Reasons for Increasing Faith

Scholars have noted that faith resides in the heart and can both increase and decrease. They have outlined several factors that contribute to the enhancement of faith. These factors include:

A Muslim who firmly believes in the names and attributes of Allah (Glory be to Him) fills their heart with love and reverence, thus worshipping Him according to these divine qualities.
Contemplating the magnificent creation of Allah, as encouraged by the Holy Qur’an; reflection is one of the most significant acts of worship that strengthens the heart’s awe of Allah.
Consistently listening to the recitation of the Qur’an while pondering its meanings, particularly focusing on the attributes of the believers mentioned by Allah in His glorious Book.
Visiting cemeteries serves as a reminder of the Hereafter, prompting individuals to review their deeds and days, fostering intentions of repentance and righteousness.
Spending time in the company of righteous and faithful people, which serves to remind one of Allah and encourages obedience while warning against disobedience.
Turning to Allah, asking Him to increase faith in our hearts and assist in refraining from immorality and sin.

The Virtue of Faith Among Servants

Scholars have enumerated numerous profound virtues associated with faith when it is firmly established in the heart of a believer. Some of these virtues include:

Faith is the highest virtue acquired by souls and cherished by hearts, through which individuals attain goodness in both this world and the Hereafter.
Faith is a source of dignity for a person in life as well as in the afterlife.
Through faith, a servant can attain ranks in Paradise in the Hereafter.
Faith allows a servant to escape the torment of the Hereafter and the dreadful fate of Hellfire.
With faith, a believer reaches the highest levels of the Hereafter, which involves the joy of beholding Allah (Glory be to Him).
Through faith, a servant receives all forms of goodness and is protected from various evils and calamities.

The Early Generations’ Dedication to Renewing Their Faith

The early generations recognized their dire need for a faith that would enrich their hearts, considering it to be even more crucial than breathing or sustenance. They were exceptionally diligent in seeking to strengthen their faith whenever possible. For instance, they would advise one another to engage in activities that foster faith, often saying, “Let us sit together to increase our faith,” or as Umar ibn al-Khattab would encourage his companions, saying, “Come, let us enhance our faith.” Abu Darda would state, “One of the aspects of a person’s wisdom is to know whether they are increasing or diminishing in faith.” All of this reflects the profound understanding of the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) regarding their need for increased faith and its significant impact on their lives in this world and the Hereafter.