Tawheed: The Oneness of ALLAH
Tawheed means belief in one unique God. Tawheed (Monotheism) is Oneness and Uniqueness of ALLAH, and it comes from the Arabic verb "wahhada" which itself means to unite, unify or consolidate. Word Tawheed also Romanized as Tawheed, Touheed, Tauheed or Tevhid is the indivisible oneness concept of monotheism in Islam. However, when the term Tawheed is used in reference to ALLAH, it means the realizing and maintaining of ALLAH's unity in all of man's actions which directly or indirectly relate to Him.
Tawheed can be divided into three categories:-
1. Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyah (Maintaining the Oneness of ALLAH in His Lordship)
2. Tawheed al-Ibaadah/Uloohiyah (Maintaining the Oneness of ALLAH in His worship)
3. Tawheed al-Asmaa-was-sifaat (the Oneness of ALLAH in His names and attributes)
Tawheed ar Ruboobiyah means having the firm belief that ALLAH alone is the Lord and Owner of all things. He does not have any partners. He alone is the Creator, the Planner of this universe, the one who brings about changes in it. It also means having the firm belief that ALLAH alone is the Creator of all human beings, He alone provides them sustenance, and He gives them life and death.
ALLAH has Mentioned in QURAN:
There is no God except ALLAH. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN in,
We can understand Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyah in few points:
1. The Creator of everything
Only ALLAH is the creature of each and everything. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
There is nothing in this universe that has been created by somebody else. Everything has been created by only ALLAH Almighty.
2. The Owner of everything
ALLAH is not only the owner of all things. He is also the owner of the soul of all the creatures found in the universe. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
Everything in this universe belongs to only ALLAH alone. This earth has been temporarily given to us by ALLAH to test us. He alone is the owner of all things existing since we are not going to take with us any things given to us by ALLAH. Even the dominion and rule over all things in the heavens and the earth belongs to only ALLAH alone.
There is no portion of this universe left that belongs to anyone other than ALLAH. He alone is the Creator of everything, and He alone is the Owner. He hasn't made anyone else the owner of anything in this universe. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
3. The Controller of everything
ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
ALLAH alone is controlling each and everything that exists in this universe. He alone is the manager, guardian, protector, controller, and arranger of everything. ALLAH hasn't need to take any partner to help Him to manage or control this universe.
Prophet Muhammed ï·º taught the dua from the protection of satan that also define only ALLAH has the power of everything,
4. The Provider of Sustenance
There is no one who provides us sustenance except ALLAH. He says in the QURAN,
5. The owner of Life and Death
Life and death are in the hands of ALLAH alone, who created us from mud. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
6. Controller of Adversity and Prosperity
ALLAH alone has control over good and bad, Adversity and Prosperity both are from ALLAH Almighty. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
ALLAH is the one who gives us difficulties to test us, and He saves us from these difficulties, and He has the power to solve our difficulties. Many people turn to other than ALLAH in times of difficulty and problems, but they have no patience, they are not able to understand that ALLAH tests his loving slaves. Even among Muslims, many Muslims turn to other than ALLAH and ask them to solve their problems. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
This ayah is a refresher of belief and the proof that No one can remove any problem or difficulty that we may be suffering unless if ALLAH does want. There is no benefit in seeking help from others.
7. Sickness and Cure
ALLAH says in the QURAN,
ALLAH sent the QURAN, which has the power for the treatment of everything that ails you, be it as small as fever or as large as cancer.
ALLAH sent the disease with the cure. Only ALLAH has the power to make you suffer from disease and only he is the alone who gives a cure.
8. Blessing of the Children
Nobody can get the blessing of children without ALLAH's will. He gives all the things we needed. Getting children is the true happiness of a family and only he is able to give you. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
Hazrat Zakariyya AS said to ALLAH, "May ALLAH when shall there be a son (born) to me, and old age has already come upon me, and my wife is barren?
At that time Hazrat Zakariyya AS was 120 years old and his wife 98 in this old age ALLAH gave him a son named Hazrat Yahya AS.
Now how it would be possible without ALLAH. The Same condition was with Hazrat Ibrahim AS, He was also old and prayed for a son, ALLAH accepted his prayer and gave many sons.
1. The universe proves the oneness of God
ALLAH says in the QURAN,
An example: What will happen to a car which has more than one driver?
Surely it will have met an accident! So what would have happened to this universe if there were more than one ALLAH in it?
2. If there had been many gods
CATEGORIES OF TAWHEED
Tawheed can be divided into three categories:-
1. Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyah (Maintaining the Oneness of ALLAH in His Lordship)
2. Tawheed al-Ibaadah/Uloohiyah (Maintaining the Oneness of ALLAH in His worship)
3. Tawheed al-Asmaa-was-sifaat (the Oneness of ALLAH in His names and attributes)
1. Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyah
Tawheed ar Ruboobiyah means having the firm belief that ALLAH alone is the Lord and Owner of all things. He does not have any partners. He alone is the Creator, the Planner of this universe, the one who brings about changes in it. It also means having the firm belief that ALLAH alone is the Creator of all human beings, He alone provides them sustenance, and He gives them life and death.
ALLAH has Mentioned in QURAN:
"If indeed thou ask them (the disbelievers) who has created the heavens and the earth and subjected the sun and the moon (to His Law)?; they will certainly reply "ALLAH." How are they then deluded away (from the Truth)?"[Surah ul-Ankaboot 29:61]
There is no God except ALLAH. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN in,
Say, "Is it other than ALLAH I should desire as a lord while He is the Lord of all things?"[Surah Al-Anaam 6:164]
I. Implications of Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyah
1. The Creator of everything
Only ALLAH is the creature of each and everything. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
"ALLAH is the Creator of all things"[Surah Az-Zumar 39:62]
There is nothing in this universe that has been created by somebody else. Everything has been created by only ALLAH Almighty.
