Iman comes from the root word a-m-n, which means to be calm (in ones heart). Iman is usually translated in English as faith or belief. The belief that there is a creator who created everything that exists in this universe. The faith that we will be judged on the day of judgement for what we did in this life. However, according to the Quran, this faith should be based on reason and knowledge rather than being blind.

Allah gives a comprehensive and objective definition of Iman in the Qur’an:

“To believe in Allah, and in the hereafter, and in Malaika (angels or Allah’s forces), and in the Book, and the Prophets.”
Quran 2:177

Why is reason important in islam?

human beings are the only living organism in this universe that Allah has granted and blessed with reason. Our ability to think has allowed us to prosper and build a civilization that is unmatched. The importance of reason in life is evident in the Quran;

Verily, the vilest of all creatures in the sight of God are those deaf, those dumb ones who do not use their reason.
Quran 8:22

In fact, Allah goes further in describing human beings who do not use reason. It compares them to cattle, who are better in the sense that they are not heedless. The Quran uses very strong language in describing these people. This verse alone demonstrates the importance Allah has given to reason and its use as we go through life.

“Many are the Jinns and men we have made for Hell: They have hearts wherewith they understand not, eyes wherewith they see not, and ears wherewith they hear not. They are like cattle,- nay more misguided: for they are heedless (of warning).
Quran 7:179

And most importantly, Allah instruct us not to accept any revelation blindly, even His own. The believers in the Quran are;

“And who, whenever they are reminded of their Sustainer’s messages, do not throw themselves upon them [as if] deaf and blind.”
Quran 25:73

So as it can be concluded from the above, Islam places reason at the highest of ranks; And it argues with humanity to use theirs to understand the verses of its scriptures. It also re-emphasizes the importance of using reason in our every day lives. What is the difference between us and cattle? If not our ability to think, except our physical shapes.

Allah knows best.

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