Islam is based on two primary sources: the Quran, which Muslims believe is the word of God revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, and the Sunnah, which are the teachings and example of the Prophet. The Quran was transmitted verbatim to Muhammad and is considered the exact words of God in Arabic. The Sunnah demonstrates how Muslims should implement the Quran's teachings in their daily lives. Together, the Quran and Sunnah provide complete guidance for Muslims until Judgment Day. Any discussion of Islam must be grounded in these two authoritative sources.

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2. Whilt is Islam
What
By
Jamaal al-Din Zaraboz,o
Jamaal aI-Din M. Zarabozo
Zarabozo
©2006, Jamaal aI-Din M. Zarabozo
02006, Jamaalal-Din

3. © Ministry ofIslamic Affairs & Endowments, 2007
@ *tintstry of Islamic Affairs Endowments,
King Fahd National Library Cataloging-in-Publication Data
F ahd N utional Lihr ary Cataloging-in-P ublicatio n D ata
Zarabozo, Jamaal aI-Din
Zarubozo, Jamaalal-Din
What is Islam:: Abridged Version.! Jamaal aI-Din Zarabozo,
What is Islam Abridged Version.l lamaal al-Din Zarabozo,
- Riyadh, 2007
Riyadh, 2007
68 P ; 1 4 x 2 0 c m
6 8 P 14 20 em
I S B N 9960 - 2 9 - 6 0 -
ISBN:: 9 9 6 0- 29 - 6011- 6
1 - IIslam
1 slam Title
1 -Title
210 dc
210 de 1428/2295
1428i 2295
L.D. no. 1428I 2295
L.D. no. 1428/2295
ISBN 9960- 29 - 601-
ISBN:: 9960 - 29 - 601 - 6
Ministry Islamic Affairs,
Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Endowments,
of Endowments,
Da'wah, and Guidance
Da'wah, Guidance
and
Kingdom Saudi
of Arabia
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
First Edition
First Edition
1428 H - 2007 G
1428 - 2007

4. Preface
Preface
In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful.
In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful.
All praisesare due to Allah; we praise Him; we seek His help; we
All praises are due to Allah; we praise Him; we seek His help; we
seek His forgiveness;and we seek His guidance.II bear witnessthat
seek His forgiveness; and we seek His guidance. bear witness that
there is none worthy of worship except Allah, for whom there is no
there is none worthy of worship except Allah, for whom there is no
partner. And II bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and
partner. And bear witness Muhammad His servant
Messenger.
Messenger.
I would like to take this opportunity to expresspraise and to
I take opportunity express praise and
thank Allah for giving me the opportunity to write an important work
Allah for giving write work
of this nature. May Allah forgive me for my shortcomings in
of nature. Allah shortcomings
presentingHis religion. I would also like to express my heartfelt
presenting I also express heartfelt
thanks to the noble Shaikh Muhammad al-Turki of the Ministry of
thanks the noble Shaikh Muhammad of Ministry of
Islamic Affairs, Endowments, Da'wah and Guidancefor his support.I
Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Guidance support. I
would also like to expressmy thanks to Ahmad Ba-Rasheedfor his
also express thanks Ba-Rasheed his
continual efforts as well. Thesetwo devotedmen rvere instrumentalin
continual efforts as These devoted men were instrumental
producing this abridgement as as the original that this
producingthis abridgement as well as the original work that this work
thank
is basedon. There are many people that I would like to thank for their
based on. There are many people that
help this particular First, must express thanks to
help in this particular work. First, I must express my thanks to my
beloved who is always a source assistance and help. Special
beloved wife who is always a source of assistance and help. Special
thanksmust also go to Dr. Abdulkarim al-Saeed, Nahar al-Rashid,
thanks must also go to Dr. Abdulkarim aI-Saeed, Br. Nahar aI-Rashid,
Br.
Dr. Mohamrnad al-Osimi, Dr. Ahmad al-Teraiqi and Br. Jalaal
Dr. Mohammad al-Osimi, Dr. Ahmad al-Teraiqi and Br. Jalaal
Abdullah. can only pray that Allah rewardsthem and blesses
Abdullah. I can only pray that Allah rewards them and blesses them them
greatly.
greatly.
It should be noted that this work is an abridgement the
It should be noted that this work is an abridgement of the
author's Whatis Islam. Many details,furtherreferences additional
and
author's What is Islam. Many details, further references and additional
quotes from authoritative sources have been deleted in this
quotes from authoritative sources have been deleted in this
reader interestedin additional referencesshould
abridgement. Any reader interested in additional references should
abridgement.
versionof this work. I pray that Allah
consult the original, unabridged version of this work. I pray that Allah
consultthe original,unabridged
acceptsthis work from me as being solely for His sake.As with all
accepts this work from me as being solely for His sake. As with all
such work, the responsibility for any mistakes lies with the author. II
such work, the responsibility for any mistakes lies with the author'
ask Allah to forgive me for my shortcomingsand to guide me to the
ask Allah to forgive me for my shortcomings and to guide me to the
Straight Path.
StraightPath.
Jamaal Zarubozo
Jamaal Zarabozo
Boulder, CO
Boulder, CO
Mayy15,20060 6
Ma 15,20
3
3

5. Introduction
Introduction
The Goal and Motivation for Writing this Book
The Goal and Motivation Writing this
This is a very important time for publishing clear and concise
This is a very importanttime publishingclear and concise
material about Islam. Today, for many reasons, Islam is often pictured
material about Islam. Today, many reasons,Islam often pictured
in a very unflattering manner in many parts of the world. Since many
a very unflattering manner many parts of the Since many
people are unfamiliar with Islam beyond what they see in the mass
people are unfamiliar Islam beyond what they see the mass
media, it is not surprising that such misrepresentations of Islam have
media, is not surprisingthat such misrepresentations Islam have
of
influenced public opinion. The easiest and probably the most
influenced public opinion. Th* easiest and probably the most
productive cure for this situatIon is by reaching out to those people
productive cure for this situation is reaching those people
and allowing them to hear what Islam is truly all about. One must go
and allowing them hear what Islam is about.One must
beyond the hype and get to the true authentic teachings of the religion.
beyond the hype and get the true authenticteachingsof the religion.
The goal here is not
The goal here is not to deal with the wrong information that
deal the information that
is spread about Islam. The goal here is simply to presentwhat Islam
is spreadabout Islanr. The goal here is sirnply present Islam
truly is, based on the original and universally recognized sources of
is, based on the original and universally recognizedsourcesof
Islam: The Quran-or, in other words, the book revealed from Allah
Islam: The Quran-or, other words, the book revealedfrom
(God) to the Prophet Muhammad (peaceand blessingsof
(God) to the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be be
as the words and guidanceof the Prophethimself.
upon him)-as well as the words and guidance of the Prophet himself.
upon him)-as
The Foundation and Sources of Islam
The Foundation and Sources
Before discussing Islam, it is important to understand
Before discussing Islam, is important understand
something about the basic sources of Islam. There are only two
something about the basic sources Islam. There are
authoritative sources of Islam: the Quran and the Sunnah of the
authoritative sources of Islam: the Quran and the Sunnah of the
Prophet Muhammad 1 These two are the ultimate authorities in Islam
ProphetMuhammadrThese are the ultimate authorities Islam
because they constitute the revelation received by the Prophet (peace
because they constitutethe revelationreceived the Prophet(peace
and blessings of Allah be upon him) from God. God inspired the
and blessings be upon him) from God. God inspired the
Prophet with both the Quran and the Sunnah. Hence, all beliefs and
Prophet both the Quran and the Sunnah.Hence, beliefs and
practices are subservient these foundations: if something is
practices are subservient to these foundations: if something is
them, may be accepted;if somethingcontradicts
consistent with them, it may be accepted; if something contradicts
consistent
them, is unacceptable.
them, it is unacceptable.
The Quran is very different
The Quran is very different from the Bible. The Quran does
the Bible. The Quran does
not consist of stories told by humans about different prophets,every
not consist storiestold humansabout different prophets, every
so often actually quoting a prophet. The Quran is actually the
so often actually quoting a prophet. The Quran is actually the word of of
God. was revealed the angel Gabriel, directly
God. It was revealed by God, via the angel Gabriel, directly to the
God, the
ProphetMuhammad(peaceand blessings
Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Tlre
of be upon him). The
tThe (peaceand blessings
1The statements and actions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him)
statements and actions the Proplret of be upon him)
are known as his sunnah and hadith. Upon reading further about Islam, one will come
are known as his sunnah and hadith. Upon reading further about Islam, one will conre
acrossthese terms quite often. the sake of familiarity, and "statemeuts"
across these teons quite often. For the sake of familiarity, "example" and "statements"
the Prophet be most often usedthroughoutthis work.
of the Prophet will be most often used throughout this work.
4