2. The Owner of everything
ALLAH is not only the owner of all things. He is also the owner of the soul of all the creatures found in the universe. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
"To ALLAH belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth and all that is therein."[Surah Al-Maidah 5:120]
Everything in this universe belongs to only ALLAH alone. This earth has been temporarily given to us by ALLAH to test us. He alone is the owner of all things existing since we are not going to take with us any things given to us by ALLAH. Even the dominion and rule over all things in the heavens and the earth belongs to only ALLAH alone.
There is no portion of this universe left that belongs to anyone other than ALLAH. He alone is the Creator of everything, and He alone is the Owner. He hasn't made anyone else the owner of anything in this universe. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"And those whom you invoke other than Him do not possess [as much as] the membrane of a date seed."[Surah Al-Fatir 35:13]
3. The Controller of everything
ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
"He arranges [each] matter from the heaven to the earth."[Surah As-Sajdah 32:5]
ALLAH alone is controlling each and everything that exists in this universe. He alone is the manager, guardian, protector, controller, and arranger of everything. ALLAH hasn't need to take any partner to help Him to manage or control this universe.
Prophet Muhammed ï·º taught the dua from the protection of satan that also define only ALLAH has the power of everything,
Ù„َا ØَÙˆْÙ„َ ÙˆَÙ„َا Ù‚ُÙˆَّØ©َ اِÙ„َّا بِاللهِ"There is no movement or power except by ALLAH"[Sahih Bukhari:6384]
4. The Provider of Sustenance
There is no one who provides us sustenance except ALLAH. He says in the QURAN,
"And there is no creature on earth but that upon ALLAH is its provision."[Surah Hood 11:6]
5. The owner of Life and Death
Life and death are in the hands of ALLAH alone, who created us from mud. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
"ALLAH is the one who created you, then provided for you, then will cause you to die, and then will give you life."[Surah Ar-Rum 30:40]
6. Controller of Adversity and Prosperity
ALLAH alone has control over good and bad, Adversity and Prosperity both are from ALLAH Almighty. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
"And if ALLAH should touch you with adversity, there is no remover of it except Him; and if He intends for your good, then there is no repeller of His bounty."[Surah Al-Anaam 10:107]
"And whatever you have of good things, it is from ALLAH."[Surah An-Nahl 16:53]
7. Sickness and Cure
ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"And We reveal of the QURAN that which is a healing and a mercy for believers though it increases the evildoers in naught save ruin."[Surah Al-Isra 17:82]
The Prophet ï·º said, "There is no disease that ALLAH has created, except that He also has created its treatment."[Shih Bukhari:5678]
There are a lot of diseases human beings are suffering from all are curable if ALLAH wants.
"ALLAH did not send down any disease but that he also sent its cure."[Sunan Ibn Majah:3438 authentic]
8. Blessing of the Children
Nobody can get the blessing of children without ALLAH's will. He gives all the things we needed. Getting children is the true happiness of a family and only he is able to give you. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"There did Zakariyya pray to his Lord; he said My Lord! Grant me from The good offspring; surely Thou art the Hearer of prayer."[Surah Al-Imran 3:38]
Hazrat Zakariyya AS said to ALLAH, "May ALLAH when shall there be a son (born) to me, and old age has already come upon me, and my wife is barren?
At that time Hazrat Zakariyya AS was 120 years old and his wife 98 in this old age ALLAH gave him a son named Hazrat Yahya AS.
Now how it would be possible without ALLAH. The Same condition was with Hazrat Ibrahim AS, He was also old and prayed for a son, ALLAH accepted his prayer and gave many sons.
II. Why Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyah
1. The universe proves the oneness of God
ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"If there were other gods therein (in the heavens and the earth) besides ALLAH, both (the heavens and earth) would have been in a state of disorder."[Surah Al-Ambiya 21: 22]
Surely it will have met an accident! So what would have happened to this universe if there were more than one ALLAH in it?
2. If there had been many gods
What would have happened if there were many gods? ALLAH says in the QURAN,
3. ALLAH or many gods
What is Better- Many gods differing among themselves or One God Supreme and Irresistible? ALLAH says in the QURAN,
When Hazrat Yusuf AS was in the prison, he asked the prisoners who is better than many Gods or only one ALLAH who is the creator of everything.
III. ALLAH and Human Being
Some men think that they are the controllers of things and doers of things. But they should think about this:
Prophet Muhammed ï·º taught the dua,
Whatever we have created, we would not be able to create if it was not for ALLAH. He created us, gave us the strength, the ideas, the resources, the possibility, the success in doing anything. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
Tawheed al Ibaadah is to single out ALLAH alone for all worship and not to worship anything along with Him, whether it be an angel, a Messenger, a Prophet, a pious person, a tree, a stone, the sun, the moon, the stars or other than these, such as money or one's desires. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
According to Ibn Taymiyyah (RehmatuLLAH)
This is a very good and comprehensive definition of the word "Ibadah". It shows that Ibadah is not just some actions of the body, but also includes actions of the tongue and actions of the heart whether open or hidden. All of these should be for the sake of ALLAH alone.
1. Purpose of the creation of mankind and Jinns
The very purpose why ALLAH has created us is to do His Ibadah. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
Those people who do not realize and do the Ibadah of other than ALLAH, both have not realized the purpose of their life. The very purpose why we are here on earth is to live a life of Ibadah. When we believe that ALLAH is our 'Rabb' - Why shouldn't we serve him?
