Hadith #1214

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

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

The best faith is [based on] complete certitude.

Let us delve into the meanings of the important words in this Hadith and explore its profound implications.

The word (iman) "إيمان" in Arabic is commonly translated as "faith" or "belief." It refers to the acceptance and conviction in the heart regarding the truth of Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ), His Prophets, and the principles of Islam. It encompasses both belief in the unseen and the practical implementation of the teachings of Islam.

The word (yaqin) "إيقان" is translated as "certitude" or "conviction." It signifies a deep and unwavering belief, free from doubt or uncertainty. It is a state of absolute certainty and firmness in one's faith.

To understand the significance of complete certitude in faith, we turn to the Quran for guidance. 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 emphasizes the importance of unwavering belief and commitment to Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ). It highlights that true believers are those who have complete certitude in their faith and do not harbor any doubts. They demonstrate their conviction through their actions, sacrificing their wealth and even their lives for the sake of Allah.

Another verse that sheds light on the concept of certitude in faith is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:260), where Allah recounts the story of Prophet Ibrahim (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). Allah says,

And [mention] when Ibrahim said, 'My Lord, show me how You give life to the dead.' [Allah] said, 'Have you not believed?' He said, 'Yes, but [I ask] only that my heart may be satisfied.' [Allah] said, 'Take four birds and commit them to yourself. Then [after slaughtering them] put on each hill a portion of them; then call them - they will come [flying] to you in haste. And know that Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise.'

In this verse, Prophet Ibrahim (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) demonstrates his complete certitude in Allah's power by asking for a visual demonstration of resurrection. Despite already having firm faith, he seeks further reassurance to satisfy his heart. Allah, in His infinite wisdom, fulfills Ibrahim's request and provides him with a miraculous sign.

From these Quranic verses, we can understand that complete certitude in faith is not only a desirable quality but also a necessary one. It is the foundation upon which true belief is built. When one's faith is rooted in absolute certainty, it becomes unshakable, and the believer is able to face any challenges or doubts that may arise.

Having complete certitude in faith has profound consequences in the life of a Muslim. It instills a sense of tranquility and peace, as the believer is confident in the truth of their beliefs. It strengthens their resolve to adhere to the teachings of Islam, even in the face of adversity. It also enables them to inspire others through their unwavering conviction, serving as a beacon of guidance and inspiration.

Reflecting on this Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing and strengthening our faith. We should strive to deepen our understanding of Islam, seek knowledge, and engage in acts of worship that strengthen our connection with Allah. By doing so, we can attain the highest level of faith - one that is firmly grounded in complete certitude.

May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to develop complete certitude in our faith and guide us on the straight path. May He bless us with unwavering conviction and enable us to be true believers who embody the teachings of Islam in our lives.