Discover the 6 pillars of faith in Islam in this easy-to-understand guide. Learn what every Muslim must believe and why these beliefs matter.
Introduction to 6 Pillars of Faith in Islam
Faith in Islam, known as Iman, is the heart of a Muslim’s life. It is more than just words, it is a deep belief in the unseen, in what Allah has revealed through His messengers. A Muslim lives by this faith every day, trusting in Allah’s plan and following His guidance.
The foundation of Iman lies in six essential beliefs, known as the 6 pillars of faith. These beliefs shape a Muslim’s thoughts, actions, and way of life. They define how we understand our purpose, how we interact with others, and how we stay strong during hardships. Without firm belief in these six pillars, a person’s faith remains incomplete.
The six pillars of faith were clearly explained by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in an authentic hadith when he was asked about what it means to believe. He listed belief in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Day of Judgment, and Divine Decree (Qadar), both the good and the bad.
Each pillar plays a special role in building a strong connection with Allah and giving meaning to our lives. In this article, we will explore each pillar in simple words so that every reader can understand and reflect on the beauty of Islamic belief.
Let’s begin this journey through the 6 pillars of faith in Islam and discover what every Muslim must know and believe.
What Are the 6 Pillars of Faith in Islam?
The 6 pillars of faith in Islam are the core beliefs that every Muslim must accept with full conviction. These beliefs are based on teachings from the Qur’an and the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. They explain a Muslim’s relationship with Allah, the unseen world, and life after death.
Here is a quick overview of the six pillars:
- Belief in Allah
Muslims believe that Allah is the One and Only God, the Creator of everything, and the only one worthy of worship. - Belief in the Angels
Muslims believe that angels are special beings created by Allah. They carry out His commands, deliver messages, and record human actions. - Belief in the Revealed Books
Muslims believe that Allah sent holy books to guide people. The Qur’an is the final and complete book, preserved in its original form. - Belief in the Messengers
Muslims believe that Allah sent many prophets to guide humanity. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the last and final messenger. - Belief in the Day of Judgment
Muslims believe that every person will be judged by Allah based on their deeds and will be rewarded or punished accordingly. - Belief in Qadar (Divine Decree)
Muslims believe that everything happens by Allah’s knowledge and will. This includes both good and bad experiences in life.
These six beliefs are the foundation of Islamic faith and give meaning to a Muslim’s purpose in this world and the hereafter.
1. Belief in Allah
Belief in Allah is the first and most important pillar of faith in Islam. A Muslim firmly believes that Allah is the One true God, the Creator of everything that exists. He has no partner, no children, and no equal. Everything in the heavens and the earth belongs to Him.
Muslims believe that Allah is perfect in every way. He knows everything, sees everything, and hears every prayer. He is Most Merciful, All-Powerful, and always fair in His decisions. Nothing happens without His knowledge and permission.
Believing in Allah also means accepting His beautiful names and attributes, such as Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful), Al-Hakeem (The Most Wise), and Al-Ghafoor (The Most Forgiving). These names help us understand Allah’s greatness and mercy.
When a Muslim believes in Allah, they worship Him alone. They do not pray to anyone else or seek help from other beings. They trust in Allah during good times and bad times, knowing He is always near and listening.
This strong belief in Allah brings peace to the heart. It gives purpose to life and guides a Muslim to live honestly, kindly, and with hope for Allah’s mercy and reward in the hereafter.
2. Belief in the Angels
Belief in the angels is the second pillar of faith in Islam. Muslims believe that angels are special creations of Allah. He made them from light, and they always obey His commands. Unlike humans, angels do not eat, sleep, or sin. They spend their entire existence worshipping Allah and carrying out His orders.
Each angel has a specific duty. For example, Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) brought Allah’s messages to the prophets. He delivered the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Angel Israfeel will blow the trumpet to signal the Day of Judgment. Angel Malik guards Hell, and Angel Ridwan is the keeper of Paradise.
Two angels are always with every person. They are known as Kiraman Katibeen. One writes down our good deeds, and the other records our bad actions. These records will be shown on the Day of Judgment.
Muslims believe that angels are always present, even if we cannot see them. They bring blessings, protect people by Allah’s will, and pray for the believers. When someone remembers Allah, the angels surround them with mercy and peace.
Believing in the angels reminds us that Allah is always watching, and nothing goes unnoticed. This belief encourages us to do good and avoid sin, knowing that our actions are being recorded every moment.
3. Belief in the Revealed Books
Belief in the revealed books is the third pillar of faith in Islam. Muslims believe that Allah sent down holy books to guide people to the truth. These books taught people how to live in a way that pleases Allah and brings success in both this life and the hereafter.
Allah revealed different books to different prophets throughout history. Among them are:
- The Torah (Tawrah) given to Prophet Musa (Moses)
- The Psalms (Zabur) given to Prophet Dawud (David)
- The Gospel (Injeel) given to Prophet Isa (Jesus)
- The Qur’an given to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Muslims believe that the Qur’an is the final and complete book. It confirms the truth from the previous scriptures and corrects any changes made by people over time. Unlike the earlier books, the Qur’an has been fully preserved in its original form, without any additions or errors.
The Qur’an is a living miracle. It contains guidance for every part of life from prayer and worship to justice and kindness. It teaches us about Allah, our purpose, and how to live a good life.
