Six Kalimas: A Comprehensive Guide to Islamic Declarations of Faith

Introduction:

The Six Kalimas hold immense significance in the Islamic faith as they encapsulate the core principles and beliefs of Muslims. These concise yet profound declarations serve as the pillars of Islamic faith, guiding individuals in their spiritual journey. In this blog post, we will explore each of the Six Kalimas in detail, unraveling their meanings and shedding light on their importance in the lives of Muslims.

First Kalima (Kalima Tayyabah):

"La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah."

Translation: "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah."

The Kalima Tayyabah is the fundamental declaration of Islamic faith, affirming the belief in the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad. It serves as the cornerstone of the Islamic creed, emphasizing monotheism and the acceptance of Prophet Muhammad as the final Messenger.

Second Kalima (Kalima Shahadah):

"Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasuluhu."

Translation: "I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger."

The Kalima Shahadah reiterates the core tenet of Islamic monotheism and acknowledges the servitude of Prophet Muhammad to Allah. By declaring this Kalima, Muslims testify their belief in the oneness of Allah and the divine appointment of Muhammad as His Messenger.

Third Kalima (Kalima Tamjeed):

"Subhanallah, walhamdulillah, wa la ilaha illallah, wallahu akbar, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billahil 'aliyyil 'azheem."

Translation: "Glory be to Allah, all praise be to Allah, there is no god but Allah, Allah is the greatest, and there is no power or strength except with Allah, the Most High, the Supreme."

The Kalima Tamjeed highlights the attributes of Allah and expresses profound glorification, gratitude, and reliance on Him. It signifies the recognition of Allah's greatness, His exclusive right to be worshipped, and the acknowledgment that all power and strength originate from Him alone.

Fourth Kalima (Kalima Tawheed):

"La ilaha illallah, wahdahu la sharika lah, lahul mulk wa lahul hamd, wa huwa 'ala kulli shayin qadeer."

Translation: "There is no god but Allah, He is alone, without any partner. His is the dominion and all praise is due to Him, and He has power over all things."

The Kalima Tawheed emphasizes the concept of Tawheed (the oneness of Allah) and affirms His absolute sovereignty. It emphasizes that Allah has no partners or associates in His divinity, and He possesses complete authority and control over everything in the universe.

Fifth Kalima (Kalima Istighfar):

"Astaghfirullah, Rabbi min kulli zambin wa atubu ilaih."

Translation: "I seek forgiveness from Allah, my Lord, for all my sins, and I repent before Him."

The Kalima Istighfar is a plea for forgiveness and repentance. By reciting this Kalima, Muslims acknowledge their imperfections, seek Allah's forgiveness for their transgressions, and commit to turning away from sinful behavior.

Sixth Kalima (Kalima Radde Kufr):

"Allahumma inni a'udhu bika min an ushrika bika shay'an wa ana a'lamu bih, wa astaghfiruka lima la a'lamu bih. Tubtu anhu wa tabarratu minal-kufri wash-shirki wal-kidhbi wal-gheebati wal-bid'ati wan-namiimati wal-fawahishi wal-buhtani, wa al-ma'siy kulliha wa aslamtu wa aqoolu La ilaha illallah Muhammadur Rasulullah."

Translation: "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from knowingly associating partners with You, and I seek Your forgiveness for that which I do not know. I repent from disbelief and associating partners with You, from lying, backbiting, innovation in religion, false testimony, indecency, slander, all sins, and I submit and I say: There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah."

The Kalima Radde Kufr is a comprehensive declaration that seeks protection from acts of disbelief, association of partners with Allah, and various sins. It affirms the rejection of all forms of polytheism, falsehood, and immoral conduct, while reaffirming belief in the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad.

Conclusion:

The Six Kalimas form the foundation of Islamic belief and serve as powerful reminders of the principles that guide a Muslim's life. By understanding and reciting these Kalimas, Muslims reaffirm their faith in the oneness of Allah, the prophethood of Muhammad, seek forgiveness, and strive to adhere to the teachings of Islam. They provide a framework for spiritual growth, moral conduct, and strengthening the bond with the Almighty, fostering a deep sense of devotion and connection with the divine.