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1- What is the difference between the pillars of faith and the pillars of Islam?

1 min readAlso available in العربية

The pillars of Islam are five: the two declarations of faith (Shahadatayn), establishing prayer (Salat), giving charity (Zakat), fasting Ramadan, and performing the Hajj pilgrimage to the House. The pillars of faith (Iman) are six: belief in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and divine decree (Qadar), both its good and its evil. The difference between them is that the pillars of Islam are outward actions performed by the limbs, while the pillars of faith are internal beliefs residing in the heart. A person can be a Muslim but not a believer, as stated in the Almighty's words: "The Bedouins say, 'We have believed.' Say, 'You have not believed, but say, "We have submitted," for faith has not yet entered your hearts.'" Thus, faith is affirmation with the tranquility of the heart and its trust in Allah, and the agreement of the heart, tongue, and limbs. Islam, on the other hand, is outward submission and surrender.

Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026

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