Definition, Etymology, and Background of Aqidah§
Aqidah (Arabic: عقيدة) refers to the Islamic creed or articles of faith, forming the foundation of a Muslim’s belief system. The word ‘Aqidah’ is derived from the Arabic root ‘ʿ-q-d’ (ع-ق-د), meaning “to tie” or “to bind,” signifying the convictions that are firmly held by a Muslim.
Islamic theological tradition identifies Aqidah in the Quran and Hadith, notably formulated through the declaration of faith in Allah, His angels, His scriptures, His messengers, and the Day of Judgment. This concise creed serves as the cornerstone of Muslim identity and practice.
Historical Facts and Dates§
- Early formulations of Aqidah appeared during the Umayyad Caliphate (661-750 CE).
- Significant developments occurred in the Abbasid Caliphate (750-1258 CE) with enhanced theological discourse.
- Shii-Sunni polemics became prominent during the Twelver Shia Islam’s inception around the 8th century.
- Shiʿi Islam emphasized the concept of the appointed Imamate.
- Sunni Islam highlighted the elected Caliphate system starting from the Rashidun (Rightly Guided Caliphs).
Cultural Differences and Similarities§
Shii Perspective§
- Imamate: Belief in divinely appointed leaders (Imams) through Ali and his descendants.
- Distinct Practices: Certain unique rituals and comprehensions of scripture, e.g., significance of Karbala and Ashura.
Sunni Perspective§
- Caliphate: Emphasis on the community’s role in electing leaders.
- Unified Practices: Shared rituals and creed under major schools (Hanafi, Shafi’i, Maliki, Hanbali).
Synonyms and Antonyms§
- Synonyms: Creed, Articles of Faith, Belief system.
- Antonyms: Apostasy (ردة - Riddah), Heresy (بدعة - Bidʿah), Disbelief (كفر - Kufr).
Related Terms with Definitions§
- Tawhid (توحيد): Belief in the oneness of God; the most critical aspect of Aqidah.
- Iman (إيمان): Faith or belief in the core tenets of Islam.
- Kalam (كلام): Islamic theological discourse or scholastic theology.
- Furu al-Din (فروع الدين): Branches of religion encompassing practical actions in contrast to Aqidah (the roots).
Exciting Facts§
- Diversity in Creeds: While the Shahada (Islamic declaration of faith) remains central, various schools have nuanced elaborations.
- Mutazilite Movement: Rationalist Islamic school influencing medieval discourse on predestination vs. free will.
Quotations from Notable Writers§
- Imam Abu Hanifa: “Verily, belief in God, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day forms the foundation of Aqidah.”
- Ibn Taymiyyah: “Understanding the correct Aqidah is paramount in ensuring that one’s worship is valid and accepted.”
Suggested Literature§
- “Creed and Deed: Islam’s Path to Salvation” by William C. Chittick.
- “Allah: A Christian Response” by Miroslav Volf.
- “The Theology of Unity” by Muḥammad ʿAbduh, edited by Br. Martin Lings.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell§
Embarking on understanding Aqidah elevates one’s spiritual insight, paving a stronger path toward Allah’s guidance. May your journey through this divine evolution be blessed.
Fatima Al-Rashid, October 11, 2023