6. Prophetreceivedthe exactwording and passed on to his followers.
Prophet received the exact wording and passed it followers.
revelation, its exact wording, was memorized, recorded and
This revelation,with its exact wording, was memorized,recordedand
passed as is. Hence, again, God and God speaking the
passedon as is. Hence,again,it is God and only God speakingin the
Quran. There are no comments, passagesor quotes from humans
Quran. There are comments, passages quotes humans
whatsoever the Quran.
whatsoeverin the Quran.
The style of the Quran is therefore unique. It is Allah's
style of the Quran therefore unique. It
words to the heart, mind and soul of humans.In its original language
words the heart, and soul of humans. language
of Arabic, it is extremely moving and beautiful. (Today, the
of extremely and beautiful. (Today, the
of the Quran has been translated numerous languages.
"meaning" of the Quran has been translatedinto numerouslanguages.
However, none of these translations is ever considered the Quran. The
is
However, none of thesetranslations ever considered Quran.The the
Quran is only the Arabic original. Hence, in the prayers and rituals,
Quran the original. Hence, the prayers and rituals,
only the true, original Arabic Quran is used.)
the true, Quran used.)
In addition to the Quran, there are the sayings and example
addition the Quran, there are the sayings and example
of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessingsof Allah be upon
of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of be upon
him). The authority of the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah is not
The authority of the Sunnah of the Messengerof is
because is some kind of demigod. He was a human being,just like
because he is some
he of demigod. was humanbeing,
all of the other prophets.
of the otherprophets. The prophet'sauthority is related to the issue
The prophet's authorityis related the issue
of submission to Allah: It is Allah in the Quran who establishes the
of submission Allah: is the Quran establishes the
of the Prophetis
authority of the Prophet. Hence, following the way of the Prophet is
authority of the Prophet.Hence, following the
nothing but acting in obedience and submission to Allah. Allah has
nothing acting obedienceand submissionto Allah. has
virtually said such when He said, who obeys the Messenger
virtually said such when He said, "He who obeys the Messenger has has
have not sent
indeed obeyed Allah, but he who turns away, then we have not sent
indeed obeyedAllah, but he who turns away, then
you (O Muhammad)as a watcherover them" (4:80).
you (0 Muhammad) as a watcher over them" (4:80).
There is a very important relationship between the Quran and
There is a very inrportantrelationshipbetweenthe Quran and
the Quran is to be
the Sunnah. The Sunnah demonstrates how the Quran is to be
the Sunnah. The Sunnah demonstrates
implemented. It is a practical explanation of what the Quran is
implemented. is a practical explanation what the Quran is
teaching.This complete,human embodiment the teachings the
teaching. This complete, human embodiment of the teachings of the
Quran is a great blessing and mercy for Muslims. It makes the
Quran is a great blessing and mercy for Muslims. makes the
guidance from God more complete and accessible to all.
guidancefrom God more completeand accessible all. to
Thus, the Quran and the Sunnah form one united unit that
Thus, the Quran and the Sunnah form one united that
offer all the principles guidancethat humankind need until the
offer all the principles of guidance that humankind will need until the
Day of Judgment.
Day of Judgment.
Therefore, any reliable book on Islam must be based on the
Therefore,atry reliable book on Islam must be basedon the
Quran I and the statements and guidance of the Prophet Muhammad
Quranr and the statements and guidance the Prophet Muhammad
'
I The reader should note how the verses of the Quran are referred to: soorah or
the verses the Quran are refened to: sooralr
The reader should note
"chapter" number followed by versenumber,e.g.,2;l 6 would mcan the sixteenthverse
"chapter" number followed by verse number, e.g., 2: 16 would mean the sixteenth verse
of the second chapter.
ofthe secondchapter.
5

7. (peace and blessingsof Allah be upou him). Although the original
(peaceand blessings of be UpOll him). Although the original
Arabic texts of both the Quran and the Prophet's sayings are
Arabic texts of both the Quran and the Prophet's sayings are
available, one has to resort to modest translationsto convey their
available, one has resort modest translations convey their
meanings to non-Arabic speakers. With respectto the Quran, two
meanings non-Arabic speakers. respect the Quran,
translations into English can be recontnlendedand will be used
translationsinto English can be recommended and will used
throughout this work. They are The Noble Quran: English
throughout this work. They are The Noble Quran: Ertglish
Translation of the Meanings and Contmentary, translated by
Translatiort af the Meanings Commentary, translated
Muharnmad and Muhammad Khan, an'J The Quran:
Muhammad al-Hilali and Muhammad Muhsin Khan, and The Quran:
Arabic Text with Corresponding Englislz Meaning, translated by
Text Covespottding English translated
"Saheeh International."
"S aheehInternational. "
collections of the statements and actions of the
As for collections of the statements and actions of the
Prophet, two important collections are available in complete form in
Prophet, important collections are available complete
English. They are known as Sahih al-Bukhari (translated by
English. are as Sahih (translated
Muhammad Muhsin Khan) and Sahih Muslim (translatedby Abdul
Muhammad Khan) and Sahih (translated
Hamid Siddiqi).
Hamid Siddiqi).
The Intended Audience for This Work
Intended Audience Work
The work is addressed to anyone who is interestedin a basic
The is addressed anyone interested basic
introduction to the fundamental beliefs and practices of Islam.
introduction to the fundamental beliefs and practices of Islam.
Everything has been kept basic, but with the hope that the readerwill
Everythinghas been kept basic,but the hope that the reader will
be encouraged to study Islam in more depth. For the purposeof more
be encouraged study Islam rnoredepth.For the purpose of more
to
in-depth study, many other importantbooks be recommended at
in-depth study, many other important books will be recommended at
the end of this book.
the end this book.
Before proceeding, one should also note the usage of the
Before proceeding,one should also note the usage of the
words and God. is the "personalname" of God, much
words Allah and God. Allah is the "personal name" of God, much like
Yahweh (later interpreted as Jehovah). Thus, Allah and God will be
Yahweh (later interpretedas Jehovah).Thus, and God be
used interchangeably.
usedinterchangeably.
6

8. The Belief in God (Allah)
The Belief in God (Allah)
In reality, belief in Allah is the cornerstone the entire faith
In reality, belief in Allah is the cornerstone of the entire faith
of
of Islam. All of the other Islamic beliefs and all Islamic practices
of Islam. All of the other Islamic beliefs and all Islamic practices
revolve around the proper belief in God. For this reason,perhaps
revolve around the proper belief in God. For this reason, perhaps
more than any other religious community in the world, the belief
more than other religious community the world, belief
about Islam has been explained great detail.
aboutGod in Islam hasbeenexplainedin greatdetail.
Know
How Can One Know About God? God?
The Islamic religion does not deny that humanshave been
Islamic religion does deny that humans have been
given by God great reasoning power and natural instincts-
given great reasoning and natural instincts.
Furthermore, Islam recognizesthat God has createdhumanswith an
Furtherrnore, Islam recognizes that has created humans an
innate ability to recognize and understand the truth that there is a
innate recognize and understand the there
Creator and a God. Most people, including the greatestthinkers,
Creator and God. people, including the greatest thinkers,
would never deny the various signs that point to the existenceof the
never deny the various signs that the existence of the
Creator. Hence, they wholeheartedly accept the notion of the
Creator. Hence, they wholeheartedly accept the notion of the
existence of God. What has led some people astray and has confused
existenceof God. What has led somepeople astrayand has confused
them is that they do not know about God properly and they do not
them that they about properly and they
have access to a true and preserved revelation from God. These
have access true and preserved revelation God. These
God, person also has
sources of error show that beyondbelievingin God, a personalso has
sourcesof error show that beyond believing
to have the right information to know the truth about God.
have the information the truth about God.
However, God, the Creator, obviously, is a distinct and
However, God, the Creator, obviously, is a distinct and
being from His creation.Hence,God is not somethingwithin
separate being from His creation. Hence, God is not something within
separate
the realm human experience,human thought human testing.
the realm of human experience, human thought or human testing.
Therefore, to the details about God and, particular,
Therefore, to know the details about God and, in particular, to know
God shouldbe, one can only turn to God
what one's relationship with God should be, one can only tum to God
what one's relationship
There is no other possibleway.
Himself and to His revelation. There is no other possible way. No one
and to His revelation. one
except God has that knowledge.
exceptGod has that knowledge.
The revelationfrom God as embodiedin the Quran and the
The revelation from God as embodied in the Quran and the
the Prophet Muhammad (peaceand blessings
inspired words of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of
inspired words
upon him) have thus provided a clear presentation
Allah be upon him) have thus provided a clear presentation
Allah be
concerningGod. It removesall doubtsaboutHis existence, power His
concerning God. It removes all doubts about His existence, His power
His knowledge. It also answersall the questionssurroundinghow
and His knowledge. It also answers all the questions surrounding how
and
one shouldbehavetoward the Almighty. In additionto that, by God's
one should behave toward the Almighty. In addition to that, by God's
mercy, God has provided extensive information about Hirnself,
mercy, God has provided extensive information about Himself,
through His namesand attributes,such that He does truly beconrethe
through His names and attributes, such that He does truly become the
beloved,the sole object of worship and the nrain inspirationfor one's
beloved, the sole object of worship and the main inspiration for one's
life.
life.
7

