Analytical Study of the Concept of Tawhīd and its Establishment in Sūrat al-Fātiḥah

Prof. Dr. Ruqaia Taha Alalwani

University of Bahrain
[email protected]
AL-RISALAH JOURNAL
ACADEMIC BIANNUAL REFEREED JOURNAL
KULLIYYAH OF ISLAMIC REVEALED KNOWLEDGE AND HUMAN SCIENCES
INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY MALAYSIA
e-ISSN: 2600-8394 | VOL. 3 No. 2 | June (1440-2019)

Abstract

This study discusses the concept of Tawhīd through the meanings that appear to the contemplator of Sūrat al-Fātiḥah. One of the many noble purposes of this Sūrah is to establish Tawhīd along with its practical applications, in the practice of its reciters. For this reason, Sūrat al-Fātiḥah is granted a noble place in Islam, which a Muslim must recite in every rak’ah of Salāt. First, the concept of Tawhīd, a cornerstone in developing a civilization, is discussed. Following this, the methods of establishing Tawhīd (praise, freedom, and succession) are examined. The article concludes that Tawhīd plays an essential role in building a civilization.

Keywords: Tawhīd, Sūrat al-Fātiḥah, Purposes of Sūrat al-Fātiḥah, Civilization

Introduction

Tawhīd in its ideology is inextricably linked to civilization, where beliefs constitute a powerful incentive in the development of the human civilization (Schweitzer, 1987). From this perspective, Tawhīd is a fundamental concept in Islam and upon which the wheel of Islamic civilization revolves around. It is a crucial factor for the attainment of a good life for mankind in this world and the next. Tawhīd compels man to uphold and establish the obligations and responsibilities that Allāh, the Almighty assigned upon him and to work within the realms of divine decree, which leads mankind towards the building of a balanced civilization that establishes the relationship between man and the universe harmoniously in a manner no other civilization could produce before it.

Sūrat al-Fātiḥah addresses these meanings with the purpose of establishing the concept of Tawhīd in the life of a Muslim, so that it frees his mind, heart, and soul from worshiping anyone but Allāh, the Almighty. This great Sūrah aims to develop, through the teachings of the Qur’ān and its comprehensive meanings, a model of a righteous believer.

1. Tawhīd is a Cornerstone in the Building of a Civilization in the Holy Qur’ān.

Tawhīd creates a vision of the universe, humanity, and mankind, and establishes the dimensions of the human role in the universe and this life. A number of these dimensions are imbedded in the shaping of necessary understandings for the effective role of mankind in this world, and the instilment of a motive for mankind to build and achieve for its continuum.

Tawhīd gives an identity to Islamic civilization. It connects the various parts, refines each element of it and then purifies it so it emerges as a homogenous entity of Tawhīd (Al-Farūqi, 1992). In contemporary and past history, our thinkers composed their thoughts regarding all fields that incorporated it, since they understood it to be the most crucial principle amongst other principles. The basis of Tawhīd liberates the individual from all folklore, fantasies, and ideologies of other religions that enter this world. So, achieving freedom became complicated from the availing of such traditions and aptitudes and laws within civilization. Those who contemplate such a qualitative shift brought about by Tawhīd in human life observe that the pre-Islamic society was filled of different value systems and ideologies that restrained mankind, his mind and ability to develop civilization until the light of Tawhīd protruded where he recognized that God created and regulated this world and offered guidance and integrity for Man (Shalabi, 1970).

Promoting growth and prosperity was the effect man had when he had committed himself to it, despite it being one its requirements. As Islam spread, it transformed people from being inactive members of society to those pioneering civilization, only due to their sublime and superior understanding of this reality. Consolidation of Tawhīd in one's life, results only in a positive outcome, which initiates from his relationship with God, then his fellow people and the universe around him. He regains his self-esteem and sense of accomplishment when promoting this truth (of Tawhīd).

2. The Greatest Purpose in Sūrat al-Fātiḥah: Tawhīd

Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah is one of the greatest Sūrahs in the Qur’ān. Allāh (SWT) inscribed it as the opening of the Qur’ān for mankind regardless of their time, background, or living conditions. It is a message that includes the essence of human succession on this Earth to perform the message of the Qur’ān and fulfill its purpose. Because of the greatness of this Sūrah and its themes, it has been assigned several names. It has for example been named Salāt, as reported in the factual statement of Allāh, the Almighty:

“I have divided the prayer into two halves between me and My servant, and My servant will receive as he asks". (Muslim, The Book of Prayers, Hadīth 775).

This meaning to Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah has a special significance. It asserts the Salāt is performed in the implementation of this Sūrah, in the contemplation of its meanings and applications. Indeed, the Prophet (PBUH) said:

"No prayer is accepted from those who do not read Umm-Al Kitaab", If anyone observes prayer in which he does not recite Umm Al Kitaab, It is deficient (Muslim, The Book of Prayers, Hadīth 776).

