The Five Pillars of Islam are the fundamental acts that Muslims must follow. They form the foundation of religious practice in Islam and are obligatory for all believers.
The Shahada consists of two closely related declarations:
“La ilaha illallah” (There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah): This part affirms the belief in the absolute oneness of Allah. Muslims believe that nothing and no one deserves to be worshiped except Allah. The recognition of divine unity is the foundation of Islamic faith.
“Mouhammadou Rassulullah” (And Muhammad is His messenger): This declaration bears witness to the prophethood of Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). Muslims believe that Muhammad is the last of the prophets sent by Allah to guide humanity. They accept his teachings, actions, and example as a source of spiritual guidance and ethical conduct.
The fundamental principle of the Shahada:
Sincerity is the fundamental principle of the Shahada. For the Shahada to be accepted, it must not be pronounced under any form of coercion. It must, therefore, be fully understood and spoken with sincere intention and good faith to truly embrace Islam.
When to recite the Shahada?
The Shahada is recited into the ears of newborns. Shortly after birth, it is usually the father who whispers it into the baby’s ear. This is when the child is considered a Muslim and becomes, at the same time, a member of the Ummah (the community of Muslim believers).
In the case of new converts who wish to embrace the Muslim faith, the individual must first have the niyya (intention); that is, to freely and voluntarily convert without any form of coercion. Then, they must perform ablution before finally reciting the Shahada themselves.
It is also recited when going to sleep or for protection from harm.
The Shahada is also pronounced during the call to prayer, which occurs five times a day.
The Shahada can also be recited in any situation where the Muslim feels the need to confirm or renew their commitment to the Muslim faith.
It is also recited by or to a dying person. Even after death, it is customary to recite the Shahada while transporting the deceased.
Formula of the Testimony of Faith
“Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadun abduhoo wa rasooluh.”
Literal translation:
“I testify that there is no deity but Allah, alone and without partners, and I testify that Muhammad is His servant and His Messenger.”
