The Four Obligatory Duties in Islam Every Muslim Must Know

The Four Obligatory Duties in Islam Every Muslim Must Know 

Introduction 

In Islam, knowledge and action are deeply connected to faith. Every Muslim is required to understand the essential principles of the religion to live according to the commands of Allah Almighty. This article explores the four obligatory duties that every believer must learn and practice, based on classical Islamic teachings. These are: 

1. Seeking Knowledge 
2. Acting upon Knowledge 
3. Calling others towards Islam (Da’wah) 
4. Patience in the face of hardship 

Four obligatory duties for Muslims

Each of these duties builds the foundation of a faithful and righteous life. 

1. The First Duty: Seeking Knowledge 

The first and foremost obligation for every Muslim is to gain knowledge (Ilm).

Knowledge here refers to the recognition of Allah Almighty, understanding His Prophet ﷺ, and knowing the religion of Islam. 

It is not permissible to worship Allah without proper knowledge and understanding, for such worship leads to misguidance. Worship without knowledge resembles the practice of the Christians, who act without proper understanding. 

Why Seeking Knowledge Is Essential 

Knowledge guides a believer toward correct worship and protects from deviation. When a person chooses ignorance despite having the ability to learn, the proof (ḥujjah) of truth becomes established against him — just as the people of Prophet Nūḥ (Noah) turned away and refused to listen, covering themselves to avoid the truth. 

2. The Second Duty: Acting Upon Knowledge 

The second obligation is to act upon the knowledge one gains. Merely knowing what is right is not enough — it must reflect in one’s actions. Those who acquire knowledge but fail to act upon it resemble the Jews, who knew the commandments of God but did not follow them. 

A Warning from Satan 

One of Satan’s greatest tricks is to convince people that ignorance is an excuse — that if they remain unaware, Allah will forgive them. However, this is false. When learning is possible, a person is responsible for knowing and practicing their faith. 

3. The Third Duty: Calling Others Toward Islam (Da’wah) 

The third obligation is Da’wah, or calling others toward righteousness. The scholars and preachers of Islam are the heirs of the Prophets, carrying forward their mission to spread truth and guidance. 

The Importance of Da’wah 

Allah Almighty cursed the Children of Israel because they failed to forbid one another from wrongdoing. In Islam, Da’wah and teaching are farḍ kufiyah — a collective duty.

If a sufficient number of people fulfill it, others are absolved. But if no one does, then everyone is sinful. 

Da’wah as a Sign of the Muslim Ummah 

Da’wah distinguishes this Ummah (nation) from all others. The Holy Qur’an declares: 

“You are the best community ever raised for mankind: you enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and believe in Allah.” 

(Surah Al ‘Imran, Verse 110) 

4. The Fourth Duty: Patience in the Face of Hardship 

The fourth duty is Sabr (Patience) — to remain steadfast in the face of difficulties while seeking knowledge, practicing it, and calling others to the truth. Patience is the mark of sincerity. Every scholar, preacher, and believer faces trials, criticism, and hardship. The true servant of Allah remains firm and patient, knowing that every test brings spiritual growth and divine reward. 

The Necessity of Religious Education 

It is obligatory (farḍ ‘ayn) for every Muslim to acquire enough knowledge to distinguish between ḥalāl (permissible) and haram (forbidden). Becoming a full-fledged scholar is farḍ kufiyah — a collective obligation — but every Muslim must at least learn the essentials of their faith.

The Words of Imam Nawawi (Blessing of Allah) 

“It is obligatory upon every person to acquire as much knowledge as is necessary for the proper fulfillment of obligatory acts — such as learning the rules of ablution (wuḍū) and prayer (salah).” 

Learning Through Any Available Means 

Learning the religion to the required extent is mandatory for all Muslims — whether through tablīgh (preaching), madrasah, khanqah, or any other form of religious education. 

If a person’s only opportunity to learn religion is through tablīgh (preaching of Islam), then learning through that medium becomes obligatory for them. 

Conclusion 

In summary, every Muslim must fulfill four essential religious duties: 

• Seek knowledge of Allah, His Prophet, PBUH, and Islam. 
• Act upon that knowledge in daily life. 
• Invite others toward good and forbid evil. 
• Remain patient through trials and hardships. 

These duties define the path of faith, guiding believers toward divine pleasure and success in this world and the hereafter. True knowledge is light — it leads to righteous action, sincere da’wah, and unwavering patience. Through these four pillars, a believer attains spiritual strength, moral clarity, and eternal reward.