Question
If the practical application of our beliefs is not according to our beliefs or faiths, in other sense our deeds are not according to our beliefs, can we claim that we are a Muslim? Is our belief or Iman complete with out doing good deeds?
Answer
True and complete knowledge about a given phenomenon invariably breeds actions which are consonant with that knowledge. The lack of the latter can indeed raise questions about the truthfulness or the completeness of the former. Thus, for instance, a person who truly believes that touching a live electricity wire can harm human beings is not only likely to guard himself from such exposure but is also likely to do his best in saving his loved ones from such exposure. Barring exceptional circumstances of forgetfulness, compulsion etc. no sane person, who is also aware of the potential harm involved in electric shock, is likely to be generally careless in this regard.
In the same manner, barring exceptional circumstances, true and complete belief in God and the Day of Judgment cannot exist without affecting one’s behavior and general attitude towards life. If our belief has not affected our behavior and attitude towards life, then either it is not as true as it should be or is not as complete.
I hope this helps in understanding the issue.
Regards,
Moiz Amjad
September 8, 2002