Kalima Shahadat (Second Kalima) in Arabic with English translation, transliteration, tafseer, benefits & lessons.
Kalima Shahadat (Second Kalima)
| Kalima Number | 2 |
| Name | Kalima Shahadat (Testimony) |
| Meaning | Declaration of Witness (Faith & Testimony) |
| Origin | Derived from Quran & Hadith |
| Total Lines | 1 |
| Main Theme | Testifying the Oneness of Allah and Prophethood of Muhammad ﷺ |
2nd Kalima Shahadat (Arabic, Transliteration, Translation)
| أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ |
| Ash-hadu an laa ilaaha illal-laahu wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhoo wa rasooluh |
| I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger. |
Full Kalima Shahadat (2) English Transliteration
(2) Ash-hadu an laa ilaaha illal-laahu wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhoo wa rasooluh
Full Kalima Shahadat (2) English Translation
(2) I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger.
Tafseer (Ibn Kathir – Detailed Explanation)
Kalima Shahadat is a powerful declaration that goes beyond belief it is a conscious testimony. According to Tafseer Ibn Kathir, the phrase “Ash-hadu” (I bear witness) signifies certainty, conviction, and personal accountability. It is not just spoken by the tongue but affirmed by the heart.
The statement “Laa ilaaha illal-laah” again establishes pure Tawheed, rejecting all forms of false worship. Ibn Kathir emphasizes that this is the foundation of all Prophets’ دعوت (call), from Adam (AS) to Muhammad ﷺ.
The addition of “Ash-hadu anna Muhammadan ‘abduhoo wa rasooluh” highlights two essential aspects: Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is both the servant (‘abd) and Messenger (rasool) of Allah. This balances the belief by preventing exaggeration and ensuring proper respect.
Calling the Prophet ﷺ a servant shows humility and submission to Allah, while acknowledging him as a Messenger affirms his authority and guidance. Ibn Kathir explains that this dual description protects Muslims from both denial and exaggeration.
This Kalima also teaches that faith requires testimony with knowledge, sincerity, truthfulness, and acceptance. It is not enough to say it without understanding; one must live according to its meaning.
Benefits & Lessons
1. Strengthens Certainty in Faith
The words “Ash-hadu” create a deep level of conviction. A believer consciously testifies to the truth, making their faith stronger and more meaningful.
2. Builds a Strong Connection with Allah
By affirming Allah’s Oneness, a person develops a direct relationship with Him without intermediaries, increasing reliance and trust.
3. Encourages Following the Sunnah
Recognizing Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as the Messenger encourages Muslims to follow his teachings in every aspect of life.
4. Promotes Humility
Understanding that even the Prophet ﷺ is a servant of Allah teaches humility and prevents arrogance.
5. Protects from Misguidance
This Kalima ensures correct belief, protecting a person from innovations and incorrect ideologies.
6. Strengthens Accountability
Bearing witness means being responsible for one’s actions. It reminds believers they will answer to Allah.
7. Brings Inner Peace
Clear belief removes confusion and gives peace, knowing the truth about existence and purpose.
8. Encourages Truthfulness
Testifying to truth develops honesty in speech and actions.
9. Gateway to Islam
Like Kalima Awwal, this declaration is essential for entering Islam sincerely.
10. Leads to Success in Hereafter
Believing and acting upon this Kalima leads to Allah’s pleasure and eternal success.
FAQs
It is the second Kalima that declares testimony of faith in Allah and His Messenger.
It means “I bear witness,” indicating certainty and belief.
It confirms faith with conviction and responsibility.
It means “His servant,” showing the Prophet ﷺ is a humble servant of Allah.
It means “His Messenger,” confirming Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as Allah’s messenger.
Yes, it is essential and must be recited with sincerity.
It adds the concept of testimony (witness) to the declaration of faith.
Yes, it is one of the first teachings given to Muslim children.
To maintain balance avoiding exaggeration or denial of the Prophet’s role.
They gain Allah’s guidance, mercy, and success in both worlds.