taʿṭīl

In Islam, ta'tzil refers to the concept of divesting God of all attributes, which, along with its opposite, tashbih (comparing God to created things), is considered a sin. The Quran presents a duality: God is described as unique and unlike anything imaginable, yet also in anthropomorphic terms, possessing human-like attributes such as eyes and hands.1

Muslim theologians have grappled with this, with some suggesting allegorical interpretations of such descriptions, while others, like Al-Ash'ari, argued for literal acceptance without questioning how. The fear of tashbih is that it can lead to idolatry, while ta'tzil can lead to atheism. Many theologians preferred tanzih (keeping God pure) and tathbit (confirming God's attributes).1

Allah is the Arabic word for God in Islam, used by Arabic-speaking Christians and Jews as well. For Muslims, it holds special significance as the name God used in the Quran. The core tenet of Islam is tawhid, the oneness of Allah, who is the Creator, Judge, and unique, omnipotent, and merciful being.2