http://www.islambasics.com CONTENTS Publisher Sheikh-ul-Islam, Muhammad bin Abdul-Wahhab, A renowned reviver and great reformer Kitab At-Tauhid 1. At-Tauhid (The Oneness of Allah 2. The superiority of Tauhid and what it removes of sin 3. Who purified Tauhid will enter Paradise without giving an Account 4. Fear of Shirk (Polytheism) 5. The Call to Testification of La ilaha ilia-Allah 6. Explanation of Tauhid and the Testimony 7. What about to wear a Ring, Twine, etc
8. Ruqa (incantation), Talismans and Amulets. 9. Seeking Blessing through a Tree, or a Stone, etc 10. Slaughtering for other than Allah 11. No animal Sacrifice for Allah in a place where Sacrifice is made for other than Allah 12. To vow to other than Allah is an act of Shirk 13. To seek Refuge in other than Allah is a part of Shirik 14. To seek help in other than Allah is an act of Shirk l5. (The created one could not be an object of worship)
16. (What the Lord has said)
17. The Intercession 18. (Allah guides whom He wills) 19. Excessive dogma in the righteous people is the root cause of infidelity 20. The condemnation of worshipping Allah at the Grave 21. Exaggeration in the Graves of the Righteous Persons extends them to become idols 22. Protectiveness of Al-Mustafa of Tauhid 23. Some People of this Ummah will worship Idols 24. On Sorcery (As-Sihr) 25. Clarification of types of Sorcery 26. On Soothsayers and the like 27. Curing through Magical Spells (An-Nushrah) 28. What is said regarding Belief in Omens (At-Tataiyur) 29. What is said regarding Astrology (At-Tanjeem) 30. Seeking Rain through the Lunar Phases (Constellation) 31. (Love for Allah) 32. (Fear of Allah Alone) 33. (Put your Trust in Allah) 34. (Securing against the Plan of Allah contradicts Tauhid) 35. Forbearance with what Allah has decreed 36. Forbiddance of Showing off 37. It is of Shirk to perform a deed for worldly reasons 38. Taking Scholars and Rulers as Lords (besides Allah) 39. (Seeking judgment from other than Allah and His Messenger) 40. (Whosoever denies any of the Names and Attributes of Allah) 41. (Recognizing the Grace of Allah, yet denying it is disbelief) 42. ("Do not set up rivals unto Allah...") 43. The One who is not satisfied with an Oath by Allah's Name 44. How it is to say, "What Allah may will and you may will" 45. Whoever curses Time has wronged Allah 46. To be named "Judge of the Judges" and the like 47. Respect for the Names of Allah 48. To make fun of things related to Allah, the Qur'an or the Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) 49. (To say: "This wealth is the result of my labour and knowledge") 50. (Every name which leads to the service of other than Allah is prohibited) 51. (The Most Beautiful Names belong to Allah) 52. Do not say As-Salam upon Allah 53. Saying: "O Allah, forgive me if You wish." 54. One should not say "My slave” 55. Whoever asks with the Name of Allah, is not to be rejected 56. Nothing but Paradise should be asked for by Allah's Face 57. On saying "If only such and such..." 58. Prohibition of cursing the Wind 59. (Prohibition of evil thoughts regarding Allah) 60. The One who denies Qadar (Divine Decree) 61. (What is the punishment) for the Picture-maker 62. The forbiddance of taking Oaths frequently 63. The Protection of Allah's Covenant and His Prophet's covenant 64. To swear and to take Oath (binding) upon Allah 65. None asks Intercession of Allah before His creation 66. The Prophet's safeguarding of Tauhid 67. ("They made not a just estimate of Allah...") In the Name of Allah, The most Beneficent, The Most Merciful
Sheikh-ul-Islam, Muhammad bin Abdul-Wahhab, was a renowned religious scholar and a great reformer of his times. He held a unique and unparalleled position as an exponent of Qur'an, Hadith and different branches of knowledge. With his intellect and a deep grasp over the religious learning, he impressed the high ranking contemporary scholars and brought them around his own viewpoints. In his works, Sheikh-ul-Islam has not only elaborated the Qur'an and Sunnah, but has also uprooted the polytheistic views and has made a hard struggle to eradicate the heresies and accretions. His writing Kitab At-Tauhid is one of the best books on the subject of Tauhid (Islamic Monotheism) and ranks high in authenticity. Till date it has gone through various publications; and had been the means for guidance of the millions of people throughout the world; by taking them out of the darkness of polytheism and error. The main object, Sheikh-ul-Islam had before him in writing this book, was to acquaint the Islamic world with the basic teachings of the Qur'an and Sunnah; contradict the prevailing but absurd beliefs and customs