How do we reconcile the scholars' statement that 'aqidah (creed) consists only of theoretical matters with their statement that Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah (Oneness of God in His Divinity, i.e., worship) is practical Tawhid?
The terms "aqidah" (creed) and "i'tiqad" (belief) are widely used in established scholarly matters concerning Allah and His Messenger, and the practical issues stemming therefrom. (monotheism) is divided into: Tawhid al-Ma'rifah wal-Ithbat (Oneness of Knowledge and Affirmation), which requires knowledge, belief, and firm faith in what has been affirmed regarding Allah; and Tawhid al-Irada wal-Talab (Oneness of Will and Request), which requires submission, subservience, and the worship of Allah.
Knowing Allah and affirming what He has affirmed for Himself, or what His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) has affirmed, only necessitates believing in Him and acknowledging Him. Whereas Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah (Oneness of Divinity) necessitates actions such as prayer, sacrifice, fear, hope, and love.
Tawhid al-Ma'rifah wal-Ithbat (Tawhid of Names and Attributes) only requires knowledge, faith, and certainty, and does not inherently entail any practical action other than belief. As for Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah (Tawhid of Will and Request), it is a practical tawhid.
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Reviewed by El Fatwa's sharia committee.
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