Tawheed, the belief in the oneness of Allah, is the foundation of Islamic faith. It shapes every aspect of a Muslim’s life, influencing their worship, intentions, and relationship with the world. Tawheed means acknowledging that Allah is the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Controller of the universe — that He alone deserves worship, without any partners or intermediaries. This belief is not just a concept but a way of life that directs Muslims to seek closeness to Allah in all they do.
Tawheed is often divided into three categories:
Tawheed ar-Rububiyyah (Oneness of Lordship) — The belief that Allah alone is the Creator, the Giver of life and death, and the Sustainer of all existence. Everything in the heavens and the earth functions by His will, and nothing happens without His knowledge and decree.
Tawheed al-Uluhiyyah (Oneness of Worship) — The belief that Allah alone deserves to be worshipped. This includes all acts of worship, like prayer (Salat), fasting (Sawm), supplication (Du’a), and charity (Zakat). Muslims strive to purify their intentions, ensuring that their worship is done solely for Allah’s pleasure.
Tawheed al-Asma wa-Sifat (Oneness of Allah’s Names and Attributes) — The belief in Allah’s unique names and attributes, as described in the Qur'an and Hadith. Muslims affirm these names and attributes without distorting, denying, or comparing them to creation. For example, Allah is Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful) and Al-‘Aleem (The All-Knowing).