Shahadah (الشهادة) is the Islamic declaration of faith and is the first of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is a simple yet profound statement that affirms one’s belief in the oneness of God (Allah) and the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Shahadah is recited as follows:
“أشهد أن لا إله إلا الله وأشهد أن محمدًا رسول الله”
“Ashhadu an lā ilāha illa-llāh, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan rasūlu-llāh.”
Translation: “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
Significance of the Shahadah:
- Core Belief – It is the fundamental creed of Islam and signifies a Muslim’s faith in monotheism (Tawhid).
- Entry into Islam – Reciting the Shahadah with sincerity and understanding is the key requirement for converting to Islam.
- Daily Life – The Shahadah is recited in daily prayers (Salah) and is often whispered in a Muslim’s ear at birth and before death.
