Imam Rida (as) has said that polytheism in this verse does...

Imam Rida (as) has said that polytheism in this verse does not mean blasphemy and the worship of idols. Rather, it means focusing one’s attention on anything other than Allah.

^1 Also Imam Sadiq (as) has said that polytheism in man is more hidden and latent than the movement of black ants on a black stone at night.”[^2] And, in a tradition, Imam Baqir (as) has said that people are monotheistic in their worship but in their obedience to other than Allah they enter into polytheism.[^3] In some other narrations, we read that the purpose of polytheism mentioned in this verse is polytheism in regard to favours: for example, when one says that someone else has accomplished his task for him and were it not for his sake, he would have perished; and the like of it.[^4] A pure monotheist is one who does not have anyone or any object upon which he depends and which occupies a central role in his life, and worship except Allah.

His words are for Allah’s sake, his deeds are for Allah, whatever he does, he does it having Allah in mind, and he recognizes no laws except the laws of Allah. To sum up, faith is hierarchical, and pure faith is that which allows no room for polytheism. The Signs of a Sincere Believer He who does not expect a reward or thanks from any one when he spends out something to someone.

“…no reward do we desire from you, nor thanks.” [^5] In worship: he will only be subservient to Allah and to no one else. “…and make none sharer to the worship due unto his Lord.” [^6] In propagation of the faith he will not receive rewards from any other than Allah. “…my reward is only with Allah…” [^7] In matrimony, he will not fear poverty, and he will marry being confident that Allah is true to His promises.

“…if they are needy, Allah will make them free from want out of his grace...” [^8] In his communication with people he will surely be more concerned about satisfying Allah (s.w.t.) than satisfying others. “…Say Allah; then leave them sporting…” [^9] In fighting the enemy he will fear no one but Allah. “…and do not fear any one but Allah;...” [^10] In love and affection, he will love no one as much as he loves Allah.

“…but for those who have faith, their love of Allah is more intensive.” [^11] In business and commerce he will never forget Allah (s.w.t.).