Understanding ‘Ilah’

THE CONCEPT OF RELIGION cosmos, with no partner in His governance— therefore, He alone must also be the Sovereign, Commander, and Lawgiver. There should be no partner even in this domain of authority, just as it is incorrect to regard anyone but Him as a refuge, provider, or protector within His dominion. Similarly, considering anyone else as an independent ruler, self-governing sovereign, or autonomous lawmaker is equally erroneous. Creation, provision of sustenance, giving life and death, subjugation of the sun and moon, the cycle of night and day, decree and destiny, command and kingship, regulation and legislation—all are different facets of one complete authority and sovereignty. This authority is indivisible. If anyone considers a command binding without the endorsement of Allah, they are engaging in the same kind of polytheism as someone who seeks aid from other than Allah. Similarly, if someone claims the title of ‘Sovereign of the Realm’ or ‘Supreme Authority’ in a political sense, this claim to divinity is just as erroneous as one claiming to be a provider or protector. Therefore, where the Quran negates any partnership in God’s creation, sustenance, and governance, it also states that He is the command,