The Kalima recited at the time of death is the Shahada, which translates to "There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the messenger of God." More specifically, the core part emphasized is "Lailaha illal-lah" (There is no god but God).
Importance of the Shahada at the Time of Death
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) advised, “Prompt your dying people to say, 'Lailaha illal-lah'.” This highlights the significance of affirming the oneness of God in one's final moments. Reciting this core part of the Shahada is considered extremely important in Islam.
- It reaffirms faith in God's absolute unity.
- It serves as a testament to one's belief.
- It is believed to ease the transition to the afterlife.
The complete Shahada, “Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan rasulullah,” is often recited throughout life as a declaration of faith, but at the point of death, the focus is often on the core affirmation of God's oneness, "Lailaha illal-lah." This emphasizes the fundamental principle of Islam at life's end.
