What is the fifth belief in Iman-e-Mufassal?

The correct answer to this question is The day of judgment. In the structured creed of Iman-e-Mufassal, the fifth belief is the affirmation of the Day of Judgment, often referred to in Arabic as Yawm al-Akhir (The Last Day) or Yawm al-Qiyamah. Historically and theologically, this belief serves as the "moral compass" of the faith. While the previous four beliefs establish the source of guidance (Allah, Angels, Books, and Prophets), the fifth belief establishes the consequence of following or ignoring that guidance.

Historical Context in Early Islamic Preaching

When the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) began his mission in Makkah, the concept of a "Day of Judgment" was one of the most difficult ideas for the pagan Arabs to accept. Historical records and Quranic verses show that the people of the time were largely focused on the life of this world and found the idea of being held accountable for their hidden intentions and public actions to be revolutionary. This belief effectively shifted the social paradigm from one of tribal superiority and physical might to one of individual spiritual responsibility. It was the historical introduction of this fifth belief that laid the groundwork for social justice in the early Muslim community.

The Theological Framework of the "Last Day"

The belief in the Day of Judgment involves several chronological events that are deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. It begins with the total destruction of the current universe, followed by the "Sounding of the Trumpet." Every human who has ever lived will then be restored to life and gathered in the "Field of Assembly" (Mahshar).

A key historical element of this belief is the Mizan, or the Balance. In the 7th-century context, this provided a clear visual and intellectual framework for the concept of justice: every person’s deeds would be weighed with absolute precision. This belief teaches that even an "atom’s weight" of good or evil will be brought forth. It is this historical focus on micro-accountability that helped shape the legal and judicial systems of early Islamic civilizations.