Basic Islamic Beliefs
Islam begins with belief, then shows itself in worship and character. This page stays with the foundations taught to every beginner: the shahadah and the six articles of faith (iman).
Shahadah
The shahadah is the testimony: there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad ﷺ is His Messenger. It is how a person enters Islam, and it remains the centre of a Muslim’s life. See also the Kalimas page for related wording.
The six articles of faith
These are the well-known pillars of iman taught from the famous hadith of Jibril, reported in Sahih Muslim and elsewhere.
- Belief in Allah.
- Belief in the angels.
- Belief in the revealed books.
- Belief in the messengers.
- Belief in the Last Day.
- Belief in divine decree (qadar), the good and the difficult of it.
Belief in Allah
Allah is One, without partner, the Creator who does not die. He is not like His creation. We worship Him alone. His names and attributes are taken as He revealed them, without distorting them or likening Him to people.
Angels
Angels are created beings who obey Allah. They are not worshipped. Jibril is the angel who brought revelation to the prophets.
Books
Allah sent revelation to His messengers. Muslims believe in the original revelations, including the Torah, the Gospel, the Psalms, and the Quran. The Quran is the final book, preserved for this community to recite and follow.
Messengers
Allah sent prophets and messengers. Muhammad ﷺ is the final messenger. We do not worship the prophets; we follow them. Respect for all of Allah’s messengers is part of faith.
The Last Day
There will be resurrection, judgement, and a lasting home of reward or punishment. This life is a trust. Salah, honesty, and repentance matter because we will return to Allah.
Divine decree
Allah knows and has written what happens. That does not cancel human responsibility. We still choose, work, make dua, and take means. Deep questions about qadar are best asked to a teacher with patience; this page only states the belief.
Important notes
- These are foundations, not a complete creed textbook. If a point confuses you, ask a teacher rather than arguing online.
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