What is the meaning of Aqeeda?

The correct answer to this question is Belief. In a technical and theological sense, Aqeeda refers to those matters which are believed in, with certainty and conviction, within one’s heart and soul. It represents the internal foundation of faith that is not subject to doubt, suspicion, or vacillation. The term itself is derived from the Arabic root word ‘aqada, which literally translates to "to tie a knot" or "to bind." This linguistic origin is vital to understanding the concept: just as a knot is firmly tied and secured, an individual's Aqeeda represents the firm "binding" of their heart and intellect to specific religious truths.

Linguistic and Historical Origins

Historically, the term ‘aqada was used by ancient Arabs to describe the act of concluding a firm contract, sealing a deal, or tying a rope securely. As the Islamic sciences began to formalize in the decades and centuries following the life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), scholars adopted this term to describe the core tenets of faith. While the Quran frequently uses the term Iman (faith), "Aqeeda" became the standard academic term used in literature to categorize the science of theology, known as Ilm al-Kalam.

n the earliest days of Islam, there was little need for a formalized "Aqeeda" because the community was close to the source of revelation. However, as the Islamic world expanded into Persia, Rome, and India, Muslims encountered diverse philosophical and metaphysical traditions. To preserve the purity of the faith, scholars began to codify the central beliefs of Islam into a structured format.

The Framework of Islamic Aqeeda

The structure of Islamic Aqeeda is primarily built upon the "Six Articles of Faith." These are the belief in the Oneness of God (Tawhid), belief in the Angels, belief in the Divine Books, belief in the Prophets and Messengers, belief in the Day of Judgment, and belief in Divine Decree (Qadr).

These six pillars are not merely intellectual acknowledgments; in the framework of Aqeeda, they are considered the "roots" of the religion. Islamic scholars often use the metaphor of a tree: Aqeeda is the root system buried deep in the ground, while the outward actions of the religion—such as prayer, fasting, and charity—are the branches and fruits. Without a healthy and firm root (Aqeeda), the branches cannot survive or produce fruit.