Ma`rifat Kalami

In the present era, characterized by a crisis of spirituality and the proliferation of emergent and false kinds of spirituality, it is essential to explain the authentic foundations of Islamic spirituality in order to preserve its originality and efficacy. The purpose of this article is to extract the specific monotheistic foundations of Islamic spirituality. Employing a descriptive-analytical method and relying on authentic Islamic sources, this study demonstrates that theoretical and practical monotheism is not merely a theological principle but the epistemological and practical basis for the spiritual life of the believer. According to the research findings, the most important specific and proximate foundations of Islamic spirituality derived from the principle of theoretical monotheism include: God as the sole source of spirituality; the role of the unity of divine attributes in fostering contentment and peace of heart in the face of divine decrees; the exclusivity of inner connection to connection with God; and God as the origin of all spiritual connections and the determinant of the roadmap of spirituality. Furthermore, some of the most significant specific foundations of Islamic spirituality that can be derived from practical monotheism are: ascending the ladder of spirituality through pure obedience to God; exclusive love for God; asceticism (zuhd) and liberation from worldly attachment of the heart; mindful and heartfelt attention to God; and God as the sole worthy source of seeking help.