2. Maintenance of Tawheed
ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
The very purpose of worship is to maintain Tawheed in the ibadah. In this ayah of the QURAN ALLAH has also mentioned that only he is the one to worship.
3. All acts of Ibadah for ALLAH alone
ALLAH has commanded in the QURAN,
Salah, sacrifice, Saum, Hajj, Zakat, Sadaqa, Zikr and each and every act of Ibadah is only for ALLAH ALONE. Not only that, our lives and even our deaths should only be for ALLAH, the Lord of the Universe.
Ibadah should be only for ALLAH Almighty. This is ALLAH's right on His slaves. But indeed most men do not render this right to ALLAH.
To understand Tawheed al Ibadah correctly ALLAH has mentioned the example of the Mushriks of Makkah in QURAN.
Who were the Mushriks of Makkah?
The Mushriks of Makkah were the inhabitants of Makkah who denied the Prophethood of Prophet Muhammed ï·º.
Whom did they worship?
They used to worship about 360 idols besides ALLAH.
Where were these idols placed?
Those idols were placed in and around the Kaba.
These Mushriks of Makkah opposed the Prophet ï·º all throughout the 13 years of his Makki life. They persecuted the Sahabah (his companions). They even tried to murder the Prophet ï·º before and after his migration. Furthermore, they fought the battle of Badr, Uhud, and Ahzaab against the Muslims.
Most Muslims know most of the above-mentioned facts about the Mushriks of Makkah. However, here is some information about them, which has been recorded by ALLAH in the QURAN, but most Muslims do not know.
1. The Mushriks of Makkah used to believe in ALLAH!
In spite of their idol worship, the Mushriks of Makkah used to believe in ALLAH. ALLAH has himself recorded this in His revelation to the QURAN in several places, and ALLAH has made them an example for us to understand Tawheed. They are an example we have to avoid following. This is similar to the stories of the rebellious nations of the past who have been described in the QURAN so that we do not follow their path. ALLAH has said in the QURAN,
Ask them: 'Who provides you with sustenance out of the heavens and the earth?
Who holds mastery over your hearing and sight?
Who brings forth the living from the dead and the dead from the living?
Who governs all affairs of the universe?'
They will surely say: 'Allah.' Tell them: 'Will you, then, not shun (going against reality)?"
So how have you turned away?”
It is very clearly mentioned that if they are asked, "Who created them" or "Who is it that sustains the universe"? They will say it is ALLAH. The Mushriks of Makkah used to believe in ALLAH and in all that is mentioned in the above verses about ALLAH. They used to believe that it is ALLAH who has created the heavens and the earth, it is He who is controlling everything, and it is ALLAH who protects, gives help, and sustenance. He has power over all things. So how have you turned away?
Some more ayah which mention that the Mushriks of Makkah used to believe in ALLAH is Surah Ankaboot 29:65, Surah Luqman 31:25 and Surah Zukhruf 43:9.
2. Where did the Mushriks of Makkah go wrong?
Yet they used to have more than 360 other gods whom they used to worship.
A question arises where did they go wrong?
How do the idols fit in?
Why did they not accept Muhammed (saw)?
ALLAH has recorded their words for all times to come in the QURAN,
They used to believe in ALLAH, but they only worship them so that they may bring them nearer to ALLAH in position. Another question arises here how a statue that can't protect their self brings you nearer to the ALLAH? ALLAH has mentioned in QURAN,
They used to say that those whom we worship other than ALLAH are our intercessors with ALLAH (do our Shafa’at). Hence, they used to direct acts of Ibaadah towards them. They used to perform various rituals, sacrifice animals, come for pilgrimage, and do other actions with the intention of pleasing these idols so that they may bring them closer to ALLAH and that they may be their intercessors with ALLAH but ALLAH has rejected their beliefs. He has called them Kafirs and Mushriks in the QURAN.
3. The Practices of some Muslims
Now let us look at some practices among many of our Muslim brothers. They say we believe in ALLAH as our "Rabb". But we are sinners and ALLAH is very high. Hence, we pray to our great saints that they may be our intercessors with ALLAH and may bring us closer to ALLAH.
See the words. Aren't these the same words that the Mushriks of Makkah used to say?
People direct acts of ibadah towards the Dargahs. They sacrifice animals there, place offerings at the graves, Many people do Ruku and Sajdah at the graves, Some kiss the graves, some do tawaaf around the graves, they offer sacrifices in other places in the names of the saints, they give charity for the pleasure of the saints, they spend periods of time sitting at the graves, they make dua to those saints.
All of these acts are done to earn the pleasure of the saints. Why?
So that they may (as believed by them) bring them closer to ALLAH and do Shafa’at (intercession) for them before ALLAH.
But the question, which arises, is how come the Mushriks of Makkah when they said the same words they were called "Mushriks", they were called "Kafirs". The Mushriks of Makkah were wrong. Why were wars fought with them?
ALLAH has indeed made their Shirk an example for us to avoid. But when many of our Muslim brothers and sisters say the same words as the Mushriks of Makkah, are they also not wrong?
This is indeed Shirk in Tawheed al-Ibadah. This is where most of mankind stumbles. It is required from us that we make all acts of Ibadah exclusively for the pleasure of ALLAH alone. He alone deserves worship. Further, there is no need for any intermediary and anyone else between man and ALLAH.
