Explaining the Three Degrees of Certainty (Yaqin)

Question

What is the definition of ‘ilm al-yaqin, ‘ayn al-yaqin and haqq al-yaqin? In this world, with regard to the Essence of Pure Allah, will ‘ayn al-yaqin occur after ‘ilm al-yaqin, or not? If it will, then how? In any case, when exactly do these three [degrees of] certainty occur? Where do they occur? And for whom do they occur? Please write out this matter in some detail and with explanation, and also give the proofs and the references.

Answer

Certainty (yaqin) arising merely on the basis of [reported] knowledge — for example, if a person hears from someone whose word he trusts that fire burns, and becomes certain of it — this is ‘ilm al-yaqin (the certainty of knowledge). Then, when he sees that a paper thrown into the fire has burned, this becomes ‘ayn al-yaqin (the certainty of direct observation).

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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