not supported by the traditions of the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) and to base the Faith and actions on the lucid and clear Islamic rulings and commandments that lead the Muslims to the success and salvation, here and in Hereafter. So to achieve the object, in this book, he has discussed all the relevant verses reasonably, rationally and sincerely; and has placed the essence of the Qur'an and Sunnah in a very simple and appealing manner. And this is the reason that the right persons, beyond group ism and prejudices, have been adopting the correct Islamic path- the path of the Qur'an and Sunnah -under the influence of the basic facts and proofs produced herein. If Allah willed, this book would also be undoubtedly proving beneficial in all the times to come. All praise is to Allah that Dar-us-Salam Publications, guided by its own commitment to serve the Qur'an and Sunnah and to transmit the Islamic Monotheism to the learned class of the society, is having this auspicious opportunity to publish the book into English with a lucid and eloquent translation. Obviously, it is a very difficult task to translate the (May Allah be pleased with him) text into English, as the grammar, syntax and cultural backgrounds of these two languages are entirely different. Yet it has been my sincere and constant effort to convey the exposition, thoughts, feelings, views and message of Sheikh-ul-Islam into English with as exactness and accuracy as could be possible. Even then, there may be still some shortcomings. In this regard all suggestions for improvement of the contents will be highly appreciated. It gives us pleasure to express our thanks to the brothers who have exerted their best endeavors to present the book in high esteem of the readers. We pray for them and their prosperity, in this world and in the Hereafter. Though this book has been published into English earlier also, it is hoped that this new English translation would certainly not only be appreciated owing to its simplicity, eloquence, and being comprehensive and intelligible to all; rather it would be highly helpful in guiding the Muslims desiring cognizance of Tauhid and the fundamentals of Shariah.
Abdul Malik Mujahid General Manager Dar-us-Salam Publications Sheikh-ul-Islam Muhammad bin Abdul-Wahhab A renowned Reviver and a great Reformer
His Birth and Lineage Sheikh-ul-Islam, Muhammad bin Abdul-Wahhab, was born in 1115 H. in the city of Uyainah, seventy kilometers northwest of Riyadh, the capital of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He belonged to a highly respectable and scholarly family; his father Sheikh Abdul-Wahhab bin Sulaiman, characterized by his profound scholarship and righteousness, inherited an exalted status from his ancestor Sheikh Sulaiman bin Ali, the chief of the scholars and well versed in teaching, writing and giving verdict.
Education Sheikh-ul-Islam acquired his primary education from his esteemed father at his native place and was nurtured under his guidance. He was intelligent enough to memorize the Qur'an by heart at the very tender age of ten only. He read the books on Tafseer (exegesis), Hadith and Fiqh. From the very outset, he was greatly interested in studying the works of early scholars, particularly those of Sheikh-ul-Islam Ibn Taimiyah and his noble disciple Allamah Ibn Qaiyim. He went through all those books and well grasped the contents. On attaining the age of maturity, he set out to perform Hajj at Makkah and derived benefits from the scholars there. He then proceeded to Al-Madinah, met the learned ones there, and adopted the studentship of two renowned erudite, Sheikh Abdullah bin Ibrahim bin Sa'id Najdi and Sheikh Muhammad Hayat Sindhi for a long period. Out of the curiosity for higher education, he took also the journey to Iraq and Basrah and got himself benefited there.
Condition of Najd In those days, the people of Najd were badly indulged in polytheistic deeds and un-Islamic practices. They were completely overwhelmed with polytheism. The graves, trees, stones, caves, evil spirits and insane persons were regarded as deities. The baseless stories and tales were ascribed to them to manifest their excellence. The worldly Ulama too had misguided them for the fulfillment of their materialistic lust. The soothsayers and magicians were having their influence over the society. None could dare challenge their holds on the commoners. Same condition was prevailing in both Makkah and Al-Madinah also. Yemen was also in the same line. Polytheism, erection of structures on the graves, seeking refuge and assistance of the dead, saints and jinns were the common religious features.
