Belief in One God (Tawheed)
Monotheism in Islam
Monotheism, or the belief in the absolute oneness of God, stands as the foundational principle of Islamic faith. In Islam, this concept is known as “Tawheed.” Tawheed signifies the unique and indivisible oneness of Allah, the Arabic word for God, and is a concept of profound theological importance. It encapsulates the idea that there is only one God, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, and that He is without partners, associates, or equals.
Islamic monotheism rejects the notion of multiple deities or gods, emphasizing that Allah alone is worthy of worship and devotion. This profound monotheistic belief is at the core of Islamic theology and has significant implications for the daily lives of Muslims.
112:1 قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ ١ Say, ˹O Prophet,˺ “He is Allah—One ˹and Indivisible˺; 112:2 ٱللَّهُ ٱلصَّمَدُ ٢ Allah—the Sustainer ˹needed by all˺. 112:3 لَمْ يَلِدْ وَلَمْ يُولَدْ ٣ He has never had offspring, nor was He born. 112:4 وَلَمْ يَكُن لَّهُۥ كُفُوًا أَحَدٌۢ ٤ And there is none comparable to Him.” Translation by Dr. Mustafa Khattab, the Clear Quran
Significance of Tawheed in Islam
Tawheed is not just an abstract theological concept; it is the cornerstone of Islamic belief with profound implications for the lives of Muslims. Its significance can be understood in several ways:
Monotheistic Worship: Tawheed demands that all acts of worship, devotion, and supplication be directed solely to Allah. Muslims pray, fast, give charity, and perform acts of kindness with the understanding that they are doing so to please and obey the one true God.
Moral and Ethical Framework: Belief in Tawheed serves as the basis for Islamic morality and ethics. It guides Muslims in their interactions with others, promoting justice, compassion, and honesty.
Unity and Equality: Tawheed emphasizes the unity of humanity under one Creator, transcending racial, ethnic, and social divisions. It underscores the equality of all individuals before Allah, regardless of their background.
Spiritual Fulfillment: Belief in Tawheed provides a sense of spiritual fulfillment and purpose. It encourages Muslims to lead a life in accordance with God’s guidance, seeking to please Him and attain His mercy in this world and the Hereafter.