Allah

Allah

Due to the importance of this topic and the difference of opinions about it, I want to explain briefly the belief in Islam as analogy with a building. Islam is built on top of five pillars (Testimony, performing prayer, giving alms, fasting and performing pilgrimage). Such Pillars need a foundation to present Islam in its totality, Islam`s foundation is called faith. As the foundation of a building consists of many components, such as, steel, cement, rocks, etc., the foundation of Islam consists of six components which are the belief in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Day of Judgment, and fate, whether good or bad.

Belief in Allah has three requirements:

Oneness of the Lordship of God: Nothing is made without its planner and maker. Similarly, this universe, the earth and life on it, did not happen by itself, the first cause is the Creator. Oneness of the Lordship of God means to believe that God is the only lord of the universe, He is the creator, the Organizer, the planner, the sustainer…This kind of belief is recognized by most people especially in time of difficulties. The Quran shows many verses that explain this aspect of belief:

Your Lord is the one GOD, who created the heavens and the earth in six days, then assumed all authority. The night overtakes the day, as it pursues it persistently, and the sun, the moon, and the stars are committed to serve by His command. Absolutely, He controls all creation and all commands. Most Exalted is GOD, Lord of the universe [Qur'an, 7:54].

The One who made the earth habitable for you, and the sky a structure. He sends down from the sky water, to produce all kinds of fruits for your sustenance. You shall not set up idols to rival GOD, now that you know [Qur'an, 2:22].

To Him belongs absolute control of the heavens and the earth. He is the One who increases the provision for whomever He wills, or reduces it. He is fully aware of all things [Qur'an, 42:12].

any blessing you enjoy is from GOD. Yet, whenever you incur any adversity you immediately complain to Him [Qur'an, 16:53].

Oneness of the Worship of God: Most people recognize god as their lord but do not worship him sincerely and devote the religion to him alone. Prayer and all other kind of worship should be addressed sincerely to God. Some example of association of god is to perform pilgrimage to the tombs, to Pray or seek help from the dead...The following verses from Quran emphasizes the oneness of the Worship of God:

[39:2] We sent down to you this scripture, truthfully; you shall worship GOD, devoting your religion to Him alone.

[39:3] Absolutely, the religion shall be devoted to GOD alone. Those who set up idols beside Him say, "We idolize them only to bring us closer to GOD; for they are in a better position!" GOD will judge them regarding their disputes. GOD does not guide such liars, disbelievers.

[98:5] All that was asked of them was to worship GOD, devoting the religion absolutely to Him alone, observe the contact prayers (Salat), and give the obligatory charity (Zakat). Such is the perfect religion.

[16:36] We have sent a messenger to every community, saying, "You shall worship GOD, and avoid idolatry." Subsequently, some were guided by GOD, while others were committed to straying. Roam the earth and note the consequences for the rejectors.

[2:256] There shall be no compulsion in religion: the right way is now distinct from the wrong way. Anyone who denounces the devil and believes in GOD has grasped the strongest bond; one that never breaks. GOD is Hearer, Omniscient.

Oneness of the Names and Qualities of God: Allah is All-Seeing, All-Hearing, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful, Forgiving, Just; He has many attributes or good names. Muslims are told that He has ninety nine names. All of His names are not abstract words but they have relevance in every Muslim's life. Those names and qualities must be followed without changing their meaning or ignoring them completely or twisting the meanings or likening them (giving resemblance) to anything that isn't God. The following verses from Quran emphasize the oneness of the Names and Qualities of God:

[20:8] GOD: there is no other god besides Him. To Him belong the most beautiful names.[7:180] To GOD belongs the most beautiful names; call upon Him therewith, and disregard those who distort His names. They will be requited for their sins.

[59:22]He is the One GOD; there is no other god beside Him. Knower of all secrets and declarations. He is the Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

[59:23] He is the One GOD; there is no other god beside Him. The King, the Most Sacred, the Peace, the Most Faithful, the Supreme, the Almighty, the Most Powerful, the Most Dignified. GOD be glorified; far above having partners.

[59:24] He is the One GOD; the Creator, the Initiator, the Designer. To Him belong the most beautiful names. Glorifying Him is everything in the heavens and the earth. He is the Almighty, Most Wise.