The concept of Tawhid, or “توحيد” in Arabic, is a fundamental principle in Islam that emphasises the oneness and uniqueness of Allah (God). The core concept distinguishes Islamic monotheism from any form of polytheism or associating partners with Allah.
In the Holy Quran, numerous verses highlight the concept of Tawhid, reinforcing that no deity is worthy of worship except Allah. One of the central verses is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:163), where it states:“وَإِلَٰهُكُمْ إِلَٰهٌ وَاحِدٌ ۖ لَّا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الرَّحْمَٰنُ الرَّحِيمُ”
Translation: “And your god is one God. There is no deity [worthy of worship] except Him, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.”
This verse underscores the absolute oneness of Allah and the exclusivity of His divine attributes. It is an explicit declaration against the worship of multiple gods or the association of any partners with Him.
To create unique and plagiarism-free content, one can explore various aspects of Tawhid, such as its theological significance, practical implications in daily life, and the unity it fosters among believers. Incorporating teachings from different parts of the Quran that emphasise Tawhid will add depth and authenticity to your content.
For instance, Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1-4) succinctly captures the essence of Tawhid:“قُلْ هُوَ اللَّهُ أَحَدٌ اللَّهُ الصَّمَدُ لَمْ يَلِدْ وَلَمْ يُولَدْ وَلَمْ يَكُن لَّهُ كُفُوًا أَحَدٌ”
Translation: “Say, ‘He is Allah, [who is] One. Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born. Nor is there to Him any equivalent.'”
Concept Of Tawhid According To The Quran:
The central concept in Islamic theology refers to the oneness and unity of Allah. It is the foundation of Islamic belief and encompasses various aspects, each contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the monotheistic nature of Islam.
Tawhid Al-Rububiyyah (Oneness Of Lordship)
Tawhid al-Rububiyyah emphasises Allah’s unique and exclusive lordship over the entire universe. This aspect highlights that Allah is the sole creator, sustainer, and controller of all existence.
Quran Verse (Arabic): إِنَّ رَبِّي عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ حَفِيظٌ
(Surah Hud 11:57)
Translation: “Indeed, my Lord is over all things, a Guardian.”
Tawhid Al-Uluhiyyah (Oneness Of Worship)
Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah emphasises the exclusive right of Allah to be worshipped. Muslims believe that all acts of worship, such as prayer, supplication, and sacrifice, must be directed solely to Allah.
Quran Verse (Arabic):وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالْإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُونِ
(Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:56)
Translation: “And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.”
Tawhid Al-Asma’ Wa Al-Sifat (Oneness Of Names And Attributes)
Tawhid al-Asma’ wa al-Sifat underscores the belief in Allah’s unique and perfect names and attributes. Muslims affirm these attributes as mentioned in the Quran and authentic Hadith without attributing human qualities to Allah.
Quran Verse (Arabic):لَيْسَ كَمِثْلِهِ شَيْءٌ وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْبَصِيرُ
(Surah Ash-Shura 42:11)
Translation: “There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.”
Understanding and adhering to the various types of Tawhid is fundamental in Islamic theology. It establishes the basis for a Muslim’s belief in the oneness of Allah in His lordship, worship, and divine attributes, forming the core of Islamic monotheism.
Fundamental Five Pillars Of Islam And Concept Of Tawhid
Shahada (Declaration of Faith)
The Five Pillars of Islam are fundamental acts of worship and practice for Muslims. They are Shahada (Declaration of Faith), the testimony that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger. Tawhid is the basic building block of Islam and Muslims in any case. If someone denies Tawhid, he or she is neglected by Islam and the Muslim community.
Salah (Prayer)
The performance of the five daily prayers facing the Kaaba in Makkah.
Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan)
Observing fasting from dawn to sunset.
Zakat (Charity)
Giving alms or charity to the less fortunate and those in need.
Hajj (Pilgrimage To Makkah)
Performing the pilgrimage to Makkah at least once in a lifetime, if financially and physically able.
