Islam’s cornerstone, core, and ultimate objective is tawheed, or the unity of Allah. It requires that Allah be the exclusive object of all acts of worship. The two statements of faith (Shahadatan) that Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger and that there is no other god deserving of worship encompass this idea. Although these statements mark one’s admission into Islam, upholding one’s status as a Muslim requires living in conformity with their consequences.

The Essence of Tawheed

Tawheed is the central message delivered by all prophets, even though their specific laws varied. Allah, the Exalted, states in the Quran: “And We sent not before you any messenger except that We revealed to him that, ‘There is no deity except Me, so worship Me.’” [Quran 21:25].

The Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) reinforced this unity of message, saying, “The prophets are paternal brothers; their mothers are different, but their religion is one.” [Al-Bukhari].

Tawheed, the foundation of Islam, demands faith in all prophets and their teachings. The secret to Paradise and defense against Hellfire is Tawheed’s testimony.

The Prophet (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) emphasized, “I bear witness that there is no deity except Allah and that I am the Messenger of Allah. No one meets Allah with these two testimonies, without doubting them, except that he will enter Paradise.” [Muslim].

He also said, “No one testifies that there is no deity except Allah and that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger, except that Allah will forbid the Fire from touching him.” [Muslim].

The Comprehensive Nature of Tawheed

Tawheed is not merely a verbal declaration. It requires a profound understanding in both outward actions and inward beliefs. It also needs actualization in both areas. Al-Mundhiri cited scholars who noted that all religious obligations stem from these testimonies. Neglecting these obligations—whether through denial or negligence—can lead to disbelief and exclusion from Paradise [Al-Targhib wal-Tarhib].

The essence of Tawheed lies in the recognition that no one is worthy of worship except Allah. The Arabic concept of divinity (uluhiyyah) involves the heart’s inclination towards Allah. It seeks peace and direction through Him. This connection is marked by profound love and dependence.

Ibn Al-Qayyim elaborated, “The name of Allah signifies His being the One Who is worshipped and adored, toward whom creation turns in love, reverence, submission, and in seeking refuge in their needs and adversities.” [Madarij al-Salikin].

The Innate Human Inclination Towards Tawheed

Humans are innately inclined towards Allah, and this natural disposition forms the basis of Tawheed. Ibn Taymiyyah noted, “The soul is never devoid of awareness and will, for their absence is impossible. Awareness and will are intrinsic to its reality. It is inconceivable for the soul to exist without being aware or willing.” [Majmu’ al-Fatawa].

This inherent inclination towards Allah necessitates sincere devotion, with any deviation constituting shirk (associating partners with Allah).

Love as the Core of Servitude

Love, respect, and glory are the foundations of a believer’s connection with Allah. A believer must match their will with Allah’s and put their love for Him first. All creation was created with this pristine monotheism (hanifiyyah) in mind.

Ibn Al-Qayyim stated, “There is no relationship between Allah and the servant except absolute servitude from the servant and absolute Lordship from the Lord.

The servant is a servant in every respect, and Allah is the true deity in every respect. The foundation of the relationship of servitude lies in love. Servitude is tied to it such that when love dissolves, servitude also dissolves.” [Madarij al-Salikin].

Read also: Why Namaz Is Important: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Spiritual and Practical Benefits

Outward and Inward Actions of Tawheed

Actions are the manifestation of true love for Allah. On the inside, this encompasses sincerity, fear, hope, and dependence. On the outside, it means following Allah’s instructions and His Messenger’s teachings. Ibn Taymiyyah highlighted that balanced worship involves love, fear, and hope, marking a true believer and monotheist [Majmu’ al-Fatawa].

Following the Shariah, as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam), is essential.

Allah says, “Say [O Muhammad], ‘If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.’” [Quran 3:31].

Final Thoughts

Islam is about tawheed, which includes both belief and conduct. It is the foundation of a believer’s relationship with Allah and calls for devotion, respect, and love. Following Allah’s instructions and His Messenger’s teachings is how this bond is shown. A Muslim can make sure that their life represents the fundamental fact of Allah’s oneness by completely adopting Tawheed.

This blog underscores the importance of Tawheed. It urges Muslims to reflect deeply on their faith. It emphasizes their commitment to living a life devoted solely to Allah.

Do you want to learn more about the Quran? Check out KMY Academy’s other articles!