9. Sole Sustainer of
The Belief that God is the SoleCreator and Sustainerof all
Creation
Creation
There one thing that definitively stands out when one reads
There is one thing that definitively stands when one reads
the Quran:Allah instructshumankindto ponderover the creationwith
the Quran: instructs humankind ponder over the creation
its magnificence. At no time the teachings of the Quran shy
all its magnificence.At no time do the teachingsof the Quran shy
away reflection and rational thought. Indeed, these foundations
away from reflection and rational thought. Indeed, these foundations
of knowledgehave been invoked over and over in the Quran as a path
of knowledge have been invoked over and over the Quran as path
that will lead one conclusion: There
that will lead to only one conclusion: There is no way that this that this
creation as one can witness and appreciate today
creation as one can witness and appreciate it today could have have
possibly come into being except through the intent and creation of
possibly come into being exceptthrough the intent and creationof a
great, and masterful creator. I
great,divine and masterfulcreator.l
In fact, in one verse, Allah has given a powerful argument
fact, one verse, has given argument
hundredsof years:"Were they
that was convincing to humankind for hundreds of years: "Were they
that was convincing humankind
[that is, humans] created by nothing, or were they themselves the
[that is, humans] created nothingo were they themselvesthe
they createthe heavensand the earth?" (52:35-36).
creators? Or did they create the heavens and the earth?" (52:35-36).
creators?
The point of these verses has been clear to many, many people:
The point of these verses has been clear to many, many people:
Humans obviously did not come here by means of nothing nor did
Humans obviously come here meansof nothing
they create themselves. Hence, they are the result of the act of a
they create themselves.Hence, they are the result of the act of
Creator.
Creator.
In addition to the realization that this existence must have
addition to the realizationthat this existencenust have
had a creator, one can also notice the beauty and balance that exists
had a creator,one can also notice the beauty and balancethat exists
throughout the universe. The order is so precise that it is sometimes
throughoutthe universe.The order is so precisethat is sometimes
referred to as "the delicate balance of nature." It is truly amazing how
referred as delicate balanceof nature." is amazing
everything works together-even within one's own body. Without
everything works together-even oue's own body. Without
such cooperation between the different organs of the body, for
such cooperation between the different organs the body,
example, there would be no possibility
example, there would be no possibility of sustaining life. This
sustaining life. This
observed phenomenon leads to a number of other important
observed phenomenon leads to a number other important
conclusions.
conclusions.
First, the order and cooperation between the various
First, the order and cooperation between the various
inanimate elements of the universe-which have not been trained or
inanimate elenrents the universe-which have not been trained
under the control and guidanceof
taught-is a sign that they are still under the control and guidance of
taught-is a sign that they are
the creator. Their level of inter-working and cooperation is such that it
the creator.Their level inter-workingand cooperation suchthatis
t
I Umar al-Ashqar provides another example: After finding the remnants of a city under
finding the renrnants a city under
Umar al-Ashqarprovidesanotherexample:
desert sand, "Nobody among the archaeologists or others even suggested that this city
desert sand, among the archaeologists others even suggestedthat this
could have appeared as a result of the natural actions of the wind, rain, heat and cold,
could have appearedas a result the natural actions the wind, rain, heat and cold,
sucha thing, peoplewould have
and not by the actions of man. If anyone had suggested such a thing, people would have
and not by the actions man. anyonehad suggested
regarded d h i m a scrazy."' Umar ral-Ashqar, rBeliefei f A l l a h i int h e LLight of the QlIrall and
r e g a r d e him as $ a z y ; U n r a a l - A s h q a , B e l i in Allah n the i g h t o f t h e Q u r a n a n d
n
Sunnah (Riyadh: International Islamic Publishing House, 2000), p. 125.
Sunnah(Riyadh: lntemationalIslamic PublishingHouse,2000),p. 125.
8

10. points to their being all under the authority of one Being, who must
points their being under the authority of one Being, must
have both knowledge and complete power sustain and guide
have both full knowledge and conrpletepower to sustainand guide
them. If this were the case, chaos could be rationally
them. If this were not the case, only chaos could be rationally
expected, especially given the large number of atoms and other
expected, especially given the large number of atoms and other
particles that make everything that the universe.
particles that make up everythingthat is in the universe.
Second, this is a clear sign that the Creatorand Master of the
Second,this is clear sign that the Creator and Master of the
Universe one and only one-there cannot possibly be more than
Universe is one and only one-there cannot possibly be more than
one Creator of this balanced and unified universe. This follows from
one Creatorof this balancedand unified universe.This follows from
the previous point. If there were more than one creator, each having
the previous point. If there were more than one creator,each having a
and power, then be expected that the creationwould
will and power, then it would not be expected that the creation
have the unity, balance and equilibrium that currently exhibits.
havethe unity, balanceand equilibriumthat it currentlyexhibits.
Thus, the starting point that there is only one Creator,
Thus, the starting that there is one Creator,
Sustainer and Ultimate Power over this universeis something that is
Sustainerand Ultimate Power over this universe is somethingthat is
both natural in humans and concluded easily and logically.
both natural humansand concludedeasilyand logically.
Once that it is concluded that Allah is the only Creator and
Once that is concludedthat is the Creatorand
Sustainer of the universe, other important issues come up. In
Sustainer of the universe, other important issues come up.
particular, perhaps the most important question a person can ask
particular, perhaps the most important question person can ask
himself is: What should be my relationship with that one creator? This
is: What shouldbe relationship that one creator?This
leads directly into the next topic of Allah being the only one worthy
leads directly into the next topic of being the one worthy
and deserving of worship.
and deserving worship.
of
The Belief that Allah Must Be the Only Object of Vorship
Belief Be the Object Worship
It is of extreme importance to realize that believing in the
is of extreme importanceto realize that believing the
existence of only one Creator and Sustainer is not all there is when it
existence of one Creatorand Sustainer notis there is when
comes to the Islamic concept of "belief in God." Actually, recognizing
comesto the Islamic conceptof God." Actually, recognizing
that fact is something that should be beyond question and clear to all
that fact is somethingthat should be beyond questionand clear to
as, again, it is something natural in human souls. The far more
as, again, is something natural human souls. The far more
important and subtler issue is what one then does concerning one's
important and subtler issue is what one then does concerningone's
belief in only one Creator and Sustainer.
one Creatorand Sustainer.
Perhapsa couple examples make this point clearer.
Perhaps a couple of examples will make this point clearer.
First, Allah's creation points to His greatness as well as His great
First, creation points to His greatness as as His great
knowledge. In general, a person's attitude toward that which they find
knowledge. general,a person'sattitudetoward that which they find
to be perfect, great and marvelous is usually one of awe, respect and
to be perfect,great and marvelousis usually one awe, respectand
honor. Furthermore, the greatness of the Creator cannot be compared
honor. Furthermore,the greatness the Creator cannot be compared
to the inability one who cannotcreate. this point, God says,
to the inability of one who cannot create. On this point, God says, "Do
On
they attribute as partners to Allah those who created nothing but they
they attribute as partners those creatednothing but they
are created?"(7:l9l). God also says,"Can the One who
themselves are created?" (7: 191). God also says, "Can the One who
themselves
you learn the
creates and the one who cannot create be equal? Don't you learn the
createsand the one who cannotcreatebe equal?
lesson?"?(16: 17). ) .
l e s s o n ("1 6 : 1 7
9

