Heather Jone
November 27, 2023
The Faith of a Believer
During the last month, Palestinians have consistently shown a strong faith that leaves a lasting impression on the world. They firmly believe in the rightness of their cause, and their patience and trust in God Almighty shine through heartbreaking images of children becoming orphans, parents bidding farewell to their kids, and the widespread loss of loved ones. These challenging situations have not only caught people’s attention but also made many around the world wonder about the source of such strong faith. In tough times, the Palestinians’ strong reliance on God Almighty has become a source of intrigue and admiration, sparking a global dialogue on the roots and sustenance of such resilient and unwavering belief. Their enduring faith is not merely a personal belief but a collective force that unites them in the pursuit of justice, freedom, and the right to live with dignity.
In the realm of Islam, faith is not merely a passive acknowledgment but a dynamic force that shapes one’s character, actions, and worldview. The strong faith of a believer is a testament to a profound connection with God Almighty, rooted in trust, surrender, and a relentless pursuit of spiritual growth. At the core of Islamic teachings is the concept of Tawhid, the oneness of God. A believer’s strong faith begins with a firm conviction in this fundamental principle, recognizing the Almighty as the sole creator, sustainer, and controller of the universe. This belief forms the bedrock of a Muslim’s understanding, fostering a sense of purpose and direction in every aspect of life.
Accordingly, faith, in an Islamic context, is not immune to challenges. Instead, it thrives in adversity. The Quran frequently speaks about the trials that believers may face and emphasizes the importance of perseverance. A strong believer’s faith is unwavering even in the face of difficulties, as they draw strength from the belief that every trial is a test from God Almighty, an opportunity for spiritual growth, and a means of purification. For instance, God says in surah Al-Ahzab (33:22) “When the believers saw the enemy alliance, they said, “This is what Allah and His Messenger had promised us. The promise of Allah and His Messenger has come true.” And this only increased them in faith and submission.” (quran.com).
In the same sense, those who trust in the Almighty obtain a tranquility and peace of mind from their connection with their Lord. Even when days become challenging and troubles multiply, you often find them serene and at ease, with a calm soul, as described in the Quran (9:51) “Say, “Nothing will ever befall us except what God has destined for us. He is our Protector.” So in God let the believers put their trust.” Besides, having a strong faith makes one strongly believe in al-Qadar. Jabir bin ‘Abdullah narrated that the Messenger of God, God bless him and grant him peace, said: ‘’A slave (of God) shall not believe until he believes in Al-Qadar, its good and its bad, such that he knows that what struck him would not have missed him, and that what missed him would not have struck him.” (Sunnah.com / (32) chapters on al-Qadar)
Gratitude is another Islamic virtue that demonstrates a strong faith, as believers are encouraged to be thankful for the blessings bestowed upon them. A strong believer’s faith is expressed not only through rituals but also in acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion towards others. This became evident as communities worldwide stood in solidarity with their Palestinian brothers and sisters during these challenging times. Prophet Muhammad, God bless him and grant him peace, exemplified this in his teachings and actions, emphasizing the significance of good character and ethical behavior. It has been narrated in the Book of Miscellany (Riyad as-Salihin) that Nu’man bin Bashir (May God be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of God (ﷺ) said, “The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion and sympathy are just like one body. When one of the limbs suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever”. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim] (Sunnah.com).
True believers in God, acknowledging His absolute power and embracing the teachings revealed to them and those before, must wholeheartedly trust in their Lord’s promises. They firmly believe that God, in His might, will surely uphold His religion, regardless of the passing of time. The unwavering commitment to His promises remains unchanged, and this firm belief is a cornerstone of faith, echoing the Quranic verse in surah Al-Mujadila (58:20,21): “˹As for˺ those who defy Allah and His Messenger, they will definitely be among the most debased. Allah has decreed, “I and My messengers will certainly prevail.” Surely Allah is All-Powerful, Almighty.” (quran.com). Hence, believers can be confident in the ultimate triumph.
