Shahadas

Shahadas, the plural of shahada, refer to the Islamic declarations of faith that articulate core beliefs about the oneness of God and the prophethood of Muhammad. The shahada is a central statement of belief in Islam and is one of the Five Pillars, commonly recited in daily prayers, during rites of conversion, and on various other occasions.

The standard form used by most Muslims states: “There is no god but God; Muhammad is the Messenger of God” (Arabic: La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur rasulullah). The first clause affirms tawhid, the oneness of God, while the second acknowledges Muhammad’s role as God’s messenger and final prophet.

Variations exist across Islamic traditions. In many Shia communities a third element is added, often phrased as “Ali is the wali (friend/guardian) of God” or “the rightful successor to Muhammad,” yielding formulations such as: “There is no god but God, Muhammad is the Messenger of God, and Ali is the wali of God.” Other groups may use slightly different expressions, but keep the core elements of belief in God and Muhammad’s prophethood.

Usage and significance: The shahada is foundational to Muslim identity and practice. It is recited in the call to prayer and within the daily prayers, and it serves as the declaration required for conversion to Islam, typically spoken with sincerity and understanding. In Shia contexts, the added element about Ali reflects beliefs regarding leadership and spiritual authority.

Origins and terminology: The term shahada derives from the Arabic shahada, meaning to witness or testify. The plural shahadas acknowledges the variety of formulations found across sects and ritual contexts within Islam.