The Kalma (Declaration of Faith) is the most fundamental phrase in Islam. It is the gate through which one enters the fold of belief. In the Shia school of thought, the Kalma not only affirms the Oneness of Allah (SWT) and the Prophethood of Muhammad (SAWA) but also acknowledges the divine leadership (Imamat) as commanded by Allah (SWT) and His Messenger.
In this guide, we provide the full Shia Kalma in Arabic, Urdu, and English, along with an explanation of why each part is vital to our Aqeedah (Tenets of Faith).
Understanding the Three Testimonies (Shahadatayn)
The Kalma can be divided into three essential declarations. Each one is a pillar of our faith, and acknowledging all three completes our spiritual identity as followers of the Ahl-ul-Bayt (AS).
1. Tawheed (Oneness of Allah)
"La ilaha illa Allah" — This is the absolute affirmation that there is no creator, no provider, and no deity worthy of worship except Allah (SWT). It is the foundation of all monotheistic faith.
2. Nubuwwat (Prophethood)
"Muhammadun Rasul Allah" — This affirms that Muhammad (SAWA) is the last and final messenger of Allah. Believing in his Prophethood is mandatory for being a Muslim.
3. Wilayat (Divinely Appointed Leadership)
"Aliyun Waliullah..." — This is where the Shia school of thought adds the crucial third testimony. We believe that after the Prophet (SAWA), the leadership of the Ummah was not left to worldly election, but was divinely appointed. Imam Ali (AS) is the *Wali* (Friend/Master) of Allah and the *Wasi* (Successor) of the Prophet.
The Status of 'Aliyun Waliullah'
A common question we receive in our Shia Islamic Studies Course is whether the third part of the Kalma is "obligatory" (Wajib) like the first two. Most Shia Marjas (Grand Ayatollahs) rule that while the first two are required for the "legal" status of being a Muslim, the third testimony is the Kamal-e-Deen (Perfection of Faith).
Just as Allah (SWT) declared on the day of Ghadir Khumm after the Prophet (SAWA) announced Imam Ali's leadership: *"This day I have perfected for you your religion..."* (Quran 5:3). Therefore, we recite the third testimony to affirm our adherence to the perfected path of Islam.
Start Your Journey of Learning
Reciting the Kalma is the beginning. Understanding the deep meanings behind every word requires study and guidance. At Learn Shia Quran Academy, we help children and adults alike master the Arabic language so they can recite and understand these sacred phrases from the heart.
Explore our courses to deepen your foundations:
- Yassarnal Quran Qaida — Master the Arabic script.
- Islamic Studies for Kids & Adults — Deepen your Aqeedah and history.
Do you prefer to learn with a female instructor? We have dedicated scholars ready to assist you in a private, comfortable online setting.