The concept of Tawhid refers to the oneness and uniqueness of Allah in Islamic theology. It emphasises the belief in the absolute oneness of God, rejecting any form of association or partnership with Him. This concept is derived from various Quran verses and the Prophet Muhammad’s sayings (peace be upon him).
Quranic Verses on Tawhid:
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:163): “وَإِلَٰهُكُمْ إِلَٰهٌ وَاحِدٌ ۖ لَّا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الرَّحْمَٰنُ الرَّحِيمُ”
Translation: “And your god is one God. There is no deity [worthy of worship] except Him, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.”
Hadith On Tawhid
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasised the concept of Tawhid in various hadiths. One such example is
Narrated by Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him): “قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم: ‘قُلْ آمَنْتُ بِاللَّهِ فَاسْتَقِمْ'”
Translation: “Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: ‘Say, ‘I believe in Allah’ and then remain steadfast (on that belief).'”
This hadith highlights the importance of affirming the belief in the oneness of Allah and staying firm in that belief.
Quranic Verses on Shirk (Associating Partners with Allah):
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:22): “الَّذِي جَعَلَ لَكُمُ الْأَرْضَ فِرَاشًا وَالسَّمَاءَ بِنَاءً وَأَنزَلَ مِنَ السَّمَاءِ مَاءً فَأَخْرَجَ بِهِ مِنَ الثَّمَرَاتِ رِزْقًا لَّكُمْ ۖ فَلَا تَجْعَلُوا لِلَّهِ أَندَادًا وَأَنتُمْ تَعْلَمُونَ”
Translation: “Who made the earth a bed for you and the sky a canopy, and sent down from the sky rain and brought forth fruits as provision for you. So do not attribute to Allah equals while you know [that there is nothing similar to Him].”
Surah Luqman (31:13): “وَإِذْ قَالَ لُقْمَانُ لِابْنِهِ وَهُوَ يُعَظِّهِ يَا بُنَيَّ لَا تُشْرِكْ بِاللَّهِ ۖ إِنَّ الشِّرْكَ لَظُلْمٌ عَظِيمٌ”
Translation: “And [mention, O Muhammad], when Luqman said to his son while he was instructing him, ‘O my son, do not associate [anything] with Allah. Indeed, association [with him] is great injustice.'”
These verses warn against the sin of Shirk, emphasising the absolute oneness of Allah and the prohibition of associating partners with Him.
FAQs
Tawhid is the fundamental concept in Islam, emphasising the oneness of God. It asserts that there is only one supreme and indivisible deity, Allah. This concept shapes the Islamic worldview and underpins various Islamic teachings. Explore the significance of Tawhid and its impact on the Islamic faith.
Tawhid is a theoretical concept and a practical guide for Muslims. Explore how the belief in the oneness of God influences their daily actions, decisions, and interactions. From worship practices to ethical considerations, delve into how Tawhid shapes the behaviour and mindset of individuals following the Islamic faith.
While Tawhid is a central tenet of Islam, there may be variations in its interpretation among different Islamic traditions and scholars. Examine the diverse perspectives on Tawhid and how these interpretations might manifest in understanding God’s oneness. Highlight the commonalities and differences that exist within the broader Islamic community.
Tawhid is interconnected with other foundational beliefs in Islam. Explore the relationship between Tawhid, prophethood, and life after death. Understand how these core tenets complement and reinforce each other, providing a comprehensive framework for the Islamic faith and its followers.
Tawhid not only unifies the understanding of God but also plays a role in fostering unity among Muslims. Investigate how the shared belief in Tawhid contributes to a sense of community among diverse Muslim populations globally. Explore instances where Tawhid serves as a unifying force and its implications for intra-community relations.
Conclusion
Tawhid, the fundamental concept of Islamic monotheism, encapsulates the profound unity and oneness of the divine. It serves as the cornerstone of Islamic theology, emphasising the inseparable nature of God. Through Tawhid, believers navigate a spiritual journey that underscores the undivided essence of the Creator, fostering a deep connection and devotion. This concept not only shapes the theological framework of Islam but also provides a guiding light for believers seeking spiritual fulfilment and understanding in their faith.