Tawhid (Arabic: توحيد tawḥīd, meaning "oneness [of God]" also romanized as tawheed, touheed, or tevhid) is the indivisible oneness concept of monotheism in Islam. Tawhid is the religion's central and single-most important concept, upon which a Muslim's entire faith rests. It unequivocally holds that God is One (Al-ʾAḥad) and Single (Al-Wāḥid); therefore, the Islamic belief in God is considered Unitarian."Tawhid constitutes the foremost article of the Muslim profession of faith.
Tawhid al-Rububiyyah
Tawhid al-Rububiyyah refers to the belief in the oneness of Allah in His actions. It means acknowledging that Allah is the sole creator, sustainer, and ruler of the universe. Everything in existence is under His control and operates according to His will. This includes the belief that Allah is the creator of all things, from the smallest particles to the vast cosmos, and that He provides sustenance and resources to all His creations. It also signifies that Allah has absolute authority and dominion over everything; no one shares in His rule or can challenge His decisions.
Tawhid al-Asma wa al-Sifat
Tawhid al-Asma wa al-Sifat pertains to the belief in the uniqueness of Allah's names and attributes. It involves affirming that Allah has unique names that reflect His essence and attributes, such as Al-Rahman (The Most Merciful), Al-Aziz (The Almighty), and Al-Hakim (The Wise). Additionally, Allah's attributes, such as knowledge, power, and mercy, are perfect and without any deficiencies. These attributes are not comparable to any of the attributes of His creations. This type of Tawhid also emphasizes that Allah's names and attributes are free from any anthropomorphism (likening Allah to His creation) and ta'til (denial of Allah's attributes).
Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah
Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah involves the belief that Allah alone is worthy of all worship and devotion. It signifies that acts of worship, including prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage, should be directed solely to Allah. It also means that all forms of reverence, obedience, and love should be for Allah alone. Furthermore, any form of idolatry or association of partners with Allah (known as shirk) is strictly prohibited. This includes worshiping saints, idols, or other deities.
The significance of Tawhid is profound, as it is not just a theological concept but a guiding principle for a Muslim's life. It shapes their worldview, behavior, and relationship with Allah and His creation. Upholding Tawhid ensures that a Muslim's faith remains pure and free from any forms of polytheism or deviation.
In summary, Tawhid encapsulates the core belief in Islam that Allah is one, unique in His essence, names, and attributes, and the only one deserving of worship. Understanding and adhering to Tawhid is essential for every Muslim, as it is the foundation upon which all other aspects of the faith are built.