In Islam, there are six Kalmas that summarise key beliefs, and the First Kalma, known as Kalma Tayyibah (كلمة طيبة), is the most important. Faith declares that every Muslim must believe in and recite to affirm their identity as a believer.
1st kalma in Arabic and English
Arabic:
لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا ٱللَّٰهُ مُحَمَّدٌ رَّسُولُ ٱللَّٰهِ
Transliteration:
La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah
Translation:
There is no god but Allah; Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
The Meaning and Its Core Message
The First Kalma carries two powerful messages:
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“La ilaha illallah” means that no deity is worthy of worship except Allah. It emphasises Tawheed, the belief in Allah’s absolute oneness. This is the core of Islam, rejecting polytheism and all false gods.
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“Muhammadur Rasulullah” – This affirms that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is the final messenger of Allah, sent to guide humanity. Belief in his prophethood is essential for one’s faith to be complete.
Together, this Kalma defines what it means to be a Muslim: worshipping Allah alone and following the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Its Role in a Muslim’s Life
Beginning with the First Kalma allows someone to enter Islam. A person is considered a Muslim if they say it with faith in their heart. In fact, it goes beyond words; it requires commitment to a new way of living. Muslims say the Kalma during prayers, while recalling their faith, and on special occasions in life.
It helps us consistently remember that our mission is to believe in and obey Allah and the teachings of the Prophet.
Conclusion
The First Kalma covers a deep meaning in only a brief phrase. It is a basic requirement for faith, marks the first step for every Muslim and contains the principal beliefs of Islam. Following this Kalma, Muslims hope to do right by Allah and walk in the path Allah shows through the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