4. Most people blunder in Tawheed al Ibadah
Many among mankind are found to be holding the belief that it is ALLAH alone who is the controller of everything in this universe. Yet they dedicate acts of worship to others other than Him This is the aspect of Tawheed where most of mankind has gone astray. ALLAH has testified about this in the QURAN,
ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
Most of mankind acknowledges ALLAH as their Rabb, yet they join others along with ALLAH in acts of Ibadah (worship).
Tawheed al-Asmaa was-sifaat is maintaining the unity of ALLAH's name and attributes. ALLAH may only be described with the names and attributes of perfection which have been mentioned by ALLAH and His Messanger ï·º.
ALLAH says in QURAN:
This category is divided into four aspects:-
1. ALLAH should be referred to as described by Him and His MESSENGER ï·º.
2. ALLAH must be referred to as He has referred to Himself.
3. ALLAH has referred to without giving Him the attributes of His creation.
4. ALLAH's name cannot be given to his creatures.
These obligations provide the framework of a Muslim's life and weave their everyday activities and their beliefs into a single cloth of religious devotion.
No matter how sincerely a person may believe, Islam regards it as pointless life without putting that faith into action & practice.
Carrying out the TAWHEED (MONOTHEISM/ ONENESS OF ALLAH) demonstrates that the Muslims are putting their faith first, and not just trying to fit it into their secular lives.
1. All the names of ALLAH are most beautiful
ALLAH says in the QURAN,
We know ALLAH from His Names (Asmaa) and Attributes (Siffat). ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN in many places like Surah Al Araaf 7:180, Surah Ta Ha 20:8, Surah Al Isra’ 17:110 and in Surah Al Hashr 59:24 "To Him belong the Most beautiful names".
2. None is like ALLAH
ALLAH has said in the QURAN,
There is none like ALLAH, neither in his names nor in his attributes. There is no equal of ALLAH is, of course true. In this verse, ALLAH has said that there is none who is even like Him. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
No one, no great man, no Wali-ALLAH, not even any Prophet of ALLAH, no one shares with ALLAH His names or attributes. All of His attributes belong to ALLAH alone.
The starting point of Shirk in other categories of Tawheed is Shirk in Asmaa was Sifaat. It begins with the claim that others besides ALLAH also have ALLAH-like qualities.
For example, ALLAH is As-Sami (All Hearing). It is claimed that even many saints can hear all that is happening around the world. If you call on them from near or far they can hear you. Do they not see - when they were alive, could they listen and understand 3 persons talking at a time?
"Never has ALLAH taken anyone as a son, nor is there any god besides Him. (If there had been many gods), behold, each god would have taken away what he had created, and some would have tried to overcome others! Glorified is ALLAH above all that they attribute to Him!"[Surah Mominoon 23: 91-92]
What is Better- Many gods differing among themselves or One God Supreme and Irresistible? ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"Are many Lords differing among themselves better, or ALLAH, the One, Supreme and Irresistible?”[Surah Yusuf 12: 39]
III. ALLAH and Human Being
Some men think that they are the controllers of things and doers of things. But they should think about this:
Prophet Muhammed ï·º taught the dua,
Ù„َا ØَÙˆْÙ„َ ÙˆَÙ„َا Ù‚ُÙˆَّØ©َ اِÙ„َّا بِاللهِ"There is no movement or power except by ALLAH."[Sahih Bukhari:6384]
"While ALLAH created you and that which you do?"[Surah As Saffat 37:96]
2. Tawheed al-Ibaadah
Tawheed al Ibaadah is to single out ALLAH alone for all worship and not to worship anything along with Him, whether it be an angel, a Messenger, a Prophet, a pious person, a tree, a stone, the sun, the moon, the stars or other than these, such as money or one's desires. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"And your Lord is one Lord, there is none who has the right to be worshiped but He, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful."[Surah Bakrah 2:163]
"Ibadah is a comprehensive term, which includes all that which ALLAH loves and is pleased with, whether, said (e.g. Zikr) or done (e.g. Salah) whether open or hidden (e.g. fear, hope, trust, love etc)."
[Al-Uboodiyah Page no. 3]
This is a very good and comprehensive definition of the word "Ibadah". It shows that Ibadah is not just some actions of the body, but also includes actions of the tongue and actions of the heart whether open or hidden. All of these should be for the sake of ALLAH alone.
I. Importance of maintaining Tawheed al Ibadah
1. Purpose of the creation of mankind and Jinns
The very purpose why ALLAH has created us is to do His Ibadah. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
"I have only created Jinns and men, that they may worship Me."[Surah Ad-Dhariyaat 51:56]
2. Maintenance of Tawheed
ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
"And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him"[Surah Al-Isra 17:23]
The very purpose of worship is to maintain Tawheed in the ibadah. In this ayah of the QURAN ALLAH has also mentioned that only he is the one to worship.
3. All acts of Ibadah for ALLAH alone
ALLAH has commanded in the QURAN,
Declare: "Surely my Salah, my devotion, my life, and my death are all for ALLAH the Rabb of the Worlds."[Surah Al-Anam 6:162]
Ibadah should be only for ALLAH Almighty. This is ALLAH's right on His slaves. But indeed most men do not render this right to ALLAH.
II. The Mushriks of Makkah (An example)
To understand Tawheed al Ibadah correctly ALLAH has mentioned the example of the Mushriks of Makkah in QURAN.
Who were the Mushriks of Makkah?
The Mushriks of Makkah were the inhabitants of Makkah who denied the Prophethood of Prophet Muhammed ï·º.
Whom did they worship?
They used to worship about 360 idols besides ALLAH.
Where were these idols placed?
Those idols were placed in and around the Kaba.