Mission of Da'wah Having studied this pitiable condition of the nation, Sheikh was highly moved. More pitiable was the situation that no one was ready to take trouble to guide the people to the Right Path. It is obvious that to take this task meant to challenge those evildoers who had) their provisions through these practices. It meant to make oneself prepared to face every torture and atrocities from these selfish misguiders and their followers. But Sheikh resolved to make every effort to fight against the circumstances up to the extent of Jihad. Sheikh started his mission. He invited the people to the Tauhid (Islamic Monotheism) and guided them to the Qur'an and Sunnah. He urged upon Ulama to strictly follow the Qur'an and Sunnah and derive the issues directly from them. He forcibly contradicted the blind following of any scholar of the Ummah in preference to the Qur'an and Hadith. Sheikh was a man of courage and enthusiasm. He started his preaching, made correspondence with religious scholars inviting them to lend helping hands in eradication of the prevailing absurdities and defilements in religious matters. A number of scholars from Makkah, Al-Madinah and Yemen accepted his invitation, and supported him. But apart from them, there were also such ignorant and selfish scholars who criticized him and kept themselves aloof. The so-called learned ones rose against Sheikh as they were being affected by his Da’wah in terms of their worldly gains. Even then he took journey to different places to convey his message to the people given to error. Traveling through Zabir, Ahsa, Huraimala, he reached Uyainah.
Arrival at Uyainah That was the period when the ruler of Uyainah was Uthman bin Hamd bin Ma'mar. He welcomed Sheikh gladly, and assured him every help in his mission of Islamic Da'wah. Sheikh devoted himself to this great work of reformation for the sake of Allah. He gained the popularity far and wide. People started resorting to him in large numbers. He became engaged in their guidance and teachings. Sheikh, however, continued his struggle to free the environment from all the defilements and pollutions. There were numerous tombs, graves, caves, trees..etc, which were worshipped by the Muslims. With the help of Amir Uthman bin Ma'mar, most of them were extirpated by Sheikh. He became engaged in purifying the people from polytheistic and heretic rituals in Uyainah and its surroundings. In the mean time, a woman came to him for her purification from the sin of committing adultery. Investigations- were made as to whether she was mentally sound or not and also that whether she had chose for the punishment under some pressure or voluntarily. When it was confirmed that she was doing that voluntarily out of repentance, Sheikh ordered for the Rajm (to kill by throwing stones-punishment for adultery). Owing to these events dismantling of tombs, self-surrendering of the woman for punishment and migration of the people to Uyainah to seek guidance from the Sheikh-the reputation of Sheikh spread far and wide.
Exit from Uyainah and Entrance to Dar'iyah When the ruler of Al-Ahsa and its surroundings, Sulaiman bin Urai'ar came to know about the popularity of Sheikh among the people, he became afraid of the growing strength of the Sheikh and resolved to crush him at the very outset, lest he should overthrow him from his power. So he threatened Amir Uthman, with whom Sheikh was living, and asked him to kill the Sheikh. Amir Uthman was not in a position to withstand Sulaiman, hence he became panicky. Apprehending that if he disobeyed his order, he would punish him and overpower him, he made Sheikh acquainted with the whole situation and submitted him to migrate to any other place. And Sheikh migrated from Uyainah to Dar'iyah. The people of Dar'iyah knew the Sheikh very well and they were also aware of his mission. When the ruler of Dar'iyah Amir Muhammad bin Saud came to know about the arrival of the Sheikh in his territory, he was much pleased and visited him at his place. Muhammad bin Saud belonged to a pious family and himself was a practical Muslim. He exchanged his views with Sheikh and was rejoiced to know that his mission aimed to revive Qur'an and Sunnah and the Islamic teachings in its original form; he desired to promote firm belief in the Oneness of Allah and true guidance of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him)
Pledge to propagate the teaching of Islam Sheikh described before him the accounts of the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) and his Companions as to how did they strive for the cause of Allah, enduring all the difficulties and making their best efforts with all the sacrifices. Sheikh persuaded the Amir also to the same and assured him of Allah's pleasure in the Hereafter, and His favour and victory in this world. Ibn Saud, being convinced by the Sheikh, agreed with him and promised his full support to him and to his mission, provided when Allah would bless him with victory, he would not leave him. Sheikh also gave his words to this effect, and thus Ibn Saud gave Sheikh his pledge to propagate the teachings of Islam (esp. Tauhid, the Oneness of Allah), mobilize Muslims for Jihad (fighting for the cause of Allah), emphasize adherence to the Sunnah of Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) , enjoin the good deeds and forbid the evils. Sheikh invoked Allah to be his Guide and bless him to be firm in his determination, and to give him every success in this life and the Hereafter.
