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

The correct answer is THE BOOKS OF ALLAH (The Divine Scriptures).In Islamic theology, faith is categorized into two main declarations: Iman-e-Mujmal (faith in brief) and Iman-e-Mufassal (faith in detail). The latter provides a structured framework of the seven essential articles of faith that every Muslim must affirm. The third component in this specific sequence is the belief in the Books of Allah (Kutub). This belief serves as a vital bridge in the chronological process of divine guidance, following the belief in Allah and His Angels, and preceding the belief in His Messengers

The Concept of Divine Revelation

The belief in Divine Books is rooted in the concept that Allah did not leave humanity without guidance. Throughout history, various scriptures were revealed to selected Prophets to provide a moral, social, and spiritual code for their respective communities. In the context of Iman-e-Mufassal, this belief is not limited to the final revelation but encompasses all original scriptures sent by the Creator. It emphasizes the continuity of the divine message, suggesting that the core essence of monotheism has remained consistent from the first Prophet, Adam (AS), to the final Prophet, Muhammad (SAW).

The Major Scriptures in History

Islamic tradition identifies four major books mentioned by name, alongside various smaller scrolls known as Suhuf.

The Torah (Taurat): Revealed to Prophet Musa (AS) for the guidance of the Children of Israel. It contained the legal framework and commandments meant to govern the Israelites.

The Psalms (Zabur): Revealed to Prophet Dawood (AS). This book is historically recognized as a collection of hymns, prayers, and praises to the Almighty, emphasizing the spiritual and emotional connection between the Creator and the creation.

The Gospel (Injeel): Revealed to Prophet Isa (AS). It served as a confirmation of the Torah while introducing a message of compassion, mercy, and the upcoming arrival of the final messenger.

The Quran: The final and comprehensive revelation sent to Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

The Distinction of the Quran

A critical aspect of this third belief is the understanding of "preservation." Islamic history teaches that while the previous scriptures were sent for specific nations and limited timeframes, the Quran was sent for all of humanity for all time. Furthermore, the Quran is described as Al-Muhaymin (the Guardian/Criterion), meaning it acts as a filter to verify the truths contained in earlier scriptures. This belief holds that whereas earlier texts may have undergone human alteration or lost their original linguistic purity over centuries, the Quran is divinely protected from any such changes.

By affirming the third belief of Iman-e-Mufassal, an individual acknowledges that human reason alone is insufficient to understand the purpose of existence; rather, divine literature is necessary to illuminate the path of righteousness. This historical timeline of revelation reinforces the idea that Islam is not a "new" religion but the final, perfected version of the same message delivered through the Divine Books of old.