What is Faith?

No Paradise without the sacrifice of life and property When Bashir ibn Khasasiyah went to the Prophet to swear his allegiance, he asked him on what conditions it must be given. The Prophet stretched out his arm and said, “Bear witness that there is no God save God, and that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger, pray five times a day at the appointed times, pay zakat, fast during Ramadan, make a pilgrimage to the House of God and carry on the holy struggle.” Bashir replied, “I shall do everything. But there are two things, which are beyond my capacity. One is zakat. The truth is, I have just ten she camels. Their milk provides food for my household and they are our only means of travel and transportation. Secondly, there is the holy struggle. I am a faint-hearted man. It is said that those who turn away from the field of battle bring down upon themselves the wrath of God. I am afraid that if I have to do battle, I shall be overcome with fear and run away, thus incurring the wrath of God.” The Prophet withdrew his hand, saying: “Bashir, without giving alms or taking part in the holy struggle how will you enter heaven?” (KANZ AL-UMMAL)