"Religion is sincerity, religion is sincerity (Al-Nasihah), religion is sincerity." They said; "To whom, O Messenger of Allah?" He said: "To Allah, to His Book, to His Messenger, to the imams of the Muslims and to their common folk."
Hadith Commentary: The Book of al-Bay'ah
This profound narration from Sunan an-Nasa'i (4199) establishes the fundamental principle that sincerity (nasihah) constitutes the very essence of religion. The Prophet's repetition emphasizes its paramount importance in Islamic teachings.
Sincerity to Allah
This entails pure monotheism (tawhid), affirming His Oneness in Lordship, Worship, and Names/Attributes. It includes fulfilling His commands, avoiding His prohibitions, believing in His decree, and worshipping Him alone with sincere devotion.
Sincerity to His Book
This encompasses believing in the Qur'an as Allah's revealed speech, reciting it properly, understanding its meanings, implementing its rulings, defending it from distortion, and contemplating its wisdom and guidance for human life.
Sincerity to His Messenger
This requires believing in Prophet Muhammad's message, obeying his commands, avoiding his prohibitions, reviving his Sunnah, defending his honor, and following his exemplary character in all aspects of life.
Sincerity to Muslim Leaders
This involves giving them rightful obedience in goodness, advising them gently in private, reminding them of their responsibilities, and not rebelling against them unless they command disobedience to Allah.
Sincerity to Common Muslims
This includes guiding them to goodness, teaching the ignorant, enjoining right and forbidding wrong, showing mercy to the young, respecting the elderly, and concealing their faults while wishing for them what one wishes for oneself.