These Mushriks of Makkah opposed the Prophet ï·º all throughout the 13 years of his Makki life. They persecuted the Sahabah (his companions). They even tried to murder the Prophet ï·º before and after his migration. Furthermore, they fought the battle of Badr, Uhud, and Ahzaab against the Muslims.
Most Muslims know most of the above-mentioned facts about the Mushriks of Makkah. However, here is some information about them, which has been recorded by ALLAH in the QURAN, but most Muslims do not know.
1. The Mushriks of Makkah used to believe in ALLAH!
In spite of their idol worship, the Mushriks of Makkah used to believe in ALLAH. ALLAH has himself recorded this in His revelation to the QURAN in several places, and ALLAH has made them an example for us to understand Tawheed. They are an example we have to avoid following. This is similar to the stories of the rebellious nations of the past who have been described in the QURAN so that we do not follow their path. ALLAH has said in the QURAN,
"And if you asked them who created them, they would surely say, "ALLAH”. So how are they deluded?"[Surah Az -Zukhruf 43:87]
ALLAH again asked in the QURAN,
Ask them, "Who provides for you from the heaven and the earth? Or who controls hearing and sight and who brings the living out of the dead and brings the dead out of the living and who arranges [every] matter? They will say, "ALLAH," so say, "Then will you not fear Him?"[Surah Yunus 10:31]
Who holds mastery over your hearing and sight?
Who brings forth the living from the dead and the dead from the living?
Who governs all affairs of the universe?'
They will surely say: 'Allah.' Tell them: 'Will you, then, not shun (going against reality)?"
So how have you turned away?”
It is very clearly mentioned that if they are asked, "Who created them" or "Who is it that sustains the universe"? They will say it is ALLAH. The Mushriks of Makkah used to believe in ALLAH and in all that is mentioned in the above verses about ALLAH. They used to believe that it is ALLAH who has created the heavens and the earth, it is He who is controlling everything, and it is ALLAH who protects, gives help, and sustenance. He has power over all things. So how have you turned away?
Some more ayah which mention that the Mushriks of Makkah used to believe in ALLAH is Surah Ankaboot 29:65, Surah Luqman 31:25 and Surah Zukhruf 43:9.
2. Where did the Mushriks of Makkah go wrong?
Yet they used to have more than 360 other gods whom they used to worship.
A question arises where did they go wrong?
How do the idols fit in?
Why did they not accept Muhammed (saw)?
ALLAH has recorded their words for all times to come in the QURAN,
And those who take protectors besides Him (say), "We only worship them that they may bring us nearer to ALLAH in position."[Surah Az-Zumar 39:3]
And they -worship other than ALLAH that which neither harms them nor benefits them, and they say, "These are our intercessors with ALLAH."[Surah Yunus 10:18]
3. The Practices of some Muslims
Now let us look at some practices among many of our Muslim brothers. They say we believe in ALLAH as our "Rabb". But we are sinners and ALLAH is very high. Hence, we pray to our great saints that they may be our intercessors with ALLAH and may bring us closer to ALLAH.
See the words. Aren't these the same words that the Mushriks of Makkah used to say?
People direct acts of ibadah towards the Dargahs. They sacrifice animals there, place offerings at the graves, Many people do Ruku and Sajdah at the graves, Some kiss the graves, some do tawaaf around the graves, they offer sacrifices in other places in the names of the saints, they give charity for the pleasure of the saints, they spend periods of time sitting at the graves, they make dua to those saints.
All of these acts are done to earn the pleasure of the saints. Why?
So that they may (as believed by them) bring them closer to ALLAH and do Shafa’at (intercession) for them before ALLAH.
But the question, which arises, is how come the Mushriks of Makkah when they said the same words they were called "Mushriks", they were called "Kafirs". The Mushriks of Makkah were wrong. Why were wars fought with them?
ALLAH has indeed made their Shirk an example for us to avoid. But when many of our Muslim brothers and sisters say the same words as the Mushriks of Makkah, are they also not wrong?
This is indeed Shirk in Tawheed al-Ibadah. This is where most of mankind stumbles. It is required from us that we make all acts of Ibadah exclusively for the pleasure of ALLAH alone. He alone deserves worship. Further, there is no need for any intermediary and anyone else between man and ALLAH.
4. Most people blunder in Tawheed al Ibadah
Many among mankind are found to be holding the belief that it is ALLAH alone who is the controller of everything in this universe. Yet they dedicate acts of worship to others other than Him This is the aspect of Tawheed where most of mankind has gone astray. ALLAH has testified about this in the QURAN,
"And most of them believe not in ALLAH without associating (others as partners) with Him!”[Surah Yusuf 12:106]
"They do not value ALLAH as they aught to have valued."[Surah Al Anam 6:91]
3. Tawheed al-Asmaa-was-sifaat
Tawheed al-Asmaa was-sifaat is maintaining the unity of ALLAH's name and attributes. ALLAH may only be described with the names and attributes of perfection which have been mentioned by ALLAH and His Messanger ï·º.
ALLAH says in QURAN:
"… There is nothing like Him, and He is the All-Hearing, All-Seeing."[Surah as Shooara: 11]
1. ALLAH should be referred to as described by Him and His MESSENGER ï·º.
2. ALLAH must be referred to as He has referred to Himself.
3. ALLAH has referred to without giving Him the attributes of His creation.
4. ALLAH's name cannot be given to his creatures.
These obligations provide the framework of a Muslim's life and weave their everyday activities and their beliefs into a single cloth of religious devotion.
No matter how sincerely a person may believe, Islam regards it as pointless life without putting that faith into action & practice.
