Introduction: What Muslims Believe
Every religion has its foundation of belief, and in Islam, that foundation is known as Iman, faith. While Muslims express their faith through worship like salah and fasting, these practices are built on a more profound inner belief. The Prophet ﷺ summarized this belief in six essential pillars, known as the Articles of Faith.
A famous hadith describes when Angel Jibreel asked the Prophet ﷺ about faith. He replied:
“It is to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and to believe in divine decree, both good and bad.” (Muslim)
These six articles provide a simple but profound framework for belief for anyone new to Islam or seeking to strengthen their understanding.
1. Belief in Allah
The first and most central article of faith is belief in Allah. Muslims affirm that Allah is One, without partner, and that He alone deserves worship.
Daily Life Application: Remember Allah in all actions by saying Bismillah. Trust His wisdom in trials and thank Him in blessings.
2. Belief in the Angels
Muslims believe in angels created from light who obey Allah’s commands. These angels record deeds, deliver revelations, and protect believers.
Daily Life Application: Be mindful that angels record every word and deed. Let this inspire honesty, kindness, and sincerity even when alone.
3. Belief in the Books of Allah
Allah revealed scriptures to guide humanity, including the Torah, Psalms, Gospel, and the Qur’an, His last and preserved message.
Daily Life Application: Read the Qur’an daily, even a few verses, and live by its guidance. Appreciate it as a mercy that lights the path in a confusing world.
4. Belief in the Messengers
Allah sent prophets and messengers to every nation, from Adam (AS) to Muhammad ﷺ, the final messenger. They conveyed Allah’s message and modeled righteousness.
Daily Life Application: Study the lives of the prophets. Their struggles and patience guide challenges like injustice, loss, or loneliness.
5. Belief in the Last Day
Muslims believe in the Day of Judgment, when all souls will be resurrected and held accountable. Paradise and Hell are real, eternal destinations.
Daily Life Application: Let the awareness of accountability guide daily decisions. Before speaking or acting, ask: Will this please Allah on the Last Day?
6. Belief in Qadar (Divine Decree)
Everything happens by Allah’s will, whether good or bad. Believing in qadar nurtures trust and patience during trials and humility in success.
Daily Life Application: When facing hardship, remind yourself: “QaddarAllahu wa ma sha’a fa‘al” (Allah has decreed, and He does what He wills). This builds resilience and calm.
Why the Six Articles Matter Together
These six beliefs are not separate ideas; they are connected. Belief in Allah anchors all others. Angels delivered the books given to messengers, teaching us about the Last Day and qadar. Together, they form a complete worldview where nothing is random, and every choice has meaning.
How the Six Articles Strengthen Each Other
The six articles of faith are like chain links; each reinforces the next. Belief in Allah gives meaning to belief in His angels. Belief in angels strengthens trust in the revelation of His books. The books confirm the messages of the prophets. The prophets warn of the Last Day, and belief in the Last Day deepens reliance on qadar. When combined, these articles shape a strong and unbreakable faith that guides every aspect of a Muslim’s life.
Modern Reflection: Faith in Today’s World
In an age of uncertainty, materialism, and doubt, the Six Articles of Faith bring clarity and peace. They remind us that:
· Life is purposeful, not accidental.
· We are never alone, for angels surround us.
· Guidance is preserved in the Qur’an.
· We have role models in the prophets.
· Justice will be served on the Last Day
· Every trial has divine wisdom behind it.
This framework answers modern anxieties by grounding us in eternal truths.
Reflection for the Reade
Ask yourself:
1. Which article of faith do I feel most connected to, and why?
2. Do I live daily aware of the angels, the Last Day, and qadar?
3. How can I make the Six Articles not just beliefs in my mind but actions in my life?
4. Which article must I strengthen most to grow closer to Allah?
A Journey Shared in My Book
When the walls closed in in prison, these articles of faith became my comfort. Believing in Allah’s wisdom, remembering the angels by my side, and trusting qadar gave me peace even in hardship.
Find Hope and Strength: Explore the Six Articles of Faith
In “Practicing Islam in Prison and Society”, I share how the Six Articles of Faith guided me through life’s darkest moments and gave me hope. If you are searching for clarity or strength in your life, I invite you to explore these pillars of belief and discover how they can transform your faith.