The Shahada
Understanding the Islamic Declaration of Faith
What is the Shahada?
The Shahada is the most important declaration in Islam. It is through this testimony that one becomes a Muslim, affirming their belief in the One true God and His final messenger.
The Declaration of Faith
أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا ٱللَّٰهُ وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ ٱللَّٰهِ
"Ash-hadu an laa ilaaha ill-Allah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan rasool-Allah"
"I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His messenger"
Meaning
The Shahada is the Muslim declaration of belief in the oneness of Allah and the messengership of Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Significance
It is the first pillar of Islam and the foundation of the Islamic faith. By declaring the Shahada with sincere belief, one enters the fold of Islam.
Components
The Shahada consists of two parts: declaring that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, and affirming that Muhammad is His messenger.
Requirements
The Shahada must be declared with understanding, conviction, certainty, sincerity, truthfulness, and love.
Requirements of the Shahada
Understanding
Know the meaning of what you're declaring and its implications for your life.
Conviction
Have firm belief in your heart about the truth of these words.
Sincerity
Declare the Shahada purely for Allah's sake, not for worldly gains.
Love
Have love for what the Shahada represents and what it calls to.
Ready to Take Your Shahada?
If you're ready to declare your faith or have questions, our team is here to support you.