11. In addition, though, Allah is the source of all of one's
addition, though, the source of of one's
bounties and blessings.Indeed, He is the source of one's life and
bounties and blessings. Indeed, the source of one's and
everything that has been preparedin this creation for him. Thus, Allah
everything has been prepared creation Thus, Allah
saysin the Quran,"If you count the Blessingsof Allah, neverwill you
says the Quran, "If count the Blessings of never will
be able to count thetn" (la:34). Can humans actually bring about
able count them" (14:34). Can humans actually about
these bounties themselves without the aid and help of Allah? Allah
thesebountiesfor themselves without the and help of Allah?
'Tell
gives anotherexamplewhen He says,"Say (to the disbelievers),
gives another example when says, the disbelievers), 'Tell
me, if Allah took away your hearing and your sight, and sealedup
me, if Allah away hearing and sight, and sealed
your hearts,who is there -a god other than Allah-who could restore
hearts, there -a other than Allah-who restore
them you?' See variously explain the lessons, yet they turn
them to you?' Seehow variouslyWe explain the lessons, they turn
aside" (6:46).
aside"(6:46).
logical one then be disrespectful, neglectful and
Is it logical for one then to be disrespectful, neglectful and
arrogant towards the One and Only God? Indeed, cart the attifude
arrogant towards the One and God? Indeed, can the attitude
toward that One great and marvelous being who bestowed such
toward that One great and marvelous being bestowed such
bounties be anything humility, humbleness, gratefulness,
bounties be anythingbut humility, humbleness, gratefulness, love and
love and
devotion?
devotion?
These two examples, of Allah's creative power and
These examples, of creative power and
knowledge and of Allah's solitarily bestowingof bounties,should be
knowledgeand of solitarily bestowing of bounties, should be
sufficient to demonstrate the point that Allah alone has the right to be
sufficient demonstrate the that alone has the
loved, honored and worshipped. This is a point that Allah makes
loved, honored and worshipped. is a that makes
numerous times in the Quran in various ways while speaking to those
numeroustimes the Quran various ways speaking those
recognizethat there could be one creatorand at the same
who recognize that there could be only one creator and yet at the same
time they ignore Him and worship false gods and false objects of
time they ignore and worship false gods and false objects
worship. Thus, example, says, "Say [to the polytheists],
worship. Thus, for example, Allah says, "Say [to the polytheists],
'Whose is the earth and whososveris therein?If you know!'They
'Whose is the earth and whosoever is therein? If you know!' They
'Will you not then receive
say, 'It is
will say, 'It is Allah's!' Say [then to them], 'Will you not then receive
Say [thento them],
admonition?'" (23:84-85).
admonition? (23:84-85).
"'
alone who has the knowledge
Just as important, it is Allah alone who has the knowledge
Just as important, is
neededto provide guidance.The false objects worship cannot do
needed to provide guidance. The false objects of worship cannot do
says,"Say: 'Is there your (so-called)
this in the least. Thus, Allah says, "Say: 'Is there of your (so-called)
this in the least.Thus,
'It Who guidesto
partners one that guides to the truth?' Say: 'It is Allah Who guides to
partnersone that guidesto the truth?' Say: is
the truth. Is then He, Who gives guidance to the truth, more worthy to
the truth. Is then He, Who gives guidanceto the truth, more to
he who finds not guidance (himself) unless he is
be followed, or he who finds not guidance (himself) unless he is
be followed,
judge you?'
guided? Then, what is the matter with you? How judge you?' And
guided? Then, what is the matter with you?
Certainly,conjecturecan
most of them follow nothing but conjecture. Certainly, conjecture can
most them follow nothing but conjecture.
be of no avail againstthe truth. Surely, Allah is All-Aware of what
be of no avail against the truth. Surely, Allah is All-Aware of what
theyydo" (10:35-36). ).
th e do" ( 10: 35- 36
100
1

12. From the above-and from numerous other arguments and
From the above-and from numerous other argumentsand
proofs scatteredthroughout the Quran-one should conclude that
proofs scattered throughout the Quran-one should conclude that
there is nothing worthy of worship except Allah. Consequently, if
there is nothing worthy of worship except Allah. Consequently, if
there is nothing worthy of worship except Allah, it is rational for the
there is nothing of worship except rational the
individual to insist that he worships no one other than Allah. This is
individual to insist that he worshipsno one other than Allah. This is
actually the key message of all of Islam and the message that all of the
acruallythe key message all of Islam and the message
of that the
prophetspreached.
prophets preached.
At this point, though, it is important to clarify the meaning of
this point, though, is importantto clarify the meaning
this term "worship" from an Islamic perspective. The word translated
this term an Islamic perspective.The translated
as "worship" here is the Quranic and Arabic term ibaadah. This term
as here the Quranic and term ibaadah. term
has very different connotations from the English word "worship."
has different connotations the English
The root of the word "worship" in English means "to honor"
The root of the word "worship" English means honor"
and, thus, can be further defined English as, performance
and, thus, it can be further defined in English as, "the performance
of devotional acts in honor of a deity.,,1 But, as Bilal Philips notes,
devotionalacts honor of a deity."r But, as Philips notes,
However, in the language of the final revelation, Arabic,
However, the languageof the revelation,Arabic,
worship is called 'ibqadah which is derivedfrom the
worship is called 'ibaadah which is derived from the
noun 'abd meaning
noun 'abd meaning "a slave." A slave is one who is
slave." slave is one is
expected to do whatever his master wills. Consequently,
expected do whateverhis masterwills. Consequently,
worship accordingto the final revelationmeans"obedient
worship according to the final revelation means "obedient
submission to the will of God." This was the essence of
submissionto the of God." This was the esseuce
the message of all the prophets sent by God to
the message the prophets sent God to
humankind. For example,this understanding worship
humankind. For example, this understanding of worship
of
was emphatically expressed by Prophet Jesus in the
was emphatically expressed Prophet Jesus the
Gospel accordingto Matthew, T:21, "None of thosewho
Gospel according to Matthew, 7:21, "None of those who
call me 'Lord'
call me 'Lord' will enter the kingdom of God, but only
enter the kingdom of God, only
the one who does the will of my Father in heaven.,,2
the one who doesthe Father heaven."2
Thus, this aspect of monotheism-the belief in Allah as the
Thus, this aspectof monotheisnr-the as the
only object of worship-goes well beyond the concept of worship as
object of worship-goes beyond the concept of worship as
understood many the West, particular.
understood by many in the West, in particular.
This aspect of Islamic monotheism comprises ritual acts of
This aspect Islanric monotheismcomprisesritual acts of
devotion as well as the feelings in the heart and the deeds of the
devotion as as the feelings the heart and the deeds the
physical body. The feelings the heart include putting
physical body. The feelings in the heart include putting all of one's one's
trust and reliance in Him alone, having utmost fear of Him alone,
trust and reliance alone, having utmost fear of alone,
having utmost hope in Him alone, having contentment with Him as
having utmost hope alone, having contentment as
God and Creator and so forth.
and Creator and so forth.
' al Fatah, 1995),p. 40.
eilal enitip s, ThePurpose of Creation (Sharjah,
1 Bilal Philips, The Purpose ofCreation (Sharjah, UAE: Dar al Fatah, 1995), p. 40.
t Bilal Philips, The PUlpose, pp. 41-42.
2 Philips, ThePurpose,pp. 4l-42.
11l
1

