Shahada – The Islamic Declaration of Faith
The first pillar of Islam
The Shahada
Arabic
أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللهِ
Transliteration
Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan rasulullah
Translation
“I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
The Meaning of Shahada
The Shahada has two parts:
Part 1: La ilaha illallah (There is no god but Allah)
This affirms Tawheed – the oneness of Allah. It means:
- Allah is the only deity worthy of worship
- No partners, no equals, no intermediaries
- Complete submission to Allah alone
Part 2: Muhammadun rasulullah (Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah)
This affirms the prophethood of Muhammad ﷺ:
- Muhammad ﷺ is the final prophet
- His teachings must be followed
- The Quran is Allah’s final revelation
Importance of the Shahada
- First pillar of Islam
- Entry point into Islam
- Said in every prayer
- Last words a Muslim hopes to say before death
Becoming Muslim
To become a Muslim, one sincerely recites the Shahada with belief and understanding. It’s recommended to:
- Learn what the Shahada means
- Believe in it with your heart
- Recite it aloud, preferably with witnesses
- Take a ritual bath (ghusl)
- Learn to pray and practice Islam
FAQs
What is the Shahada?
The Shahada is the Islamic declaration of faith, testifying that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is His messenger.
How do I convert to Islam?
Sincerely recite the Shahada with belief and understanding. Many Muslims recommend having witnesses and then taking a ghusl (ritual bath).