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Tawheed

Types of Tawheed

In Islam, Tawheed refers to the belief in the oneness of Allah. It is the foundation of the Islamic faith, affirming that Allah is unique and unparalleled. Scholars categorize Tawheed into three main types to highlight different aspects of Allah’s uniqueness:

  1. Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyyah (Oneness of Lordship)

    • This aspect emphasizes recognizing Allah as the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Administrator of all that exists.
    • It includes:
      • Creation: Allah is the only Creator of everything in the universe.
      • Providing sustenance: Allah alone provides for all living beings.
      • Giving life and causing death: Allah is the only one who controls life and death.
      • Regulation of affairs: Allah administers and regulates the universe without any partner.
      • Right to judgment and legislation: Only Allah has the authority to set laws and decide what is right and wrong.
      • Sending of messengers and revelation of books: Allah alone sends messengers and reveals scriptures to guide humanity.

  2. Tawheed al-Uloohiyyah (Oneness of Worship)

    • This type of Tawheed emphasizes that Allah is the only deity worthy of worship, meaning that all acts of devotion should be directed solely to Him.
    • It includes:
      • Exclusive worship: Only Allah should be worshipped; no other being shares this right.
      • Seeking help and rescue: Allah is the only one to call upon in times of need.
      • Sacrifice and vows: Any form of ritual sacrifice or vow should be made only for Allah.

  3. Tawheed al-Asmaa was-Sifaat (Oneness of Names and Attributes)

    • This category relates to acknowledging the names and attributes of Allah as described in the Quran and authentic Hadiths.
    • It includes:
      • Acceptance of Allah’s names and attributes: Affirming Allah’s attributes as described in the Quran and by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
      • No resemblance to creation: Allah’s attributes are unique and cannot be compared to any creation.
      • No misinterpretation or negation: The names and attributes are accepted as they are, without altering, denying, or likening them to anything else.

Explanation of Terms

  • Tawheed: The Islamic concept of monotheism, which asserts the oneness of Allah.
  • Ruboobiyyah: From the root Rabb (Lord), it refers to recognizing Allah as the Lord, Creator, and Sustainer of the universe.
  • Uloohiyyah: Derived from Ilah (deity), it emphasizes worship and devotion being exclusively for Allah.
  • Asmaa was-Sifaat: Refers to Allah’s names (Asmaa) and attributes (Sifaat), which help believers understand His nature.
  • Revelation: The process by which Allah sends divine guidance to humanity, primarily through prophets and scriptures like the Quran.
  • Sacrifice: In this context, it means religious acts involving the giving up of something valuable for Allah, like animal sacrifice.
  • Hadith: Recorded sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), which serve as a source of guidance alongside the Quran.
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