13. In fact, there are two aspects in particular that must be
fact, there are aspects particular that must be
combined in the worship of Allah. AI-Saadi stated,
combined the worship of Allah. Al-Saadi stated,
The spirit and actuality of worship is by the realization of
The and actuality of worship is the realization of
love and submission to Allah. Complete love and full
love and submission Complete love and
submission to Allah is the reality of worship. If the act of
submission the reality of worship. If the act of
worship is missing both or one of those components, it is
worship is missing both one of those components, is
not truly an act of worship, for the reality of worship is
an act of worship, the reality of worship is
found submission and yielding to Allah.
found in submission and yielding to Allah. And that will that
only occur if there is complete and full love [for Allah]
occur if there is complete and love [for
which dominates all other expressions of love. 1
which dominates other expressions love.r
all of
From the above, it is clear that the belief in Allah as the only
the above, is clear that the as the
particular, there are a
object of worship has many meanings to it. In particular, there are a
object of worship has many meanings it.
that must be solely "dedicated
number of aspects of life that must be solely "dedicated to" Allah.
number of aspectsof
Without an understanding of this fact, one has failed to grasp the
an understandingof this fact, one has failed grasp the
reality of the statement, "There is none worthy of worship except
of the statement, "There is none of worship except
Allah." A brief explanation of these aspects should make this concept
explanationof theseaspectsshould make this concept
clearer.
clearer.
First, all ritual acts of worship must be directed solely to Allah
First, acts of worship must be directed solely
alone. Prayers, fasting, pilgrimage, alms and so forth must be done
alone. Prayers, fasting, pilgrimage, alms and so forth must be done
solely with the intent of pleasing Allah and as acts of worship towards
solely the intent of pleasing and as acts of worship towards
alone. Thus, example, if anyone prays anyone other than
Him alone. Thus, for example, if anyone prays to anyone other than
he is actually the principles of worshipping
Allah, he is actually violating the principles of worshipping no one one
other than Allah.
other than
Second, ultimate authority in life rests with Allah. In other
Second, ultimate authority rests other
words, one must submit oneself only to the commands and revelation
words, one must submit oneself the commandsand revelation
coming from Allah. He is the Creator and He has the right to lay down
coming is the Creatorand has the
legislation and laws for the guidance of humankind. Intentionally
legislation and laws the guidance of humankind. Intentionally
ignoring or arrogantly superseding the laws from God means that one
ignoring arrogantly superseding laws the God meansthat one
is not truly submitting to God and, thus, one is not taking Him as the
is submitting God and, thus, one is taking as the
only object of worship and submission.
object of worship and submission.
Third, one's loves, loyalties, likes and dislikes must be in
Third, one's loves, loyalties, likes and dislikes must be
accord with what Allah has revealed. This aspect flows from the heart
accord has revealed. aspect the heart
when it is truly filled with the belief in, love of and adoration for
when is the love of and adoration
Allah alone. This is a simple concept but it has far-reaching
alone. is a simple concept has far-reaching
implications. The completeness of faith requires that Allah is the most
implications. The completeness faith requiresthat
of the most
I Quoted in Muhammad al-Hammad, Tauheed al-Uloohiyah (Dar ibn Khuzaima, 1414
I Muhammad al-Hamnrad,Tauheedal-Uloohiyafi Khuzaima,l4l4
Quoted
A.H.), ,p.. 26. .
A.H.) p 26
t2
12

14. beloved thing in one's heart-He is the beloved of soul. When this
beloved thing in one's heart-He is the beloved of soul. When this
fact permeatesthe human, he begins to love what his beloved loves
fact permeates the human, he begins to love what his beloved loves
and dislike what his beloveddislikes.Thus, if Allah is found to love
and dislike what his beloved dislikes. Thus, if Allah is found to love
something,the devoted worshipper and servant also loves that thing.
something, devoted worshipper servant also
Conversely, if Allah is found to detest something-although He has
Conversely, if Allah detest something-although has
created it and put it in this world as a test for humans and made it
created it put it as test humans made it
available to them-the devoted worshipper and servant will also
available them-the devoted worshipper and servant will also
detest
detestthat thing.
Although acceptingAllah as the only object of worship is the
accepting Allah as the of the
essentialaspect of true monotheism, is a conceptthat is not always
essential aspectof true monotheism, it concept that always
understood or practiced properly. This is a real loss for humans
understood practiced properly. real loss humans
becauseit is this aspectof monotheismthat is the key to a "real life", a
because aspect of monotheism that the key
sound and proper.
life that is sound and proper. Ibn Taimiya wrote,wrote,
You must know that a human's need for AllaF- that he
must that human's need Allah- that he
worship and associate any partner with Hirn--is
worship Him and not associate any partner Him-is
an incomparableneed unlike any other. In some ways, it
an incomparable need any other. some ways,
food and drink.
resembles the need of the body for food and drink.
resembles the need of the
However, there are many differences between the two.
However, there are many differences between the two.
The reality of human being is his heart and soul.
The reality of a human being is in his heart and soul.
These cannot be prosperous except through [their
These cannot be prosperous except through
relation] Allah, conceming there is no other
relation] with Allah, concerning whom there is no other
anything other than
god... If someone worships anything other than
If someon€ worships
if he loves and attains some love
Allab--even if he loves it and attains some love in this
Allalr-ven this
world and some form of pleasure from that-[that false
and some pleasure that{that false
worship] destroythe person a greaterthan the
worship] will destroy the person in a way greater than the
harmful displeasure that comes to a person who took
harmful displeasurethat comes to a person who took
pOlson .... .r.
. I
poison
enoughthat the belief in only
Again, it cannot be emphasized enough that the belief in only
Again, cannotbe emphasized
the universeis not all there is to a proper
one Creator and Sustainer of the universe is not all there is to a proper
one Creator and Sustainer
belief in God. Throughout history, it has been the case that some
belief in God. Throughout history, it has been the case that some
people stopped at this clear premise and thought that such was all
people stopped at this clear premise and thought that such was all
in God. Nothing could be further from the
there was to the belief in God. Nothing could be further from the
there was to the
is definitely necessarybut it is not sufficient. That
truth. That belief is definitely necessary but it is not sufficient. That
truth. That belief
belief must be followed up with the proper relations,emotionsof the
belief must be followed up with the proper relations, emotions of the
I Ahmad lbn Taimiya, Majmoo Fatawaa Shaikh al-Islaam ibn Taimiya (Collected by
1 Ahmad Ibn Taimiya, Majmoo Fatawaa Shaikh al-Islaam ibn Taimiya (Collected by
Abdul Rahmaan Qaasim and his son Muhammad. No publication information given),
Abdul Rahmaan Qaasim and his son Muhammad. No publication infonnation given),
vol. I, pp. 24-29.
vol. l, pp.24-29.
133
1

15. heart and acts with respect to Allah. It is by these acts that one truly
heart and acts respect is these acts that one
takes the Creator as his only "God," meaning his only object of
takes the Creator as his "Cod," meaning object of
extremelove, adorationand submission. so doing, he deniesthat
extreme love, adoration and submission. In so doing, he denies that
deserves be worshipped any way. Then,
anyone other than Allah deserves to be worshipped in any way. Then,
anyone other than
and then, he will be fulfilling what
and only then, he will be fulfilling what it truly means to believe in
means believe
God.
God.
sum, basedon the preceding:(1) the human should desire
In sum, based on the preceding: (1) the human should desire
greatness and perfection and the fact that
to worship Allah due to His greatness and perfection and the fact that
worship due
He is the only Creator, Bestower and Sustainer; (2) Allah alone has
is the Creator, Bestower and Sustainer; alone has
these attributes just described and hence He alone deserves to be
these attributes describedand hence He alone deservesto be
worshipped; and (3) the human should refrain
worshipped; and (3) the human should refrain from worshipping worshipping
anything other than Allah in any shape or form.
anything other than any shape form.
There is one that needs be added
There is one final but important point that needs to be added
important
at the end of these two sections: Since the signs for the true belief in
at the end of these sections:Since the signs the true
human nature, the physical surroundings,
God are so strong (in human nature, in the physical surroundings, in
are so strong
the messagestaught the prophets throughout the ages)
the messages taught by the prophets throughout the ages) it is is
completely unacceptable rationally and religiously to worship anyone
completely unacceptable rationally and religiously worship anyone
other than God. Therefore, associating partners with God l or refusing
other than God. Therefore,associatingpartners Godr refusing
worship God is a sin whose enormity and arroganceis so great that
to worship God is a sin whose enormity and arrogance is so great that
if one dies such a state, not forgive that sin.
if one dies in such a state, Allah will not forgive that sin. Allah has has
clearly stated, forgives that partners should be set
clearly stated, "Verily, Allah forgives not that partners should be set
up worship, He forgives except that (anything else)
up with him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to
pleases, and whoever sets up partners
whom He pleases, and whoever sets up partners with Allah in
(4:a8).
worship, he has indeed invented a tremendous sin" (4:48).
worship,he has indeedinventeda tremendous
Belief in Allah's Names and Attributes
Belief Namesand Attributes
To truly be devoted to Allah and to love Allah above all else
be devoted and love above else
have knowledge about
imaginable one needs to have knowledge about Allah that goes
imaginable one needs that goes
beyond the basic aspects of Him being the sole Creator and Sustainer.
beyond the basic aspects of being the sole Creatorand Sustainer.
grace and mercy,
Through His revelation and by His grace and mercy, Allah has
Through revelation and has
revealed a great deal of information about Himself, such that any truth
revealeda great deal of information about Himself, such that any truth
seeker can know and worship his Lord based on accurate knowledge.
seekercan and worship his based accurateknowledge.
Muslims are blessed to find Allah's names and attributes
Muslims are blessed to names and attributes
mentioned throughout the Quran. For example, Allah says, "He is
mentioned throughout the Quran. example, says, is
rAssociating partners with Allah means coupling the worship of God with the worship
Associating partners
I Allah n^reanscouplingthe worship Cod theworslrip
of idols, trees, animals, graves, heavenly bodies, natural powers, and so on. It also
of idols, trees, animals, graves, heavenly bodies, natural powers, and so on. also
means the acceptance individuals prophets as gods, the pretencethat
means the acceptance of individuals or prophets as gods, or the pretence that Almighty
of
God has sons and daughters. See Tabbarah, p. 47.
Cod has sons and daughters.SeeTabbarah,p. 47.
14
t4

