Aqidah
Definition
Aqidah: The term “Aqidah” refers to the Islamic creed or articles of faith. It encompasses the essential beliefs that every Muslim must hold.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology: The word “Aqidah” (عقيدة) is derived from the Arabic root “عقد” (
aqada), which means “to tie, to knot”, or “to bind.” This signifies the binding nature of these beliefs in the life of a Muslim. - Arabic: عقيدة (Aqidah)
- Turkish: Akide
Core Components
Islamic Aqidah is centrally formulated in the Qur’an and Hadith. It generally includes the following essential beliefs:
- Belief in God (Allah): The absolute monotheism (Tawhid) that asserts God’s oneness.
- Angels (Malaa’ika): Spiritual beings created by God to perform various tasks.
- Prophets (Anbiya’): Messengers chosen by God to guide humanity.
- Divine Scriptures: Holy books revealed to different prophets, including the Qur’an.
- Day of Judgment (Yawm al-Qiyamah): The ultimate day of reckoning where individuals are rewarded or punished based on their deeds.
Historical and Sectarian Interpretations
The early Muslim community was confronted with issues that led to the formation of different sects, each interpreting Aqidah through their own theological lens:
- Sunni Aqidah: Sunni scholars assert that the community (Ummah) has the right to elect the Imam (leader). Thus, the caliphates of Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali are regarded as theologically valid.
- Shii Aqidah: The Shia doctrine stresses the notion of a designated Imamate, where leadership must remain within the Prophet Muhammad’s family, particularly through Ali and his descendants.
Expanded Formulations
While simple formulations focus on a triad—belief in God, the Prophet, and the Day of Judgment—detailed theological discourse brings in aspects such as:
- Risalah: The medium of religious supports.
- Qadar (Divine Preordainment): Belief in predestination encompassing all things.
Books for Further Studies
For those interested in deepening their understanding of Aqidah, the following texts are recommended:
- “Islamic Creed Series” by Dr. Umar S. al-Ashqar: A comprehensive exploration of the core tenets of Islamic faith.
- “Creed of Imam al-Tahawi” translated by Hamza Yusuf: A classical Sunni theological text.
- “Aqaid an-Nasafi” by Najm ad-Din an-Nasfi: A profound work reflecting Maturidi theology.
- “The Articles of Islamic Faith” by Gibril Fouad Haddad: A critical study of basic beliefs for general readers.
Key Takeaways
- Aqidah represents the core beliefs in Islam, as mandated by the Qur’an and fully expounded upon by early Muslim scholars.
- Sectarian interpretations of Aqidah reflect diverse theological and political perspectives within Islamic history.
- Understanding intricacies of Aqidah helps elucidate the faith’s essential unity and its significant doctrinal diversity.
Conclusion
Aqidah stands as the foundational creed in Islam, embodying the faith principles that bind and define a Muslim’s theological outlook. From belief in the oneness of God to the finality of the Day of Judgment, Aqidah informs and shapes the spiritual, ethical, and social dimensions of Muslim life.
