Muwahhid

Muwahhid is an Arabic term meaning “monotheist” or “one who bears witness to the oneness of God.” The word derives from the root wahd, meaning to unite or make one. In Islamic theology, a muwahhid is a believer who affirms tawhid, the doctrine of the oneness and indivisibility of God, and thereby rejects shirk, the ascribing of partners to God.

Tawhid is the central concept in Islam and is often described as having several related dimensions. Commonly cited are the affirmation of God’s lordship (rububiyya), the proper understanding of God’s names and attributes (asma wa-sifat) without compromising tawhid, and directing worship to God alone (ibadah). A muwahhid strives to worship God exclusively and to submit to His sovereignty, avoiding practices considered polytheistic or idolatrous.

Usage and scope vary by tradition. The term is used across Sunni, Shia, and other Islamic contexts as a neutral descriptor for someone who adheres to pure monotheism. Its plural form muwahhidun can refer to adherents of tawhid in a general sense. In some historical or polemical contexts, the term has been invoked to emphasize a return to what is perceived as authentic, uncompromising monotheism, though it is not a formal sect or faction in itself.

See also: Tawhid; Shirk; Islam.