Salafism’s Overemphasis on Tawhid: Its Role in Motivating Extremism and Undermining Pluralism

By Grace Mubashir, New Age Islam 30 November 2024 Salafism’s Overemphasis On Tawhid Reflects A Narrow And Exclusionary Interpretation Of Islamic Theology, One That Prioritizes Purity Over Pluralism. While Tawhid Remains A Central Tenet Of Islam, Its Rigid Application Within Salafism Has Contributed To Sectarianism, Cultural Homogenization, And, In Extreme Cases, Terrorism Major Points: 1. Tawhid is one of the most essential aspects of Islam, encompassing the belief that Allah is singular, unique, and unparalleled in divinity. 2. The Salafi interpretation of Tawhid can become a foundation for extremist ideologies, particularly when paired with a political agenda. 3. Salafi-jihadist groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS have weaponized the concept of Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah to justify violence against individuals and communities they perceive as violators of pure monotheism. 4. By embracing the diversity within Islam and engaging constructively with other faiths and cultures, Muslims can honour the true spirit of Tawhid: the oneness of humanity under the divine unity of Allah. ---- The concept of Tawhid (the oneness of God) is a cornerstone of Islamic theology. It signifies the absolute monotheism of Allah, a belief that shapes the spiritual and ethical foundations of Muslim life. However, like any theological concept, Tawhid is subject to interpretation. One of the most stringent interpretations emerges within Salafism, a puritanical and revivalist movement in Islam. Salafism places an overwhelming emphasis on Tawhid, often to the exclusion of broader theological, ethical, and social considerations. This rigid focus has profound implications, including fostering extremist ideologies and hindering pluralistic discourse. This essay examines the Salafi overemphasis on Tawhid and how it becomes a framework for exclusivity, intolerance, and, in some cases, violent extremism. It will also explore how this hyper-focus on a singular theological point prevents constructive engagement with diversity and pluralism, both within the Muslim community and in the broader world. Tawhid in Islamic Theology Tawhid is one of the most essential aspects of Islam, encompassing the belief that Allah is singular, unique, and unparalleled in divinity. It forms the first part of the Shahada (Islamic declaration of faith): “There is no god but Allah.” Islamic theology traditionally divides Tawhid into three categories: Tawhid al-Rububiyyah (Oneness of Lordship): Affirming that Allah alone is the Creator, Sustainer, and Provider of all existence. Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah (Oneness of Worship): Recognizing that only Allah deserves worship and devotion. Tawhid al-Asma wa al-Sifat (Oneness of Names and Attributes): Believing in the uniqueness and perfection of Allah’s attributes and names. These principles form a balanced framework that guides a Muslim's relationship with God. Yet, the Salafi interpretation disrupts this balance by elevating Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah above other theological and ethical concerns. For Salafis, safeguarding the purity of worship becomes an obsession, often accompanied by a militant approach to combating perceived deviations, such as idolatry (Shirk) and innovation (Bid’ah). Salafism’s Overemphasis on Tawhid Salafism, rooted in the teachings of medieval scholar Ibn Taymiyyah and later codified by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, presents itself as a return to the pure Islam of the Prophet Muhammad and his early followers (the Salaf). Central to this ideology is the concept of Tawhid, which Salafis interpret with extreme rigidity. Salafis view Tawhid not merely as a spiritual principle but as a litmus test for faith and a justification for societal transformation. Any deviation from their understanding of Tawhid, whether in theology, practice, or cultural expression, is condemned as shirk, a sin they regard as unforgivable. Practices such as venerating saints, visiting shrines, or using intermediaries in prayer are labelled as polytheistic, regardless of their acceptance in other Islamic traditions. This overemphasis leads to a reductive worldview where theology becomes a battleground, and all other concerns—social justice, interfaith harmony, or ethical pluralism—are side-lined. The Salafi insistence on purifying faith from perceived impurities creates an environment of perpetual conflict, both within the Muslim community and beyond. Motivating Extremism through Tawhid The Salafi interpretation of Tawhid can become a foundation for extremist ideologies, particularly when paired with a political agenda. Salafi-jihadist groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS have weaponized the concept of Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah to justify violence against individuals and communities they perceive as violators of pure monotheism. Takfir: Declaring Others as Apostates A central tool in the extremist toolkit is Takfir, the practice of declaring other Muslims as unbelievers. For Salafi extremists, anyone who deviates from their interpretation of Tawhid—whether by participating in democratic processes, venerating saints, or adopting secular practices—can be excommunicated. This declaration then serves as a theological justification for violence, as apostasy is punishable by death under their interpretation of Islamic law. Targeting ‘Shirk’ as a Political Strategy Extremist groups frame their wars as battles against shirk, portraying themselves as defenders of true monotheism. In doing so, they dehumanize their enemies, including Muslims who adhere to other traditions, such as Sufism or Shiism. The destruction of shrines, mosques, and cultural heritage sites is not just an act of war but a theological statement against idolatry, as defined by their rigid Tawhid-centric worldview. The Global Impact The exportation of Salafi ideology, often funded by oil-rich Gulf states, has led to the proliferation of extremist narratives