Pillars of Iman أركان الإيمان
The six fundamental pillars that form the foundation of Islamic faith and belief system.
Introduction
Iman (إيمان) and Aqidah (عقيدة) are fundamental concepts in Islamic belief. The term "Aqidah" comes from the Arabic root عقد (aqada) which means "to tie" or "to bind." In this context, it refers to a strong bond or knot of beliefs that are firmly tied within the soul (نفس) until death.
Aqidah represents the unshakeable foundation of Islamic faith - a comprehensive belief system that binds together all the essential convictions of a Muslim. It is characterized by zero tolerance for deviant understandings and interpretations, while still maintaining respect for the beliefs of others.
The six pillars of Iman (أركان الإيمان) form the core of this aqidah, serving as the essential beliefs that every Muslim must hold with complete conviction. These pillars are not merely intellectual concepts but represent the fundamental truths that shape a Muslim's worldview, actions, and relationship with Allah (الله).
The Six Pillars of Iman
The six fundamental pillars that form the core of Islamic faith. Each pillar serves a specific purpose in strengthening our belief and understanding.
1. Belief in Allah الإيمان بالله
The foundation of all faith - we must learn with knowledge to know Allah. As mentioned in Surah Muhammad (47:19): "So know that there is no deity except Allah."
2. Belief in Angels الإيمان بالملائكة
Understanding why angels are sent even though Allah can do everything. Angels serve as Allah's messengers and servants, carrying out His commands and fulfilling various roles in the universe.
3. Belief in Books الإيمان بالكتب
Learning and understanding the divine books sent to humankind. These revelations contain Allah's guidance and wisdom for humanity to follow the straight path.
4. Belief in Messengers الإيمان بالرسل
Messengers (الرسل) are sent to guide the ummah. Prophets and messengers are chosen by Allah to deliver His message and guide humanity to the right path.
5. Belief in the Last Day الإيمان باليوم الآخر
We study about a country when we are traveling there, so how much more should we study about the Hereafter, which we will certainly reach.
6. Belief in Divine Decree الإيمان بالقدر
So that we do not go to extremes in life. Belief in Allah's decree helps us maintain balance and moderation, accepting both good and challenging times as part of Allah's wisdom and plan.
Overview of the Six Pillars
These six pillars are mentioned together in the famous hadith of Jibril (Gabriel) when he asked the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about Iman. Each pillar represents a fundamental aspect of Islamic belief that every Muslim must accept and understand.
Arabic: أَنْ تُؤْمِنَ بِاللَّهِ وَمَلَائِكَتِهِ وَكُتُبِهِ وَرُسُلِهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الْآخِرِ وَتُؤْمِنَ بِالْقَدَرِ خَيْرِهِ وَشَرِّهِ
Translation: "To believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and to believe in divine decree, both good and evil."
Source: Hadith Al-Arbain, Second Hadith - Sahih Muslim, Book 1, Hadith 1
The Importance of Understanding Each Pillar
While all six pillars are essential, each one serves a specific purpose in strengthening our faith and understanding of Islam. Each pillar has its own unique significance, evidence, and practical implications that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of Islamic belief.
Why Study Each Pillar Individually?
Each pillar has its own unique significance, evidence, and practical implications. Understanding them individually helps us develop a deeper, more comprehensive faith that is based on knowledge rather than mere tradition.
Building a Strong Foundation
These pillars work together to create a complete understanding of Islamic belief. Each one reinforces and supports the others, creating an unshakeable foundation for our faith.
References
Primary Reference
Al-Aqaid Al-Islamiyah by Sayyid Sabiq
Source: https://terjemahkitab.com/al-aqaid-al-islamiyah-sayyid-sabiq/