In this way, Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah holds the keys to the relationship between mankind and their creator, Allāh (SWT). This relationship cannot be correct without the meanings and the subjects that this Sūrah addresses- of Tawhīd and the submission to Allāh alone. One of the greatest objectives of this Sūrah is Tawhīd and its appropriation in man's life and the life of the reciter of it. This is where this Sūrah attains its noble place in Islam.

While this Sūrah provides the reciter with the keys of supplication, and people differ in their level of understanding and expression, Allāh's mercy on his people is exemplified in his revelation of this Sūrah and others in the Holy Qur’ān, so that people may express, in comparable ways, their supplication, despite their differences. In this way, though everyone recites this Sūrah and pleads to Allāh (SWT), the distinction arises in intentions and the levels faith to Allāh (SWT), in addition to other forms of servitude to Allāh (SWT). This is an outcome not of the Sūrah itself, but in what Allāh chooses to bestow on his creations out of His grace (Ibn Rajab, n.d).

The Sūrah begins by stating the relationship between man and his creator, which like an oath of Tawhīd that begins with praise and gratitude towards Allāh (SWT) for everything that He has created in this universe to our use. Building man's relationship with the life around him is one of frequent and consistent performance to administer the will of Allāh (SWT) by creating a positive impact on earth, and to serve Him within the niche of the universe. If this understanding is irresolute, the fruits of civilization will also depreciate, and it will remain weak in proportion to human effort. The Lord's ordination of promoting development and prosperity on earth is absolute for the human race, regardless of the nature of their faith, belief or culture. Therefore, on this basis, the absolute harness of material is to be in the service of man without exception, and to be managed by his hands to promote advancement on earth, to give the opportunity for all of creation to compete in accomplishing such a great task. Material is utilized by man to facilitate his mission to shoulder the Lord's succession in developing the earth within the framework that all humans are merely slaves of Allāh (SWT), since the entire cosmos is in obedience to Allāh (SWT) besides those who reject Him, as confirmed by the Qur'ān (17:44).

The Qur’ān instructs us that all components of life were for the employment of man and they are not repressed for a specific nation, nor do they discriminate between them. They do, however, defy the illiterate and those who fail to discover it, regardless of their religion. Hence, the Qur’ān accentuates the importance of contemplation in accordance to a clear defined methodology that reveals the reality of the universe and its principles. The five senses are given an enormous responsibility, in its task to contemplate. This is to prepare it to counter the numerous influences that are spread everywhere, which allowed to be transmitted.

3. Methods of Developing Tawhīd in Sūrat al-Fātiḥah: Praise

One of the greatest gifts in the dialogue of the Qur’ān, is its ability to strengthen meanings and values through its distinct selection in words and terminologies. Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah is a model for this great Qur’ānic method, by which the values of satisfaction and reassurance are reinforced in various parts of the Sūrah.

Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah is a Meccan Sūrah that was revealed after Sūrah al-Muddathir during a critical period for Islam before the first migration to Abyssinia. The perceptions regarding the declaration of Islam amongst non-believers varied widely; some expressed flattery and deceit, while others took were more harsh and violent. These perspectives continued to deny and disclaim the declaration and attempted consistently to fight against it (Darwaza, 1980).

Meanwhile, the perception of Quraish's leaders persisted in denial, repudiation, and aggression with a few exceptions. In this way, the impact of the revelation remained limited, and the number and strength of Muslims remained insufficient in face of the hardships and challenges the Muslims faced. Thus, the Sūrah began with praise to teach the Prophet (PBUH) and all believers in this book, that the exercise of praise is an absolute necessity in every case and circumstance, stressing its importance in the worship of Allāh, the Almighty. And while the Sūrah was revealed at a time when Muslims were facing hardships and troubles, it started with praise so that it may iterate that it is a continuous act of faith, not contingent on circumstances or feelings.

Building praise in one's soul away from the vicissitudes of life and circumstances and linking it to feelings of gratitude is one of the greatest means of developing Tawhīd and belief in Allāh's names and qualities. For He is the most merciful, knows the affairs of His creations, and is thus the most able to dispose, according to His wisdom, justice, and mercy. In this way, the faith of a man in all of this prompts him to feel satisfied regardless of how challenging his conditions may become; protecting him from falling into pessimism and despair when a crisis befalls him.

