Hadith #1281

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states,

يَحتاجُ الإيمانُ إلَى الإيقانِ۔

This can be translated as "Faith requires certitude." In this thought-provoking saying, Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the importance of having unwavering conviction in one's faith.

To understand the significance of this Hadith, let us delve into the meanings of the key words. (Iman) "إيمان" refers to faith or belief in Allah and His teachings. It encompasses both the belief in the heart and the actions that manifest this belief. (Iqan) "إيقان" means certitude or absolute conviction. It is the state of being completely sure and unwavering in one's faith.

The Quran provides us with numerous verses that emphasize the importance of certitude in faith. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:15),

The believers are only those who have believed in Allah and His Messenger and then doubt not but strive with their properties and their lives in the cause of Allah. It is those who are the truthful.

This verse highlights that true believers are those who have complete conviction in their faith and do not waver in their commitment to Allah and His Messenger.

Another verse that supports the concept of certitude in faith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:260), where Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) narrates the story of Prophet Ibrahim (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). When Ibrahim (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) asked Allah to show him how He gives life to the dead, Allah commanded him to take four birds, cut them into pieces, and place a portion of each bird on different mountains. Then, Allah commanded Ibrahim to call the birds, and they all came back to life and flew towards him. This miraculous event solidified Ibrahim's certitude in the power and ability of Allah.

Now, let us reflect on the enlightening message of Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) Hadith. Faith is not merely a superficial belief or a passive acceptance of religious teachings. It requires deep-rooted conviction and unwavering certainty. This certitude is not blind, but rather it is built upon knowledge, understanding, and reflection.

When a Muslim has certitude in their faith, they are motivated to seek knowledge, to understand the teachings of Islam, and to reflect upon the signs of Allah's creation. This certitude becomes the driving force behind their actions, as they strive to live their lives in accordance with the principles and values of Islam.

Furthermore, certitude in faith brings about numerous positive consequences. It strengthens one's relationship with Allah, as they trust in His wisdom and guidance. It provides a solid foundation for facing challenges and trials, as the believer remains steadfast in their faith even in the face of adversity. Certitude also fosters unity among Muslims, as they share a common conviction and understanding of their faith.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) reminds us that faith is not a mere formality but a profound conviction that requires certitude. This certitude is built upon knowledge, understanding, and reflection. It motivates us to seek knowledge, strengthens our relationship with Allah, and provides a solid foundation for our actions. May Allah grant us all the gift of certitude in our faith and guide us on the straight path.