Abstract: The Salafi interpretation of ritual monotheism, claiming a return to the righteous predecessors (Salaf), has practically led to a reductive and one-sided understanding of this fundamental religious concept. This perspective defines ritual monotheism solely in terms of negating apparent polytheism and worship of anything other than God, neglecting the broader dimensions of monotheism, such as its systemic nature, social responsibility, governmental transcendence, and divine lordship. This article, employing a descriptive-analytical method, examines the most significant theological implications of this interpretation. The findings reveal that this approach has led to consequences such as a literalist and reductive reading of religious texts, rejection of theological and philosophical methods, neglect of the systemic nature of monotheism, imposition of preconceived assumptions and selective reliance on the Salaf, reduction of monotheism to an individual matter devoid of social commitment, diminishment of the status of divine lordship, and imposition of preconceived notions and distorted narratives. Consequently, this interpretation has stripped monotheism of its transformative role in organizing individual and collective life, contributing to religious isolation and sectarian conflicts. The article concludes by emphasizing the necessity of a historical re-evaluation and intellectual reform of ritual monotheism to address these damages and revive the comprehensive and vital role of monotheism in all aspects of Islamic life.
Pouramini,M. B. (2025). A Critical Analysis of the Theological Implications of the Salafi Interpretation of Ritual Monotheism. Kalam Islami, 34(133), 29-48.
MLA
Pouramini,M. B. . "A Critical Analysis of the Theological Implications of the Salafi Interpretation of Ritual Monotheism", Kalam Islami, 34, 133, 2025, 29-48.
HARVARD
Pouramini M. B. (2025). 'A Critical Analysis of the Theological Implications of the Salafi Interpretation of Ritual Monotheism', Kalam Islami, 34(133), pp. 29-48.
CHICAGO
M. B. Pouramini, "A Critical Analysis of the Theological Implications of the Salafi Interpretation of Ritual Monotheism," Kalam Islami, 34 133 (2025): 29-48,
VANCOUVER
Pouramini M. B. A Critical Analysis of the Theological Implications of the Salafi Interpretation of Ritual Monotheism. Kalam, 2025; 34(133): 29-48.
