What is the Number One Rule in Islam? (Explanation for Better Understanding)
Every person has a principle or main rule in their life, which serves as a guide for their actions. In Islam, the same concept applies, but the rule is deeper and directed towards a better way of life, not just an ordinary rule. Many wonder, what is actually the number one rule in Islam? Is it about worship, morals, or perhaps something more fundamental? This article will help you understand the core of Islamic teachings and reveal what is referred to as its main rule.
In Islam, this primary rule is not just a statement, but it also encompasses concepts and values that form the foundation of a Muslim's life. As one of the world's largest religions, Islam offers teachings that are complex yet practical, touching various aspects of life. Knowing and understanding this number one rule can provide a clearer perspective on how Islam guides each follower to live a better daily life. Therefore, it is essential to understand this rule so that we know how to be a good Muslim.
What is the Number One Rule in Islam?
In Islam, the first and foremost rule that forms the foundation of all worship is Tawhid (توحيد). Tawhid is the belief in the oneness of Allah, meaning there is only one God worthy of worship and reliance. This concept is profound because it serves as the basis of all Islamic teachings, from the ways of worship to how a Muslim conducts themselves in everyday life.
You can find an explanation that Tawhid is the number one rule in Islam in the following hadith:
إِنَّكَ تَأْتِي قَوْمًا أَهْلَ كِتَابٍ فَادْعُهُمْ إِلَى شَهَادَةِ أَنْ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ وَأَنِّي رَسُولُ اللَّهِ فَإِنْ هُمْ أَطَاعُوكَ فَأَعْلِمْهُمْ أَنَّ اللَّهَ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ افْتَرَضَ عَلَيْهِمْ خَمْسَ صَلَوَاتٍ فِي كُلِّ يَوْمٍ وَلَيْلَةٍ فَإِنْ هُمْ أَطَاعُوكَ فَأَعْلِمْهُمْ أَنَّ اللَّهَ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ قَدِ افْتَرَضَ عَلَيْهِمْ صَدَقَةً فِي أَمْوَالِهِمْ تُؤْخَذُ مِنْ أَغْنِيَائِهِمْ فَتُوضَعُ فِي فُقَرَائِهِمْ فَإِنْ هُمْ أَطَاعُوكَ لِذَلِكَ فَإِيَّاكَ وَكَرَائِمَ أَمْوَالِهِمْ وَاتَّقِ دَعْوَةَ الْمَظْلُومِ فَإِنَّهَا لَيْسَ بَيْنَهَا وَبَيْنَ اللَّهِ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ حِجَابٌ
Indeed, you will encounter a people from among the People of the Book. Invite them to bear witness that there is no deity but Allah and that I am the messenger of Allah. If they obey you in this, then inform them that Allah, the Highest, has made it obligatory upon them to perform five prayers each day and night. If they obey you in this, then inform them that Allah, the Highest, has mandated that they give charity from their wealth, taken from the wealthy among them and given to the poor among them. If they obey you in that, then be cautious not to take the best of their wealth, and beware of the supplication of the oppressed, for there is no barrier between that supplication and Allah, the Highest.[1]
Tawhid is not merely recognizing Allah as the one and only God, but also understanding that everything in this world depends on Him.
The Meaning of Tawhid in Islam
Tawhid is the core teaching of Islam that affirms the oneness of Allah as the only deity worthy of worship. The meaning of Tawhid is not simply acknowledging that Allah is one, but also encompasses the belief that He alone possesses absolute power over all things. This belief serves as the foundational basis in every aspect of worship and the life of a Muslim.
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In the Quran, Allah emphasizes the concept of Tawhid in Surah Al-Ikhlas, verse 1:
قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ
Say: He is Allah, the One and Only.[2]
This verse explains that Allah is the only God who must be believed in. Additionally, the Prophet Muhammad also said:
مَن كَانَ آخِرُ كَلَامِهِ "لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ" دَخَلَ الْجَنَّةَ
Whoever's last words are 'There is no god but Allah,' will enter Paradise.[3]
The Quranic evidence and hadith above emphasize the importance of Tawhid in Islam as a guide for life. Tawhid requires every Muslim to rely solely on Allah, avoid shirk (associating partners with Allah), and purify worship solely for Him. This is the profound meaning of Tawhid: recognizing, glorifying, and believing in Allah as the only God. By understanding Tawhid, a Muslim will experience inner peace because their life is connected solely to Allah, without placing hope in anything or anyone else.
