This week, we will review the second hadith of the forty hadith of An-nawawih. For the past review, see here

The Hadith 2 is a comprehensive description of the religion and consists of three concepts of "Islam," "Iman," and "Ihsan." The Prophet describes "Islam" as the execution of Allah's ordinances, at least outwardly. "Iman," on the other hand, is correct and complete inner belief, which is necessarily proven by certain actions. In defining the pillars of each of the three concepts, it becomes evident that although the terms "Islam" and "Iman" are often used interchangeably, each of them is separate and distinct in itself. Besides the five pillars named here, "Islam" includes such visible actions as showing good manners, honesty in dealings, refraining from harmful behavior, advising others, etc. Among the actions and reactions induced by Iman are preference of Allah and His Messenger over every worldly matter, loving and hating others only for the cause of Allah, giving or withholding for His cause, directing all of one's efforts toward the approval of Allah, happiness at having done some good and sadness and remorse at having done something wrong, giving preference to other believers over oneself, concern about and aiding those in need, attentiveness at the mention of Allah and upon hearing the Qur’ān, reliance upon Allah in all affairs, satisfaction with what Allah has decreed, preference of worldly hardships over returning to disbelief, etc. The Hadith has been called "Umm us-Sunnah" just as Surah al-Fatihah is called "Umm al-Qur’an." Within it are included all categories of good deeds, both apparent and unapparent, and from it are derived the sciences of Shariah.

There are several lessons that can be derived from this Hadith, including:

The importance of understanding and practicing the religion in its entirety: This Hadith provides a comprehensive description of the religion of Islam, which includes the concepts of Islam, Iman, and Ihsan. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and practicing all three concepts to achieve the highest level of faith.

The importance of seeking knowledge: Jibril appeared to the Prophet (PBUH) to teach him about the religion of Islam. This highlights the importance of seeking knowledge and learning from those who are more knowledgeable in matters of religion.

The importance of good deeds: The Hadith emphasizes the importance of performing good deeds, both apparent and unapparent, as they are included in all categories of good deeds. It also highlights that a true believer should do good deeds for the sake of Allah and not for personal gain or acceptance within society.

The importance of faith and its role in one's actions: The Hadith distinguishes between Islam and Iman, emphasizing that a true believer's actions are motivated by faith and a desire to please Allah. It also highlights the importance of certain actions as proofs of one's faith.

The importance of belief in the pillars of Islam: The Hadith lists the six pillars of faith and emphasizes the importance of believing in them as a fundamental part of the religion of Islam.

Overall, this Hadith teaches the importance of understanding and practicing the religion of Islam in its entirety, seeking knowledge, performing good deeds for the sake of Allah, having true faith and belief in the pillars of Islam, and ultimately striving to please Allah in all actions and deeds.