Therefore, Sūrat Al-Fātiḥah was one of the early chapters of the Holy Qur’ān to be revealed because of the urgent requirement of these benevolent meanings, while the Muslims were facing numerous challenges during the early days of the Islamic call. For this, Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah is one of the first chapters revealed in the Holy Qur’ān. It is also the only Sūrah that must be recited in every Rak'ah of every prayer, obligatory or sunnah. This corroborates the importance of this Sūrat, which is like an oath, between the Creator Allāh, and His creation. This oath is renewed and strengthened with the recitation of Sūrah Al-Fātiḥah in every prayer, reminding man of the oath of Tawhīd, between him and His creator. This oath is also strengthened through man's constant awareness that Allāh is watching him, what leads him to praising God and asking for his help and guidance (Al-Biqā'i, 1987).

The contemplator of this great Sūrah, its meanings, and names, realizes its main focus; that oath which forms the start of a relationship between man and His creator. It is commonly known as Al-Fātiḥah, the literal meaning of this is ‘The Opener’, which in this context means the opening of the relationship between Allāh, the creator, and man. Hence its placement in the opening of the Qur’ān and the start of every Salāt. This is the nature of the relationship between God and His creation; one that starts with praise to Allāh (SWT) and feeling his presence in every aspect of life. This relationship is adequately transpired in Al-Biqā'ī's words during his referral to the objective of the Sūrah (Al-Biqā'y, n.d.).

Al-hamdulillah is a universal expression that is comprehensive in its meaning, which combines meanings of appreciation, gratitude, and also of humbleness and humility between the hands of Allāh, The Almighty (Al-Māwirdi, n.d). Al-hamdulillah is not merely a word uttered by the tongues devoid of meanings and values. True praise begins with remembrance of all blessings. There is a vast difference between one who says: “Praise be to Allāh” as a mere word devoid of any thought or feeling, and another who says "Praise be to Allāh" from the depths of his heart, with the remembrance of all of the blessings Allāh (SWT) granted to him, realizing the impossibility of counting them all, let alone express due thanks and praise to its Giver.

Al-hamdu lillah is a psychological state, that is felt and reflected in man's actions and behavior, and will not be fulfilled without a realization of all the blessings Allāh has showered upon us. Here the meaning of Al-Hamdulillah, transforms from a mere word uttered by the tongue, to an act of worship which forms a pivot from which man's actions in life centers around, and a reflection of the meanings of pure Tawhīd to Allāh Almighty. A man who truly praises Allāh, the Almighty, would not withhold what God has bestowed upon him from others. He whom Allāh, the Almighty, has blessed with knowledge, and skills should share this with others; he whom Allāh, the Almighty, has blessed with wealth, fortune, and position, should employ these abilities in helping others generously and openhandedly. Ultimately, he becomes a real successor in this world and a constant state of gratitude for His blessings.

Praise, then, becomes a behavior and a reality that is actualized (Muslim, book 07, 2734). The issue here then is not just a matter of uttering of words, but a feeling and reflection in behaviour that inspires gratitude and appreciation.

The choice of the term Rab, or ‘Lord”, is most appropriate here for He is the One who nurtures and rectifies the affairs of his creation by the favours which He showers upon them. He controls the affairs of his creations and grants blessings; He is the One Who nurtures; He is the Creator and the Provider; He is the One Who aids and the One Who guides (Al-Tabari, 1987). This is what that Sūrah aims to build in its reciters. When man recognizes and internalizes that Allāh (SWT) purifies him from distress, hardship, fatigue, health and disease and grants him prosperity, he begins to understand Allāh's wisdom in His choices in all circumstances. When an individual realizes this, his perspective on life changes. His heart no longer becomes distracted with worries, anxiety and distresses. Instead every challenge he faces becomes a result of Allāh's choice and guidance.

And yet The Creator's giving might at times be accompanied with prevention and happiness and pleasure may be accompanied with grief. Such things that man may perceive to be dark and bad such as grief, these afflictions do not aim at harming him, rather they test him, the test his belief. These feelings of acceptance and praise can only be achieved when a person comprehends, that Allāh, The Almighty, desires the best for his creation, and knows best what is best for them. This essentially is what pushes the believer to constantly praise His Creator; motivating him to praise Him for everything, for all His grace, for all His blessings and for everything that He has given. This is the essence of what Al Hamdulillah denotes in Sūrat al-Fātiḥah.

This divine guidance is founded on an essential meaning that is inherent to Tawhīd Al-Uluhiyyah (belief in the oneness of the worship), which is compassion for his creation, Rahmān-Rahīm. The link between Rab il-‘ālamīn (Lord of mankind, jinns and all that exists) and the Al-rahmān al-rahīm (All Merciful and Ever Merciful) clarifies the relationship between the Creator and His worshippers. Allāh, The Almighty who nurtures and guides his creation, is all knowing of their strengths and weaknesses, knowing of their circumstances, lives, and conditions. This gives man the certainty that Allāh, The Almighty will never leave him nor abandon him, regardless of their level of difficulties and perpetual hardships.