16. Allah other than Whom there is none who has the right to be
Allah other than Whom there is none who has the right to be
worshipped, the King, the Holy, the One Free from all defects, the
worshipped, the King, the Holy, the Free from all defects, the
Giver of security, the Watcher over His creafures,the All-Mighty, the
of security, the Watcher over His creatures, the All-Mighty, the
Compeller,the Supreme.Glory be to Allah! (High is He) above all
Compeller, the Supreme. above
that they associate partnerswith Him. He is Allah, the Creator,the
that they associate as partners
as the Creator, the
Inventor of all things,the Bestowerof forms. To Him belong the Best
Inventor of things, the Bestower of forms. belong the Best
Names. All that is in the heavens the earthglorify Him. And He is
Names. All that the heavens and the earth
and
All-Mighty, All-Wise" (59:23-24).
the All-Mighty, the All-Wise" (59:23-24).
From the Quran and statementsof the Prophet (peace and
the Quran and statements of the Prophet (peace and
blessingsof Allah be upon him) one can learn the following about
blessings of upon one can learn the about
the Compassionate, Ever Mercifulr, Ever
Allah: Allah is the Most Compassionate, Merciful!,
Forgiving, Ever accepting of repentance, Ever Patient,Pardoningand
Forgiving, Ever acceptingof repentance, Ever Patient, Pardoning and
Loving. He is the Generous,the Magnanimous,the Bestower and the
Generous, Magnanimous, the Bestower and the
Clement. He respondsto those who call upon Him and He is the
Clement. responds those call upon and is the
Rescuer. is the Glorious,the Great,the deserver all Praise,Lord
Rescuer. He the Glorious, the Great, the deserver of of Praise,
of all creation,Master of the Day of Judgmentand the Judge of the
of creation, Master of the of Judgment and the Judge of the
Final reckoning. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing, the
Final reckoning. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing, the All-
is the Ever Strong, Ever Capable,
Knowing and the All-Wise. He is the Ever Strong, Ever Capable,
and the All-Wise.
Almighty. He is the Self-Sufficient, free of any need and provider of
Almighty. is the Self-Sufficient, free of any need and provider of
is the Exalted and the Most High. He is the
all sustenance. He is the Exalted and the Most High. He is the
all sustenance.
Watcher over affairs and the Protector. is administering the
Watcher over all affairs and the Protector. He is administering the
forbidding,being pleased,
affairs of His creation, commanding, forbidding, being pleased, being
affairs His creation,commanding, being
angered, rewarding, punishing, giving, withholding, honoring,
angered, rewarding, punishing, giving, withholding, honoring,
debasing. He does whatever He wills. He is attributed with every
debasing.He does whatever He wills. He is attributed every
attribute of perfection and free of even the tiniest amount of
attribute perfection and free even the tiniest amount
irnperfection shortcoming.Greatly exalted and perfect is He above
imperfection or shortcoming. Greatly exalted and perfect is He above
all that they associate with Him. even an atom moves save His
all that they associate with Him. Not even an atom moves save by His
will and permission.
and permission.
Himself is a great
This wonderful information about Allah Himself is a great
This wonderful information about
blessing for humankind. God Himself has revealed sufficient
blessing for hurnankind. God Himself has revealed sufficient
that humankind need not stray or be
information about Himself that humankind need not stray or be
information about
confused.
confused.
On this point, though, there is somethingvery clear in the
On this point, though, there is something very clear in the
Quran: There is absolutely no hint of any trace of anthropomorphism
Quran: There is absolutelyno hint of any traceof anthropomorphism
I awareof Allah and of thesetwo of His namesin particular.
I Muslims remain constantly aware of Allah and of these two of His names in particular.
Muslims remainconstantly
Before beginning virtually any act, a Muslim states,"ln the nanreof Allah, the Most
Before beginning virtually any act, a Muslim states. "In the name of Allah, the Most
Compassionate, the Ever Merciful."
Compassionate, Ever Merci ful."
the
l5
15

17. in the Islamic beliefs about God. This is a point concerning which
the Islamic beliefs about God. This is a point concerningwhich
many earlier peoples have strayed. The Creator and the created are
many earlier peoples have strayed. The Creator and the created are
separate and distinct. The attributes of Allah are perfect attributes that
separate and distinct. The attributesof are perfect attributesthat
are becoming of holiness and greatness.
are becoming of His holiness and greatness. Even when there is some
Even when there some
"common concept" between an attribute of Allah and an attribute of
"common concept" between an attribute of and an attribute of
humans, there is actually no similarity in the quality of the two. Thus,
humans,there actually no similarity the quality of the two. Thus,
says the Quran,"There is nothing like unto
Allah Himself says in the Quran, "There is nothing like unto Him, and and
is the All-Hearer, the All-Seeing" (42:ll). Here, there is a
He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seeing" (42: 11). Here, there is a
complete denial of anthropomorphism while at the same time
complete denial of anthropomorphism at the same time
affirming that Allah hears and sees. Muslims always realize Allah's
affirming that hearsand sees.Muslims always realize
perfection while never belittling Him by describing Him in
perfection while never belittling describing
unbecoming manners. God does not have human-like attributes nor do
unbecoming manners. God doesnot have human-likeattributes nor do
humans have Divine attributes. Any violation of this latter principle is
humanshave Divine attributes. violation this latter principle is
clear disbelief and associating of partners with Allah.
cleardisbeliefand associating partners Allah.
From the history of humankind, it can be argued that it is
the history of humankind, can be argued that is
natural for humans to worship. They want to have a god that they can
natural humansto worship. They want have a god that they can
worship and adore. They know that there must be something special
worship and adore. They that there must be something special
and great about that
and great about that thing which they humble themselves to.
they hurnble themselves to.
However, so many of them put their hopes, trust, dreams and
However, so many of them hopes, trust, dreams and
aspirations in things that are simply not deserving of such respect or
aspirations things that are sin-rply deserving of such respect
worship-whether it be forces of nature, inanimate objects, other
worship-whether be forces of nature, inanimeiteobjects, other
humans, materialism, nations, race, whatever. They force themselves
humans, materialism, nations, race, whatever. They force themselves
to believe that these false objects of worship can bring about what
believe that these false objects of worship can about
they hope for and what they are dreaming of. In other words, they
they hope and they are dreaming of. other words, they
begin to give their false objects of worship the attributes of God.
begin to give their false objects worship the attributes God.
Instead of turning to God and knowing God by His attributes-and
Instead of rurning God and God attributes-and
then realizing that He is the One they are truly looking for-they turn
then realizing that He is the One they are for-they
to other objects of worship, love and adoration. Due to this, they stray
to other objects of worship, love and adoration.Due this, they stray
the straightpath and
very far from the straight path and from their true God.
true God.
numerousplaces, speaksabout such gross errors.
In numerous places, Allah speaks about such gross errors.
The source of these errors is an incorrect belief about the attributes of
The sourceof theseerrors is an incorrect aboutthe attributes of
those that they turn to while ignoring the attributes that reside with
those that they turn ignoring the attributes that reside
Allah. example, says, "Say [O Muhammad mankind],
Allah. For example, Allah says, "Say [0 Muhammad to mankind],
'How do you worship besides
'How do you worship besides Allah something which has no power
somethingwhich has no power
either to harm or to benefit you? But it is Allah Who is the All-
either to harm to benefit you? is is the
Hearer, All-Knower"' (5:76).
Hearer, All-Knower'" (5:76). Allah also says, "And who is more
also says, is more
astray than one who calls (invokes) besidesAllah, such as
astray than one who calls (invokes) besides Allah, such as will not not
answer the Day of Resurrection, and are (even)unaware
answer him till the Day of Resurrection, and who are (even) unaware
16
16

