In [Islamic theology](/dashboard/wiki/qadar-divine-decree-and-free-will), Iman ([faith](/dashboard/wiki/tawakkul-reliance-on-allah)) represents the inner conviction and belief system that defines a Muslim's spiritual identity. It is distinct from Islam, which primarily denotes outward acts of [worship](/dashboard/wiki/salah-the-islamic-prayer) and submission. The Six Articles of Faith form the foundation of Iman, encapsulating the essential beliefs that every Muslim is required to affirm. These beliefs are explicitly mentioned in the Quran and elaborated upon in prophetic traditions, notably the [Hadith](/dashboard/wiki/aisha-bint-abi-bakr-the-scholar) of Jibril. Understanding these articles is crucial for grasping [Islamic jurisprudence](/dashboard/wiki/usul-al-fiqh) and [theology](/dashboard/wiki/creation-of-the-heavens-and-earth).
## Definition and Distinction between Islam and Iman
Islam and Iman, while closely related, represent different dimensions of a Muslim's religious life. Islam refers to the external acts of [worship](/dashboard/wiki/salah-the-islamic-prayer) and submission to Allah, such as prayer, fasting, and [pilgrimage](/dashboard/wiki/mecca-the-sacred-city). Iman, on the other hand, is the internal belief and conviction in the heart. The [Prophet Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/prophet-muhammad) (peace be upon him) clarified this distinction in the [Hadith](/dashboard/wiki/aisha-bint-abi-bakr-the-scholar) of Jibril, where the angel Jibril asked about Islam, Iman, and Ihsan, defining Iman as belief in Allah, His [angels](/dashboard/wiki/angels-in-islam-hierarchy-names-and-tasks), His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and divine [predestination](/dashboard/wiki/qadar-divine-decree-and-free-will) (Sahih Muslim). This internal [faith](/dashboard/wiki/tawakkul-reliance-on-allah) is what ultimately defines a Muslim's spiritual state.
## The Six Articles of Faith
The Six Articles of [Faith](/dashboard/wiki/tawakkul-reliance-on-allah), or Arkan al-Iman, are the core beliefs every Muslim must hold. They are:
1. Belief in Allah (God) as the one and only deity, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. 2. Belief in the [angels](/dashboard/wiki/angels-in-islam-hierarchy-names-and-tasks), created by Allah to perform various duties. 3. Belief in the revealed books, including the Quran, Torah, Psalms, and Gospel, as guidance from Allah. 4. Belief in the messengers sent by Allah to guide humanity, culminating in [Prophet Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/prophet-muhammad) as the final messenger. 5. Belief in the Last Day (Day of Judgment), when all humans will be resurrected and held accountable. 6. Belief in Qadar (divine [predestination](/dashboard/wiki/qadar-divine-decree-and-free-will)), acknowledging that all that happens, good or bad, is by Allah's decree.
These beliefs are explicitly mentioned in the Quran, for example in Surah Al-Baqarah 2:285 and Surah An-Nisa 4:136, and form the foundation of [Islamic creed](/dashboard/wiki/tawhid-the-oneness-of-god).
## Quranic Foundations
The Quran provides clear references to the Six Articles of [Faith](/dashboard/wiki/tawakkul-reliance-on-allah). Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285) states that the Messenger and the believers believe in Allah, His [angels](/dashboard/wiki/angels-in-islam-hierarchy-names-and-tasks), His books, and His messengers without distinction. Surah An-Nisa (4:136) commands believers to have faith in Allah, His Messenger, and the scripture revealed to the Prophet and those before him. These verses emphasize the comprehensive nature of Iman, integrating belief in the [unseen](/dashboard/wiki/jinn-origin-nature-and-role) and the divine plan.
## The Hadith of Jibril and Its Significance
The [Hadith](/dashboard/wiki/aisha-bint-abi-bakr-the-scholar) of Jibril is a foundational prophetic tradition that outlines the pillars of Islam, Iman, and Ihsan. When the angel Jibril appeared in the form of a man and questioned the [Prophet Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/prophet-muhammad), the responses delineated the six articles of [faith](/dashboard/wiki/tawakkul-reliance-on-allah) as the essence of Iman. This hadith is recorded in Sahih Muslim and is considered a concise summary of [Islamic belief](/dashboard/wiki/jinn-origin-nature-and-role). It serves as a primary source for understanding the components of faith and their interrelation with practice.
## Increase and Decrease of Iman
Iman is not a static state but one that can increase or decrease based on a believer's actions, circumstances, and spiritual condition. The [Prophet Muhammad](/dashboard/quran/genealogy/prophet-muhammad) taught that good deeds, remembrance of Allah, and obedience increase [faith](/dashboard/wiki/tawakkul-reliance-on-allah), while sins and neglect can diminish it. This dynamic nature of Iman highlights the ongoing spiritual journey of a Muslim and the importance of continual self-improvement and repentance.
## Theological Extremes: Murji'ah and Khawarij
Throughout [Islamic history](/dashboard/wiki/saba-sheba-and-the-queen-bilqis), theological [groups](/dashboard/wiki/the-khawarij-origins-and-ideology) have differed on the nature and consequences of Iman. The Murji'ah held a lenient view, postponing judgment on sinners and emphasizing [faith](/dashboard/wiki/tawakkul-reliance-on-allah) alone without immediate consequences for actions. In contrast, the Khawarij took an extreme stance, declaring those who commit major sins as disbelievers and outside the fold of Islam. Mainstream Sunni [theology](/dashboard/wiki/creation-of-the-heavens-and-earth) rejects both extremes, affirming that Iman includes belief and righteous action, and that faith can fluctuate but remains essential for salvation.