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
### What is the primary function of Aqidah in Islam?
- [x] To outline the core beliefs of a Muslim.
- [ ] To provide a systematic approach to fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence).
- [ ] To detail the social etiquettes of Muslims.
- [ ] To narrate Islamic historical events.
> **Explanation:** Aqidah serves to define and encapsulate the fundamental beliefs that all Muslims adhere to, comprising the foundation of their faith.
### What historical event significantly contributed to the divergence in Aqidah between Shii and Sunni Muslims?
- [x] The death of the Prophet Muhammad.
- [ ] The Abbasid Revolution.
- [ ] The construction of the Kaaba.
- [ ] The Migration to Medina.
> **Explanation:** The death of Prophet Muhammad led to differing opinions on religious leadership and succession, causing major ideological splits between Shii and Sunni Muslims.
### The term Aqidah is rooted in which Arabic letters?
- [x] ع-ق-د
- [ ] ك-ت-ب
- [ ] ن-ب-ي
- [ ] ع-ل-م
> **Explanation:** The root "ʿ-q-d" (ع-ق-د) in Arabic means "to bind," directly associating with the binding convictions held within Aqidah.
### Which key belief is shared consistently between Shii and Sunni perspectives of Aqidah?
- [x] Oneness of God (Tawhid).
- [ ] The uniqueness of rituals.
- [ ] Predestination principles.
- [ ] Method of scriptural interpretation.
> **Explanation:** Despite the differences, both Shii and Sunni agree on the core tenet of Tawhid - the belief in the oneness of God.
### What does Tawhid represent within the structure of Aqidah?
- [x] The oneness of God.
- [ ] The divine leadership appointment.
- [ ] Angels.
- [ ] Afterlife judgment.
> **Explanation:** Tawhid is the primary belief in the oneness of God, forming the essence of the Islamic faith and central to Aqidah.
### During which caliphate did significant theological discussions about Aqidah take place?
- [x] Abbasid Caliphate.
- [ ] Umayyad Caliphate.
- [ ] Ottoman Caliphate.
- [ ] Rashidun Caliphate.
> **Explanation:** The Abbasid Caliphate was a period known for its scholarly advances and heightened theological discussions, including developments within Aqidah.
### Mutazilite Movement is known for discussions of which nature within Aqidah?
- [x] Rationalist theological discourse.
- [ ] Military strategies.
- [ ] Artistic expressions.
- [ ] Geographic discoveries.
> **Explanation:** The Mutazilites were known for their rationalist approach to Islamic theology, particularly their emphasis on reason and free will versus predestination.
### Which school is emphasized for interpreting the practical actions versus the roots in Islamic theology reflected by Aqidah?
- [x] Furu al-Din.
- [ ] Imamate.
- [ ] Kalam.
- [ ] Tawhid.
> **Explanation:** Furu al-Din focuses on practical obligations in Islam, contrasting with Aqidah which pertains to theological roots and beliefs.
