The Shahadah is the first and most fundamental pillar of Islam. It represents the essence of Islamic belief and consists of two parts:

Arabic Text:

‘‘Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan rasul Allah’’.

English Translation:

“I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”

Explanation:

1. First Part:

• “لا إله إلا الله” (La ilaha illa Allah) – There is no god but Allah:

• This is a proclamation of Tawhid (monotheism), the belief that Allah is the only deity worthy of worship, with no partners, associates, or equals.

• It affirms Allah’s oneness (التوحيد) and rejects all forms of idolatry (الشرك).

2. Second Part:

• “محمد رسول الله” (Muhammad rasul Allah) – Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah:

• This acknowledges that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is Allah’s final messenger.

• Muslims follow his teachings and regard him as a role model for how to live according to Allah’s guidance.

Importance of the Shahadah:

1. Entry into Islam:

• Reciting the Shahadah with sincerity and conviction is how one becomes a Muslim.

2. Daily Reminder:

• The Shahadah is recited multiple times daily during prayers (salah), emphasizing its central role in a Muslim’s life.

3. Core of Islamic Belief:

• It summarizes the faith: belief in Allah’s oneness and Muhammad as His final messenger.

Conditions of the Shahadah:

For the Shahadah to be valid, it must meet certain conditions:

1. Knowledge (العلم): Understanding its meaning.

2. Certainty (اليقين): Believing it without doubt.

3. Sincerity (الإخلاص): Declaring it purely for Allah.

4. Truthfulness (الصدق): Speaking it with honesty.

5. Love (المحبة): Loving Allah and His messenger.

6. Submission (الانقياد): Committing to its implications.

7. Acceptance (القبول): Fully embracing it without rejection.

Practical Application:

• Muslims incorporate the Shahadah in daily prayers, sermons (khutbah), and at pivotal life moments (birth, marriage, death).

• It is a reminder to live with sincerity, devotion, and obedience to Allah.