Worship of God in the literal sense is not only justified but also a necessary element of true religious life, as it demonstrates deep submission, humility, and a deliberate acknowledgment that only God is worthy of such attention and devotion.

The Essence of True Devotion

Worship of God in the literal sense is not only justified but also a necessary element of true religious life, as it demonstrates deep submission, humility, and a deliberate acknowledgment that only God is worthy of such attention and devotion. On one hand, worship is expressed as dutiful obedience, where the believer, much like a servant, consciously submits to God's will by recognizing that all of creation is under His authority. On the other hand, worship can arise as an expression of astonishment and profound love for God, as feelings of joy and reverence overwhelm one in the recognition of divine glory.

This approach to worship not only shapes external rituals but also profoundly influences one's religious worldview, fostering a correct understanding of the hierarchy in the relationship between the Creator and creation. As emphasized, worship should be rendered exclusively to God, while all other forms of veneration—whether directed toward sacred images or human authorities—are fundamentally and qualitatively different from true worship. This distinction helps the believer to maintain the purity and focus of their spiritual experience without conflating veneration with genuine worship.

Such an attitude toward worship compels a person to complete self-sacrifice, the deliberate observance of commandments, and constant inner dedication to God at every step of daily life. Collectively, it forms a religious worldview that finds the meaning of life in unconditional devotion to the Creator, while also prompting reflection on personal responsibility for every moment lived in God's glory.

Supporting citation(s):
"Thus, worship is a sign of submission, meaning humility and modesty; and the types of worship are many. The first type of worship is the dutiful worship we offer to God, Who alone by His very nature is worthy of worship. ... The second type is that which we display out of amazement and profound love; in this manner, we worship God because of His natural glory." (source: link txt, page: 102-104)

"Worship is exclusive in relation to God, whereas worship in relation to others is different. ... Offer worship in its proper sense and to God alone; all others... – in accordance with those to whom they pay homage." (source: link txt, page: 86-87)

"In Islam, worship (...) presupposes as an indispensable condition the awareness of the action and a firm, sincere intention to carry it out. But regarding the very essence of worship, the worship of the Merciful is characterized by the highest degree of love for Him alongside the humility of the worshipper." (source: link txt, page: 1873-1882)