THE CONCEPT OF RELIGION

THE CONCEPT OF RELIGION This book provides an explanation of the four fundamental Quranic terms—Ilah (God), Rabb (Lord), Ibadah (worship), and Deen (religion). It is argued that within these four words lies the essence of the revolutionary message presented in this interpretation. However, for a long time, the comprehensive meaning of these terms has remained unclear in the public mind; as a result, the broad and revolutionary vision of Islam remains largely misunderstood. “When the Quran was brought to Arabia, everyone understood what Ilah meant and whom Rabb referred to, because these terms were already common in their daily language. They knew the extent to which these words applied. So, when they were told that Allah alone is the Ilah and Rabb, with no partners in divinity and lordship, they understood the message fully. They were clear, without any confusion, about what was being rejected for others and what was being affirmed for Allah alone. Those who opposed did so, understanding the consequences of denying other deities’ divinity and lordship, while those who accepted did so, aware of what they would have to give up and what they would gain by this belief. Similarly, the terms Ibadah and Deen were also commonly used in their language. They understood what