The Second Kalima: Kalima-e-Shahadat

The second Kalima, also known as Kalima-e-Shahadat, is an important religious statement in Islam. It expresses the faith of Muslims and forms the foundation of their belief. The full sentence of the second Kalima is: أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا ٱللَّٰهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ وأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُهُ وَرَسُولُهُ

Bangla pronunciation: Ashhadu allaa ilaaha illallaahu wahdahu la sharika lahoo wa ash-hadu annna Muhammadan abduhoo wa rasooluh.

Meaning: "I bear witness that there is no god but Allah. He is One, without any partners, and I bear witness that Muhammad (PBUH) is His servant and Messenger."

Main Importance of Kalima-e-Shahadat:

Declaration of Oneness (Tawhid):

This Kalima declares the oneness of Allah. It protects Muslims from shirk (associating partners with Allah or idol worship) and purifies their belief. Muslims believe in Allah alone and accept His oneness. Through this, they learn that there is no god but Allah, and everything operates under His command.

Faith in Prophethood:

It declares faith in Muhammad (PBUH) as the last Messenger of Allah. Muslims accept that through Muhammad (PBUH), Allah's final message (the Quran) was revealed, and this message has been propagated worldwide to guide humanity. This declaration fully acknowledges the essence of Islam.

The Fundamental Basis of Islam:

Kalima-e-Shahadat serves as the foundational base of a Muslim's life. It symbolizes the Muslim’s devotion to Islam and belief in Allah. It guides a Muslim’s religious life in accordance with Allah's commands and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Depth of Faith:

Kalima-e-Shahadat expresses the depth of a Muslim's faith. It is not just a statement but a symbol of complete belief and obedience to Allah. Through it, Muslims maintain the purity of their faith and establish the foundation for their spiritual life.

Significance of the Kalima in a Muslim's Life:

Importance in Prayer:

Muslims recite Kalima Shahadat during their five daily prayers. It is a key part of the prayer, particularly during the Tashahhud (testification) portion. It symbolizes the Muslim's dedication to Allah and their commitment to following the Messenger’s teachings.

At the Time of Death and in the Grave:

The recitation of Kalima Shahadat holds special significance at the time of death and while in the grave. This Kalima helps bring peace to the soul and aids in attaining salvation in the Hereafter. By reciting Kalima Shahadat after death, a Muslim strengthens their faith and prays to Allah for securing their eternal life.

Religious Unity and Community:

This Kalima creates religious unity among all Muslims. Regardless of location, language, or culture, all Muslims recite "La ilaha illallah" and "Muhammadur rasulullah" together. It unites them as one strong Muslim community bound by the same faith and beliefs.

Protection from Shirk:

Kalima Shahadat protects Muslims from shirk because it helps them establish complete faith in the oneness of Allah and rejects worshiping any other deity or god in the world.

Everyday Impact of the Kalima:

Muslims recite Kalima Shahadat daily, and it influences various aspects of their everyday life, including prayers, supplications, and decision-making. It represents their deep commitment to surrendering to Allah and following the Sunnah (traditions) of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).