Definition of Tawhid
Tawhid is a foundational concept in Islam that teaches the oneness of Allah. This means there is only one God worthy of worship, namely Allah. Tawhid is not only about believing that Allah is one, but also acknowledging that Allah possesses complete power over everything in the universe. This belief is the main foundation in every Muslim's life and encompasses all aspects of worship, from prayer to daily actions.
More specifically, Tawhid is divided into three main categories:
- Tawhid Rububiyah.
- Tawhid Uluhiyah.
- Tawhid Asma wa Sifat.
The explanation of these three categories of Tawhid will be covered in the following paragraphs. Just a moment!
Understanding Tawhid is the key to living a life in accordance with Islamic teachings, as Tawhid teaches us to depend only on Allah in all matters of life.
The Concept of Oneness in Islam
The concept of oneness in Islam, known as Tawhid, is a fundamental doctrine that forms the basis of every understanding in this religion. Tawhid means believing that only Allah is worthy of worship and that He has no partners. This establishes Allah as the one and only God, the Almighty. In daily life, applying Tawhid means that we seek help only from Allah and worship Him alone. This is the essence of all worship in Islam.
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In the Quran, many verses emphasize the oneness of Allah. One of them is verse 1 in Surah Al-Ikhlas, which I have previously quoted. This verse clearly states that Allah is the only God with no partners. This concept teaches that everything in the universe is His creation and under His control. Tawhid also teaches that nothing can match or rival Allah in any aspect.
This concept of oneness encompasses three main dimensions: Tawhid Rububiyah, Tawhid Uluhiyah, and Tawhid Asma wa Sifat. Tawhid Rububiyah involves the belief that Allah is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, who manages all matters of life and death. Tawhid Uluhiyah teaches that only Allah has the right to be worshipped and that all forms of worship should be dedicated solely to Him. Meanwhile, Tawhid Asma wa Sifat affirms that Allah possesses perfect names and attributes.
Tawhid Rububiyah invites Muslims to acknowledge and believe that everything in this world, from creatures to the universe itself, is Allah's creation. Allah says:
اَللّٰهُ لَآ اِلٰهَ اِلَّا هُوَۚ اَلْحَيُّ الْقَيُّوْمُ ەۚ لَا تَأْخُذُهٗ سِنَةٌ وَّلَا نَوْمٌۗ لَهٗ مَا فِى السَّمٰوٰتِ وَمَا فِى الْاَرْضِۗ مَنْ ذَا الَّذِيْ يَشْفَعُ عِنْدَهٗٓ اِلَّا بِاِذْنِهٖۗ يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ اَيْدِيْهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْۚ وَلَا يُحِيْطُوْنَ بِشَيْءٍ مِّنْ عِلْمِهٖٓ اِلَّا بِمَا شَاۤءَۚ وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ السَّمٰوٰتِ وَالْاَرْضَۚ وَلَا يَـُٔوْدُهٗ حِفْظُهُمَاۚ وَهُوَ الْعَلِيُّ الْعَظِيْمُ
Allah, there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of [all] existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is before them and what will be after them, and they encompass not a thing of His knowledge except for what He wills. His Kursi (knowledge and power) extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Highest, the Greatest.[4]
The verse above explains that all aspects of life, both visible and hidden, are under Allah's supervision and power. Additionally, Tawhid Uluhiyah calls us to worship Allah alone, without intermediaries or partners. All forms of worship we perform, whether prayer, supplication, or remembrance (dhikr), must be dedicated solely to Him.
