The Arabs of Jahiliyyah at the time of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) clearly knew and stated that Allah is their Lord, yet as stated in the First Principle they fell into the clutches of Satan, directing their acts of worship to people and things – i.e. the creation of Allah. However, it is interesting to note that those Arabs did have a very noble objective in mind, one that we should all strive for every day, to get closer to Allah.

“Unquestionably, for Allah is the pure religion. And those who take protectors besides Him [say], ‘We only worship them that they may bring us nearer to Allah in position.’ Indeed, Allah will judge between them concerning that over which they differ. Indeed, Allah does not guide he who is a liar and [confirmed] disbeliever.” [Quran 39:3]

Wanting to get nearer to Allah is a worthwhile goal, but in this case the end does NOT justify the means. Allah has outlined clear ways to get closer to Him, which includes recognizing Him as our Lord, worshiping Him alone as exemplified by His Messenger Muhammad (pbuh), and any justification that associates others with Allah is incorrect and heading down the wrong path.

We should ask ourselves, do we need anyone’s help to reach Him when Allah has erected no barriers. Our prayers are sent on an express line to the One at the top, communicated on a direct channel set up specifically for us. Allah is perfectly attuned to us, listening to our needs, aware of our situation, and is mercifully showering us more than we can account for.

And rely upon the Exalted in Might, the Merciful, Who sees you when you arise. And your movement among those who prostrate. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Knowing. [Quran 26:217-220]

Should not He Who has created know? And He is the Most Kind and Courteous [to His slaves], and All-Aware [of everything]. [Quran 67:14]

A person can try to eloquently justify why he is praying to someone else, and although one may not be able to respond with the same mix of words, the response is nonetheless a simple one: why pray to someone who himself is a creation reliant upon Allah? Every good that we have or trials we go through happen by His permission, no one can dictate their will upon Him. Therefore, no matter how one tries to rationalize shirk, in the end it is an unfruitful exercise with potentially severe consequences.

Shirk is an ungrateful act no matter how one goes about it. All we are asked of is to sincerely believe in Allah’s Oneness and worship Him alone. A simple tenet but unfortunately some close their hearts towards monotheism and choose more difficult ways to get closer to Allah. We only need to ask Him directly to be close to The Most Merciful and have our prayers answered.

And your Lord has said: “Call upon me, and I will answer you!” Verily, those who are (too) arrogant to worship Allah will enter Hell, humiliated! [Quran 40:60]