Examining the Distinction between Tawassul and Idolatry in the Light of Revelation

Elucidating the relationship between the practice of tawassul (seeking mediation) and the notion of polytheism constitutes one of the fundamental challenges raised by the Wahhabi movement. By equating these two concepts, Wahhabism has opened the way for an approach whose direct consequence is the excommunication of all Muslims who do not adhere to Wahhabism. Employing a descriptive-analytical methodology, this study examines the structural differences between tawassul and idolatry in the light of revelation. The findings demonstrate that the polytheism of the Meccan polytheists was founded upon principles such as “delegating the management of affairs to beings other than God,” “believing in the independent efficacy of intermediaries,” and “denying the Resurrection and prophethood.” In contrast, Islamic tawassul is grounded in the fundamental principle of the “centrality of divine permission.” The findings establish that, despite certain similarities between the two, they are fundamentally different in nature. Equating them results from a fallacy in understanding the nature of the relationship between the polytheists and their objects of worship, as well as from overlooking the central role of “God’s permission” within the Islamic conceptual framework.