Section: Islam is Founded upon Monotheism

Islam rests upon affirming the oneness of Allah. The Most High says, “Say, ‘It has been revealed to me that your God is but One God; will you then submit?’” (21:108). Genuine monotheism must combine both negation and affirmation: negation alone would be sheer denial, while affirmation by itself would still allow the possibility of partners. Therefore, true monotheism is achieved only through simultaneous negation and affirmation.

Through careful study of the revealed texts, the scholars have classified monotheism into three categories: 1) the monotheism of Lordship (tawḥīd al-rubūbiyyah), 2) the monotheism of Worship (tawḥīd al-ulūhiyyah), and 3) the monotheism of Names and Attributes (tawḥīd al-asmāʾ wa-l-ṣifāt).

Allah gathers all three in His statement: “Lord of the heavens and the earth and whatever lies between them; so worship Him and persevere in His worship. Do you know of anyone comparable to Him?” (19:65).

1. The monotheism of Lordship is to single out Allah alone in creation, ownership, and governance. Among its proofs are:
   – His words: “Unquestionably, to Him belong the creation and the command. Blessed is Allah, Lord of the worlds” (7:54);
   – His words: “To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth” (3:189);
   – His words: “Say, ‘Call upon those you claim besides Allah; they do not possess even an atom’s weight in the heavens or on the earth. They have no share in either, nor does He have any helper among them. Intercession is of no benefit with Him except for those to whom He grants permission’” (34:22).

This aspect of monotheism was in fact acknowledged by the very idol-worshippers among whom the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, was sent, as the Almighty said