Difference between Islam and Iman
Basically, everyone who recites the Shahada (profession of faith) is considered a follower of Islam and the rulings of Islam apply to him.
Iman, however, faith is a genuine belief in the heart not just in appearance and on the tongue.
God says in Verse 14 of Surah Al-Hujurat:
“The bedouin Arabs have said, ‘We are believers.’ Tell them, ‘You are not believers, but you should say that you are Muslims. In fact, belief has not yet entered your hearts. If you obey God and His Messenger, nothing will be reduced from your deeds. God is All-forgiving and All-merciful.’”
One may have different motivations to become a Muslim, including financial motivations and personal interests.
But Iman is rooted in Ilm (knowledge) and spiritual motivations.
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The Holy Prophet (PBUH) said Islam is a visible issue but the place of faith is in the heart.
Also, according to other Hadiths, the concept of Islam deals only with the deceleration of faith, but Iman also includes deeds.
Iman is inclusive of Islam but the opposite is not the case. In other words, every believer is a Muslim but not every Muslim is a believer.
