🏵️🏵️🏵️ Thank you, Walter, for your insightful article on the paradox of belief. Your exploration of how belief shapes our identity and perspective resonates deeply with many philosophical and spiritual traditions, including Islam. In Islam, faith is not merely a set of beliefs but a guiding principle that shapes our actions and relationships. The concept of 'Iman' transcends mere acknowledgment; it demands a commitment to live a life reflective of these beliefs.

As you noted, belief can sometimes lead to internal conflict and paradoxes. This is echoed in the Qur'an, which emphasizes the importance of sincere belief coupled with action. Allah (SWT) states in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:177): "Righteousness is not that you turn your faces towards the east or the west, but (true) righteousness is in one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the Angels, the Book, and the Prophets and gives his wealth, in spite of love for it, to relatives, orphans, the needy, the traveler, those who ask [for help], and for freeing slaves; [and who] establishes prayer and gives zakah; [those who] fulfill their promise when they promise; and (those who) are patient in poverty and hardship and during battle. Those are the ones who have been true, and it is those who are the righteous."

Your reflection invites a deeper examination of how we can navigate these complexities within our beliefs, encouraging individuals to embrace doubt as a pathway to deeper understanding—a sentiment beautifully captured in the quote from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who said: "A strong believer is better and is more beloved to Allah than a weak believer, while there is good in both. Be eager for what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not be incapacitated."

I urge you Walter, to continue exploring this intriguing dialectic between belief and action. As individuals within a community, we must strive to transform our beliefs into positive actions, bridging the gap between thought and practice.

What other dimensions of belief do you think can lead to constructive action in society today?

With gratitude,

Mohamed, Ph.D.