What it is and when you say it
The shahada is the testimony of faith and the first pillar of Islam. Saying it sincerely, understanding what it means, is how a person becomes Muslim. You also say it in every prayer, in the tashahhud.
In the shortest form it is "La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur rasulullah". The full form below begins with "Ash-hadu", "I bear witness", and is how people usually say it when they accept Islam.
Read the full guide: How do I convert to Islam?
How to learn it by heart
- Read the whole text once with its meaning, so you know what you are saying.
- Learn one line at a time. Say it out loud until it flows, then add the next line.
- Hide the words little by little: first letters, then nothing. Tap a line when you need a look.
- Use it in your prayers right away. Repeating it five times a day is what makes it stay.
Common questions
Do I need witnesses to take the shahada?
Saying it sincerely is enough before Allah. Many take it at a mosque with others present, which helps with community and with paperwork such as a certificate, but it is not a condition.
Is there a version with "abduhu wa rasuluh"?
Yes. In the tashahhud and in the dua after wudu you say "anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa rasuluh", "that Muhammad is His servant and messenger". Both forms are correct.
Hear every word
Revertly teaches new Muslims to pray from zero, with a recitation for every line, so you learn how it sounds, not only how it looks. Cannot afford it? Ask for a free code.