Articles of Faith (Iman): The Core Beliefs in Islam

Islam is built not only on actions (like prayer, fasting, etc.) but also on firm beliefs that every Muslim must accept wholeheartedly. These beliefs are known as the Articles of Faith (Arkaan al-Iman), and they form the foundation of a Muslim’s understanding of the universe, life, and their purpose.

In this post, we’ll explore the Six beliefs of a Muslim every Muslim must have, as taught by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

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🔶 1. Belief in Allah (الله)

This is the most essential and central part of faith. Muslims believe in one, unique, all-powerful God, who has no partners, children, or equals. Allah is the Creator, the Sustainer, and the Only One worthy of worship.

➡️ Key Beliefs:

• Allah is eternal, without beginning or end.
• He is not like His creation.
• He knows everything and has power over everything.
• His names and attributes are perfect (e.g., Ar-Rahman, Al-Hakeem).

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🔶 2. Belief in the Angels (الملائكة)

Muslims believe in the existence of angels, unseen beings created from light. They do not have free will and always obey Allah’s commands.

➡️ Famous Angels:

• Jibreel (Gabriel): Brings revelation to the Prophets.
• Mikail (Michael): Controls rain and sustenance.
• Israfeel: Will blow the trumpet to start the Day of Judgment.
• Malik: Guardian of Hell.
• Munkar & Nakeer: Question the dead in the grave.

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🔶 3. Belief in the Divine Books (الكتب)

Allah sent down holy scriptures to guide humanity. Muslims believe in all the original revelations given to the Prophets, though the Quran is the final and preserved book.

➡️ Divine Books Mentioned in the Quran:

• Suhuf of Ibrahim (Abraham)
• Tawrah (Torah) to Musa (Moses)
• Zabur (Psalms) to Dawood (David)
• Injeel (Gospel) to Isa (Jesus)
• Quran to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

💡 Only the Quran remains unchanged and protected from corruption.

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🔶 4. Belief in the Prophets (الرسل)

Allah sent Prophets to every nation, to guide them to truth. Muslims believe in all Prophets without discrimination.

➡️ Important Facts:

• All Prophets were human and chosen by Allah.
• They conveyed Allah’s message truthfully.
• The final Prophet is Muhammad ﷺ, the “Seal of the Prophets.”

➡️ Some well-known Prophets:

• Adam, Nuh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), Isa (Jesus), and Muhammad ﷺ.

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🔶 5. Belief in the Day of Judgment (اليوم الآخر)

Muslims believe in a day when all humans will be resurrected and judged for their deeds.

➡️ Key Beliefs:

• Life after death is real.
• Everyone will be held accountable.
• There is Jannah (Paradise) for the righteous and Jahannam (Hell) for the wicked.
• The deeds, intentions, and belief will determine the final outcome.

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🔶 6. Belief in Qadr (القدر) – Divine Decree

Muslims believe that everything happens by the will and knowledge of Allah. He has full control over all things, and nothing occurs without His permission.

➡️ This includes:

• Allah’s complete knowledge of the past, present, and future.
• His recording of all things.
• His will and power in executing events.
• Human beings still have free will to choose, but Allah already knows what they will choose.

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🕌 Why These Beliefs Matter

These six beliefs are not just theoretical ideas—they shape the way Muslims live, how they deal with hardship, how they interact with others, and how they prepare for the Hereafter.

When someone embraces Islam, they begin by accepting these beliefs.

🧠 “Iman” is in the heart, declared by the tongue, and confirmed by actions.

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🌟 Final Thoughts

The Articles of Faith provide a clear understanding of a Muslim’s worldview. They teach us where we came from, why we’re here, and where we are going. With strong Iman, a Muslim builds a life of purpose, obedience, and connection with Allah.

If you’re just beginning your journey in learning about Islam, understanding these six pillars is a beautiful and essential step.

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📩 Have questions or want to learn more? Drop a comment or explore other beginner posts on Islam180.com!