18. of their calls (invocations) them? when mankind are gathered
of their calls (invocations) to them? And when mankind are gathered
to
(on the they (falsedeities)
(on the Day of Resurrection), they (false deities) will become enemies
Resurrection), becomeenemies
deny their worshipping"(46:5-6).
for them and will deny their worshipping" (46:5-6).
them and
In sum, if one truly knows the names and attributes of Allah,
sum, if one knows the namesand attributesof
one would never tum to worship anyone or anything but Him. None
one would never turn to worship anyone anything but None
of those false objects of worship are deserving of worship. By
of those false objects of worship are deserving of worship.
worshipping them and seeking them, humans are doing nothing but
worshipping them and seeking them, humans are doing nothirrg
debasing themselves. Worse of all, they are ignoring Allah, equating
debasingthemselves. Worse all, they are ignoring equating
partners wrath and preparing
partners with Him, earning His wrath and preparing for themselves an
earning themselvesan
evil end.
end.
Summary
Summary
The proper belief in Allah is the essence and cornerstone of
The proper the essence and cornerstone
the Islamic faith. It is the key-the key to blessed life, the key to
the Islamic faith. is the key-the blessed the
proper
proper living, the key to understanding reality, the key to happiness
the understandingreality, the happiness
and peace. When the person. truly knows Allah, he will recognize that
and peace.When the person knows he will recognizethat
it does not make any sense to worship anything other than Him. He
does not make any senseto worship anything other than Him.
will realize that this is what his soul has been created for and this is
realize that this is what his soul has been created and this is
what it has been seeking. Once he realizes the beauty of worshipping
has been seeking.Once he realizesthe beauty of worshipping
Allah alone, he will never desire or wish to worship anyone other than
alone,he neverdesire wish to worship anyoneother than
Him. His soul will be a rest and his heart will be tranquil.
soul be a rest and his heart be tranquil.
t7
17

19. Universe Humans
The Universeand Humans
of Universe How it Points Allah's
The Creation of the Universe and How it Points to Allah's
Existence
Existence
The universe is made up of various parts. There are the
universe made of various parts. There are the
galaxies and solar systems that are above earth. earth, there are
galaxies and solar systemsthat are above earth. On earth, there are
inanimate objects, such as the mountains, oceans and land. There
inanimate objects, such as the mountains, oceansand land. There is
also the animal kingdom with all its great varieties.There are aspects
also the animal its great varieties. There are aspects
of creation that humans are discovering and coming across today.
of creation that humansare still discoveringand coming acrosstoday.
All of these are actually part of the creative of God.
All of these are actually part of the creative work of God. In the the
Quran, it is clear that it was Allah Who createdthe heavensand the
Quran, clear that was created the heavens and the
earth.
earth.
In numerous verses of the Quran, Allah points to different
numerous verses of the Quran, points different
aspects of the creation and describes them as signs for those people
aspectsof the creation and describesthem as signs those people
who reflect. For example, Allah says, "Verily! In the creation of the
reflect. example, says, the creationof the
heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, and the
heavensand the earth, and the alternationof and day, and the
ships which sail through the sea with that which is of use to mankind,
shipswhich sail throughthe sea that which of use mankind,
and the water (rain)
and the water (rain) which Allah sends down from the sky and makes
sends the and makes
the earth alive therewith after its death, and the moving (living)
the earth alive therewith after its death, and the
creatures of all kinds that He has scattered therein, and in the veering
creaturesof kinds that has scatteredtherein, and the veering
of winds and clouds which are held between the sky and the earth, are
of winds and clouds are held betweenthe and the earth, are
indeedsigns people understanding" (Z:ftfl.
indeed signs for people of understanding" (2:164).
In the hustle and bustle of today's world, many find little
the hustle and bustle of today's many
time to reflect upon this creation, their presence in this creation and
time to reflect upon this creation,their presence this creationand
any purposebehind all. However, is important that people take the
any purpose behind it all. However, it is important that people take the
time to reflect and think. When they do so, they will find signs and
reflect and think. When they do so, they signs and
lessons that will bring them straight back to God-a most important
lessonsthat will them straight back God-a most important
step in their lives. The signs are actually all around them, if they
step in their lives. The signs are actually all around them, if they
would only reflect upon them. Thus, God says, "We will show them
would only reflect upon them. Thus, God says, show them
Our Signs in the universe, and in their own selves, until it becomes
Signs in the universe,and their own selves,until becomes
manifestto them that this is the trutlt" (41:53).
manifest to them that this is the truth" (41 :53).
Reflecting upon the intricacy and order of this creation
Reflecting upon the intricacy and order this creation
makes one realize that not only must there be a wise Creator but also
makes one realize that must there be a wise Creator also
that there must be some purpose behind this creation. It is
that there nrust be some purpose behind this creation. is
unimaginable that any being would make something with such
unimaginable that any being would make something such
precision and perfection and yet there would be no rhyme or reason to
precision and perfection and yet there be no rhyme reasonto
the whole creation. This is a point that Allah makes in numerous
the whole creation. This is a point that Allah makes in numerous
places in the Quran. For example,Allah says, "'We creatednot the
places in the Quran. For example, Allah says, '''We created not the
18
l8

20. heavensand the earth and all that is betweenthem for a (mere)play"
heavens and the earth and that between them (mere)
( 2 1: l 6 ) .
(21: 16).
The Quranic argumentis that it is not logically possibleto
The Quranic argument that logically possible
come any other conclusion. Indeed, if person believes
come to any other conclusion.Indeed,if a personbelievesin God as God as
the Creator, by definition it is unbecoming of such a noble and great
the Creator, unbecoming of such noble and great
Being to createall of this order and beauty and yet have no purpose
Being create of this order and beauty and yet have purpose
behind that creation. A person believes creator yet believes
behind that creation.A personwho believesin a creatoryet believes
that creator had purpose thought behind
that this creator had no purpose or thought behind his creation is creation
describinga creator that is childlike and unintelligent.It is hard to
describing creator that childlike and unintelligent. hard
believe that creator like that could possibly come
believe that a creatorlike that could possiblycome up with a creation creation
the one that everyone witnesses today. indeed, the creation
like the one that everyone witnessestoday. No, indeed, the creation
points to certain attributes of the Creator and it points to there being
points certain attributesof the Creator and points there being
an important and great purposebehind this entire creation. The whole
an important and great purpose behind this entire creation.The whole
nature of the existence points to the Creator being one of very special
nature of the existencepoints the Creator being one of special
character who would not create anything of this nature for fun or
character create anything of this nature
without reason.
without reason.
A second very important conclusion that one can derive by
second important conclusion that one can derive
simply pondering over this creation is that the one who created tlIis
simply pondering over this creationis that the one who createdthis
nothing can easily recreateit. If has the re-create
from nothing can easily recreate it. If He has the ability to re-create
things even after their demise, this also means that He has the ability
things even after demise,this also meansthat has the
to resurrect them and bring them all in front of Him. This thought,
resuruect them and bring them all front This thought,
obviously, has very ominous repercussions for humans and their
obviously, has very ominous repercussions humans and their
behavior in this world. Thus, Allah points out this fact and reminds
behavior this world. Thus, points out this fact and reminds
humans of its meaning throughout the Quran.
humans its meaningthroughoutthe Quran. For
For example,
example,
says, he fthe human] puts forth Us a parable,and
Allah says, "And he [the human] puts forth for Us a parable, and
creation.He says, 'Who give
forgets his own creation. He says, 'Who will give life to these bones
forgets his thesebones
became dust?' Say (to them O
when they have rotted away and became dust?' Say (to them 0
when they have rotted away and
'He
Muhammad), 'He will give life to them Who created them for the first
give to them Who created them for the hrst
Muhammad),
time! FIe is the of every creation! He, Who
time! And He is the All-Knower of every creation! He, Who
produces for you fire out of the green tree, when behold, You kindle
produces you fire out the greentree, when behold, kindle
therewith. Is not He, Who created the heavens and the earth Able to
therewith. Is not He. createdthe heavensand the earth to
create the like of them? Yes, indeed! He is the All-Knowing Supreme
createthe like them?Yes, indeed!He is the Supreme
Creator." (36:78-83).
Creator." (36:78-83).
Thus, this creation is a clear sign-when added to the fact
Thus, this creation is a clear sign-when added the fact
that there must be a purpose behind this creation-of the
that there must be a purpose behind this creation-of the
Resurrection. The concept of the Resurrection is not something that
Resurrection. The concept the Resurrection not somethingthat
is
violates nature but it is completely consistent with nature.
violatesnaturebut is completelyconsistent nature.
r9
19

