iman

Iman, from Arabic إيمان, is commonly translated as faith or belief and refers to a person's conviction in the core truths of Islam. The term is often contrasted with Islam (submission) and ihsan (excellence). Etymologically, iman derives from the Arabic root أ-م-ن related to safety and trust.

In Islamic theology, iman denotes belief in the metaphysical and doctrinal foundations of the faith. The traditional Sunni formulation states that iman includes belief in God, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Day of Judgment, and divine decree. These beliefs are considered internal convictions that correspond to outward actions.

Classical and contemporary scholars also discuss the dynamic nature of iman: it can increase through righteous deeds and decrease through sin, while a person’s outward conformity to Islam (Islam) and inward belief (iman) may diverge. Some schools differentiate between iman (belief) and Islam (practice), though many treat them as interrelated.

Iman is also a personal name in many Muslim-majority communities, used for both sexes in various regions. As a common noun, it appears in literature and discourse to denote faith or trust, and the concept remains central to personal identity and religious life for many adherents.