The essence of Islam is deeply rooted in its teachings and the beliefs it instills in its followers. Central to these teachings are the “Six Kalimas”, often referred to as the “6kalma” or “6 kalima”. These Kalimas serve as a foundation for every Muslim's faith and practice.
1. First Kalima (Tayyab): “Laaa Ilaaha Illa-llaahu Muhammadur-Rasoolu-llaah” Translation: There is none worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
The First Kalima, known as Tayyab, is the affirmation of the oneness of Allah. It is the core belief that there is no deity worthy of worship other than Allah, and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is His messenger. This Kalima is necessary for belief and is the center of Imaan (faith).
2. Second Kalima (Shahadat): “Ash-hadu Al-laaa Ilaaha Illa-llaahu Wahdahoo Laa Shareeka Lahoo Wa-Ash-hadu Anna Muhammadan ‘Abduhoo Wa Rasooluhu.” Translation: I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, the One alone, without a partner, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger.
The Shahadat, or the testimony, is the declaration of faith. It is a testament to the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH).
3. Third Kalima (Tamjeed): “Subhaana-llaahi Walhamdu Lillaahi Walaaa Ilaaha Illa-llaahu Wallaahu Akbar. Walaa Hawla Walaa Quwwata Illaa Billaahi-l ‘Aliyyil ‘Azeem.” Translation: Glory be to Allah and all praise be to Allah, there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and Allah is the Greatest. There is no might or power except from Allah, the Exalted, the Great One.
Tamjeed, or the expression of Majesty, glorifies Allah and acknowledges His supreme power and authority.
4. Fourth Kalima (Touheed): Translation: There is none worthy of worship except Allah. He is alone and has no partner. To Him belongs the Kingdom and for Him is all praise. He gives life and causes death. In His hand is all good and He has power over everything.
Touheed emphasizes the oneness of Allah, acknowledging His sole authority and power over all beings.
5. Fifth Kalima (Astaghfar): Translation: I seek forgiveness from Allah, who is my Creator and Cheriser, from every sin I committed knowingly or unknowingly, secretly or openly.
Astaghfar is the word of penitence, a plea to Allah for forgiveness for all sins, whether committed knowingly or unknowingly.
6. Sixth Kalima (Radd-e-Kufar): Translation: O, Allah! I seek refuge in You from that I should ascribe any partner with You knowingly. I seek Your forgiveness for the sin of which I have no knowledge.
Radd-e-Kufar, or the word of rejection, is a declaration against disbelief and associating partners with Allah.
In conclusion, the Six Kalimas are not just mere words but are the essence of a Muslim's belief. They encapsulate the core teachings of Islam and serve as a guide for every Muslim in their journey of faith.
