Rasail al-Shaykh al-Hamad fi al-Aqida
- Author died
- -
- Editions
- Rasail al-Shaykh al-Hamad fi al-Aqida
Rasail al-Shaykh al-Hamad fi al-Aqida ("Treatises of Shaykh al-Hamad on Creed") is a collection of doctrinal treatises composed by Muhammad bin Ibrahim al-Hamad, focusing on fundamental principles of Islamic theology and creed.
Doctrinal Themes and Contents
The treatises systematically examine essential chapters of creed (aqida), including the oneness of divine lordship (tawhid al-rububiyyah), the divine names and attributes, the comparative nature of divine dispensations, and the theological definition of faith (iman).
In its treatment of tawhid al-rububiyyah, the text states that divine lordship is opposed by atheism, the denial of God's necessary existence, or the belief that any entity shares in controlling the universe—whether through origination, annihilation, giving life, causing death, granting benefit, or repelling harm. It likewise contradicts lordship to claim an autonomous legislator alongside God, or to ascribe to creation attributes exclusive to the Divine, such as knowledge of the unseen or supreme pride, since divine lordship encompasses both cosmic ordering and legislative governance.
Addressing the divine attributes and theological terminology, the work discusses contentious terms such as al-hadd (demarcation or limit). It elaborates that if the term is used to mean that God is distinct and separate from His creation, it is affirmed as true without denoting any deficiency; however, if it is used to argue that the Throne encompasses Him, it is invalid, for God is established above His Throne (mustawin 'ala 'arshihi) while being greater than the Throne and all creation.
In discussing prophetic revelations, the work traces legislative differences across eras—such as specific allowances and prohibitions in the codes of earlier prophets—and contrasts them with the final Sharīʿah brought by Islam. It emphasizes that the final law is distinguished by permitting wholesome things, prohibiting impurities, and being universally mandatory for all humanity until the Day of Judgment.
On the subject of faith, the work defines iman legally as speech and action that increases through obedience and decreases through disobedience. It explains that when either iman or islam is mentioned on its own, it encompasses the entire religion in both its doctrinal fundamentals and outward practical duties.
Answer updated