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

The correct answer to this question is The prophets.

n the detailed declaration of faith known as Iman-e-Mufassal, the belief in the Prophets (Risalat) holds the fourth position. This sequence is highly significant in Islamic theology: first, a believer affirms the existence of the Creator (Allah); second, the administrative agents of the universe (Angels); third, the divine instructions (Books); and fourth, the human role models (Prophets) who brought those instructions to life. Without this fourth pillar, the connection between the divine word and human action would be incomplete.

The Origin of the Prophetic Chain

The history of prophethood began with the very first human, Hazrat Adam (AS). Islamic tradition teaches that humanity was never left to wander in spiritual darkness. From the moment of creation, Allah established a system of Risalat to ensure that every nation and every era had access to divine truth. While the exact number of prophets is often cited in various narrations as approximately 124,000, the core belief required in Iman-e-Mufassal is the acceptance of all of them, whether they are mentioned by name in the Quran or not.

The Distinction Between Nabi and Rasool

Within the fourth belief, Islamic scholars distinguish between two types of divine messengers: the Nabi and the Rasool. Every Rasool is a Nabi, but not every Nabi is a Rasool. Historically, a Rasool is a messenger who was given a new divine law (Sharia) or a specific book, such as Musa (AS) or Isa (AS). A Nabi, on the other hand, was sent to confirm and implement the existing law of the previous messenger. This intricate system of succession ensured that the message of monotheism remained consistent throughout the centuries, despite the geographical and cultural differences of the tribes they were sent to.

Characteristics of the Prophets

A major component of this fourth belief is acknowledging the unique attributes that set prophets apart from ordinary humans. History records that all prophets were Ma'sum (infallible or sinless), meaning they were divinely protected from committing sins. They possessed the highest levels of intellect, honesty, and bravery. Their lives served as a "living scripture." For instance, the patience of Ayub (AS), the wisdom of Sulaiman (AS), and the unwavering faith of Ibrahim (AS) provide historical archetypes for human behavior. By believing in them, a person acknowledges that these individuals were the most perfect examples of humanity.

 The Finality of the Chain (Khatm-e-Nubuwwat)

The historical timeline of the fourth belief concludes with the advent of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). His arrival marked the perfection of the divine message and the completion of the prophetic chain. This concept, known as Khatm-e-Nubuwwat, is an essential sub-belief within the fourth pillar. It signifies that while the guidance brought by previous prophets was specific to certain people or times, the guidance brought by the final Prophet is universal and valid until the end of time.