The Fundamentals of Islamic Creed

The best of knowledge in Islam is that of its fundamentals. People’s dependence, therefore, on these is above any other dependence. For, the life of a heart depends upon knowledge concerning its Lord and the Object of its worship – in all its details, including His Names, Attributes and Acts. Now, since it is impossible for a man’s mind to acquire this knowledge through its own efforts, in all its possible details, Allah’s kindness demanded that Messengers be sent with this knowledge, inviting the people to it, giving glad tidings to those who answered the call and warning those who opposed it. Accordingly, the Messengers made this knowledge the central theme of their message. Upon its understanding depends a proper appreciation of their mission.

This is followed by two main principles: Firstly, the way to reach it, viz., the understanding of the Shari’ah which deals with sanctions and prohibitions.

Secondly, the knowledge of what is in store for those who take up this path in terms of rewards and blessings; for, the most knowledgeable of Allah are those who i) follow most meticulously the path leading up to Him, and ii) those who know the bounties in store for them when they reach their goal. Consequently, we that Allah the Most High referred to what He sent down to His messenger as “the soul” or “the spirit.” That is because true life depends on it. He also called it “Nur” [light] for the reason that the path of guidance is illuminated by it.