Dr. Jafar Sheikh Idrees Language: English | Format: PDF | Pages: 35 | Size: 1.5 MB
Pillars of Faith: discusses the
fundamentals of faith, by outlining and detailing the objectives of the
Islamic ‘Aqeedah. Numerous references are made to the Qur’an and
authentic Ahadith, for establishing the sincere intention and worship to
Allah, liberating the mind and thought from the irrational and chaotic
losses, establishing peace of mind and sound thinking, safeguarding the
intentions, learning to establish a strong Ummah (community), achieving
happiness in this life and the hereafter, and more.
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 position,
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 share his beliefs with the hope of
showing them their mistakes and weaknesses and winning them over to
truth. If this paper helps to take the reader a step in that direction
it will have achieved its purpose, and all praise is due to God.
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Contents:
Introduction
God
The Hereafter
Angels
Books
Messengers
Qadar
Conclusion
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