Islam in Faith and Practice

Islam in Faith and Practice

1989 4 April 7 Islam in Faith and Practice (365) It is reported by Abu’l-Aaliyah that the Companions of the Prophet were of the opinion that no sin would harm them, so long as they testified that there is no God along with Allah, in the same way as no good deed would benefit one who associated partners with God. Then a verse of the Quran was revealed, in which it was said:

“Obey God and obey the Apostle and never let your labours go in vain” (47:33).

After this, the Companions were fearful that their actions would be annulled on account of sin.

Faith is to be looked at as a kind of contract. When a person utters the testimony of faith, it is as though he is entering into an agreement with God. He is promising God: “I will take you as my Lord and Master. 1 will follow, both in word and deed, the path you have revealed through Your Apostle!”

Now what conclusion is to be drawn if a person utters the words of this contract, but in practice contradicts its terms? In this case, the contract will be worthless in the sight of God. If a person does not adhere to the terms of a contract, he cannot expect to receive the benefits that should accrue from it.

Faith is only valid when it takes a grip on a person, so that when he speaks, it is in accordance with the demands of his faith and when he acts, his actions are dyed in the hue of his faith. Unless faith becomes the guiding light of one’s life, it is no faith at all.

The validity of every contract in this world is dependent upon whether the contract is adhered to or not. If both parties keep to its terms, the contract will remain valid; otherwise, it will be considered null and void. In like manner, the contract of faith is to be judged on the basis of how far it has been put into practice. Should a person act in accordance with his faith, the contract will remain valid in the sight of God. If its terms are broken, however, then God will render the contract null and void.