Dar'iyah, the Centre of Da'wah At this time Sheikh found himself in a peaceful environment, most suitable for his work of Da'wah. He seized the golden opportunity and started to educate the masses. People of Dar'iyah and its surroundings resorted to him for the lessons in Islam. Amir Muhammad bin Saud presented himself before the Sheikh as one of his students of Islam along with the members of his family. Dar'iyah was crowded with the people visiting for learning. Sheikh started teaching, preaching and inviting people to Allah. He undertook the task of delivering lectures on different branches of knowledge namely, Tauhid (Islamic Monotheism), exposition of Qur'an and Sunnah, knowledge of Fiqh and (May Allah be pleased with him) language etc. Thus Dar'iyah turned into a centre of learning and Da'wah, and people started migrating to it in a large number. The concourse of people and far-reaching effect of his mission made him far-famed which rendered his enemies into jealous. They started false propaganda against the Sheikh and even blamed him of blasphemy, and branded him a Zindiq and sorcerer. Sheikh was a man of courage. He did not care for these blames and continued his mission with full enthusiasm. He even debated his opponents in the best manner and in a polite way. This attitude proved very effective and rendered his opponents to be his supporters. Sheikh, along with his work of Da'wah, planned for Jihad against overwhelming polytheism and heretic ideas and practices, and invited people of all ranks to join in this mission. Delegates from every comer of the Arab Peninsula visited Dar'iyah to pledge their support to Sheikh and to take lesson of true monotheism of Islam. Then they would return back to their areas to teach the same to their people and educate them. The ruler of Uyainah and the elites took journey to pay visit and requested him to turn back to Uyainah. But Sheikh rejected the proposal. They also pledged to fight for the cause of Islam till their last. Sheikh also sent his disciples to the different regions and countries to preach the teachings of Islam based only on Qur'an and authentic Ahadith of the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him)
Correspondence with Rulers Sheikh drew the attention of the rulers and the scholars of each region towards the polytheism and heresy in which the people were indulged, and invited them for their eradication. For the purpose, he stepped into correspondence. He wrote letters to the rulers, elites and scholars of Najd, Riyadh, Kharj, towns of the southern region, Qaseem, Hayel, Washm, Sudair etc. He also wrote to the outstanding Ulama of Ahsa, Makkah and Al-Madinah. Outside the Arab Peninsula, he made correspondence to the learned figures of Syria, Iraq, India, and Yemen as well. He maintained his communication with them, explained them the aims and objects of his mission, substantiated the points with Qur'an and Sunnah and invited their attention towards the eradication of absurd and heretical beliefs and practices in the masses. Sheikh's mission spread far and wide. A large number of scholars and other people throughout India, Indonesia, Afghanistan, Africa, Morocco, Egypt, Syria, Iraq, etc. got influenced and attracted towards his Da'wah. They also stood up in their own regions, with a great zeal and enthusiasm, to invite the people towards Allah and to the pure and basic teachings of Qur'an and Sunnah, free from all heresies and misinterpretations.
Death Sheikh dedicated his whole life for this Da'wah and Jihad with his utmost sincerity and with the help of Muhammad bin Saud and his son Abdul-Aziz, the rulers of Dar'iyah. He breathed his last on the last day of the month of Dhul-Q'adah in 1206 H (1792 A.C).
Impact of Da'wah As a result of the continued Da'wah, vigorous struggle and Jihad in the way of Allah for a long period of about fifty years from 1158 H to 1206 H. A complete victory over the entire Najd was gained. People abandoned worshipping graves, tombs, shrines, trees etc. and all the more they deserted all of them and practiced the pure faith of Islam. Blind following of the forefathers, ancestors and traditions in vogue was abandoned; and Shari 'ah was revived and established. Obligatory duties were being observed in the light of Qur'an and Sunnah. A framework for enjoining good deeds and forbidding bad ones was instituted. Mosques began to be visited by people in abundance for performing Salat. Peace and tranquility prevailed everywhere, in towns as well as in villages. People became safe even in deserts and on lonely ways. The ignorant and notorious bedouins moulded their conduct. The preachers and preceptors were sent to every comer to teach and educate the common people. Thus a thorough revival of the complete religion came into existence. After the expiry of Sheikh, his sons, grandsons, disciples and supporters continued the work of Da'wah and Jihad in the way of Allah. Among his sons, the most ardent in these activities were: Sheikh Imam Abdullah bin Muhammad, Sheikh Husain bin Muhammad, Sheikh Ali bin Muhammad and Sheikh Ibrahim bin Muhammad; and among his grandsons were: Sheikh Abdur- Rahman bin Hasan, Sheikh Ali bin Husain, Sheikh Sulaiman bin Abdullah. Apart from them, a large group of his disciples including Sheikh Hamd bin Nasir, scholars from Dar'iyah and others remained continuously engaged in inviting people towards Allah's true religion by writing and publishing books, fighting for the cause of Allah and making correspondence in this regard.
