🌟 Understanding AL-AḤAD: The Unique Oneness of God in Islam
Definition
AL-AḤAD (الاحد): Literally meaning “The One,” this name signifies the absolute oneness and singularity of Allah in Islamic theology and is one of the 99 Names of Allah (Asma’ul Husna).
Etymology
The term “AL-AḤAD” originates from the Arabic root “أَحَد” (A-Ḥ-D), which denotes uniqueness and singularity. It signifies “one” or “single,” emphasizing that there is nothing comparable to Allah.
Background
In Islamic theology, AL-AḤAD defines the concept of Tawhid (توحيد), or the oneness of God. AL-AḤAD is used to express the absolute uniqueness and indivisibility of Allah, setting Him apart from all creation. This term is primarily mentioned in Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1) of the Qur’an, which reads:
“قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ” “Say, He is Allah, [who is] One,”
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Other monotheistic religions express the oneness of God similarly. For instance, in Christianity, the Shema Yisrael (Deuteronomy 6:4) declares the oneness of God: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” Similarly, in Judaism, the concept of an indivisible God is paramount, seen in the declaration “‘Adonai is our God, Adonai is one.”
Synonyms
- Al-Wahid (الواحد): The One, The Unique
- Al-Samad (الصمد): The Eternal, The Absolute
Antonyms
- N/A: There are no direct antonyms for a divine attribute like AL-AḤAD, as it signifies the unique nature of God, which itself excludes opposites.
Related Terms
- Tawhid (توحيد): The concept of Monotheism in Islam, emphasizing the oneness of Allah.
- Asma’ul Husna (أسماء الله الحسنى): The 99 Beautiful Names of Allah.
- Al-Wahid (الواحد): Another name of Allah, meaning “The One.”
Exciting Facts
- The concept of AL-AḤAD leads to the rejection of polytheism in all its forms within Islam.
- Reciting Surah Al-Ikhlas, where AL-AḤAD is mentioned, is considered by some hadiths to be equivalent to reciting one-third of the Qur’an.
- Understanding and internalizing AL-AḤAD creates a deeper connection with the unity of creation under one Creator.
Quotations
- Muhammad Asad: “The essence of Tawhid is eloquently captured by the name AL-AḤAD, likening the oneness of a golden orb suspended in the vast night sky - singular, unmatched, and eternally radiant.”
- Jalal al-Din al-Rumi: “In knowing the One as AL-AḤAD, realize that all multiplicity dissolves in the root of unity.”
References and Suggested Literature
- “The Meaning of the Glorious Qur’an” by Abdullah Yusuf Ali
- “The Ninety-Nine Beautiful Names of God” by Ghazali and David B. Burrell
- “Tafsir Ibn Kathir”
- “Oneness of God” by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
Quizzes
Farewell
“In understanding AL-AḤAD, we grasp the depth of Allah’s singularity. Reflect upon this knowledge and let it illuminate your journey towards spiritual enlightenment.” - Fatima Al-Rashid, October 2023
