Question

State the different interpretations of the word "iman"

Answer 1

• Nabii Ibrahim (AS) when Allah (SWT) promised him leadership for the entire Nations. Allah (SWT) says, “…He (Allah) said: ‘I will make you an Imam to the nations.’ He (Ibrahim) pleaded: ‘And also (Imams) from my offspring!’ He (Allah answered: ‘My promise is not within the reach of evil doers!” [Q 2:124]
• Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was also referred to as Imam. He as Imam ul Anbiya wal Mursalin (leader of Prophets and messengers) as refered to in the journey of Isra wal Miraj when he lead all the prayers in Swalat.
• The person leading other Muslims during other acts of worship. For example the one who leads others in the burial rituals, during aa’awa activities among others.
• The scholars of Fiqh, who came up with the four schools of thought (Madhahib) i.e. Imam Malik, Imam Shafi, Imam Hambal and Imam Abu Hanifa.
• Major compilers of Hadith among the Sunni like Imam Bukhari, Imam Muslim, Tirmidhi, Imam Abu Daud, Imam Ibn Majah and Imam Nasai.
• The Khalifa of the Muslims e.g. Khalifa Abubakar, Umar, Uthman and Ali. Muslim philosophers like Imam Ghazal, Ibn Rushd, and Ibn Sina among others.
• The spiritual leaders of the Shia such as Imams Zainul Abidin, Jafar us Sadiq, Musa Al Kadhim etc