Some of his works Despite the fact that Sheikh-ul-lslam Muhammad bin AbdulWahhab was a reformer and a man of Da 'wah, he still engaged in writing also. His some famous works are as follows: 1. Kitab At-Tawhid 2. Kitab AI-Kabaair 3. Kashf Ash-Shubhat 4. Mukhtasar Seerat Ar-Rasool 5. Masail Al-Jahiliyah 6. Usool Al-Iman 7. Fadail Al-Qur'an 8. Fadail Al-Islam 9. Majmu' Al-Ahadith 10. Mukhtasar Al-Insaf wa Ash-Sharh Al-Kabeer 11. Al-Usool Ath- Thalatha 12. Aadab Al-Mashi ila As-Salat And others. CHAPTER No: 1 At- Tauhid (The Oneness of Allah)
Allah the Almighty said:
"And I (Allah) created not the Jinns and men except they should worship Me (Alone)." (51:56) And He stated:
"And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): 'Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taghut (all false deities etc. i.e. do not worship Taghut besides Allah).' " (16:36) And He said:
“And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: 'My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was small.' " (17:23, 24) And He said:
"Worship Allah and join none with Him in worship." (4:36) And He said:
"Say (O Muhammad May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him ): Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited you from: Join not anything in worship with Him; be good and dutiful to your parents; kill not your children because of poverty -We provide sustenance for you and for them; come not near to shameful sins (illegal sexual intercourse, etc.) whether committed openly or secretly, and kill not anyone whom Allah has forbidden, except for a just cause (according to Islamic law), This He has commanded you that you may understand. And come not near to the orphan's property, except to improve it, until he (or she) attains the age of full strength; and give full measure and full weight with justice. We burden not any person, but that which he can bear. And whenever you give your word (i.e. judge between men or give evidence, etc.), say the truth even if a near relative is concerned, and fulfill the Covenant of Allah. This He commands you, that you may' remember. And verily, this is My Straight Path, so follow it, and follow not (other) paths, for they will separate you away from His Path. This He has ordained for you that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious)." (6: 151-153) Ibn Mas'ud (May Allah be pleased with him) said:
Whoever wishes to ascertain the very will of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) on which the Prophet has put his seal, let him read the Statement of Allah: "Say (O Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) ): Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited you from: Join not anything in worship with Him... (up to) ...And verily, this is My Straight Path."
It is narrated that Mu'adh bin Jabal (May Allah be pleased with him) said:
I was riding behind the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) on a donkey and he said to me "O Mu'adh, do you know what is the right of Allah on his slaves and what is the right of the slaves upon Allah?" I responded: "Allah and His Messenger know best." He continued, "The Right of Allah upon His slaves is to worship Him Alone and never to associate anything with him. The right of slaves upon Him is not to punish any person who does not associate anything with Him." I said: "O Allah's Messenger, may I not give the glad tidings to the people?" He replied: "No. Do not inform them lest they rely on (this promise and lapse in their service to Him)1.” [The above Hadith is mentioned in two Sahih Books (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)].
Important issues of the Chapter
1) Wisdom of Allah in creating jinn and mankind. 2) Worship is Tauhid, as, in this issue there had always been dispute (between the Prophets and the polytheists). 3) Those who have not fulfilled the requirements of Tauhid are such as they have not worshipped Allah, and in this sense is the meaning of the verse:
"Nor will you worship that which I worship" (109:3). 4) The wisdom in sending the Messengers. 5) The message of the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) (Tauhid) applies to all nations. 6) All Prophets have brought one and the same religion. 7) The major issue is that the worship of Allah cannot be performed until Taghut is denounced
Mu'adh (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated this Hadith avoiding the sin of concealment. [Translator] and rejected. In this meaning is the saying of Allah: "Whoever disbelieves in Taghut and believes in Allah then he has grasped the most trustworthy handhold." (2:256) 8) At-Taghut is inclusive of all that is worshipped other than Allah. 9) The tremendous importance of the three entirely clear verses of Surah Al-An'am (6:151-153) among the early pious predecessors. In these verses are 10 issues, the first of which is the prohibition of Shirk. 10) The clear verses in Surah Al-Isra (17:22-39) have 18 substantial issues. Allah begins them with:
"Set not up with Allah any other ilah (god), (O man) or you will sit down reproved, forsaken (in the Hell-fire)". (17:22) And ended with:
"And set not up with Allah any other ilah (god) lest you should be thrown into Hell, blameworthy and rejected." (17:39). Allah informed us the importance of these issues by saying:
"This is (part) of Al-Hikmah (wisdom, good manners and high character, etc.) which your lord has inspired to you." (17:39) 11) The verse of Surah An-Nisaa (4:36) called "The verse of the ten rights" to which Allah the Most High begins by saying:
