Islam is based on three principles: Iman, Islam and Ihsan - Belief, Practice and spirituality. In order to properly understand our religion, we must understand these three principles. And in order to completely understand these principles, we must understand each in the context of the others.
Belief/Iman is like a map. Islam/Practice is like a journey. Ihsan/Spirituality is like the destination.
Belief gives us meaning in our life. It answers questions like - 'Why are we even here?', 'How did we get here?', 'Where are we going?', 'Is this it?', 'What about after we die?' - and questions such as these. The map gives you direction. Purpose. Meaning. And so you must follow this map. Let it take you somewhere. Let it guide you on your journey.
Journey... You have a map. So you may now begin your journey. And this journey is practice. Islam. Fulfilling your requirements of being a good Muslim. Islam is the journey we are on. We are seeking to always improve and move closer to Allah (glorified be He).
And finally the destination. You had a map and you went on your journey - so now to finally arrive at a destination. As a Muslim, we are on a journey to get closer to Allah and to earn His pleasure. So our destination must be His pleasure in us and being near to Him. Being able to see His Face (subhanahu wa ta'ala). Being in paradise. Being able to soak eternally in His rewards. And this is where we seek to end.
If we get our map. We study our map enough that we can understand it and it can actually take us somewhere. If we begin our journey and we remain steadfast on our path. If we do our best to follow the directions and when we get lost once in a while, we stop and ask for directions and do what we can to get back on track. And if we keep our eyes on the prize, our intentions set, and our heart firm on our destination. InshaAllah (if God allows), we will surely make it to our destination - Allahs pleasure.
So remember:
Belief gives us a foundation. Practice tells you what you're responsible for. And if you practice properly, it will be transformative.
Salaam Wa Rahmah
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