Item 1 in Five Pillars of Islam

Shahada — Profession of Faith

Affirm the oneness of God and Muhammad's status as God's messenger.

Position
1
Form
Practice or observance
Obligation
Mandatory
Wording status
Editorial paraphrase
Intended audience
Muslims
Last reviewed
28 June 2026

Names and terminology

Canonical name: Shahada — Profession of Faith

Original term: Shahāda

Source wording

Editorial paraphrase: Affirm the oneness of God and Muhammad's status as God's messenger.

Editorial paraphrase

Literal meaning

Affirm the oneness of God and Muhammad's status as God's messenger.

Broader interpretation

Interpretation depends on the framework's historical purpose, intended audience and relationship to its other principles.

Ethical purpose

To shape conduct or character in a way consistent with the wider ethical framework.

Modern application

Modern application requires attention to consent, rights, evidence, foreseeable harm and changing social conditions.

Criticism and difficult cases

Application can become difficult when this principle conflicts with another duty, when harm is indirect, or when ancient social assumptions do not fit modern conditions.

Truth By Reason analysis

Truth By Reason assesses this principle according to evidence, rights, intentions, foreseeable consequences and consistency with the treatment of all affected beings.

Ethical themes

  • Obedience
  • Worship

Sources