The Six Pillars of Eman (Faith)

The Six Articles of Faith

Belief in Allah, Angels, Books, Prophets, the Last Day, and Divine Decree

Introduction

Faith in Islam rests on six essential principles, taught in the famous hadith of Jibreel (Gabriel). When he asked the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about faith, the Prophet ﷺ said:

“Faith means to believe in Allah, His angels, His Books, His Messengers, the Last Day, and the Divine Decree, both good and bad.” Sahih Muslim 8

These six principles form the foundation of belief, shaping how Muslims understand Allah, creation, destiny, and accountability.

Understanding the Six Articles of Faith

The six articles are not abstract ideas but a complete worldview. They connect the heart, mind, and actions with divine truth, guiding how a believer relates to Allah, humanity, and the universe.

Belief in Allah

Belief in Allah is the foundation of faith. It means affirming His existence, worshipping Him alone, and knowing that He is unique in His names and attributes.

“Say, He is Allah, [Who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent.” Qur’an 112:1-4

Belief in Angels

Angels are real beings created from light who obey Allah’s commands. They deliver revelation, record deeds, and protect people. Learn more about this in the article on Belief in Angels.

Belief in the Divine Books

Allah revealed scriptures as guidance: the Tawrat (Torah), Zabur (Psalms), Injil (Gospel), and finally the Qur’an. The Qur’an is the final revelation, preserved and valid for all humanity until the end of time as explored in Belief in Books.

Belief in the Prophets

Allah sent prophets to guide humanity, beginning with Adam and ending with Muhammad ﷺ. Prophets like Nuh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), and Isa (Jesus) brought Allah’s message. Muhammad ﷺ is the final Messenger and seal of prophethood.

Belief in the Last Day

On the Day of Judgment, all will be resurrected and held accountable. The righteous will enter Paradise, while those who reject faith will face punishment. This belief motivates Muslims to live with integrity and prepare for the Hereafter.

Belief in the Divine Decree (Qadar)

Qadar means everything happens by Allah’s will and wisdom. Nothing escapes His knowledge or power. Belief in Qadar nurtures reliance on Allah, patience during trials, and humility in times of ease.

“Say, ‘Never will we be struck except by what Allah has decreed for us; He is our protector.’ And upon Allah let the believers rely.” Qur’an 9:51

Addressing Misconceptions

• Belief in Allah: Faith is not mere acknowledgment it requires submission and worship.
• Belief in Angels: Angels are not symbols—they are real beings created by Allah.
• Belief in the Books: Earlier scriptures were changed; only the Qur’an remains preserved.
• Belief in the Prophets: True faith means believing in all prophets without rejection.
• Belief in the Last Day: Resurrection is certain, and accountability is unavoidable.
• Belief in Qadar: Destiny is not fatalism—humans have responsibility within Allah’s decree.

Classical scholars like Imam al-Tahawi and Ibn Qudāmah emphasized that denying any of these principles removes one from true faith.

References

Primary Sources

Qur’an

1. Al-Ikhlas 112:1-4: Allah’s absolute oneness.
2. At-Tawbah 9:51: Nothing happens except by Allah’s decree.

Hadith

3. Sahih Muslim 8: Hadith of Jibreel defining faith.

Secondary Sources

4. Imam al-Tahawi, al-‘Aqeedah al-Tahawiyyah: Foundational creed text.
5. Ibn Qudāmah, al-Mughnī: Classical fiqh commentary.
6. Shaykh Salih al-Fawzan: Contemporary explanation of faith articles.