Believing in the revealed books means accepting them as truth from Allah, respecting the messages they brought, and following the Qur’an as the final guidance for all mankind.
4. Belief in the Messengers
Belief in the messengers is the fourth pillar of faith in Islam. Muslims believe that Allah chose certain people to be His messengers. He gave them guidance and sent them to teach others about Him, to call people to worship only Allah, and to live righteous lives.
Allah sent messengers to every nation in history. Some of the most well-known messengers include Nuh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), Isa (Jesus), and Muhammad (peace be upon them all). Each one delivered Allah’s message clearly and truthfully.
Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the final messenger. Allah sent him with the last and complete message, the Qur’an, which is meant for all people until the end of time. After him, no other prophet will come.
All prophets taught the same core message to worship Allah alone, stay away from sin, and live with honesty and kindness. Some messengers received divine books, while others supported the messages of earlier prophets.
Believing in the messengers means respecting all of them equally. Muslims do not reject any of Allah’s prophets. They follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and honor the work of all the messengers who came before him.
This belief reminds us that guidance comes from Allah, and He always sends help to lead us to the right path.
5. Belief in the Day of Judgment
Belief in the Day of Judgment is the fifth pillar of faith in Islam. Muslims believe that this world is not the end. One day, Allah will bring all people back to life and judge them based on their beliefs and actions.
On that day, every person will stand before Allah and give an account of what they did in their life. No action will be hidden. Good deeds, such as prayer, charity, and kindness, will bring reward. Bad deeds, such as lying, stealing, or hurting others, will bring punishment unless Allah forgives.
Muslims believe that those who lived with faith and followed Allah’s guidance will enter Paradise, a place of peace, happiness, and eternal reward. Those who rejected the truth or disobeyed Allah knowingly will face the punishment of Hell, which is a place of suffering.
This belief encourages Muslims to live a righteous life, treat others fairly, and stay away from sin. It reminds us that life is a test, and everything we do matters.
Believing in the Day of Judgment gives purpose to our actions and hope for a better future. It helps us stay patient during trials, knowing that Allah is just, and He will reward everyone according to what they truly deserve.
6. Belief in Qadar (Divine Decree)
Belief in Qadar, or Divine Decree, is the sixth and final pillar of faith in Islam. Muslims believe that everything happens by the will and knowledge of Allah. This includes both good and bad events in our lives. Nothing happens without His permission, and nothing is outside of His control.
Allah knows everything, what has happened, what is happening now, and what will happen in the future. He has written all things in a record known as Al-Lawh Al-Mahfuz (The Preserved Tablet). This includes our birth, our death, and every choice we make.
However, this belief does not mean that humans have no control. Islam teaches that we still have the power to choose between right and wrong. We are responsible for our actions, and we will be judged based on what we do. Allah’s knowledge does not force us to act in a certain way. It simply means He already knows what we will choose.
Belief in Qadar brings comfort during hard times. It teaches Muslims to trust Allah’s plan, to stay patient during difficulties, and to avoid arrogance during times of success. We do our best, make good choices, and leave the results in Allah’s hands.
This belief helps a Muslim stay strong, calm, and hopeful knowing that everything happens for a reason, even if we don’t understand it right away.
Why These 6 Pillars of Faith Matter
These 6 pillars of faith in Islam are not just beliefs we hold in our hearts. They shape how we think, feel, and live every day. These pillars connect us to Allah, guide our actions, and help us stay strong in both good and difficult times.
When a Muslim believes in Allah, the angels, the revealed books, the messengers, the Day of Judgment, and Divine Decree, they develop a clear sense of purpose. These beliefs remind us that this life is a test, and what we do today will affect our future in the hereafter.
The pillars of faith help Muslims stay hopeful during trials. When things don’t go as planned, belief in Qadar reminds us that Allah has a greater plan. When life gets tough, belief in the Day of Judgment encourages patience, knowing that justice will be served in the end.
These beliefs also inspire good character. A Muslim who believes their actions are being recorded by angels is more likely to stay honest and kind. Someone who trusts in Allah is less likely to fear the future or become hopeless.
In short, these pillars build the foundation of a strong, peaceful, and balanced life. They bring peace to the heart, discipline to our actions, and a deep connection with our Creator. By holding firmly to these beliefs, a Muslim grows in faith, purpose, and closeness to Allah.
Conclusion: 6 Pillars of Faith in Islam
The six pillars of faith in Islam form the foundation of a Muslim’s belief system. They teach us who Allah is, what our purpose is, and how to prepare for the life after death. These beliefs are not just ideas — they are a way of life. They shape our thoughts, guide our actions, and strengthen our connection with Allah.
By believing in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Day of Judgment, and Divine Decree, a Muslim builds a strong and meaningful relationship with their Creator. These pillars help us stay focused, remain patient, and act with kindness and fairness in our daily lives.
Faith brings peace to the heart, clarity to the mind, and light to the soul. It reminds us that we are never alone, that everything happens for a reason, and that Allah is always in control.
Every Muslim should reflect on these six pillars regularly and work to strengthen their Iman (faith). The stronger our belief, the more we grow in trust, gratitude, and love for Allah.
May Allah help us understand these pillars deeply, live by them sincerely, and remain firm in faith until our last breath. Ameen.
Also read: 5 Pillars of Islam