Iman (إيمان) means faith — a deep, sincere belief in the heart. While the 5 Pillars of Islam describe what a Muslim does, the 6 Pillars of Iman describe what a Muslim believes. Both together make a complete Muslim. These six beliefs are drawn from the famous Hadith of Jibreel, in which the Angel Jibreel came to the Prophet ﷺ and asked him to explain Islam, Iman, and Ihsan. Understanding these pillars helps children build a solid theological foundation for their faith.
The first and most important pillar — believing in Allah as the one, unique God who has no partners, children, or equals. This includes belief in His names and attributes (Asma ul-Husna), and His complete sovereignty over all of creation.
Muslims believe in Angels (ملائكة) — created from light, they never disobey Allah. Well-known angels include Jibreel (revelation), Mikail (rain & provision), Israfil (the trumpet), and the two recording angels who note our deeds.
Muslims believe all revealed scriptures are from Allah: the Suhuf (scrolls) of Ibrahim, the Tawrat (Torah), the Zabur (Psalms), the Injeel (Gospel), and the Quran — the final, preserved revelation sent to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Muslims believe in all prophets and messengers sent by Allah — from Adam to Muhammad ﷺ. 25 prophets are named in the Quran. A Muslim cannot pick and choose — belief in all of them is required. Muhammad ﷺ is the final prophet.
Muslims believe in Yawm al-Qiyamah — the Day of Judgement — when everyone will be resurrected and held accountable for their deeds. The righteous will enter Jannah (Paradise) and wrongdoers who are not forgiven will face consequences.
Qadar (القدر) is belief that Allah has complete foreknowledge and that everything — good and bad — occurs within His divine plan. This belief brings peace of mind: a Muslim trusts that every hardship has a purpose, and every blessing is from Allah.