Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab, RA, is one of the most critical figures in Islamic history; yet, not many Muslims across the globe know about him also his efforts toward upholding the pure monotheism of Islam. Born in 1703 in Najd, he dedicated his entire life towards bringing to light Qur’anic als Sunnah teachings. The commentary upon shirk, associating partners with Allah, is most influential.
The Concept of Shirk: Understanding Its Implication
Shirk is the act of associating partners with Allah. In Islam, shirk is considered to be the greatest sin as it violates Tawhid, which refers to the oneness of God. The final results of shirk are more than just an expression of what that individual believes in but affect the heart of the religion of Islam. This means that studying about shirk is required by every Muslim.
The Four Principles of Shirk
In his book, Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab identifies four cardinal principles concerning shirk. Every principle is built around a different way of associating partners with Allah as the basis of understanding also avoiding such acts.
Principle One: The Types of Shirk in Worship
The first principle speaks on the various forms of shirk that may occur in worship. These include two forms of shirk: major shirk (shirk akbar) also minor shirk (shirk asghar). Major shirk is concerned with simple denial of the oneness of Allah, whereas minor shirk may be acts that take away from real worship, such as asking for intermediaries during prayer.
Explanation of Major Shirk
Major Shirk is strictly abhorred in the Holy Book. It says, ‘Allah forgives not that partners should be set up with him; but He forgives anything else, to whomsoever he pleases.’ That is to say, Allah does not forgive a person who commits this act of Shirk unless he repents for it. In it, it clearly states the direct worship to Allah in the absence of others.
Minor Shirk: Knowledge of Minor Shirk
Minor shirk does not seem to be as harmful. However, it can take people away from real monotheism. Swearing by a thing other than Allah or showing off in acts of worship is some form of minor shirk. This principle encourages the Muslims to make sure that their intentions behind every act should be spotless also aimed solely at Allah.
Principle Two: The Role of Intention in Worship
The second principle emphasizes the role of intention (niyyah) in the performance of acts of worship. It holds that every action has to be performed with the right intention, seeking Allah’s acceptance. Shaikh Muhammad brings home the point that if intention does not accompany an action appropriately, then such an action might not be acceptable either.
The Role of Sincerity in Actions
In fact, the value of sincerity in worship is crucial as it the Prophet Muhammad said, “Actions are judged by intentions.” Again, this enhances the aspect of needing your intention to be seen in alignment with the act of worship so as not to cause it to be only in favor of Allah.
Third Principle: Dangers of Superstition and Innovations
In the third principle, Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab forbids superstitions also innovations (bid’ah) in religious matters. Innovations can lead one to commit many different forms of shirk as they distract the individual’s mind away from the real teachings of Islam.
Superstitions: Manhin of Tawhid
Superstitions evolve as a result of cultural practices that are not in accordance with Islamic guidelines. Seeking omens or relying on charms might even make people begin to associate power with the sources other than Allah. Such a deviation from pure faith may make faith dangerous for one’s system.
Innovations in Worship Practice
Bid’ah has to do with introducing into the practice of religion such activities that did not belong originally to the Islamic instructions. Such innovations can destroy the purification of worship. Shaikh Muhammad’s commentary appeals to the Muslims to go the extra mile. Sticking strictly to the Qur’an alsothe Sunnah lest they fall into such traps.
Concept Four: The Concept of Tawheed and Its Relation to Shirk
The last principle discusses Tawheed; it explains that it is very essential in fighting shirk. Tawheed, literally also more seriously means the oneness of Allah. It is through the understanding als practice of Tawheed that one can really guard against shirk.
Pillars of Tawheed
Tawheed falls into three categories: Tawheed al-Rububiyyah (the oneness of Lordship), Tawheed al-Uluhiyyah (the oneness of worship), and Tawheed al-Asma wa al-Sifat (the oneness of Names and Attributes). All categories of these are focusing on and actualizing the singularities of Allah and distinguish Him from all creation.
Practical Implications of Tawheed
Through Tawheed, Muslims are called to communicate directly with Allah, without involving other intermediaries. This kind of relationship propitiates spiritual growth and strengthens faith. Shaikh Muhammad’s teachings promote this kind of relationship with Allahu Most High, so that the faithful can move forward to their spiritual journeys with great confidence.
Conclusion: The Ever-Pertinent Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab’s Commentary
As a final note, the Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab’s commentary. The Four Principles of Shirk is one very important work to be applied for understanding. The intricacies of shirk, be it in Islam. His teachings are a guide for Muslims striving to maintain their faith in a world that seeks to distract and mislead them.
This illuminates the depth of the word Tawheed. Leaves an avenue for most individuals to delve deep into the understanding of worship in light of purity. Its importance is witnessed in its rendition to Muslims in terms of sincerity, intention. Devotion to what the pure word of Islam portrays. Lastly, Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab’s insight challenges believers to be watchful against shirk. A deeper connection with Allah while strengthening the belief in some core tenets.
Read more: A Commentary on the Depiction of Prophet Muhammad: al-Shama’il al Muhammadiyyah