Carrying out the TAWHEED (MONOTHEISM/ ONENESS OF ALLAH) demonstrates that the Muslims are putting their faith first, and not just trying to fit it into their secular lives.
I - About ALLAH’s Names and Attributes
1. All the names of ALLAH are most beautiful
ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"ALLAH! there is none worthy of worship but He! To Him belong the most Beautiful Names."[Surah Taha 20:8]
2. None is like ALLAH
ALLAH has said in the QURAN,
"There is no one like Him."[Surah As-Shura 42:11]
" And there is none comparable to Him."[Surah al Ikhlas 112:4]
The starting point of Shirk in other categories of Tawheed is Shirk in Asmaa was Sifaat. It begins with the claim that others besides ALLAH also have ALLAH-like qualities.
For example, ALLAH is As-Sami (All Hearing). It is claimed that even many saints can hear all that is happening around the world. If you call on them from near or far they can hear you. Do they not see - when they were alive, could they listen and understand 3 persons talking at a time?
When they were alive they could understand only a few particular languages, how is it that after death they can suddenly understand all languages. When they were alive they had a particular time to sleep, do they still have a particular time to sleep when they should not be called upon?
3. ALLAH will never make anyone like him
ALLAH says in the QURAN,
Many people believe that when ALLAH is pleased with someone he gives him one of His own qualities. They claim that for ALLAH that attribute is Zaati (on the basis of His own self) and for others it is Ataaii (bestowed by ALLAH). This is a false belief. If Allah was to do so then would the verse of the QURAN 42:11 still remain true "There is NOTHING like unto Him"? Surely He will never do that. There is none truer than ALLAH! (Also see 4:87). ALLAH says in the QURAN,
4. ALLAH’s Attributes and Human attributes
ALLAH’s Attributes should not be given to man. Some people wrongly give ALLAH’s attributes to some people and say that there are some people who:
This is Shirk in Tawheed al Asma was-Sifaat. Human attributes should not be given to ALLAH. Some people wrongly give man’s attributes to God Almighty and say that God also
1. Obligatory to avoid deviations
3. ALLAH will never make anyone like him
ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"And who is more truthful than ALLAH in statement."[Surah An Nisa 4:122]
"(He is) Doer of all that He intends."[Surah Al Burooj 85:16]
ALLAH’s Attributes should not be given to man. Some people wrongly give ALLAH’s attributes to some people and say that there are some people who:
- Know Everything – Past, Present Future
- Can see everywhere
- Can hear everything
- Have control over every atom of the Universe
- Can change destiny
- Infallible – can never make any mistake
This is Shirk in Tawheed al Asma was-Sifaat. Human attributes should not be given to ALLAH. Some people wrongly give man’s attributes to God Almighty and say that God also
- Needs Rest
- Forgot
- Makes Mistake
II. About Deviations regarding Tawheed al-Asmaa was-sifaat
1. Obligatory to avoid deviations
It is obligatory to avoid deviations concerning the names of ALLAH. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
ALLAH has commanded us to leave those who practice deviations concerning ALLAH's names, which means that we should not follow such persons who practice deviations concerning ALLAH's names. The Arabic word for deviation is "Ilhaad" which is the opposite of "Hanif" which means "rightly guided". The word “Ilhad” (deviation) used in the Ayah means deviation, wickedness, injustice and straying.
2. Deviation in Tawheed al Asma was Siffaat
"And to ALLAH belong the most beautiful names, so invoke Him by them. And leave [the company of] those who practice deviation concerning His names. They will be recompensed for what they have been doing."[Surah al A’raf 7:180]
2. Deviation in Tawheed al Asma was Siffaat
Why do people deviate from Tawheed al Asma as Siffaat? ALLAH has mentioned it in the QURAN
The main reason why people deviate in Tawheed al Asma was Siffaat is, "to say about ALLAH what you do not know." And Shaitan makes man do that. Regarding ALLAH, we should say only what is proven from the QURAN and the authentic Hadith as per the understanding of the Sahabah. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
We cannot speak about ALLAH from our desires or according to our wishes. It has to be from authentic sources. Hence, we should refer to ALLAH only as He has referred to Himself without giving Him any new names or attributes. The names and attributes of ALLAH should be understood only as explained by ALLAH in the QURAN or by the Prophet Muhammad ï·º in the Hadith.
1. At-Takyeef
Describing-‘how’ about ALLAH’s Names and attributes without knowledge.
At-Takyeef means, to ascribe a “Kayfiyyah" "How" regarding any of the Names of ALLAH or His Attributes, since the apparent Nusoos (evidence) is known to us in a way and unknown to us in another i.e., they are known to us as far the meaning is concerned but unknown to us regarding their "Kayfiyyah".
For example, we believe that ALLAH has Hands. How are they? We do not know. ALLAH is on His Arsh. How is that? We do not know.
"He [Shaitan] only orders you to evil and immorality and to say about ALLAH what you do not know."[Surah Baqarah 2:169]
"Say not about ALLAH anything except the truth."[Surah An Nisa 4:171]
And what is from our Lord? The QURAN and the authentically reported sayings of Prophet Muhammed ï·º as understood and followed by the first group of believers, who were chosen by ALLAH.
"This is the Truth from your Lord. Now let him who will, believe; and let him who will, disbelieve. We have prepared a Fire for the wrong-doers whose billowing folds encompass them. If they ask for water, they will be served with a drink like dregs of oil that will scald their faces. How dreadful a drink, and how evil an abode!"[Surah Al Kahf 18:29]
III. Prohibited To Say
1. At-Takyeef
Describing-‘how’ about ALLAH’s Names and attributes without knowledge.
