividing one's religion into sects. It states: The sects among them differ: but woe unto the disbelievers from the meeting of an awful Day. 19:37. The Sunni perspective emphasizes that all Muslims should adhere to the unified path of Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah, which is based on the teachings of the Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Ibn Kathir explains that those who split their religion and become sects are misguided, as the Ummah has been warned against such divisions. Furthermore, the Prophet ﷺ taught: If somebody sees his Muslim ruler doing something he disapproves of, he should be patient, for whoever becomes separate from the Muslim group even for a span and then dies, he will die as those who died in the Pre-Islamic period of ignorance (as rebellious sinners). Sahih al-Bukhari 89:257. This indicates a strong emphasis on remaining within the community of Muslims.

On the other hand, Shia scholarship, as reflected in Al-Mizan fi Tafsir al-Qur'an, acknowledges that the followers of various sects exist and highlights the importance of adhering to the teachings of the Imams. The Shia view often emphasizes that while sects exist, true guidance lies in following the rightful leaders appointed by Allah, such as the Ahlul Bayt. Shia scholars also emphasize the importance of unity among Muslims but recognize the existence of sects as a reality of the contemporary Islamic landscape.

In conclusion, while the Sunni perspective strongly discourages separating from the Muslim community and emphasizes unity under Ahlus-Sunnah wal-Jama'ah, the Shia perspective acknowledges the existence of sects and emphasizes following the rightful guidance of the Imams. For a ruling that applies to your specific situation, consult a qualified local scholar.