Regardless of which interpretation of Sunni theology one follows, it is generally understood that conviction in Islam and the resulting acts of worship and obedience play a role in forming the imān of a Muslim. In a general sense, Imān is the result of learning and applying theology and fiqh in one's life. Imān also involves maintaining this connection of conviction, submission and obedience with Allah regardless of what one may 'feel' in terms of khushū. As a result of one's imān they may have the help of Allah in their daily life even if they don't 'feel' it. This is why khushū is not the barometer for salvation, it is imān.
This is different from zeal. Zeal is an enthusiasm, excitement and eagerness for a particular thought, action or behavior. Outwardly a 'religious' person's statements and behavior may look like Imān. But their heart may either be deprived or bankrupt in it's connection with Allah. Outwardly they may be praying consistently, attending the mosque, wear religious dress and be attracted to religious symbols and icons, but their life is overrun with major sins that they don't recognize either because of disregard or ignorance. Backbiting, slander, arrogance, racism, oppression, cheating in business, hatred of others are all examples of sins that can go unnoticed (by hte perpetrators) among 'religious' people. As is well known in the example of khawārij, this passive and habitual sin can also be as terrible as murder.
What drives imān? it is conviction in belief and acting upon that conviction in submission and obedience, as well as the light of Allah illuminating the heart of the Muslim.
What drives zeal? It can be a number of factors. It can be political or social ideology. It can be emotional attachments like anger, resentment and hatred. It can be a passion or enthusiasm to be involved in a group or something bigger than oneself. It can be a narcissistic desire to be recognized as religious (al-riyā). It can be culture, such as if one is born into a religious family and acts Muslim just because everyone else is. It can be nifāq, in that the outwards appearance is a wilful disguise to conceal inner disbelief & spiritual disease.
May Allah strengthen us in imān and make our hearts illuminated, firm in belief, and a light to guide our tongue and body to submission and obedience to His will.
Source: The Usuli
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