Understanding this concept of oneness is the first step to becoming a true Muslim. With a deep understanding of Tawhid, a Muslim is protected from shirk (associating partners with Allah), which is considered the gravest sin in Islam. Furthermore, a strong faith in Allah will bring a Muslim closer to Him, allowing one to live with sincerity and always rely on Him in every matter of life.
The Importance of Tawhid in a Muslim's Life
Tawhid is the primary foundation in a Muslim's life, shaping beliefs and daily worldview. By believing that only Allah is the One and only source of dependence, a Muslim gains a clear direction in life. This belief provides a firm anchor when facing worldly challenges.
The following discussion will highlight how Tawhid influences personal acts of worship, such as prayer, supplication, and various forms of seeking closeness to Allah. Tawhid teaches that all worship should be directed exclusively to Allah, without any intermediary. This brings peace and steadfastness in facing every situation in life.
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Additionally, Tawhid shapes social behavior and ethics in daily life. A true believer in Tawhid treats others with fairness and honesty, knowing that all actions are observed by Allah.
How Tawhid Shapes Daily Life and Beliefs?
Tawhid is the foundation of a Muslim's life, shaping perspectives and daily beliefs. By believing in Allah as the sole deity, a Muslim has a firm foundation for navigating life, through both joy and hardship. Tawhid guides a Muslim to rely solely on Allah in all matters, as a form of true submission and faith.
In daily life, Tawhid is also reflected in various forms of worship such as prayer, fasting, and supplication. For example, Allah says:
وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالْاِنْسَ اِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوْنِ
I did not create jinn and mankind except to worship Me.[5]
The verse above explains that the purpose of our lives is to worship Allah, with sincerity and without associating partners with Him.
In addition to worship, Tawhid shapes the behavior and social attitudes of a Muslim. A Muslim who holds firm to Tawhid will always strive to act honestly and justly, because they are aware that Allah is All-Seeing of His servants' deeds.
Tawhid also provides peace when facing life's trials. The belief that Allah is always with us strengthens the heart and makes us steadfast in the face of difficulties.
Thus, Tawhid shapes a strong mindset and belief in every aspect of a Muslim's life. This belief becomes the foundation for living in this world and preparing for the Hereafter.
Tawhid in Personal Worship
Tawhid is the essence of every personal act of worship carried out by a Muslim. When a Muslim prays, makes du'a (supplication), or engages in dhikr (remembrance of Allah), Tawhid serves as the foundation of the intention and purpose behind each act of worship. Recognizing the oneness of Allah makes us sincere in our worship because only Allah is worthy of being worshiped. Tawhid ensures that all forms of worship, whether visible or hidden, are done solely for Allah, not for the praise or recognition of others.
Allah says:
قُلْ اِنَّ صَلَاتِيْ وَنُسُكِيْ وَمَحْيَايَ وَمَمَاتِيْ لِلّٰهِ رَبِّ الْعٰلَمِيْنَۙ
Say (O Muhammad), "Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds."[6]
The verse above explains that all aspects of life, especially worship, must be directed solely to Allah. By firmly adhering to tawhid, our worship becomes pure and accepted in His sight.
Tawhid in personal worship also brings us closer to Allah. When we pray, we are confident that Allah hears and understands every request of His servants. This conviction deepens our love and submission to Him, making our worship more focused and meaningful.
By practicing tawhid in personal worship, a Muslim continuously strengthens their relationship with Allah. Tawhid teaches that worship is a form of sincere servitude, which brings us closer to Him and gives deep meaning to every step of our life.
Tawhid in Social Behavior and Ethics
Tawhid, or the oneness of Allah, is not only reflected in a Muslim's personal worship but also has a significant impact on social behavior and ethics. When a person understands tawhid deeply, they realize that all humans are Allah's creation and deserve respect. This fosters a sense of brotherhood and justice in society, as tawhid teaches that we all share the same purpose in life, which is to serve Allah.
