Imam Ibn Taymiyyah’s (رحمہ اللہ) The renowned book, “Aqeedah Wasitiyyah,” is a comprehensive and unparalleled treatise on the fundamental beliefs of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah. This concise yet impactful work was penned at the beginning of the 14th century CE when Imam Ibn Taymiyyah received a request from the people of Wasit in Iraq for a clear explanation of correct Islamic beliefs. This book not only safeguarded the beliefs of Ahlus Sunnah in its era but continues to serve as a crucial source for understanding Islamic doctrines for Muslims worldwide today.
The Purpose of Compilation and Central Theme
The primary objective of “Aqeedah Wasitiyyah” is to clarify the acceptance of Allah (سبحانہ و تعالیٰ) ‘s Names and Attributes in light of the Qur’an and Sunnah, without any distortion (tahreef), denial (ta’teel), anthropomorphism (tamtheel), or questioning the ‘how’ (takyeef). Imam Ibn Taymiyyah (رحمہ اللہ) emphasized that Allah’s Attributes should be accepted exactly as they are described in the Qur’an or mentioned in the Ahadith, avoiding any human interpretation or philosophical intricacies. This approach is the methodology of the Salaf as-Salih (Pious Predecessors), which entails accepting the words of Allah and His Messengerﷺ without questioning or alteration.
Key Components and Beliefs of the Book
The most central theme of Aqeedah Wasitiyyah revolves around belief in Allah’s Names and Attributes. Imam Ibn Taymiyyah (رحمہ اللہ) clarified Allah (سبحانہ و تعالیٰ)’s Attributes, such as Al-Istawa ‘alal Arsh (His ascending above the Throne), Yad (Hand), Wajh (Face), Sam’ (Hearing), and Basr (Seeing), based on numerous Qur’anic verses and Ahadith. He states: أَنَّ اللَّهَ سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى فِي السَّمَاءِ، وَعَرْشُهُ فَوْقَ سَمَاوَاتِهِ ( Indeed, Allah, the Most Glorified and Exalted, is in the heavens, and His Throne is above His heavens).
In the Qur’an, it states: (الرَّحْمَنُ عَلَى الْعَرْشِ اسْتَوَىٰ) “The Most Gracious is established on the Throne.” (Surah Taha: 5). He clarifies that these attributes are real, but their nature is not like the attributes of creation: ( لَيْسَ كَمِثْلِهِ شَيْءٌ وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْبَصِيرُ) “There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing.” (Surah Ash-Shura: 11). This verse both affirms Allah’s attributes and declares His transcendence from any resemblance to creation.
Similarly, the book also clarifies that the Qur’an is the uncreated Word of Allah, but rather an expression of Allah’s Attribute of Speech. This belief stood against deviant sects like the Mu’tazilah, who claimed the Qur’an was created. The book extensively discusses belief in Divine Decree (Qadar). It explains that Allah’s knowledge encompasses everything, and whatever happens occurs by Allah’s knowledge, will, and creation. However, humans are also granted freedom of choice in their actions, for which they will be rewarded or punished.
Imam Ibn Taymiyyah (رحمہ اللہ) also emphasized respect for the Sahabah (Companions) and Ahlul Bayt (Prophet’s Family). He highlighted the greatness and virtues of the noble Companions (رضوان اللہ علیہم اجمعین) and advised silence regarding the disagreements that occurred among them. Furthermore, respect for the Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ household and his pure wives is also stressed.
The book also addresses Intercession (Shafa’ah) and the Miracles of Awliya’ (Karamaat) as part of the beliefs of Ahlus Sunnah. Imam Ibn Taymiyyah affirmed intercession but clearly outlined its conditions. He states that intercession will only occur with Allah’s permission, as stated in the Qur’an: (مَن ذَا الَّذِي يَشْفَعُ عِندَهُ إِلَّا بِإِذْنِہ)
“Who is it that can intercede with Him except by His permission?” (Surah Al-Baqarah: 255).
Similarly, the miracles of the Awliya’ (extraordinary occurrences) are also affirmed, but it’s emphasized that a miracle can only emanate from a person who adheres strictly to the Shariah and holds correct beliefs. If an extraordinary event occurs from someone who does not adhere to the Shariah, it is not a miracle but rather a satanic state or magic. Lastly, the importance of enjoining good and forbidding evil (امر بالمعروف والنهي عن المنكر), which is a cornerstone of Islamic society, is also highlighted.
The Importance and Benefit of “Aqeedah Wasitiyyah”
“Aqeedah Wasitiyyah” is a concise yet immensely comprehensive book that presents the beliefs of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah with great clarity and brevity. This book is not merely an academic document but also a shield against innovations (bid’ah) and misguided sects. Imam Ibn Taymiyyah (رحمہ اللہ) presented the beliefs with evidence and utilized simple and clear language, avoiding philosophical complexities, so that ordinary Muslims could easily understand them.
Even today, as the Muslim Ummah faces sectarianism and various false ideologies, “Aqeedah Wasitiyyah” stands as a beacon of light, guiding Muslims towards the straight path, that is, the Qur’an, the Sunnah, and the methodology of the Salaf as-Salih. This book proves instrumental in strengthening the foundations of correct Islamic beliefs and maintaining pure monotheism (Tawheed al-Khalis).
