In The Light Of Verses and Hadits: Taassul and Wasila

This study examines the concepts of intercession (tawassul) and means (wasila) in Islam, as understood through the Qur'an and hadith, and their interpretation throughout history. The research aims to explore the relationship of these concepts with the principle of monotheism (tawhid) and their legitimate and illegitimate practices. The terms tawassul and wasila have led to different interpretations in the fields of theology and Sufism. The study uses the Qur'an and hadith as primary sources, along with classical works like Ibn Taymiyyah's "Qā'idah Jalīlah fī Tawassul wal-Wasīlah." In the Qur'an, the concept of wasila appears in verses Ma'idah 35 and Isra 57. While there were no significant debates during the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions, different views emerged during the era of the Tabi'in. Legitimate practices of tawassul include seeking intercession through Allah's names and attributes, righteous deeds, and the prayers of a living righteous person, whereas illegitimate practices include seeking help from the dead and using objects for intercession. The study emphasizes that the concepts of tawassul and wasila should be approached carefully in light of the principle of tawhid. It concludes that people do not need intermediaries to draw closer to Allah, as Allah is always near to His servants, and that intercession is only possible through prophets and righteous individuals, but this should be approached with caution.