From here, the meanings of healing appear in this Sūrah. First, Sūrat al-Fātiḥah protects its reciter from the fears and horrors of life, transferring him to a world that is full of compassion and divine mercy. Subsequently, the soul calms down and the heart settles, embracing these meanings of reassurance and serenity away from sadness and despair that kills man's willpower and destroys his determination and paralyzes his strength. Allāh, the Almighty, who has all authority in heaven and earth, treats His creation with kindness and compassion. These meanings reinforce a sense of reassurance and tranquility in the self, healing the soul from worldly fears and concerns, a soul that cannot find tranquility without conquering those feelings.

Freedom from such fears strengthens the meanings of Tawhīd, primarily, Tawhīd al-‘iluhīyah, as in, the unity of worship. In this way, the character this Sūrah builds, prevents submission except to Allāh, the Almighty. Sūrat al-hamd liberates man and opens him to Tawhīd al-‘iluhīyah. One of the gifts is the reassurance that descends upon the heart of the believer when he understands that Allāh, the Most Merciful, holds the key to his life. Thus, his soul calms down, his inner self is soothed, and his heart is reassured.

The Sūrah then moves to another aspect that forms an essential part in a person's life; life's short journey. This is something that one should not forget amidst life's troubles and concerns. Mālik yawm al-dīn (Al Qur’ān 1:4). For this life is not the end of the journey, in truth, it is the start. This description of Allāh, The Almighty, for the day of judgement, Mālik yawm al-dīn, as one of the characteristics of Allāh, The Almighty, that nobody can claim or allege to himself.

4. Methods of Developing Tawhīd in Sūrat al-Fātiḥah: Freedom

Tawhīd necessitates absolute submission and complete obedience to Allāh, which means liberating one's self from everything and all liabilities except. This reveals man's true freedom from all chains and restrictions that have long tied up his will, mind, body and spirit.

Tawhīd entrusts man with highest levels of freedom, which are the most fundamental and most prominent mechanisms of building civilization. Tawhīd alone is sufficient to rescue humanity from slavery (of societal and cultural expectations). It is the acknowledgment of Allāh, The Almighty, the Creator of everything, and His lordship and divinity. Resulting from this acknowledgment is the freedom from every power and dominance other than that of Allāh; physically and mentally in all aspects of life.

Tawhīd with this purpose-oriented dimension frees man from submission to any other way of thinking that keeps him away from the right path, starting from man's pursuit of his own whims and desires. Allāh (SWT) says in the Holy Qur’ān: (Al Qur’ān, 45:23; 12:39).

With such freedom, it becomes clear to the believer, the purpose of life and his existence in carrying the message of Tawhīd and acting on those values by spreading goodness and kindness in the world. These meanings are clear to the eye of the reciter, especially in the verse: Mālik yawm al-dīn (4).

One of the most profound characteristics of Tawhīd is the certitude that Allāh, The Almighty, has in His possession the ability to do anything, as and when he so requires. Supreme power belongs to Allāh, the Almighty, which is a divine power, predominance and absolute authority. Human beings, on the other hand, even when they appear to have a bit of power, have it only on a temporary basis. See for example how the power of Pharaoh ended (Al Qur’ān, 43:51).

The contemplation of these meanings results in freedom of the heart from any other worship besides Allāh, The Almighty, and frees man from fears and adherences of this life. The believer also becomes free from the perception that a person can be the sole cause of trouble or benefit, poverty or wealth, elevation or humiliation to him. He is thus freed from other matters to ensure the heart is connected to Allāh (SWT) alone with no one else.

As a result, it builds Tawhīd in the heart and limbs and rids a person from his fears and concerns, and then it nurtures him from his inner beliefs, and not from outside influences. Tawhīd ascertained by Sūrat al-Fātiḥah conclusively makes man free from within, from all restraints, restrictions, whims and passions that initially prevents his (intellectual) freedom. Recitation of Sūrat al-Fātiḥah along with its contemplation reminds its reciter of the value of freedom, it revives his spiritual capability and releases from all restrictions and constraints that is often further deepened by negligence (of it).

Hence, freedom comes as a fruit of submission to Allāh and believing solely in Him as the only God worthy to be worshipped. Sūrat al-Fātiḥah professes man's importance and his endeavor to attain his freedom through the doctrine of Tawhīd, calling for the worship of Allāh (SWT), submission for Him and the negation of all forms of slavery.

Moreover, the verse of: Mālik yawm al-dīn, gives one reassurance and tranquility in the feeling that even when his right is forcefully and coercively taken, it will return to him someday; if it is not returned in this world, it will be in the hereafter. He who ponders over these meanings, recognizes the nature of the relationship inaugurated by the Sūrah between the God and his creation; a strong relationship that is not undermined by neither hardships nor difficulties. A relationship that is based on a genuine belief that Allāh, the Almighty, will support him- given that he follows His commands, is patient and just.