The Muslim Belief in Oneness of God and the Sacrifice for Islam

Islam, one of the world's major religions, is deeply rooted in the belief in the Oneness of God, known as Tawhid in Arabic. This fundamental principle is central to the faith and shapes the worldview and actions of Muslims worldwide. At the core of Tawhid is the belief that there is only one God, Allah, who is unique, indivisible, and the creator of the universe. This belief forms the basis of Muslim theology and spirituality, guiding adherents in their daily lives and interactions.

WHAT IS THE Concept of Towhid(Oneness)

Tawhid encompasses several key principles:

Unity of God: Muslims believe in the absolute unity and oneness of Allah, which distinguishes Islam from polytheistic beliefs. This unity means that Allah has no partners, associates, or equals. The Quran, Islam's holy book, emphasizes this in numerous verses, such as "Say, He is Allah, [Who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge" (Quran 112:1-2).

Attributes of God: Muslims understand Allah through His 99 names, which reflect His various attributes such as mercy, justice, and compassion. These attributes help Muslims to deepen their understanding of Allah’s nature and strengthen their connection to Him through prayers and acts of devotion.

Oneness of Worship: Tawhid also entails the exclusive worship of Allah. Muslims believe that all acts of worship, including prayer, fasting, and charity, must be directed solely to Allah. This commitment to monotheism influences every aspect of a Muslim’s life, fostering a sense of spiritual purity and devotion.

Sacrifice for Islam

Alongside the belief in Tawhid, Islam teaches the importance of sacrifice for the sake of the faith. This concept has historical roots and continues to inspire Muslims in various forms today:

Historical Examples: Throughout Islamic history, Muslims have demonstrated profound sacrifice in defending their faith and community. The early Muslims endured persecution and hardship in the early years of Islam, yet remained steadfast in their beliefs. One of the most notable examples is the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, grandson of Prophet Muhammad, who sacrificed his life in 680 AD in defense of justice and truth against oppression.

Modern Examples: In contemporary times, Muslims continue to demonstrate sacrifice in various ways. From humanitarian efforts to promoting social justice and fighting against oppression, many Muslims worldwide actively work towards creating a more just and compassionate society. This commitment is grounded in the teachings of Islam, which emphasize the importance of striving for righteousness and justice.

Sacrifice: The Heart of Islamic Faith

In Islam, sacrifice holds multifaceted meanings. It is both general and specific, woven into the fabric of a Muslim’s life. Here’s a closer look:

What is General Sense of Sacrifice

The Qur’an declares: “Verily my worship, my sacrifice, and my life and death are wholly dedicated to Allah, Lord of the worlds.” (Al-An`am 6:162). This verse encapsulates the essence of Islamic faith. As Muslims, we dedicate our time, energy, and possessions to fulfill Allah’s will on Earth. Sacrifice becomes a daily calling.

Why Commemorative Sacrifice

The rite of sacrifice commemorates the exemplary life of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him). Its purpose is twofold:

Emulating Ibrahim’s Faith and Sacrifice:Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah’s command serve as a model for believers. We learn from his story that true submission lies in surrendering our desires to Allah’s will.

Feeding the Needy:Sacrificing an animal (known as Qurbani or Udhiyya) provides an opportunity to feed the poor and destitute.

Allah says: “And for every nation, We have appointed a ritual for (sacrifice) so that they may mention the name of Allah over the beasts of cattle which He has provided them.” (Al-Hajj 22:34)

The act of sacrifice is not an end in itself; its intention matters most.

About Qurbani: Symbolism and ObligationQurbani is not obligatory but highly recommended.

It allows us to celebrate festive days and share joy with others.

Sheikh Ibn `Uthaymeen emphasized that slaughtering the sacrifice is better than giving its price in charity. By participating in Qurbani, we glorify Allah and fulfill our duty.

Conclusion

The Muslim belief in the Oneness of God and the willingness to sacrifice for Islam are integral aspects of the faith that shape the lives of millions of adherents worldwide. Tawhid underscores the unity and uniqueness of Allah, guiding Muslims in their worship and spiritual journey. Meanwhile, the concept of sacrifice highlights the enduring commitment of Muslims to their faith, inspiring acts of bravery, compassion, and selflessness. Together, these principles form a cornerstone of Islamic theology and ethics, fostering a deep sense of unity, purpose, and devotion among believers.