Ten Principles on Al-Istiqaamah by Shaykh Abdur-Razzaaq ibn Abdul-Muhsin Al-Badr is a concise yet profoundly beneficial treatise explaining the Islamic concept of al-Istiqaamah — steadfastness and uprightness — upon the religion of Allah.
Every believer desires to remain firm upon the Straight Path until death. Yet true steadfastness can only be achieved through sincere faith, sound knowledge, righteous deeds, and complete reliance upon Allah — and this treatise sets out ten principles that together produce it.
The Qur'anic Foundation of the Book
"Verily, those who say: 'Our Lord is Allah,' and then remain steadfast (Istaqamu), upon them the angels will descend, saying: 'Fear not, nor grieve, but receive glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised.'" (Surah Fussilat 41:30–32)
Building on this promise, Shaykh Al-Badr explains that steadfastness is one of the greatest blessings bestowed upon a believer. Through ten carefully organized principles, he clarifies the reality of al-Istiqaamah, the importance of following the Qur'an and Sunnah according to the understanding of the Salaf, the purification of the heart, sincerity in worship, perseverance in righteous deeds, seeking Allah's help, and remaining firm upon the truth despite trials and temptations.
He also emphasizes that steadfastness is not attained through personal effort alone but is a divine favor granted to those who sincerely seek Allah's guidance.
Why Steadfastness Is Harder Than Starting
Because beginning is a single decision and steadfastness is thousands of decisions repeated over a lifetime, many of them made when nobody is watching and enthusiasm has long since worn off.
Who It Is For
Any Muslim who has noticed their own practice fluctuate, and anyone supporting a new Muslim or a young person through the early years when steadfastness is hardest to sustain.
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