"And worship Allah, and join none with Him in worship." 12) We must note the admonition of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) which he made before his death. 13) To recognize Allah's right upon us. 14) To recognize the rights of slaves on Allah, if they fulfill His right. 15) This issue was unknown to most of the Companions of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) 16) Permissibility to hide some knowledge for the common good (as determined by the Shari'ah). 17) It is desirable to pass the pleasing news to other Muslims. 18) Fear of depending (of the people) upon the expansiveness of Allah's mercy. 19) The statement of one, who is asked on matters that are not known to him: "Allah and His Messenger know the best". 20) It is correct to impart knowledge selectively to someone and not to others. 21) The humility of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) on riding a donkey with a companion behind. 22) It is legitimate to have a second rider behind. 23) Superiority of Mu'adh bin Jabal (May Allah be pleased with him) The great importance of this issue (of Tauhid). CHAPTER No: 2 The superiority of Tauhid And what it removes of sins
Allah the Most Exalted said:
"It is those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah and worship none but Him Alone) and confuse not their belief with Zulm (wrong i.e. by worshipping other besides Allah), for them (only) there is security and they are guided ones." (6:82) Narrated Ubadah bin As-Samit (May Allah be pleased with him), that Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:
"Whoever testifies that there is nothing worthy of worship in truth (no God) except Allah Alone, Who is without (peer or) partner, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, and that 'Iesa (Jesus) is the slave of Allah, His Messenger, and His Word which He bestowed in Maryam (Mary) and a spirit (created) from Him, and that Paradise & Hell-fire are realities, Allah will admit him into Paradise, whatever his deeds might be." (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 3252)
'Itban (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:
"Indeed Allah has forbidden for Hell the person who testifies: 'There is nothing worthy of worship in truth (no true God) but Allah', seeking thereby nothing but Allah's Face (pleasure)." (Al-Bukhari, Muslim).
Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated that Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:
"Musa (Moses) (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said: 'O my Rabb, teach me something through which I can remember You and supplicate to You.' Allah answered: 'Say, O Musa, La ilaha ilIa-Allah'. Musa said: 'O my Rabb, all your slaves say these words'. Allah said: 'O Musa, if the seven heavens and all they contain other than Me1 (Ghairy) and the seven earths as well, were all put in one side of a scale and La ilaha ilIa-Allah put in the other the latter would overweigh them.'" [This Hadith has been reported by Ibn Hibban, and Al-Hakim declared it Sahih].
This phrase (Ghairy) is the exception from what is in the heavens. It should not be misunderstood that Allah is contained within the heavens or earth since He has described Himself in the Qur'an as the Transcendent, Most High, Above All, i.e. in 2:255, 20:5, 25:59 and many places elsewhere in His Book. Indeed the statement is another proof that Allah cannot be considered within the creation. [Detailed explanation can be seen in "Fath-ul-Majid Sharh Kitab-ut-Tauhid -Translator]. At-Tirmidhi reports from Anas (May Allah be pleased with him): He heard Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) saying:
"Allah the Most Exalted said: 'O son of Adam, were you to come to Me with the world full of sins, and meet Me without making anything partner to Me (Shirk), I would come to you with a similar amount of forgiveness.' "
Important issues of the Chapter
1) Abundance of Allah's favour. 2) The abundant reward of Tauhid towards Allah. 3) Besides earning rewards, Tauhid recompenses sins. 4) Explanation of the verse 82 in Surat Al-An'am. 5) Ponder the five points mentioned in the Hadith narrated by Ubadah (bin As-Samit (May Allah be pleased with him)) 6) If you look at the Ahadith from Ubadah and 'Itban (May Allah be pleased with him) and what follows altogether, the meanings of La-ilaha illa Allah become clear to you along with the error of those who are the deceived ones (Al-Maghrurin). 7) Take note of the condition in Itban's Hadith. 8) That the Prophets needed to be apprised of the tremendous virtue of La ilaha ilIa-Allah (There is no true God but Allah). 9) The point of overweighing of the Kalimah (May Allah be pleased with him) in respect to all other creation, though many who enunciate it will not get the full weight in their balance. 10) The text showing that there are seven earths like seven heavens. 11) That the seven earths and heavens are full of creatures. 12) Confirmation of the Attributes of Allah, contrary to the claims of Ash'ariyah. 13) Undoubtedly, if you understand the Hadith of Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) you would understand the statement in the Hadith of Itban (May Allah be pleased with him):
"Indeed Allah has forbidden for Hell the person who testifies: 'There is nothing worthy of worship in truth (no true God) but Allah,' seeking thereby nothing but Allah's Face (pleasure)"
