Allah in Islam: The Foundation of Monotheism

Who is Allah in Islam?

In Islam, Allah is the central term used for the one true God, the Creator of the universe and everything within it. The name „Allah“ is the Arabic word for God and is used by both Arab Muslims and Arabic-speaking Christians to refer to the one God. In Islam, however, Allah is not just a name for God—He is the embodiment of absolute unity, incomparability, and perfection.

Muslims believe that Allah is unique, without partners, sons, or daughters, and that nothing and no one is equal to Him. He is eternal, all-knowing, all-powerful, and all-merciful. These attributes make Him the only being worthy of worship. Belief in Allah and His uniqueness forms the core of the Islamic faith system. In Islamic theology, there is no room for polytheism or the worship of other beings or forces besides Allah.

The worship of Allah in Islam is expressed in various forms, including daily prayers (Salat), fasting, reciting the Quran, and spiritual remembrance through Dhikr (literally „remembrance“). Allah is not only the Creator but also the Sustainer of the universe and the Just Judge who governs the fate of mankind.

The Oneness of Allah (Tawhid)

Tawhid refers to the doctrine of the absolute unity and uniqueness of Allah in Islam. Tawhid is the heart of the Islamic faith and forms the foundation for the Islamic understanding of God and the universe. At its core, Tawhid means that Allah is the One and Only, without any partners or divisions. This concept stands in sharp contrast to polytheistic or trinitarian views of God.

Tawhid is divided into several dimensions:

Tawhid al-Rububiyyah: This means belief in Allah as the sole Lord, Creator, and Sustainer of the universe. It emphasizes that only Allah has power over the universe and that everything happens according to His will.
Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah: This relates to the worship of Allah as the only God who alone is deserving of worship. It excludes all forms of idolatry, superstition, or the worship of other beings.
Tawhid al-Asma wa-Sifat: This refers to belief in the unique names and attributes of Allah. Muslims believe that Allah possesses attributes that are perfect and unmatched, such as mercy, omniscience, and power.

Tawhid is the first part of the Islamic declaration of faith, the Shahada. The Shahada states: „There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.“ This declaration of the unity of God is central to every Muslim’s life, shaping their spiritual practice and worldview.

The 99 Names of Allah

In Islam, Allah is described by His 99 names, also known as the Asma’ul Husna (The Most Beautiful Names). Each of these names reveals a specific attribute or quality of Allah, illustrating His greatness and perfection. These names help believers better understand Allah’s nature and essence, drawing them closer to Him.

Some of the most well-known names include:

Ar-Rahman (الرحمن) – The Most Compassionate: This name reflects the infinite mercy of Allah, encompassing all of creation. He is merciful to all beings, regardless of their faith or actions.
Ar-Rahim (الرحيم) – The Most Merciful: While Ar-Rahman describes Allah’s general mercy toward all, Ar-Rahim refers to the special mercy Allah bestows specifically upon the believers.
Al-Hakim (الحكيم) – The Wise: Allah possesses perfect wisdom, and His actions and judgments are always just and wise, even if humans do not always understand them.
Al-Aziz (العزيز) – The Almighty: Allah is all-powerful, and none can escape His authority. He has absolute control over all of creation.

Muslims frequently use these names in their prayers and meditations to remind themselves of Allah’s attributes and to become more conscious of His presence. The 99 names of Allah are an essential part of spiritual life and are artistically depicted in calligraphy and recitations in many Islamic cultures.

Allah in the Quran

The Quran, the holy book of Islam, is filled with descriptions of Allah, His attributes, and His role as the Creator and Ruler of the universe. Allah is the author of the Quran, and through His words, He guides humanity toward a life of righteousness and devotion.

A famous verse that describes Allah’s unity and uniqueness is found in Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1-4):
„Say: He is Allah, the One and Only; Allah, the Eternal, Absolute. He begets not, nor was He begotten, and there is none like unto Him.“

This verse concisely encapsulates monotheism in Islam. Allah is unique, incomparable to anyone, and independent from His creation.

Another important verse that describes Allah’s power and omniscience is the „Throne Verse“ (Ayat al-Kursi) in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255):
„Allah! There is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of 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 extends over the heavens and the earth, and their preservation tires Him not. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.“

This verse highlights Allah’s absolute control over the universe and His comprehensive knowledge of all that exists.

The Relationship Between Allah and the Believers

In Islam, the relationship between Allah and the believers is one of closeness, devotion, and dependence. Muslims believe that Allah sees and hears their faith, actions, and prayers. This close connection is maintained through daily prayer (Salat), supplication (Dua), and remembrance (Dhikr) of Allah.

Salat is the ritual prayer performed five times a day, bringing believers directly into the presence of Allah. During the prayer, Muslims praise Allah, seek forgiveness, and renew their devotion to Him. It provides an opportunity to encounter Allah regularly throughout the day and feel His presence.

Dua is a personal prayer in which Muslims ask Allah for help, protection, or blessings. Unlike the formal Salat, Dua can be made at any time and place. It is a direct form of communication with Allah, where believers express their worries, wishes, and hopes to Him.

Dhikr is the spiritual practice of repeatedly invoking Allah’s name to become aware of His presence and to strengthen one’s bond with Him. This practice is particularly widespread in Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam. Dhikr can be practiced both in solitude and in groups, and it serves as a way to free the mind from worldly concerns and draw closer to Allah.

Allah’s Role in Creation and the Universe

In Islam, Allah is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Everything that exists—from the stars and planets to the smallest living organisms—is the work of Allah. He created the universe out of nothing and continues to control every aspect of it.

Allah’s role as the Creator is manifested in the laws of nature that govern the universe, as well as in the wonders of creation that surround people daily. In Islam, nature is often seen as a sign (Ayat) of Allah, pointing to His existence and power. Muslims are encouraged to reflect on creation and, through it, recognize Allah’s omnipotence and wisdom.

Besides being the Creator, Allah is also the Sustainer of the world. He ensures that everything in the universe functions and provides for humanity’s needs. His omnipotence is evident in the harmony and balance of nature, which is maintained only through His wisdom and control.

Modern Interpretations of Allah in Islam

In today’s world, Allah remains a central figure of faith for Muslims worldwide. Despite modernization and secular influences in society, belief in Allah and His role as the one and only God remains unchanged. In many modern Muslim societies, Allah is worshipped not only in mosques but also His name and presence are omnipresent in everyday life.

Modern Muslims often turn to Allah in times of uncertainty and change to seek comfort and guidance. Allah’s mercy and justice are key concepts that remain relevant even in an increasingly secular world. The invocation Insha’Allah (God willing) is a common expression used by Muslims worldwide, symbolizing trust in Allah’s plan and will.