The Oneness of God in Islam: A Profound Foundation

By Tshepang Mahlangu Education and Learning Faith, Islam, religion 0 Comments

The concept of the Oneness of God in Islam is not just a fundamental belief; it is the very bedrock upon which the entire faith is built. It is the cornerstone that underpins all other principles, beliefs, and practices within this religion. In this article, we will delve into the central theme of the Oneness of God in Islam, exploring its unique characteristics, its vital role in the faith, and its profound significance.

The Unique Name: “Allah”

In the world of monotheism, the name “Allah” holds a unique place. It is not merely a term but a personal name applied to the One True God in Islam. What sets it apart is its exclusivity; nothing else can be called Allah. In contrast, the English word “god” can be made plural or gendered, such as “gods” or “goddess.” The singular and gender-neutral nature of “Allah” echoes Islam’s emphasis on the absolute purity of the belief in one God.

The Core Belief: “There is no god except Allah”

The Oneness of God in Islam extends far beyond a mere theological concept; it is a comprehensive teaching that manifests in numerous attributes of Allah. These attributes serve as a testament to the absolute Oneness of God:

Allah has no partners, equals, or rivals.
Allah has no familial ties, neither a father, mother, sons, daughters, nor spouses.
Worship of Allah is a direct connection without any intermediaries.
Allah stands independent and unanswerable to anyone.
Everything in existence relies on Allah, while Allah requires nothing from anyone or anything.
Allah created the universe unaided, and there is nothing above or comparable to Him.
The entire creation is in complete subservience to Him.
Only Allah can bring benefit or harm; there is no equal to Him.

This comprehensive understanding of the Oneness of God is at odds with any notion of multiple deities, which would inevitably lead to confusion, disorder, and chaos in the universe. The fact that the universe operates in perfect harmony is a testament to the singularity of Allah.

“And your god is One God. There is no god but He.“

– Qur’an 2:163

The Qur’an: An Endorsement of Oneness

The Qur’an, regarded as the literal word of God, reinforces the belief in the One True God and vehemently rejects any notion of partnership with Him. It serves as the ultimate source of Islamic knowledge, elucidating the concept of Allah’s Oneness.

Distinction from Creation: Unwavering Oneness

Islam resolutely rejects any attempt to attribute Allah’s divine attributes to His creation. This would amount to elevating the creation to a level of partnership with the Creator. Whether through superstitious beliefs, good-luck charms, or amulets, the idea that objects or beings possess the ability to bring benefit or harm is incompatible with Islam. In this faith, only Allah holds the ultimate power to grant benefit or inflict harm.

Beyond Human Limitations: Allah

In Islam, a clear demarcation exists between the perfection of Allah and the limitations of His creation. Concepts such as God needing rest or assuming human form are inconceivable within this faith. Allah stands far above any imperfections attributed to His creation.

Direct Worship of Allah: An Unmediated Connection

Islam encourages a direct and unmediated relationship between individuals and Allah. There are no intermediaries; everyone enjoys uninterrupted access to God. Muslims are obligated to maintain this direct connection, worshipping Allah without the need for intermediaries like idols or statues.

Prophets and the Message of Oneness

Throughout history, Prophets sent by God to various nations consistently conveyed the message of the Oneness of God. Be it Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, or Muhammad (peace be upon them all), they all advocated the worship of the One True God.

In summary, the concept of the Oneness of God in Islam is not merely a theological doctrine; it is a profound, all-encompassing belief. It is the very heart of Islam, guiding its followers in the path of pure monotheism and the worship of the One True God, Allah. This emphasis on Oneness is what makes Islam a faith of profound significance, offering a unique perspective on the absolute unity of the Divine.