that it constitutes abandonment of Shirk practically and not merely confessing La-ilaha ilIa- Allah by the tongue. 14) Reflection and consideration of the shared characteristics of Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) and Iesa (May Allah be pleased with him) both as Prophets and slaves of Allah. 15) Knowing the peculiarity of Jesus (May Allah be pleased with him) being created as Kalimat- Allah (the Word of Allah). 16) Knowledge that Jesus (May Allah be pleased with him) is a spirit from Allah (Ruhan Minhu). 17) Knowing the merits of belief in Paradise and Hell. 18) Knowledge of the meaning of the statement (of the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) "... whatever his deeds might be." 19) Knowledge that Al-Mizan (the Scale) consists of two sides. 20) What is meant by the mention of the "Face" (of Allah). CHAPTER No: 3 Who purifies Tauhid (from Shirk..etc) will enter Paradise without giving an Account
Allah the Most Exalted said:
"Verily Abraham (May Allah be pleased with him) was indeed a model, devoutly obedient to Allah, unswervingly true in faith and he was not of those who ascribed partners to Allah." (16: 120) And He further said:
"And those who ascribe not anyone (in worship) as partners with their Lord." (23:59) Husain bin Abdur-Rahman narrated:
Once when I was with Sa'id bin Jubair, he asked, "Who among you did see the shooting star last night?" I answered, "I had seen it," and then explained that I was not at the prayer at the time because I had been stung by a poisonous scorpion. He said, "What did you then do?" I replied, "I used Ruqyah1 to cure it!" He said, "What compelled you to do that?” I said, "A Hadith I heard from Ash-Sha'bi." He asked, "Which Hadith Sha'bi narrated?" I replied, "He reported from Buraidah bin Al-Husaib, who said that Ruqyah is not allowed except for the treatment of 'evil eye' ('Ain) and (poisonous) sting." He (Sa'id bin Jubair) said, "He has done well by stopping on what he has heard (i.e. to act according to the knowledge as opposed to ignorance). However Ibn Abbas narrated us that the Prophet(May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said, 'All the nations were made to pass before me, and I saw a Prophet with a small group with him, and a Prophet with two or three people and a Prophet with none. Then there appeared a large group of people which I took to be my nation (Ummah). But I was told that those were of Musa and his people. Later, a larger group appeared and I was told that those were my people. Among them were seventy thousand who would enter Paradise without reckoning or punishment.' The Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) then got up and went to his house, and the people went into discussion as to who they might be. Some said, 'Perhaps they are the Companions of the Messenger of Allah.' Others said, 'May be they belong to those who were born in Islam and therefore had never ascribed anyone partner with Allah.' And while they were exchanging their views like this, the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) came out and was informed about the news. He said, 'Those people are those who do not treat
Translator's footnote: To translate Ruqyah as 'incantation' may bring to mind connotations of magic or sorcery which are forbidden in Islam. To use the term "By spiritual means" may not convey the meaning in full. [See Ismail L. Faruq's Translation] Ruqyah is when a person recites part of the Qur'an such as Al-Fatihah or makes supplication using words transmitted from the authentic Hadith of the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) upon someone. What appears to be a blanket forbiddance of doing so except for the two exceptions mentioned is actually a strong pronouncement of its allowance in these cases. It is confirmed in the authentic Seerah that the Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) himself allowed Ruqyah in other instances, but he (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) admonished against a person doing so for other than himself. (Ref. Fath-ul-Majid) themselves with Ruqyah, nor do they believe in bad or good omen (from birds etc.), nor do they get themselves branded (cauterized), but they put their trust (only) in their Lord.' On that 'Ukashah bin Mihsan got up and said (to Prophet (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) 'Invoke Allah to make me one of them.' He (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said, 'You are one of them.' Then another man got up and said, 'Invoke Allah to make me one of them.' He (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said, 'Ukashah has preceded you.' "
Important issues of the Chapter
