Tawheed is the foundation of the Islamic faith and it emphasizes on Oneness of Allah. It is a fundamental concept that holds immense importance in the lives of Muslims. It also means to single out Allah in all forms of worship, whether they are verbal expressions or physical acts of devotion.
Allah mentions in Quran ‘’And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (51:56)
Monotheism is the foundation of the Islamic faith, emphasizing the oneness of Allah.
- It establishes a strong connection between the believer and Allah, fostering a deep sense of devotion and reliance on Him.
- It helps in purifying one’s intentions, ensuring that all acts of worship are directed solely towards Allah.
- It protects against shirk (associating partners with Allah) and other forms of polytheism, safeguarding the purity of faith.
- Understanding and practising the concept of monotheism leads to spiritual fulfilment, inner peace, and a righteous way of life.
Taghut (Shirk):
In Islamic terminology, “taghut” refers to anything that is worshipped or followed besides Allah, and it includes false deities, idols, tyrannical rulers, and any system or ideology that opposes the guidance of Islam. The concept of “taghut” emphasizes the importance of recognizing and rejecting all forms of falsehood and deviation.
In the Quran, Allah mentions taghut in various verses
‘’There is no compulsion in religion. The right course has become clear from the wrong. So whoever disbelieves in Taghut and believes in Allah has grasped the most trustworthy handhold with no break in it. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing.’’
(2:256)
‘’Have you not seen those who were given a portion of the Scripture, who believe in superstition and false objects of worship and say about the disbelievers, ‘These are better guided than the believers as to the way’?”
Surah An-Nisa (4:51)
The Prophet (PBUH) narrated, “Swear neither by the name of Taghut (i.e., false deities, false leaders, etc.) nor by your fathers.”
Riyad as-Salihin 1708 [Muslim].
Why is Tawhid Important?
The belief in the oneness of Allah holds great importance in Islam. Here are a few key points highlighting the significance of this concept:
1. Monotheism:
It emphasises monotheism. It means that God is one and He is alone the master of this universe. Monotheism in Islam also means that no one is or should be associated with His lordship, divinity, worship, names and attributes. It is an important pillar and foundation of Islam.
2. Worship of the Creator:
This concept directs believers to worship Allah alone, without associating partners or intermediaries. It ensures sincere devotion to the true Creator and avoids falling into polytheism or idolatry.
Allah mentions in the Quran “It is He who has sent His Messenger with guidance and the religion of truth to manifest it over all religion, although those who associate others with Allah dislike it.”
Quran 9:33
3. Purification of Faith:
The act of worshipping the true and one God purifies a person’s faith by eliminating any form of shirk (associating partners with Allah) or false beliefs. It leads to a direct and pure relationship between the individual and Allah, strengthening their connection to the Divine.
The Quran says “So know, [O Muhammad], that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and believing women. And Allah knows of your movement and your resting place.”
Quran 47:19
4. Unity and Equality:
The belief in the Oneness of Allah promotes unity among Muslims, emphasizing that all believers are equal before Allah. It transcends cultural, racial, and social boundaries, fostering a sense of brotherhood and equality in the Islamic community.
Our Holy Book says ‘’O Mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise each other).’’
49:13
5. Divine Guidance and Protection:
Embracing the concept of monotheism brings divine guidance and protection. It enables believers to seek Allah’s help, rely on His mercy, and receive His guidance in navigating their lives. It also offers spiritual comfort, support, and solace.
Believing and worshipping one God is the cause for us to enter paradise.
The Prophet (PBUH) once said ‘’He who died knowing (fully well) that there is no god but Allah entered Paradise.
Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 26
The Signs of Monotheism:
By observing the whole universe and the species residing in it, there are numerous signs that point towards the concept of monotheism, the belief in the Oneness of Allah.
These signs are meant to be seen and observed because they all serve as reminders and testimonies that there is someone who is bigger and more powerful than all of us. Let us explore some of the signs of Allah’s creation:
1) Order and Harmony:
The flawless order and harmony of the universe testify to the existence of a supreme and wise Creator. From the intricate movements of celestial bodies to the balanced ecosystems on Earth, everything moves in a precise order with harmony.
2) Design and Complexity:
The intricate design and complexity found in living organisms and this world demonstrate the infinite wisdom and knowledge of the Creator. The complex system of biological species, the delicate balance of atom structure, and the remarkable adaptations and interaction of the ecosystem with the complex and living species are visible signs.
3) Unity in Diversity:
Despite the immense diversity of creation, there is an underlying unity that connects everything. The common patterns and shared characteristics among different species and ecosystems highlight the underlying unity of creation. This unity reflects the concept of monotheism, emphasizing the oneness of Allah and His role as the sustainer of all creation.
4) Signs in the Quran:
Our Holy Book has various verses that highlight the signs of Allah’s creation.
At one place, the Quran says “Verily, in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding” (Quran 3:190).
All of such divine verses invite believers to reflect upon the signs of Allah’s oneness and feel His power in this world.
“Do you not see that Allah sends down rain from the sky and makes it flow as springs [and rivers] in the earth; then He produces thereby crops of varying colours; then they dry and you see them turned yellow; then He makes them [scattered] debris. Indeed, that is a reminder for those of understanding.”
(Quran 39:21)
A Strong and Significant Concept:
Tawhid is the concept of monotheism. By comprehending its meaning and acting upon it, one can open various gates of knowledge. Understanding and acting upon this ideology strengthen the Creator-creation relationship in Islam.
To get insight and depth on the importance of understanding the Quran, visit our website eQuranekareem online Quran Academy.
FAQs
Are Tawhid and monotheism the same concept?
Tawheed is the concept of monotheism. In Islam, it means that all our worship is directed towards Allah.
How does it impact the daily life of a Muslim?
It has a profound impact on the daily life of a Muslim. It shapes their beliefs, actions, and worldview. It influences their worship, moral conduct, interactions with others, and decision-making, as they strive to align their lives with the principles of Tawheed.
Are there different aspects of Tawheed?
Yes, There are three different aspects. Tawheed ar-Rububiyyah, Tawheed al-Uluhiyyah, and Tawheed al-Asma’ wa al-Sifat which means Oneness of Allah’s Lordship, Oneness of Allah’s Worship, and Oneness of Allah’s Names and Attributes respectively.
Why is it important in Islam?
It is important in Islam because it forms the basis of the Islamic faith. It rejects any form of shirks.
