aqaid

Aqidah, also transliterated aqīdah or aqā'id, is the Arabic term for Islamic creed or theology. It refers to the set of fundamental beliefs that define a Muslim’s worldview and distinguish orthodox faith from other beliefs. In broad use, aqidah encompasses the doctrinal articles of faith and the theological attributes ascribed to God and creation.

The core scope of aqidah typically includes belief in the oneness of God (tawhid), belief in angels, belief in the revealed scriptures, belief in the prophets, belief in the Day of Judgment and resurrection, and belief in divine decree (qadar). These creedal elements address metaphysical questions, the nature of God, the meaning of worship, and the ultimate purpose of human life. While the exact articulation of these beliefs varies across communities, they are widely treated as foundational to Muslim identity and practice.

Historically, Muslim theology developed through several approaches and schools. Sunni traditions include Ash'ari and Maturidi rationalist theologies as well as traditionalist (Athari) approaches. Shia Islam has its own doctrinal formulations centered on concepts such as the Imamate. In the early centuries, Mu'tazilite rationalist thought also influenced debates about divine attributes and human free will. Despite differences, all these currents use aqidah as the framework for understanding God, creation, and moral order, while fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) governs practical rulings.

In modern usage, aqidah often denotes Islamic theology as a field of study, taught in madrasas and universities, and serves as a reference point for doctrinal discussions within various Muslim communities.