The concept that Allah is one is known as Tawhid and is the core of Islam. Every Muslim’s faith and practice are based on this fundamental Islamic idea. Islam is incomplete without Tawhid, which is the basic principle that influence worship, belief and the interaction between the people and their Creator. It is a holistic worldview that covers all facets of life and goes beyond a simple theological concept.
What is Tawhid?
The word Tawhid originated from the Arabic word “Wahhada” which means to unite or make one. The concept of Tawhid refers to the Islamic belief in the Oneness of God. This demonstrates that Allah is one and unique, without partners or children. No one is equal to Allah. “There is no God but Allah and Muhammad (PBUH) is His messenger” is clear but meaningful phrase.
No one shares His majesty and authority. All worship and devotion must be directed to Him alone. If one does not believe in Oneness of God then true faith has no meaning. Muslims declare oneness of God and vow to live in accordance with His instructions by believing in the Tawhid. It is also the initial step for those who wants to convert to Islam. Faith on the oneness of God is the foundation of all worship and practice.
The Core Role of Tawhid in Faith
The core of Islamic faith is Tawhid. The Shahada, declaration of faith, starts with these lines: “ La ilaha ill Allah .” (There is no god but Allah). Islam is differ from other religions is based on this just one statement. Muslims who believe in Tawhid, vow to worship Allah alone, submit to His commands and avoid from any form of shirk or idolatry.
The Muslim worldview is also influenced by Tawhid, which believes that everything originates from Allah, all things should be done to gain His pleasure and that life has meaning because of His will.
Categories of Tawhid
Islamic scholars explain three main categories of Tawhid to better understand its use in faith and practice.
- Tawhid al-Rububiyyah (Oneness of Lordship):
Belief that universe is created, maintained and governed by Allah only. His will is the only reason everything occurs.
- Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah (Oneness of Worship):
All forms of worships—prayer, fasting, supplication or sacrifice— are directed to Allah only. He alone is deserving of all worship.
- Tawhid al-Asma wa’l-Sifat (Oneness of Names and Attributes):
Belief in uniqueness and perfection of Allah’s names and attributes such Al-Rahman which means The Most Merciful and Al-Alim means The All-Knowing. Muslims accept them without changing, rejecting or equating them with human characteristics.
Tawhid in Daily Practice
Tawhid has an impact on Muslim’s daily lives and is not only a theoretical idea.
- In Worship: Muslims declared oneness of Allah by praying to Him directly without intermediaries.
- In Decisions: Decisions are made based on what Allah’s will, not just on material gain.
- In Gratitude: It is believed that Allah is the only source of all blessings, including food and health.
- In Patience: Having confidence in Allah’s plan helps people to be more resilient during difficult time.
Tawhid, thus, creates an Islamic way of life in which all deeds, no matter how minor, are linked to an acceptance of Allah’s oneness.
Tawhid vs. Shirk
Shirk is the opposite of Tawhid. Shirk means combining other with Him in worship and belief. Shirk is regarded as the most serious sin in Islam because it destroys the core of faith.
| Tawhid | Shirk |
| Believing that life and death only given by Allah. | Having faith that idols and saints can protect or damage you. |
| Making direct prayers to Allah only. | Asking from someone who is dead or praying at their grave. |
| Believing on that only Allah van give anything. | Believing that people, money or career can control your fate. |
| Depending on Allah in times of any hardship or difficulty. | Totally relying on amulets, superstitions or magical items. |
Shirk is the biggest threat to Islamic faith and Islamic faith are based on Tawhid.
Why Tawhid is Central to Islamic Concept of Life
Tawhid develops a whole Islamic view of life, not just merely a belief system.
- Unity in Worship: Muslims from all over the world offer prayers by turn towards the Kaaba. It shows their unity in Tawhid.
- Unity in Purpose: Belief is the primary goal and life is lived for the sake of Allah.
- Unity in Community: All Muslims are equal in front of Allah, regardless of their status, power and nationality.
The entire Muslim Ummah is strengthened by the unifying force of Tawhid, which also provides value to all aspects of human life including personal and collective life.
Tawhid and Inner Peace
Peace of mind comes from the believing in Oneness of Allah. A Muslim who has complete faith on Allah is not afraid of the powers of this world. Tawhid eliminates the pressure of serving several masters, whether they be social forces, idols or desires. Rather, power, awareness and happiness comes from faith in Allah alone.
