Kitab Al Imaan - Book Of Faith
Kitab al-Iman (The Book of Faith) by Ibn Taymiyyah is a foundational work in Islamic theology that examines the concept of iman (faith) in detail. The book focuses on defining the true nature of faith and clarifies its components.
Key Themes
Definition of Faith: Ibn Taymiyyah defines iman as:
- Belief in the heart.
- Verbal affirmation (shahadah).
- Actions of the limbs (amal). He emphasizes that faith is dynamic—it increases with good deeds and decreases with sins.
Refutation of Deviant Views:
- The Murji'ah: This group believed that actions do not impact faith and that sins do not diminish it.
- The Khawarij: They declared anyone who commits major sins to be a disbeliever, overly tying actions to faith. Ibn Taymiyyah provides a balanced view, demonstrating that while deeds are integral to faith, they do not solely define it.
Integration of Knowledge and Practice: The book highlights the relationship between belief, knowledge, sincerity, and obedience to God.
Importance
The book is a key text in Islamic theology, clarifying misconceptions about iman and defending orthodox Sunni beliefs. It is widely regarded for its reliance on Qur'anic verses and Hadith to articulate a comprehensive understanding of faith.
Kitab al-Iman remains a crucial reference for students of theology and those seeking to understand the interplay of belief, actions, and spirituality in Islam
