Four Foundations of Shirk – Muhammad ibn Abdul-Wahhab (Aqeedah Book)

About Four Foundations of Shirk

Four Foundations of Shirk is an English rendering of al-Qawa’id al-Arba’, a short Arabic treatise by Shaykh Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab on four rules for understanding shirk, which is associating partners with Allah, and tawhid, the worship of Allah alone. The treatise draws on verses of the Qur’an and hadith, and it compares the beliefs of the earlier idolaters with misconceptions that persist among some people today.

The idea of the treatise

• Four rules that explain what shirk is
• Clearing up common misunderstandings about worship
• A reminder to purify worship for Allah alone

About the author

Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab was born in 1703 in ‘Uyayna in Najd and died in 1792 in Diriyah. He was a scholar, preacher and reformer, best known for Kitab at-Tawhid. His call has been praised by many and criticised by others, and the term “Wahhabi” is rejected by his followers.

Why study the Four Foundations

Tawhid is the first and most important belief in Islam. Short, memorisable texts have long been used to teach it. This treatise is often studied by beginners in creed because it is brief and its structure is easy to follow. Many students memorise it and review it with a teacher.

Who should read it

Students of ‘aqidah, madrasa classes, study circles and readers who want a short introduction to tawhid will benefit. It is best read with a teacher who can explain the examples and answer questions.

A note on editions

There is more than one English edition of this treatise, with different translations, layouts and page counts. Some are short booklets of a few dozen pages, and others add commentary. If you need a specific edition, please ask us before you order.

How to study it

Read each rule, then read the verses and examples that support it. Write a summary in your own words and review it the next day. Compare your understanding with the explanation of a trusted teacher. Make dua to Allah for steadfastness on tawhid.

Memorising short texts

Students of knowledge have traditionally begun with short texts, memorising them and then returning for explanation. This approach builds a firm base. The Four Foundations is well suited to it because each rule can be learnt in a few days and revisited. Pair it with a longer text on tawhid once you finish.

Understanding tawhid and shirk

Tawhid means to single out Allah in worship, and shirk is the opposite. Muslims are taught to guard their beliefs, because the greatest sin is to associate partners with Allah, and the greatest good is to worship Him alone. A short treatise that lays out clear rules helps the reader recognise misunderstandings in their own thinking. It should be studied humbly, since the aim is to correct ourselves first and then to teach others with wisdom and kindness.

A treatise for classes

Teachers in madrasas and weekend classes often begin with this short text because it can be finished in a short course. Students may take turns reading a rule aloud and explaining it in their own words. Repeated review fixes the rules in the mind, and further study of longer works on creed becomes easier.

Edition details

An English edition of al-Qawa’id al-Arba’. Please message us on WhatsApp at 9906523492 for details of the copy in stock. Same-day dispatch from Srinagar.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Arabic title? Al-Qawa’id al-Arba’.

Is it a long book? No, it is a short treatise.

Is it for beginners? Yes, though a teacher’s guidance is helpful.

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