Understanding ‘Ibadah’

THE CONCEPT OF RELIGION However, this concept of worship did not align well with the framework of the interpretation under discussion, as this interpretation views religion as a “system” intended to be implemented across all areas of life. Defining humility and submission as the essential meaning of worship renders it a personal matter, focused primarily on the heart’s inclination and inner devotion. Systematic expressions of worship are not explicitly included; rather they integrate into worship according to its demands and circumstances. Consequently, within this interpretation, the concept of worship was turned upside down: what was once its very essence was reduced to a mere demand, while what was originally only a demand came to be regarded as the core. After listing five meanings of worship from the dictionary, the Author (Maulana Maududi Sahib) writes: “This explanation makes it clear that the foundational meaning of the root word ‘abd’ is to acknowledge someone’s dominance and superiority, thereby surrendering one’s freedom and independence, abandoning any defiance or resistance, and becoming submissive to them. This encapsulates the essence of servitude and slavery. Thus, the primary concept that an Arab mind envisions