Polytheists in Islam
Definition and Scope
Polytheists in Islamic theology are known as “mushrikun” (Arabic: مشركون), referring to those who associate divinity with objects and beings other than, or along with, Allah (God). In broader terms, polytheism (shirk) is considered the gravest sin in Islam, fundamentally opposed to the core Islamic tenet of Tawhid (monotheism).
Quranic Perspective
Prophet Muhammad’s mission, as highlighted in various Quranic verses, was primarily to guide Arab polytheists towards monotheism:
- Quran 6:137
- Quran 29:41
- Quran 43:15-16
These references denounce polytheistic beliefs and practices and affirm the Oneness and uniqueness of God.
Classification of People of the Book
The Quran distinctively classifies Jews and Christians as “People of the Book” (Ahl al-Kitab). However, certain practices in Judaism and Christianity, such as:
- The concept of divine national selection in Judaism (Quran 2:94-95; 5:18).
- The doctrines of the Trinity and Incarnation in Christianity (Quran 5:116).
These are sometimes labeled as forms of shirk. Consequently, despite being monotheistic, their theological deviations, from the Islamic perspective, set them in an ambiguous stance regarding polytheistic tendencies.
Contemporary Views and Criticisms
Muslim reformers and scholars often critique practices within Islamic traditions that seem to verge on polytheism. For instance:
- Sufi inclinations towards the intercession of saints.
- Veneration of their tombs.
Such customs, viewed by puritanical interpretations, are condemned as polytheistic, implying a deviation from pure monotheism.
Etymology
- Arabic: مشركون (Mushrikun)
- Turkish: Müşrikler
The word mushrik derives from the Arabic root ‘sh-r-k’ (ش ر ك), signifying “association” or “partnership,” pointing explicitly to the association of others with Allah in worship or function.
Books for Further Studies
- “Shirk (Associating Partners with Allah): The Greatest Sin” by Abdul Mutalib
- “The New Encyclopedia of Islam” by Cyril Glassé
- “The Cohesion of Divinity: Jewish, Christian, and Muslim Theology” by Stephen E. Stow
- “The Mystic as a Poet: Sufism and Islam in One Thousand: Plato and Islam Debate” by Saeed Peters
Key Takeaways
- Polytheism is profoundly rejected in Islamic theology as it contradicts Tawhid.
- Prophet Muhammad’s Mission was predominately to guide polytheists towards monotheism.
- Ambiguous Classification of Jews and Christians under polytheism are primarily due to theological deviations.
- Modern Criticism of Sufi practices reveals ongoing debates within Islamic thought.
- Understanding Etymology enriches comprehension of theological arguments.
Conclusion
Understanding the concept of polytheism in Islam helps us perceive the essential Islamic enjoinder of monotheism and the rigor in maintaining Tawhid. Addressing shirk is central to Islamic reformist sites and continues to shape intra-religious discourse, reflective of Islam’s commitment to stringent monotheistic principles.
By exploring foundational texts and scholarly analyses, deeper insights into the multifaceted views on polytheism within Islamic thought become accessible.