One tangible example of applying tawhid in social behavior is being just towards others. Allah says:
اِنَّ اللّٰهَ يَأْمُرُ بِالْعَدْلِ وَالْاِحْسَانِ وَاِيْتَاۤئِ ذِى الْقُرْبٰى وَيَنْهٰى عَنِ الْفَحْشَاۤءِ وَالْمُنْكَرِ وَالْبَغْيِ يَعِظُكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَذَكَّرُوْنَ
Indeed, Allah commands justice, doing good, and providing assistance to relatives. He also forbids shameful deeds, wrongdoing, and hostility. He instructs you so that you may take heed.[7]
Tawhid encourages a Muslim to act justly, regardless of ethnicity, race, or social status, because only Allah has full authority over His servants.
Tawhid also influences honesty in daily interactions. Realizing that Allah is All-Seeing and All-Knowing of every action makes a Muslim feel watched over in every deed. This fosters an attitude of honesty and transparency in business, communication, and social relationships. Tawhid shapes the character of a Muslim to always act with integrity.
In terms of helping others, Tawhid encourages us to assist others without expecting anything in return, because we believe that Allah will reward us. The Prophet Muhammad said:
مَنْ نَفَّسَ عَنْ مُسْلِمٍ كُرْبَةً مِنْ كُرَبِ الدُّنْيَا نَفَّسَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُ كُرْبَةً مِنْ كُرَبِ يَوْمِ الْقِيَامَةِ، وَمَنْ يَسَّرَ عَلَى مُعْسِرٍ فِي الدُّنْيَا يَسَّرَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ، وَمَنْ سَتَرَ عَلَى مُسْلِمٍ فِي الدُّنْيَا سَتَرَ اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ، وَاللَّهُ فِي عَوْنِ الْعَبْدِ مَا كَانَ الْعَبْدُ فِي عَوْنِ أَخِيهِ
Whoever alleviates the hardship of a Muslim in this world, Allah will ease his difficulties on the Day of Judgment. And whoever helps someone in difficulty in this world, Allah will make things easier for him in both this world and the Hereafter. And whoever conceals the faults of a Muslim in this world, Allah will conceal his faults in this world and the Hereafter. Allah always helps His servant as long as the servant helps his brother.[8]
The hadith above explains that Tawhid teaches us kindness and togetherness.
Tawhid in social behavior is also reflected in humility. When someone realizes that everything comes from Allah, they will not be arrogant or look down on others. Tawhid teaches that humans are weak servants without Allah's help, so arrogance can be suppressed.
By firmly holding onto the concept of Tawhid, a Muslim strives to spread goodness and avoid actions that harm others. Tawhid instills the awareness that every deed will be accountable before Allah, making ethics in interactions a priority.
The application of Tawhid in social behavior and ethics strengthens relationships among humans and creates a peaceful society. This is the essence of Islamic teachings, where Tawhid becomes the foundation for peace and unity among the community.
The First Rule and Other Pillars of Islam
Tawhid, or belief in the oneness of Allah, is the primary foundation in Islam and part of the shahada, the first pillar of the five pillars of Islam. This concept teaches a Muslim to focus their worship and devotion solely to Allah. This is the first rule in Islam, which serves as the foundation for all other acts of worship and deeds.
This discussion will delve into how Tawhid is connected to the other pillars of Islam. The shahada is a declaration of faith that not only expresses belief in Allah but also affirms that Prophet Muhammad is His Messenger. This marks the beginning of every Muslim's journey of faith, a commitment to living according to His teachings.
Next, we will explore the role of Tawhid in the practice of prayer (salat), charity (zakat), fasting during Ramadan, and the pilgrimage (hajj). Each of these pillars strengthens servitude to Allah and serves as a means to draw closer to Him.
The Relationship Between Tawhid and the Five Pillars of Islam
Tawhid is at the core of all Islamic teachings and forms the foundation for the five pillars of Islam. In the shahada, the first pillar, a Muslim declares that only Allah is worthy of worship and that Prophet Muhammad is His Messenger. This is an acknowledgment of Allah's oneness, which is the foundation of faith and all acts of worship in Islam.
