Kitab al-Tawheed Volume 3

Kitāb al-Tawḥeed: The Basis of Islam and the Reality of Monotheism, is truly a landmark work, occupying a unique place amongst a contemporary landscape often bereft of original insightful scholarly work.  The series represents an in-depth study into the very root origins of Islam, the essential nature of Tawḥeed (monotheism).  Coupled with that, it tackles head on not only the age-old problem concerning the precise nature of Shirk (polytheism) and worship, but how these topics invariably correspond to contemporary issues like ruling, governance and allegiance.

Volume 3

The translated English edition of this present volume covers Parts VI, VII and VIII of the original Arabic.  This volume begins the second major theme of the work, covering the principles and foundations of Tawḥeed.  Part VI opens with chapters which cover a fundamentally concise approach to the categorisation of Tawḥeed, one that bereft of historical mistakes and phantasms that plagued definitions that are commonplace.  Following this, the Professor proceeds to undertake a deep analysis of the terms that led to great confusion, both historically and contemporaneously – Rabb (Lord), Ilāh (god) and ‘Ibādah (worship).   Coupled with this, the matter of phrasing the Islamic testimony of faith as ‘there is none worthy of worship,’ is closely analysed.  Readers in English will be all too familiar with this phrasing, as it dominates most translations of Islamic works.  Yet this is a far cry from the actual meaning as expressed in both the Qur’an and the authentic Prophetic Sunnah.

The chapter as relates to ‘The Sabians,’ which appears originally in Part V (Volume 2, English) has been included here in Part VII prior to the discussion regarding ‘The Abrahimic Tradition,’ a detailed analysis of the Prophet Ibrahim, peace and blessings be upon him, on his journey to monotheism and conveying this to his people.

Volume 3 concludes with Part VIII, outlining what the root origin of Shirk actually is.  Readers may well remember from the previous volume that this matter was covered with regards to the historic reality of Shirk in Arabia.  Here, more general themes are analysed to show that its root origins stem from likening divinity to humanity, viewing the notion of ‘godhood’ itself as being a type or species with multiple members.  Further chapters cover the nature of other branches of Tawḥeed, not least that of Tawḥeed as it pertains to al-Ḥākimiyyah wal’Tashrih’ – governance, legislation and the ultimate prerogative of command.  Concluding, the noble virtues of Tawḥeed are enumerated, together with the lofty status of calling to this, while warning against the dangers of taking partners with Allah.

Structural additions

In tandem with our approach to each book in this series, we have streamlined many chapters, starting from chapter titles.  This approach continues here, particularly where referencing and citation was copious. Repetitions have been significant curtailed, on occasion, omitted altogether.  This departs from the original Arabic text, especially with regards to quotations from scholarly authorities, often these are repeated throughout chapters.  Although not part of the original Arabic text, we have included accompanying footnotes, together with additional clarification where appropriate.  We have also relied upon English translations of Tafsir works which are now available, such as that produced by Professor Lucas for selections from al-Tabari, and Dr Saeed, for al-Razi.

Links to the Paperback and Kindle

We ask Allah for His help, support and guidance and to forgive our many mistakes and shortcomings.  Perhaps this small effort presented here will benefit you as well as us, both in this present temporal plain, and the in the life to come, Ameen Ya Rab.

Volume 3 of the series is now published – available in both paperback as well as Kindle.