Daaim al Islam: Iman

How does one define Iman? How is it different from Islam? Syedna Qadi al Numan has explained this in the introductory pages of Daaim al Islam using a simple geometric analogy. Two concentric circles: a small circle within a larger one. Although the inner circle Iman is very much a part of the outer circle of Islam, the opposite is not true. A Mumin is necessarily a Muslim, but a Muslim may not be a Mumin.

Islam decrees the codes of living, but Iman is all about faith and belief: it is a matter of the heart. Iman comprises of three aspects: Qaul, Niyyat and Amal. An intention by the mind, an assertion by mouth and deeds by the body. When Iman saturates the soul, it is manifested in each and every part of the body.

Daaim al Islam: Walaayat

The heart is the most vital organ of the human body. Its function is Walaayat. By deduction, then, Walayat is the heart, the core, the most vital of the seven daaim of Islam. Without Walayat no other pillar can stand, without Walayat no other deed is accepted. The first section of the treatise, Daaim al Islam, written by Syedna Qadi al Numan (RA), the Chief Justice of the Fatemi state, expounds on the significance of Walayat.

Walayat, denotes pure devotion and loyalty, submission to the chosen one, the Prophet, the Imam and the Dai al Mutlaq. To perform the khidmat of these maratib and to follow their guidance and governance in all matters, temporal and spiritual.

The governance of Awliaullah (AS), then, is a governance of body and soul, for their authority is divine. One Imam succeeds another Imam, one Dai succeeds another Dai by the process of divine election manifested by nass (designation). Fealty and allegiance by heart, mouth and body to these Awliullah (AS) is the main article of Walayat.

Walayat is the beginning, Walayat is the conclusion
Because of it flutters the pennant of religion
Verses of the Quran abound in its significance
Because of it stand the other Daaim
And because of it Allah's graces are abundant

From a nasihat by Syedna Taher Saifuddin (RA)