21. In reality, the one who negatesthe resurrectionis expecting
that Allah will treat the wrongdoerslike the pious people. This is an
unbecomingexpectation Allah. Allah makesit clear that such will
of
never be the case,highlighting that such thoughts can only come from
those who disbelievein God. Allah says, "And We creatednot the
heaven and the earth and all that is between them without purpose!
That is the considerationof those who disbelieve! Then woe to those
who disbelievefrom the Fire! Shall We treat those who believe and
do righteousgood deedslike the evildoers on earth?Or shall We treat
the pious like the wicked?" (38:27-28).
After so many signs in the creation and so many reminders
and lessonsin the revelationone must ask: What will be the human's
excuseif he does not respondin the proper manner to the evidenceall
aroundhim?
Humans and the Creation
There is somethingdistinct and special about this creation
known as humans.However, the original, physical creation of the first
human was not greatly different from the creation of the other
creaturesof this world. According to the Quran, the physical make-up
of the first human, Adam, was from clay and water, two of the already
created substancesof this cosmos. It is in the next stage of the
creation of the first human, Adam, in which the real distinction
occurred. At this point, hununs are made a very separateand unique
creature,combining a physical aspectand a special spiritual aspect
that God bestowed on them. In fact, this is what makes them very
different from the other living creafures this sameplanet.
on
Among the most prominent distinguishing featuresof human
beingsare the following:
(1) A sound,natural dispositionthat is ready and capableto
be directedto the belief in Allah alone as tlre object of worship;
(2) An ability to comprehendand understandmattersvia the
intelligence and mind that Allah hasbestowed humans;
on
(3) A free will to decidebetweenthe path of goodness the or
path of evil, as well as a limited free will to enact that choice that he
has made;
(4) A responsibilityfor the choiceshe has made,which is a
necessary resultof being given free will and ability;
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20

22. These are addition the fact mentioned
(5) These are all in addition to the fact mentioned in the the
of the resources of the creation have been subjugated to
of
Quran that all of the resources the creationhave beensubjugated
Quran that
his use.
use.
Given all of these specialcharacteristics, human should
Given of these special characteristics, the human should
the
realize that he has a special and noble purpose and goal in this life.
realize that he has special and noble purpose and goal this
creation of humans and the special characteristics that humans
The creation of humans and the special characteristicsthat humans
possess should make each human realizethat the Creatoris too wise
possess should make each human realize that the Creator is too wise
create sport. "Did
and lofty to createhim simply for sport. "Did you think that We had
and that had
created any purpose), and that
createdyou in play (without any purpose),and that you would not be be
brought back Us?" (23:115).
broughtbackto Us?" (23:I l5).
Indeed, even more than that, the great Creator
Indeed, even more than that, the great Creator who createdcreated
all the creatures and the humans would not leave humans without
the creatures and the humans leave humans
guidance and without showing them what to do and what not to do-
guidanceand showing them do and do-
He has even guided animals to the means of their survival. Thus,
has even guided animals the means of their survival. Thus,
rhetorically, says,"Does man think that he
rhetorically, Allah says, "Does man think that he will be left neglected
be neglected
[without being commanded and also punished or rewarded for the
[without being commandedand also punished rewarded the
(Allah) on himl?" (75:36).
obligatory duties enjoined by his Lord (Allah) on him]?" (75:36).
obligatorydutiesenjoined his
Hence, the human should realize that his actions in this life
Hence, the human should realize that actions this
have a real ramification to them. In this sense, nothing that he does is
have real ramification them. this sense, nothing that he doesis
meaningless or without consequences. His life has purpose here and
meaningless without consequences. has purposehere and
the Creator is ever aware of every action, thought, intention and
the Creator is ever aware every action, thought, intention and
movement that he makes.
movementthat he makes.
the human realize this point,
It is extremely important for the human to realize this point,
is extremely important
that he has a purpose in this life. Indeed, this realization may be the
that he has a pu{pose this life. Indeed,this realizationmay be the
first step along a change of life in which one turns to his Great and
first step along a changeof which one turns to his Great and
Wonderful Creator, to submit to Him willfully. Without realizing this
Wonderful Creator,to submit to Without realizingthis
fact, there may be no need, meaning or purpose to behaving in a
fact, there may be no need, meaning purpose to behaving in a
specific manner. If nothing truly matters and if nothing is morally
specific manner. If nothing matters and if nothing is nrorally
wrong or right, since there is no God or real purpose to existence, it is
wrong right, sincethere is no God real purposoto existence, is
behave in any fashion they wish. There
expected that people will behave in any fashion they wish. There
expectedthat people
should be a great and profound effect when a person's eyes are open
should be a great and profound effect when a person's eyes are open
to the reality of this creation, his purpose and role in it.
to the reality this creation, purposeand role in it.
his
This author has had personal experience working in prisons
This author has had personalexperience working prisons
in the United States. Upon asking numerous inmates why they
the United States. Upon asking numerous inmates they
committed their crimes, the response was invariably, "Why not?" The
committedtheir crimes,the response was invariably, not?" The
only question to them was whether they could get away with an act
question to them was whether they could get away an act
and not get caught. There was no question of any responsibility
and not get caught. There was no question any responsibility
towards a Creator or any sense purpose this life. Indeed, one
towards a Creator or any sense of purpose in this life. Indeed, one
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2

23. cannot argue much against their way of thinking if one is foolish
cannot argue against of if one
enough to believe that this existence is purposelessand by mere
enough believe existence purposeless and mere
chance.
chance.
As opposedto the Islamic beliefs,somepeopletoday believe
opposed the Islamic beliefs, some people today believe
humans are descended from animals in some evolutionary
that humansare simply descended animals some evolutionary
sense.In this way of thinking, humans are doubly a processof mere
sense. of humans are process of mere
materialist elements as well as descended from animals,
materialist elementsas well as being directly descended animals,
apes the closest relative. the fact that there are many
apes being the closest relative. Ignoring the fact that there are many
"missing links" and scientific doubts raised against the theory of
and scientific doubts raised against the theory of
evolution, could this possibly be what this great and grandeurcosmos
evolution, possibly be this great and grandeur cosmos
is all about? Could humans, who have been given so many
about? humans, have been so many
capabilities above and beyond the animals, nothing more than
capabilities above and beyond the animals, be nothing more than
animalswithout any noble purposeor Creatorto answerto? In reality,
animals any noble purpose Creator answer to? reality,
can concluded that seems completely
it can be concludedthat this view seemsto be completely illogical and and
potentially very harmful.
potentially harmful.
Some people also believe that the human soul inherently
Some people also believe that the human soul is inherently
the contrary,the ProphetMuhammad (peaceand blessings of
evil. On the contrary, the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessingsof
Allah be upon him) himself said, "Every child is born on the fitrah
upon said, is the fitrah
is his parents
(the natural way, the religion of Islam). It is his parents who then
(the natural way, the religion of Islam). then
make him into a Jew, Christian or Magian."1 That is, far from the
make Jew, Christian Magian."r That is, the
being born inherently every is born upon the true
child being born inherently evil, every child is born upon the true
religion. is afterwards, the influence of society and
religion. It is only afterwards, via the influence of family, society and
environment, that an individual becomes influenced to
environment, that an individual becomes influenced to follow paths paths
that are not pure.
that are pure.
Many Christiansbelieve the concept the "original sin."
Many Christians believe in the concept of the "original sin."
This is the that the sin that Adam, the man, committed is
This is the belief that the sin that Adam, the first man, committed is
his progeny. Hence, is on the neck of every
passed on through all of his progeny. Hence, it is on the neck of every
passedon through all
individual, even the newborn baby. The only way it could be
individual, even the newborn baby. The could be
removed-they claim-is God sending son as a sacrifice to
removed-they claim-is by God sending His son as a sacrifice to
remove this sin. This belief, especiallythe last part
remove this sin. This belief, especially the last part of it, is obviously
is obviously
Islamic monotheism.God does not have
completely inconsistent with Islamic monotheism. God does not have
completely inconsistent
a son. He has no equalsor anyonewho is in any fashion similar to
a son. He has no equals or anyone who is in any fashion similar to or
"related" to Him.
"related" to
is that Adam and Eve together did commit
The Islamic belief is that Adam and Eve together did commit
The Islamic
a sin, by allowing themselves to be deceived by Satan. However, they
a sin, allowing themselvesto be deceived Satan.However, they
both repentedto God and God accepted their repentance. That was the
both repented to God and God accepted their repentance. That was the
t Recorded by al-Bukhari and Muslim.
1 Recordedby al-Bukhari and Muslim.
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