The Fourth Kalima, known as “Kalima Tawheed” (كَلِمَاتْ اَلتَّوْحِيدْ), emphasizes the concept of Allah’s Oneness. The Arabic term “Tawheed” signifies “Oneness,” particularly referring to the Oneness of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى.
This Kalima reflects the central Islamic belief in monotheism, acknowledging the indivisible unity of Allah. It is foundational to the first pillar of Islam, affirming the Oneness of Allah, and is expressed through the names Al Ahad (أَحَدٌ) and Al-Wahid (الواحد) in Islamic theology.
Tawheed represents the core belief in Islam, and acknowledging this Oneness is essential for embracing the faith. The concept of Tawheed is extensively addressed in the Quran across various verses and chapters.
As one of the six significant Kalimahs in Islamic teachings, the Fourth Kalima is frequently recited by Muslims, particularly in South Asian countries like Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh. However, the essence of this Kalima is embraced globally by Muslims, with many reciting it regularly.
Fourth Kalima (Kalima Tawheed)
Arabic:
چوتھا كَلِمَةُ اَلتَّوْحِيدْ
لَآ اِلٰهَ اِلَّا اللّٰهُ وَحْدَهٗ لَا شَرِيْكَ لَهٗ لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ يُحْىٖ وَيُمِيْتُ وَهُوَ حَئٌّ لَّا يَمُوْتُ اَبَدًا اَبَدًاؕ ذُوالْجَلَالِ وَالْاِكْرَامِؕ بِيَدِهِ الْخَيْرُ وَهُوَ عَلٰى كُلِّ شَىْءٍ قَدِیْرٌ
Transliteration:
lā ilāha illā-llāhu waḥdahu lā sharīka lahu lahu l-mulku wa lahu l-ḥamdu yuḥyi wa yumītu
wa huwa ḥayyu lā yamūtu abadan abadan dhu l-jalāli wa l-ʾikrām
biyadihi-l khayr wa-huwa ʿala-kulli shayʾin qadīr
Translation:
“There is no god but Allah, He is One and has no partner. His is the Dominion, and to Him belongs all praise. He gives life and causes death, and He is the Ever-Living, who will never die. He is the One of Majesty and Honor. In His hands is all good, and He has power over everything.”
Importance of Kalima Tawheed
The Fourth Kalima underscores the concept of monotheism, which is the foundation of Islamic belief. The recitation affirms that Allah is one and has no partners, reinforcing the key tenet of Islam.
The opposite belief, associating partners with Allah (Shirk), is strictly forbidden. By reciting this Kalima, Muslims reaffirm their belief in Allah’s absolute authority and the fact that everything in the universe is His creation.
Surah Al Ikhlas in the Quran further explains the concept of Tawheed:
Translation:
“Say: He is Allah, the One. Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent.” (Quran 112:1-4)
This recitation brings forth the acknowledgment that only Allah is worthy of worship and is free from any form of partnership.
Key Themes of the Fourth Kalima:
- Only Allah deserves our worship – none but Him.
- Allah is One and Alone, with no partners.
- Shirk (associating partners with Allah) is not acceptable, and anyone committing it cannot be considered a Muslim.
- Allah is the Sovereign Creator of the entire universe, including the heavens and the earth.
- All Praise belongs to Allah.
- He controls birth, life, and death of all living beings.
- Allah is Ever-Living and will never die; He is eternal.
- Allah is Majestic and worthy of the highest reverence.
- Allah holds ultimate power over everything in existence.
Reciting the Fourth Kalima
Duas and supplications are integral to Islamic worship, and the six Kalimahs, including Kalima Tawheed, play a crucial role. Reciting them, particularly the Fourth Kalima, at any time of day is beneficial and a means to enhance one’s faith.
When and Where to Recite the Fourth Kalima:
This Kalima is highly recommended for frequent recitation and can be recited at any time and place. While some regions, especially South Asia, traditionally recite it at specific times, such as during visits to graveyards, there are no restrictions. It can be recited during prayers, in moments of reflection, or as part of daily routines.
How Many Times Can You Recite the Fourth Kalima?
You can recite the Fourth Kalima as many times as desired. Though longer than the first three Kalimahs, with practice, it becomes easy to memorize and recite. Incorporating it into daily life helps strengthen one’s belief in Tawheed and protects against committing Shirk, a major sin in Islam.
Incorporating Kalima Tawheed into Daily Life
Making Kalima Tawheed a regular part of life greatly impacts one’s faith, reinforcing the core Islamic belief in Allah’s Oneness. It helps prevent Shirk and offers a constant reminder of Allah’s sovereignty. Regular recitation is not only spiritually beneficial but also brings immense rewards, as narrated in Hadith.
Benefits of Kalima Tawheed in Quran and Hadith
The essence of Kalima Tawheed is reflected in the Quran, particularly in Surah Al-Ikhlas. It encapsulates the core belief in Allah’s Oneness, aligning with the meaning of the Fourth Kalima.
The Hadith also highlights the importance of remembering Allah through phrases similar to those in the Fourth Kalima.
For example, a Hadith from Sunan An Nasai narrates the significance of reciting phrases affirming Allah’s Oneness after every prayer.
The practice, similar to the recitation of Kalima Tawheed, emphasizes the rewards and spiritual benefits that come with frequent recitation. Similarly, a Hadith from Sahih Muslim further supports this practice.
Conclusion
The Fourth Kalima, Kalima Tawheed, holds a central place in Islamic teachings. It affirms the fundamental belief in the Oneness of Allah, strengthening a Muslim’s faith and devotion.
By reciting it regularly, one can avoid the sin of Shirk, deepen their understanding of Tawheed, and receive immense rewards from Allah.