Understanding Tawheed: The Essence of Islamic Belief

The primary reason is to worship the Almighty Allah, as affirmed in the Glorious Quran: "And I (Allah) created not the jinns and humans except they should worship me (Alone)." (Quran: Adh-Dhariyat: 56)

If our Creator fashioned us for this purpose, there must be guidelines for our submission to worship Him in a manner that pleases Him. Reflecting on the invitation of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) to Islam sheds light on this matter. When sent to deliver the message to the pagans in Makkah, he questioned their belief in Allah. They professed belief but explained that they worshiped other gods to get closer to Allah. This approach, however, contradicts the fact that Allah is closer to us than our jugular vein, a vein crucial to our logical sense.

Understanding Tawheed, which means singling out Allah, becomes crucial. It is obligatory to single out the All-powerful Allah in three categories: Tawheed Ar-rabubiya, Tawheed Al-Aluhiya, and Tawheed Al-Asmaa’ Wassefat.

  1. Tawheed Ar-rabubiya (Lordship): Acknowledging Allah as the sole creator, sustainer, giver of life, and administrator of the universe. (Quran: Multiple verses)
  2. Tawheed Al-Aluhiya (Worship): Demands worship of Allah alone in all acts of devotion, such as prayers, fasting, and Hajj. (Quran: Adh-Dhariyat: 56)
  3. Tawheed Al-Asmaa’ Was-sifat (Names & Attributes): Describes Allah as He has described Himself, without resemblance to the creation. (Quran: Multiple verses)

Key Points and Benefits of Tawheed:

  • Foundational Pillar of Islam: Tawheed is the cornerstone of Islam, essential for one to become Muslim and the first duty in all deeds.
  • Mandatory for Acceptance: All three types of Tawheed are mandatory for acceptance. Belief in only one or two types does not suffice.
  • Condition for Worship: Worship without Tawheed is considered polytheism, rendering deeds worthless and causing potential damnation.
  • Source of Security and Guidance: Tawheed ensures security and guidance in both this world and the hereafter, protecting believers from hardship.
  • Path to Jannah (Heaven): Tawheed is the means to enter Jannah and safeguards believers from the torment of hell-fire.
  • Wisdom Behind Creation: The creation of mankind and jinn is attributed to the wisdom of Tawheed, emphasizing the purpose of worshipping Allah.

In conclusion, Tawheed is not just a theological concept but a guiding principle that shapes the essence of Islamic belief and practices. It is the key to both individual salvation and collective harmony in the worship of the one true God, Allah.

 

Publish Date: 6/2/2024 8:54:46 AM