The second pillar, prayer (salat), also reinforces the concept of Tawhid. In prayer, a Muslim faces their heart only to Allah, demonstrating sincere submission and worship. This is in line with Allah's words in the Quran, Surah Al-An'am, verse 162, which I have quoted previously.
Charity (zakat), the third pillar, reflects obedience to Allah in the social aspect. By sharing wealth, a Muslim shows that their wealth is a trust from Allah that must be used wisely and responsibly.
Likewise, fasting (sawm) and pilgrimage (hajj) are physical and spiritual acts of worship that remind the community of Allah's oneness and closeness to Him.
By understanding Tawhid, a Muslim can perform the five pillars of Islam with greater devotion.
Shahada and the Expression of Faith
The shahada is the primary expression of faith for every Muslim. This phrase serves as the entry point into Islam, acknowledging that only Allah is worthy of worship and that Prophet Muhammad is His Messenger. The shahada is as follows:
أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللهِ
I bear witness that there is no deity but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.
The shahada is not merely a phrase but a full commitment in heart, speech, and action. When someone has recited the shahada, they pledge to live according to Allah's teachings and the guidance of Prophet Muhammad.
The Role of Tawhid in Prayer, Zakat, Fasting in Ramadan, and Hajj
Tawhid is the foundational principle in Islam that influences every aspect of a Muslim's worship, including prayer (salat), zakat, fasting in Ramadan, and the pilgrimage (hajj). Tawhid affirms that only Allah is worthy of worship, and our acts of worship must be done purely for Him. When someone truly understands Tawhid, they will perform their acts of worship with full humility and hope directed only to Allah, without seeking any reward or praise from others.
In prayer, for example, Tawhid plays a central role. Prayer is a direct communication between a servant and Allah. Prayer is only required of those who have recited the shahada. Tawhid is the most fundamental basis for the obligation to perform prayer.
Likewise, zakat, fasting in Ramadan, and hajj—three pillars of Islam that follow the shahada and prayer—do not hold any value as Islamic worship if performed by someone who does not believe in Allah.
In short, the role of Tawhid in prayer, zakat, fasting in Ramadan, hajj, and other acts of worship in Islam is as the most basic foundation. For this reason, if a non-Muslim performs these acts of worship, they are not considered acts of worship in Islam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some common questions about the number one rule in Islam:
What is meant by "the number one rule in Islam"?
The number one rule in Islam is Tawhid, which is the belief that only Allah is worthy of worship and absolute obedience. It is the core teaching of Islam and the basis of every Muslim's faith.
Why is Tawhid considered the number one rule in Islam?
Tawhid is the foundation of all worship and belief. Without Tawhid, other acts of worship are considered invalid. This belief also strengthens the servant's relationship with Allah, making their life meaningful and upright.
How does Tawhid impact a Muslim's daily life?
Tawhid guides a Muslim to live in complete submission to Allah, avoid shirk (associating partners with Allah), and strengthen their character, as they believe Allah is always watching their every action.
What pillars of Islam support the concept of Tawhid?
The pillars of Islam, such as the shahada, prayer, zakat, fasting, and hajj, all aim to affirm Tawhid, the oneness of Allah. Each pillar represents obedience to Allah as the only God.
What Quranic evidence supports Tawhid as the primary rule?
In Surah Al-Ikhlas [112:1].
Footnotes
[1] Muslim bin Hajjaj, Shahih Muslim, Number 19. Muhammad bin Ismail al-Bukhari (Imam al-Bukhari), Shahih al-Bukhariy, Number 1496.
[2] Al-Ikhlas (112): 1.
[3] Sulaiman bin al-Asy'as bin Ishak bin Basyir bin Syidad bin Amar al-Azdi as-Sijidtani (Abu Dawood), Sunan Abi Dawood, 3/190.
[4] Al-Baqarah (2): 255.
[5] Adz-Dzariyat (51): 56.
[6] Al-An'am (6): 162.
[7] An-Nahl (16): 90.
[8] Muslim bin Hajjaj, Sahih Muslim, Number 2699. Muhammad bin Isa at-Tirmidhi, Sunan at-Tirmidhi, Number 1930.
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