Pillars of Faith
Creator: Dr. Ja`far Sheikh Idris
Date: 2007-07-07
Format: text
Identifier: http://www.islaam.com/Article.aspx?id=48
Language: en
Subject: iman
Title: Pillars of Faith
Created on: Sat Jul 07 12:44:45 -0400 2007
Updated on: Sat Jul 07 12:44:45 -0400 2007
Version: 1
Abstract: ... 253 users rated this article 2.81 out of 5 Most Popular The pillars of Faith, Iman, enumerated in many verses of the Qur'an and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, are belief in God, in God's Angels, His Books, His Messengers, in the Hereafter and in Qadar (Destiny). These are familiar terms; but the non-Muslim reader would be mistaken if he thought that the Islamic concepts designated by them are the same as those of other religions and philosophies. It is hoped that the following exposition, which is itself made in the light of the Qur'an and the sayings of the Prophet, will make this point clear. It will also make clear the fact that the Islamic concept of faith itself is, in many ways, different from the popular Western one. In the West faith is usually contrasted to reason and knowledge. But according to the Qur'an true faith is that which is based on knowledge and supported by argument. Any belief which is not so based and supported is considered by the Qur'an to be mere caprice and whim which a thinking person must avoid. True faith can therefore be gained through reflection and the acquisition of knowledge, and not by blind and irrational commitment. A person armed with such an enlightened faith can enter with great confidence into rational discussion with people who do not sh... [Full Article...]
