The term “shirk” in Islam specifically denotes the grave sin of idolatry or polytheism, representing the act of deifying or worshipping ‘entities’ other than Allāh. In direct contrast to polytheism, Islam fervently advocates unwavering monotheism rooted in tawḥīd (oneness of God), affirming that God is singular, unparalleled, and absolute.
The Arabic root of the term “shirk” lies in the verb “sharaka,” signifying “to share with someone” or “to include something.” In the Islamic context, shirk encompasses attributing a partner equal to Allāh or associating any entity with Him.
The Qur’ān emphatically underscores the Islamic concept of monotheism, declaring, “nothing is like unto Him” (Q.XLII:11). This divine assertion underscores God’s absolute oneness and His unparalleled nature. Conversely, shirk, or polytheism, involves the infringement of this fundamental tenet, wherein God is associated with other deities, idols, or gods. Worshipping anything besides the singular and unique God is considered a deviation from this core belief.
Worshipping of Anything But Allah:
The act of worshipping anything besides God is strongly condemned in Islam, and the Quran explicitly emphasises the seriousness of associating partners with Allah. In Surah an-Nisa, specifically in verses 48 and 116, the Quran makes it clear that while God can forgive all sins, associating others with Him, known as shirk, is an exception.
Surah an-Nisa (4:48) states:
“Indeed, Allah does not forgive associating others with Him ˹in worship˺, but forgives anything else of whoever He wills. And whoever associates others with Allah has indeed committed a grave sin.”
Islamic scholars explain that before the advent of Islam, the people of Arabia engaged in idolatry, worshipping various deities such as the three goddesses Manāt, Al-Lāt, and Al-‘Uzzá. These deities were considered equal associates of God, as discussed in the 53rd surat. The term “mushrikūn” (singular: mushrik) is commonly translated as “polytheists,” referring to those who commit the grave sin of shirk.
Entities worshipped alongside God are called shuraka. According to Islamic teachings, these shuraka will face severe consequences on Judgment Day. They, along with shayatin (satans) and malevolent jinn, will be cast into hell. Notably, pagans are believed to offer sacrifices to these entities, including shayatin, in an attempt to seek protection.
Obey or heed people rather than God:
Another manifestation of shirk, highlighted in Surah At-Tawbah, involves the act of obeying or heeding individuals—such as rabbis, monks, prophets, priests, theologians, scholars of religion, religious lawyers, or shayatin—instead of God. This form of shirk occurs when people follow the doctrines and rulings proposed by these figures, even when they contradict the laws and teachings prescribed by God’s revelation:
“They have taken their rabbis and monks as well as the Messiah, son of Mary, as lords besides Allah, even though they were commanded to worship none but One God. There is no god except Him. Glorified is He above what they associate!” (Surah At-Tawbah 9:31)
Greater and Lesser Shirk:
In Islamic religion, the term “shirk” encapsulates the concept of associating partners with Allah, and it manifests in two distinctive forms:
- Greater Shirk (Shirk-al-Akbar)
- Lesser Shirk (Shirk-al-Asghar)
Greater Shirk:
Greater Shirk, or Shirk-al-Akbar, is characterised by open polytheism and is delineated into two primary forms:
Associating Partners with Allah:
This form involves the belief in multiple gods or associating anyone or anything as a partner with Allah.
Associating Allah’s Attributes with Someone Else:
This pertains to the belief that entities other than God possess divine attributes. Certain scholars, including Ibn Taymiyyah and Salafis, have further nuanced Greater Shirk into three categories:
Rubūbīyah (Lordship): This dimension encompasses the belief that others share Allah’s lordship over creation either as equals or by denying any lord over creation.
Shirk by Association: Involves associating “others” with Allah.
Shirk by Negation: Denies Allah’s lordship.
Al-Asma wa’s-Sifat (Names and Attributes): This facet entails attributing Allah’s attributes to created beings.
Shirk by Humanization: Implies assigning human and animal qualities to Allah.
Shirk by Deification: Involves giving created beings or things Allah’s names or attributes.
Al-‘Ibadah (Worship): This category involves acts of worship directed to entities besides Allah. This includes seeking forgiveness and admittance to paradise from beings other than Allah.
Lesser Shirk:
Lesser Shirk, or Shirk-al-Asghar, transpires when an individual professes tawhid (the oneness of Allah) but their thoughts and actions deviate from this belief. Instances include performing ritual prayers or acts of worship with the intention of showing off or gaining a favourable reputation.
The Prophet Muhammad expressed concern about “ash-Shirk al-Asghar,” highlighting the perils of actions like showing off (Riya) during worship.
It’s imperative to note that both forms of shirk are cautioned against in Islam. Believers are encouraged to uphold the oneness of Allah in both their beliefs and actions, fostering a deeper connection with their faith.
The Meaning of Tawhid in Islam
Reflecting on the nuances of shirk in Islam, we uncover the underlying essence of Tawhid — oneness of Allah. The Greater and Lesser Shirk serves as a compass, guiding believers toward a singular devotion to the Almighty.
Harmony in Worship:
The concept of Greater Shirk elucidates the perils of diluting the pure oneness of Allah. Whether through associating partners or misattributing divine qualities, it calls for a harmonious understanding of Allah’s Lordship, Names, Attributes, and the true nature of Worship.
Subtleties in Worshipping:
On the flip side, Lesser Shirk invites contemplation on the subtleties embedded in our acts of worship. It warns against the pitfalls of insincerity and the seeking of validation from the creation rather than the Creator. The Prophet’s guidance into “ash-Shirk al-Asghar” provides a nuanced perspective on the intentions behind our religious practices.
The Unifying Call:
Tawhid is not merely a theological doctrine but is a lived commitment to Allah’s oneness in thought, deed, and intention. In a world filled with complexities, the call to embrace Tawhid becomes a personal journey. It urges us to introspect, purify our intentions, and align our actions with the beauty of worshipping Allah alone.
The essence of Tawhid is not confined to theoretical doctrines; it thrives in the hearts of individuals committed to a sincere and undivided connection with the Divine.