tevhid

Tevhid is the Islamic concept of the absolute oneness of God, Allah. It is the foundational principle of Islam and is expressed in the Shahada, the declaration of faith: "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is his messenger." This concept asserts that God is unique, indivisible, and has no partners or equals. It emphasizes that worship and devotion should be directed solely to Him.

The meaning of tevhid extends beyond mere monotheism. It encompasses the belief in God's absolute sovereignty, power, and knowledge over all creation. It means acknowledging that all blessings come from Him and that ultimate reliance should be placed only on Him. This principle guides Muslims in their understanding of God's attributes, His role as the sole creator and sustainer, and His divine will.

There are different dimensions to tevhid. At its most basic level, it is the affirmation of God's existence and unity. It also involves acknowledging His Lordship over the universe and His right to be worshipped exclusively. Furthermore, it encompasses recognizing and accepting God's names and attributes as described in Islamic scripture, without distortion or negation. Understanding and internalizing tevhid is considered essential for a Muslim's spiritual life and practice, shaping their worldview and actions.