Tawheed meaning in Islam

At the center of the Islamic faith lies a fundamental belief called Tawheed. This word means « one » or « unique » in Arabic, and it tells us that there is only one God, Allah. Tawheed is like the foundation of a house, holding up all the other beliefs and practices of Islam. It’s important because it reminds us that everything in the universe comes from Allah and belongs to Him.

What is Tawheed?

Tawheed, or Tauhid, in Islam, refers to the indivisible oneness of Allah, encapsulating His uniqueness, supremacy, and absolute sovereignty. It encompasses the belief that Allah is the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Controller of the universe, with no partners, equals, or associates.

Types of Tawheed

Scholars have categorized Tawheed into three primary types, each addressing distinct dimensions of the oneness of Allah:

1. Tawheed al-Rububiyyah (Oneness of Lordship)

This type emphasizes the recognition of Allah as the universe’s sole creator, provider, and sustainer. It acknowledges His exclusive authority over all affairs and absolute control over creation.

2. Tawheed al-Uluhiyyah (Oneness of Worship)

Tawheed al-Uluhiyyah highlights the uniqueness of worship directed solely to Allah. It asserts that all acts of devotion, such as prayers, supplications, and rituals, should be dedicated to Him alone, without associating partners in worship.

3. Tawheed al-Asma’ wa al-Sifat (Oneness of Names and Attributes)

This type underscores the belief in the uniqueness of Allah’s names and attributes. It involves acknowledging the divine names and qualities mentioned in the Quran and Hadith, understanding their significance, and affirming them without resembling His creation.

Three Aspects of Tawheed

While understanding the types of Tawheed is essential, comprehending its aspects further elucidates its depth:

1. Tawheed ar-Ruboobiyyah (Lordship)

This aspect acknowledges Allah’s exclusive right to be the Lord of all creations, acknowledging His sovereignty, control, and authority over everything in existence.

2. Tawheed al-Uluhiyyah (Worship)

In worship, Tawheed signifies dedicating all acts of worship, including prayers, supplications, and rituals, exclusively to Allah, without associating any partners with Him.

3. Tawheed al-Asma’ wa al-Sifat (Names and Attributes)

This aspect underscores the belief in Allah’s unique names and attributes, understanding their meanings as mentioned in Islamic texts while affirming their uniqueness and incomparability.

Tawheed in the Holy Qur’an

A few relevant verses that emphasize the concept of Tawheed are:

Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1-4):

« Say, ‘He is Allah, [who is] One,

Allah, the Eternal Refuge.

He neither begets nor is born, Nor is there to Him any equivalent.' »

Surah Al-An’am (6:103):

• « No vision can grasp Him, but His grasp is over all vision: He is above all comprehension, yet is acquainted with all things. »

Surah Al-Baqara (2:255):

• « Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is [presently] before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great. »

Surah At-Taha (20:8):

• « Allah – there is no deity except Him. To Him belong the best names. »

Surah Az-Zumar (39:4):

• « Had Allah willed to take a son, He could have chosen whom He pleased out of those He doth create: but Glory be to Him! He is above such things. He is Allah, the One, the Irresistible. »

Significance of Tawheed in Islam

Tawheed is the most essential belief in Islam. It means there is only one God, Allah, who is the only one we should worship and obey. Understanding Tawheed is essential for all Muslims, as it helps us connect with Allah and live according to His teachings.

Understanding and practicing Tawheed can strengthen our faith, improve our relationship with Allah, and live more meaningfully. May Allah guide us all to a deeper understanding and practice of Tawheed.