AL-AḤAD (الاحد)
Definition
AL-AḤAD (الاحد): “The One.” This is a title given to God in Islam, signifying His absolute oneness and uniqueness. It forms one of the 99 Names of God (Asma’ul Husna) in Islamic tradition.
Etymology
Arabic: الاحد - Al-Aḥad
- Al- (ال): The definite article “the.”
- Aḥad (أحد): One, unique.
Together, “AL-AḤAD” means “The One,” emphasizing the absolute and indivisible oneness of God.
Turkish Translation
Turkish: El-Ahad (Bir Olan)
Significance in Islam
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Concept of Tawhid: AL-AḤAD is integral to the concept of Tawhid, the fundamental Islamic belief in the oneness and uniqueness of God. It underscores that there is no partnership, division, or equivalent to God.
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Qur’anic Usage: One of the most significant references to AL-AḤAD in the Qur’an is in Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1), which states, “Say: He, Allah, is One (اللہ احد).”
1قُلْ هُوَ اللَّهُ أَحَدٌ ﴿1﴾
“Say: He is Allah, the One.”
Takeaways
- Unity: AL-AḤAD expresses the unity and singular nature of God in Islam.
- Incomparable: It indicates that God has no equals, partners, or divisions.
- Integral Concept: Understanding AL-AḤAD is essential for grasping the basic tenet of Tawhid in Islamic theology.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “The 99 Names of God in Islam” by David Bentley
- “Al-Ghazali on the Ninety-nine Beautiful Names of God” translated by David B. Burrell and Nazih Daher
- “Introduction to Islamic Theology and Law” by Ignaz Goldziher
Conclusion
AL-AḤAD (الاحد) represents one of the core attributes of God in Islamic theology, encapsulating the divine unity and singularity that is fundamental to the Islamic faith. It serves as a focal point for the concept of monotheism and profoundly affects how Muslims perceive and relate to God.
Understanding AL-AḤAD deepens one’s appreciation for the overarching theme of unity and exclusivity in the Islamic portrayal of the Divine.