At-Takyeef means, to ascribe a “Kayfiyyah" "How" regarding any of the Names of ALLAH or His Attributes, since the apparent Nusoos (evidence) is known to us in a way and unknown to us in another i.e., they are known to us as far the meaning is concerned but unknown to us regarding their "Kayfiyyah".
For example, we believe that ALLAH has Hands. How are they? We do not know. ALLAH is on His Arsh. How is that? We do not know.
Imaam Maalik رØمه الله was asked,
2. At-Tamseel
At-Tamseel means to take similitude for ALLAH. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
We cannot bring forward similitude, examples and descriptions for Allah from our own. Why? The answer is given in the second part of the verse – because, ‘ALLAH knows, and you do not know’.
3. At-Ta’teel
At-Ta’teel means Rejecting ALLAH’s Names and Attributes. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
When a person rejects any Name of ALLAH or His attribute he should fear the severe punishment that ALLAH has announced for those who reject His verses. An example of this is when ALLAH has said in the QURAN,
ALLAH has used the word, "Yadahu" which means "Both His Hands". Hence, we believe that ALLAH has two Hands. However, we do not know what the hands look like since 'There is NOTHING like Him’ ALLAH has Hands which befit His Majesty.
When people deny Hands for ALLAH they imagine human hands. However, even in the creation, we find different types of “hands”.
"How is ALLAH Istawa (established, ascended) on His Throne?"He answered: "It is known that ALLAH is “Istawa” (on His throne). However, its condition is unknown. Believing in it is compulsory. Asking questions about its condition is an innovation. And I see you as an innovator!"[Fatawa Ibn Taymiyah, Vol 5, Page no 144]
2. At-Tamseel
At-Tamseel means to take similitude for ALLAH. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the hearing, the seeing."[Surah As-Shura 42:11]
"So put not forward similitude to ALLAH. Indeed, ALLAH knows, and you do not know."[Surah An Nahl 16:74]
3. At-Ta’teel
At-Ta’teel means Rejecting ALLAH’s Names and Attributes. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"Indeed, those who disbelieve in the verses of Allah will have a severe punishment"[Surah Al-Imran 3:4]
"Rather, both His hands are extended. He spends however He wills."[Surah Al-Maidah 5:64]
When people deny Hands for ALLAH they imagine human hands. However, even in the creation, we find different types of “hands”.
For example: when we refer to say, ‘Hands of the Clock’ we do not expect hands with five fingers moving round. Similarly, when we say, ‘Face of the Mountain’ we do not expect a face with two eyes and a nose.
4. At-Tahreef
At-Tahreef means to change any of the Names or Attributes of ALLAH. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
Tahreef includes rejecting the correct meaning and accepting a new meaning. Sometimes this new meaning may be indicated by the words in a doubtful sense. Hence, Tahreef includes Ta'teel. But Ta'teel does not include Tahreef.
In the example mentioned in Ta’teel from the QURAN regarding the Hands of ALLAH,
Some people say that by "Hands" what is meant is "Power". However, in the Arabic language, there is a word for "Power" -"Quwah". ALLAH has not used that word here. ALLAH has used the word "Yad" which means "Hand" Besides the word occurs in its "dual" form. If it means "Power" then it would mean ALLAH has only two powers - Nauzubillah. Similarly, ALLAH has referred to Himself in the QURAN,
ALLAH has become Angry with them. Thus, anger is one of ALLAH's attributes. Some people do not accept this and say, "What is meant by anger in these verses is Allah's punishment." They say, "anger is a sign of weakness, and we cannot attribute that to ALLAH".
However, what ALLAH has stated should be accepted with the qualification that His anger is not like human anger, based on Allah's statement. "There is NOTHING like unto Him"
This process of "rational" interpretation when taken to its logical conclusion results in the denial of ALLAH's very existence! For, ALLAH describes Himself as living and man is also living. Therefore, according to the rationalists, ALLAH is neither living nor existing. The fact is that the similarity between ALLAH's attributes and those of mankind is only in name and not in degree. When attributes are used in reference to ALLAH, they are to be taken in the absolute sense, free from human deficiencies.
1. Protection from shirk
ALLAH will never forgive Shirk. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
2. Saves good deeds
Shirk destroys all deeds. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
ALLAH has given the example of his own Prophets that even if he was to commit Shirk, all his good deeds would have been rendered vain. Surely none of the Prophets of ALLAH will ever commit the sin of Shirk. But ALLAH has given their example for us to realize the danger of the sin of Shirk!
Can we imagine the stature, the quality and the sincerity of the deeds of the Prophets, However even deeds of such high stature will be rendered ineffective if the sin of Shirk is done!
4. At-Tahreef
At-Tahreef means to change any of the Names or Attributes of ALLAH. ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
"Do you covet [the hope, O believers], that they would believe for you while a party of them used to hear the words of ALLAH and then distort the Torah after they had understood it while they were knowing?"[Surah al-Baqarah 2:75]
In the example mentioned in Ta’teel from the QURAN regarding the Hands of ALLAH,
The Jews say: 'The Hand of ALLAH is fettered. It is their own hands which are fettered, and they stand cursed for the evil they have uttered. No! His Hands are outspread; He spends as He wills......"[Surah maidah 5:64]
Some people say that by "Hands" what is meant is "Power". However, in the Arabic language, there is a word for "Power" -"Quwah". ALLAH has not used that word here. ALLAH has used the word "Yad" which means "Hand" Besides the word occurs in its "dual" form. If it means "Power" then it would mean ALLAH has only two powers - Nauzubillah. Similarly, ALLAH has referred to Himself in the QURAN,
"He (ALLAH) has laid His curse upon them and has prepared for them Hell. What an evil end!"[Surah Al-Fath 48:6]
However, what ALLAH has stated should be accepted with the qualification that His anger is not like human anger, based on Allah's statement. "There is NOTHING like unto Him"
This process of "rational" interpretation when taken to its logical conclusion results in the denial of ALLAH's very existence! For, ALLAH describes Himself as living and man is also living. Therefore, according to the rationalists, ALLAH is neither living nor existing. The fact is that the similarity between ALLAH's attributes and those of mankind is only in name and not in degree. When attributes are used in reference to ALLAH, they are to be taken in the absolute sense, free from human deficiencies.
