The Hadith

Abu Amr — and it is also said Abu Amrah — Sufyan ibn Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) said:

I said: “O Messenger of Allah, tell me something about Islam that I will not need to ask anyone else about after you.”

He said:

“Say: I believe in Allah, then remain steadfast.”  

Reference

Reported by Muslim.  

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Explanation (From Shaykh Salih al-Fawzan)

In this hadith a companion asked the Prophet to give him a statement about Islam that would be sufficient for him and would not require further explanation from others.  

The Prophet replied:

“Say: I believe in Allah.”

This statement includes belief in Allah and the acceptance of the teachings that come from Him.  

The Prophet then said:

“Then remain steadfast.”

Steadfastness (istiqamah) means remaining firm upon obedience to Allah, performing what He has commanded, and avoiding what He has forbidden.  

A Muslim must maintain this steadfastness after declaring his faith, because faith requires consistent obedience and commitment.  

This hadith shows that the religion of Islam is based upon correct belief and steadfast adherence to it.  

Thus, the Prophet summarized the religion in two principles: faith in Allah and remaining steadfast upon that faith.  

References

The Explanation of Imam an-Nawawi’s 40 Hadith: Shaykh Salih al-Fawzan. Dar Makkah International.

Verified on 2026-10-21 against: The Explanation of Imam an-Nawawi’s 40 Hadith (Shaykh Salih al-Fawzan), Hadith 21.