Monotheism in Islam
Definition
Monotheism (from Greek μόνος monos, “single” and θεός theos, “god”) refers to the belief in a single, all-powerful deity. In Islam, monotheism is epitomized by Tawhid (Arabic: التوحيد), the absolute oneness and uniqueness of God (Allah).
Key Concepts and Context
Unique God
Islam asserts Tawhid, emphasizing that God (Allah) is singular, unique, and incomparable. There are no associates, partners, or equals to God, and any form of idolatry (shirk) is a grave sin. Unlike Christianity, Islam rejects the concept of the Holy Trinity, considering it inconsistent with true monotheism.
Pre-Islamic Monotheism and Hanifs
Before Islam, monotheistic beliefs existed in Arabia through the Hanifs (Arabic: حنيف, Turkish: Hanifler). In Islamic tradition, Hanifs are considered monotheistic followers who maintained Abrahamic beliefs. They are described as direct descendants of Abraham and Ishmael and embodied the idea of primitive monotheism.
Sufi Critique
Strict interpretations of Islamic monotheism have, at times, led to criticism of certain Sufi practices and popular veneration of saints. Some conservative scholars argue that these practices verge on shirk by attributing divine attributes to beings other than Allah.
Contemporary Relevance
In the 21st century, the core belief in a single, universal God is increasingly viewed as fostering a unified ethical framework that transcends national, ethnic, and cultural boundaries. This universal approach to divine worship underlines the potential for monotheism to transcend traditional loyalties and foster a more inclusive and universal spiritual community.
See Also
- Tawhid: The doctrine of the oneness and uniqueness of God, central to Islamic theology.
Etymology
The term Monotheism derives from the Greek monos meaning “single” and theos meaning “god.”
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: توحيد (Tawhid)
- Turkish: Tevhid
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Theology and Creed in Sunni Islam” by J. Halverson
- “For God and Country: Dialogues with Oscar Romero” by John Collins
- “The Sufi Path of Knowledge: Ibn al-‘Arabi’s Metaphysics of Imagination” by William Chittick
Takeaways and Conclusion
Monotheism in Islam is not merely an abstract theological concept but a guiding principle that shapes daily worship, ethical conduct, and communal relations. By emphasizing Tawhid, Islam maintains the purity and integrity of divine worship, prohibits polytheistic practices, and roots the believer in an all-encompassing divine presence.
Monotheism provides a transcendental anchor in a fragmented world, bound by differences in geography, culture, and ethnicity, affirming the universal bond of faith in one God.
