Definition§
Tawḥīd (توحيد) is the Islamic concept of monotheism. It represents the belief in the absolute oneness and uniqueness of God (Allah). This principle is foundational and central to the Islamic faith, asserting that God is singular, without partners, equals, or sons.
Etymology§
The term Tawḥīd comes from the Arabic root word “waḥḥada” (وحّد) meaning “to unify” or “to make one”. It is derived from the noun form “waḥid” meaning “one”.
Background§
Tawḥīd is the core tenet of Islam, encompassing three major categories:
- Tawḥīd al-Rubūbiyyah: Belief in the oneness of God as the Creator, Sustainer, and Ruler of all things.
- Tawḥīd al-ʿUlūhiyyah: Devotion and worship should be directed exclusively to God.
- Tawḥīd al-Asmāʾ wa al-Ṣifāt: Belief in the names and attributes of God.
Cultural Differences and Similarities§
Islamic Tawḥīd is similar to other monotheistic faiths, such as Judaism with its Shema (Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one) and Christianity’s belief in a singular divine entity expressed in the Trinity. However, Islam’s strict view on monotheism does not accommodate the Trinity concept found in Christianity, which depicts God in three persons.
Synonyms§
- Monotheism
- Oneness
- Divine Unity
Antonyms§
- Polytheism (belief in multiple gods)
- Henotheism (belief in one primary god while accepting the existence of others)
Related Terms with Definitions§
- Sharī’ah: Islamic law derived from the Qur’an and the hadith, emphasizing adherence to Tawḥīd.
- Shirk: The sin of idolatry or polytheism, considered the gravest sin in Islam, as it contradicts Tawḥīd.
- Iblis: The Islamic counterpart to Satan, represents disobedience to God’s command for strictly following Tawḥīd.
Exciting Facts§
- The first pillar of Islam, Shahada (faith), is the declaration of faith in the oneness of God and Muhammad as His prophet.
- Tawḥīd impacts every aspect of a Muslim’s life, including moral conduct, legal practice, and social commitments.
Quotations from Notable Writers§
Al-Ghazali wrote in his famous work Iḥyāʾ ʿUlūm al-Dīn: “True knowledge is to know with certitude that God exists uniquely, without being encompassed by space or subject to time.”
Suggested Literature§
- “God and Logic in Islam: The Caliphate of Reason” by John E. Hoover
- “The Principles of Islamic Theology” by Fritz Meier
- “Kitab al-Tawhid” by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab
Inspirational Thought-provoking Farewell§
Let Tawḥīd be more than a theological construct - let it be the compass guiding your heart, leading you towards an unshakeable connection with the One and Only Creator.