Importance of Tawheed
1. Protection from shirk
ALLAH will never forgive Shirk. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"Indeed, ALLAH does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with ALLAH has certainly fabricated a tremendous sin."[Surah An-Nisa 4:48]
Shirk destroys all deeds. ALLAH says in the QURAN,
"And it was already revealed to you and to those before you that if you should associate [anything] with ALLAH, then) surely (all) your deeds will become worthless, and you would surely be among the losers."[Surah Az-Zumar 39:65]
Can we imagine the stature, the quality and the sincerity of the deeds of the Prophets, However even deeds of such high stature will be rendered ineffective if the sin of Shirk is done!
If a person does Shirk even if he has tomes of good deeds they will all be rendered ineffective.
The example that we can consider is that of a person who types a document on a computer but does not save it. If the computer loses power all his effort is lost. Similarly, all the deeds of the person who does Shirk are lost.
If a person has Tawheed his deeds will get ‘autosave’ for the hereafter.
Another example is that of a person who fills water all night in a drum to use in the morning. But the drum has a hole at the bottom, due to which the water drains away. When he comes to use the water, he realizes that nothing has been collected. Similarly, on the Day of Judgment, the people who did Shirk will realize that their deeds have been lost. Will it not be sensible for the person to first close the hole at the bottom and then start collecting water?
Similarly, it is much more sensible for a person to learn the correct Aqeedah before he starts doing deeds.
3. Maintaining Belief
The mention of Imaan (belief) before Amal-us-Saleh (righteous deeds). ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
ALLAH has mentioned "Imaan" before "Amalus Saleh" (righteous deeds) Throughout the QURAN. Several actions in Shariah depend on the sequence of the words used by ALLAH in the QURAN. For example, ALLAH has said in the QURAN,
During Hajatul Wida,
Since ALLAH has mentioned Safa before Marwah, Prophet Muhammed started Saee at Safa. Similarly, when ALLAH has mentioned Imaan first, we need to learn Imaan first, and we need to teach it first. Before learning Aamal (deeds) a person needs to know Imaan (Aqeedah).
1. ALLAH the Rabb of the Worlds! Isn't He enough for us?
Shouldn't we accept Him alone as our Rabb and not associate anything with ALLAH!
ALLAH has said in the Qur'an in
2. Many among mankind are found to be holding the belief that it is ALLAH alone who is the controller of everything in this universe.
Most of mankind acknowledges ALLAH as their Rabb, yet they join others along with ALLAH in acts of Ibadah (worship).
3. We should never reject any Name or Attribute of ALLAH
4. We should never give examples for ALLAH from our own side.
5. We should never give any explanation of any Names or Attributes of ALLAH from our own side
6. We should not change any Name or Attribute of ALLAH.
The example that we can consider is that of a person who types a document on a computer but does not save it. If the computer loses power all his effort is lost. Similarly, all the deeds of the person who does Shirk are lost.
If a person has Tawheed his deeds will get ‘autosave’ for the hereafter.
Another example is that of a person who fills water all night in a drum to use in the morning. But the drum has a hole at the bottom, due to which the water drains away. When he comes to use the water, he realizes that nothing has been collected. Similarly, on the Day of Judgment, the people who did Shirk will realize that their deeds have been lost. Will it not be sensible for the person to first close the hole at the bottom and then start collecting water?
Similarly, it is much more sensible for a person to learn the correct Aqeedah before he starts doing deeds.
3. Maintaining Belief
The mention of Imaan (belief) before Amal-us-Saleh (righteous deeds). ALLAH has mentioned in the QURAN,
"But they who believe and do righteous deeds - those are the companions of Paradise; they will abide therein eternally."[Surah Al-Baqarah 2:82]
"Indeed, as-Safa and al-Marwah are among the symbols of ALLAH."[Surah Baqarah 2:158]
Prophet Muhammed ï·º said, while starting Saee at Safa,"We begin with what ALLAH began with.”[Musnad Ahmad: 14480 authentic]
Conclusion
1. ALLAH the Rabb of the Worlds! Isn't He enough for us?
Shouldn't we accept Him alone as our Rabb and not associate anything with ALLAH!
ALLAH has said in the Qur'an in
"Is ALLAH not all-sufficient for His servants?"[Surah Az Zumar 39:36]
"They do not value ALLAH as they aught to have valued."[Surah Al-Anam 6:91]
3. We should never reject any Name or Attribute of ALLAH
4. We should never give examples for ALLAH from our own side.
"So put not forward similitude to ALLAH. Indeed, ALLAH knows, and you do not know."[Surah An-Nahl 16:74]
6. We should not change any Name or Attribute of ALLAH.
"He [Shaitan] only orders you to evil and immorality and to say about ALLAH what you do not know."[Surah Baqarah 2:169]
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