worldwide. In regions like Southeast Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Indian subcontinent, Salafi-inspired groups have exploited local grievances to recruit followers under the banner of Tawhid. This has resulted in sectarian violence, the suppression of indigenous Islamic practices, and the destabilization of pluralistic societies. Undermining Pluralism Within Islam The Salafi overemphasis on Tawhid also undermines pluralism within the Muslim community. Historically, Islam has encompassed a rich tapestry of interpretations, schools of thought, and cultural expressions. However, the Salafi insistence on a singular "true" Islam denies the legitimacy of this diversity. Rejection of Mazhab (Schools of Jurisprudence) Traditional Islamic jurisprudence is rooted in four major Sunni schools of thought (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali), each offering nuanced interpretations of Islamic law. Salafis, however, reject adherence to any particular school, arguing that Muslims should derive rulings directly from the Quran and Sunnah. While this might seem like a call for theological independence, in practice, it enforces a narrow Salafi interpretation and delegitimizes centuries of scholarly discourse. Suppression of Sufism and Shiism Sufism, with its emphasis on spiritual experience and mystical practices, is often targeted by Salafis as a deviation from pure monotheism. Shrines, zikr (remembrance rituals), and other Sufi practices are dismissed as innovations, leading to cultural erasure and, in extreme cases, acts of violence against Sufi communities. Similarly, Shiism, which incorporates unique theological and ritual practices, is regarded as heretical by many Salafis. This sectarianism has fueled conflicts in countries like Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, where Salafi militias have attacked Shia communities under the pretext of upholding Tawhid. Homogenization of Islamic Identity The Salafi pursuit of theological purity erases the cultural diversity that has historically enriched the Islamic world. From the colorful mosques of Central Asia to the syncretic practices of Indonesia, the global Muslim community reflects a wide range of interpretations and expressions of faith. Salafism’s rigid approach marginalizes these traditions, demanding conformity to its austere vision of Islam. Preventing Broader Religious and Cultural Pluralism The implications of Salafi overemphasis on Tawhid extend beyond the Muslim community, influencing how Islam interacts with other faiths and cultures. Salafism often positions itself in opposition to pluralism, viewing interfaith dialogue and coexistence as compromises to monotheistic purity. Rejection of Interfaith Engagement Salafi ideology frequently discourages Muslims from engaging with adherents of other religions, arguing that such interactions may lead to the dilution of faith. This insularity fosters mutual suspicion and hinders efforts to build bridges between communities. In pluralistic societies, Salafism’s exclusivist approach can exacerbate tensions and contribute to social fragmentation. Dismissing Secularism and Human Rights For many Salafis, secularism represents a form of shirk, as it places human authority above divine sovereignty. This rejection extends to international human rights frameworks, which are often dismissed as Western impositions incompatible with Islamic law. Such attitudes impede collaboration on global issues like gender equality, freedom of expression, and minority rights. Cultural Intolerance The Salafi focus on purifying faith often manifests as an intolerance toward cultural practices deemed un-Islamic. This can range from banning traditional music and art to enforcing dress codes. In multicultural settings, this rigidity can alienate Muslims from their broader cultural heritage, creating identity crises and social divides. Toward a Balanced Understanding of Tawhid To address the challenges posed by Salafi overemphasis on Tawhid, it is essential to promote a more balanced and inclusive understanding of the concept. This requires revisiting Islamic theology to emphasize the interconnectedness of Tawhid with other principles, such as justice (Adl), compassion (Rahma), and wisdom (Hikmah). Reaffirming the Diversity of Islamic Thought Islamic scholars and communities must reaffirm the legitimacy of diverse interpretations and practices within the faith. By celebrating the plurality of Islamic traditions, from Sufism to Shiism, Muslims can resist the homogenizing tendencies of Salafism and foster a more inclusive religious identity. Engaging with Modernity Rather than viewing modernity as a threat, Islamic thought must engage with contemporary issues in a way that upholds the spirit of Tawhid while accommodating pluralism. This includes participating in interfaith dialogue, embracing democratic values, and advocating for human rights. Countering Extremism Efforts to counter extremist ideologies must address the theological underpinnings that justify violence. This includes challenging the Salafi interpretation of Tawhid and promoting alternative readings that emphasize coexistence and mutual respect. Conclusion Salafism’s overemphasis on Tawhid reflects a narrow and exclusionary interpretation of Islamic theology, one that prioritizes purity over pluralism. While Tawhid remains a central tenet of Islam, its rigid application within Salafism has contributed to sectarianism, cultural homogenization, and, in extreme cases, terrorism. To counter these trends, the Muslim community must reclaim a more holistic understanding of Tawhid—one that integrates monotheism with the ethical and social values necessary for coexistence in a diverse world. By embracing the diversity within Islam and engaging constructively with other faiths and cultures, Muslims can honour the true spirit of Tawhid: the oneness of humanity under the divine unity of Allah. ----- A regular columnist for NewAgeIslam.com, Mubashir V.P is a PhD scholar in Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia and freelance journalist. 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