1) In Tauhid, people are classified into various ranks. 2) What is the meaning of 'purification of Tauhid'. 3) Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) was praised by Allah for he was not of the polytheists. 4) Allah praised all those Auliya for they did not make anyone with Him as the partner (did not practice polytheism). 5) Keeping away from cauterization and Ruqyah is the fullest purification of Tauhid. 6) Possessing these characteristics (traits) is Tawakkul (trust in Allah Alone). 7) The deep knowledge of the Companions of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) who knew that such degree of trust (Tawakkul) in Allah could not be attained without action. 8) This shows how earnest the Companions were in doing good deeds. 9) The superiority of the followers of Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) quantitatively as well as qualitatively. 10) The superiority of the Ummah (followers) of Musa (May Allah be pleased with him). 11) All the Ummah (nations) will be paraded before Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) . 12) Every Ummah (nation) will be accompanied by its respective Prophet. 13) Generally, few people responded to the call of Prophets. 14) The Prophets, whom nobody responded to, will come alone before Allah. 15) The substance of these facts is that man should not worry about numbers, neither must he feel proud about huge numbers nor be disheartened by less numbers. 16) The permission of using Ruqyah to treat effects of evil eye and poisonous sting. 17) By the Hadith "He has done well by stopping on what he has heard”, the depth of knowledge of the predecessors is known, and it is also known that the first Hadith does not contradict the second. 18) The avoidance of the predecessors of praising anyone undeservedly. 19) The Prophet's statement that 'You are one of them' is a sign of Prophethood. 20) The excellence of Ukashah (May Allah be pleased with him) 21) Using Ma'areed (to mention something casually among other things, or a description open to various interpretations). 22) The excellent manners of Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) . CHAPTER No: 4 Fear of Shirk (Polytheism)
Allah the Almighty said:
"Verily, Allah forgives not that partners should be set up with Him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He pleases." (4:48, 116) Prophet Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) said:
"And keep me and my sons away from worshipping idols." (14:35) It is narrated in the Hadith that Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:
"What I fear most for you is a form of Shirk." When asked about it, he said, "Ar-Riya (showing oft)."
Ibn Mas'ud (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated that Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:
"Whoever dies while ascribing partners to Allah, enters the Hell-fire." (Al-Bukhari)
Muslim reports from Jabir (May Allah be pleased with him) that Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) said:
"Whoever meets Allah (on the Day of Judgement) not having associated anyone with Him (in worship), shall enter Paradise; and whoever meets Him having committed Shirk in any way will enter the Hell-fire."
Important issues of the Chapter
1) Fear of Shirk (polytheism) 2) Showing off (Riyaa) is a type of Shirk 3) Showing off is a lesser type of Shirk. 4) Falling into minor Shirk (Riyaa) is more fearful to the righteous and pious people than other matters (because of the ease, one can fall into it due to its being so subtle). 5) Nearness of Paradise and Hell. 6) Combination of the nearness of Paradise and Hell has been stated in the same Hadith 7) Whoever meets Allah (on the Day of the Judgement) having associated nothing with Him, shall enter Paradise; and whoever dies while committing Shirk with Allah in any way shall enter Hell, even though he might have been a great worshipper. 8) The important issue of the invocation of Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) for himself and his progeny, being the protection from worship of idols. 9) The acknowledgement of Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) of the condition of most people that “O my Lord, they have indeed led astray many among mankind." 10) An explanation of the meaning of (the Kalimah) (May Allah be pleased with him) "There is nothing deserving of worship in truth besides Allah" as reported by Al- Bukhari. 11) The superiority of one who is free from Shirk. CHAPTER No: 5 The Call to testify that there is nothing deserving of Worship in truth except Allah
Allah the Exalted said:
"Say you (O Muhammad (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) : 'This is my way; I invite unto Allah (i.e. to the Oneness of Allah –Islamic Monotheism) (with sure knowledge), I and whosoever follows me (also must invite others to Allah i.e. to the Oneness of Allah -Islamic Monotheism) with sure knowledge. And Glorified and Exalted is Allah (above all that they associate as partners with Him), and I am not of the polytheists.' " (12: 108) Ibn Abbas (May Allah be pleased with him) narrated:
When Allah's Messenger (May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him) sent Mu'adh (May Allah be pleased with him) to Yemen, he said, "You will come upon the People of the Book, let your first act be to call them to testify that -There is nothing worthy of worship in truth but Allah."
And in another version of this tradition (it is said):
"To single out Allah Alone in the worship, i.e. actualize the Oneness (Tauhid) of Allah-if they obey you in this, inform them that Allah has prescribed for them to offer 5 prayers (Salat) every day and night. If they obey you in this, then inform them that Allah has imposed upon them the duty of Sadaqah (Zakat) to be levied from their rich and distributed to the poor, If they obey you in this, then be careful not to take the best of their properties (as payment of Zakat), and safeguard yourself against the supplication of those who have suffered injustice because there is no veil between his supplication and Allah," [Al-Bukhari, Hadith No. 1389/1425 and Muslim]
Both collectors have also reported that Sahl bin Sa'd (May Allah be pleased with him) said: