When I first came across the 1st Kalima, it was more than just a phrase to memorize — it became the base of my faith. Known as Kalima Tayyaba or كلمات الطيبة, it reflects the purity and truth of Islamic belief. This popular and foremost part of Islam is taught early to every Muslim as the start of the five pillars.
The Kalima holds deep significance, not only as a fundamental truth but also as a spiritual pillar that defines our identity. We are taught to recite it frequently, making it part of our everyday spiritual routine. It’s learned, memorized, and practiced with devotion by Muslims worldwide.
When non-Muslims revert to Islam, their first act is to recite the Kalima Tayyaba or Shahadah. This symbolizes that the person has fully embraced and entered Islam with heart and intention. Saying these words marks a deep commitment to Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى and His Messenger, Muhammad ﷺ.
1st Kalma Tayyab in Arabic
1st Kalima Urdu Translation
1 Kalima English Translation
First Kalima English Transliteration
The Importance of Kalima Tayyaba
Foundation of Islamic Faith
The Kalima-e-Tayyaba is the base of faith for every Muslim, made of two parts. The first part shows the firm resolve of the reciter in worshiping Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى alone. This concept of monotheism is the foundation of Islam, basic and essential to every Muslim.
The second part of the Kalima Tayyaba gives confirmation that Muhammad ﷺ is the Messenger of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى. Every reciter believes he is the last and final Prophet, as agreed by Scholars. These parts, together, comprise the true meaning of submission to faith.
When both parts are combined, they form the first and most important pillar of Islam—Tawheed. A person who wants to embrace Islam must recite this phrase to begin their Islamic life. The first Kalima carries deep importance as a basic element of faith.
Benefits of Reciting the First Kalima
When and Where to Recite
The first Kalima is a powerful phrase that can be recited anytime and anywhere with no restriction. It is often the first thing a kid in a Muslim family learns at the beginning of life. Traditionally, kids are taught this Kalima along with other Kalimas in schools and Masjids, especially in South Asian countries.
The Role of Kalima Tayyab in Life
Muslims are taught to recite the Kalima Tayyab from the early stages of their life and during times of difficulties or gloomy periods. Reciting it helps strengthen faith and belief in Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى, giving them courage and patience to face miseries. This practice connects believers deeply to their faith, especially when facing life’s challenges.
Spiritual Benefits and Tawheed
The Kalima Tayyab emphasizes Tawheed, which confirms the Oneness of Allah. It reminds Muslims that their life’s purpose is to promote obedience to Allah and follow His directives. This core belief shapes a Muslim’s actions and intentions, rooting their entire spiritual journey in submission to God’s will.
Forgiveness and Reward
Reciting the Kalima sincerely brings forgiveness, Allah’s kindness, and pardon. It also ensures that a believer will enter Paradise, which is the ultimate reward in Islam. From my experience, regularly reciting the first Kalima offers peace and strength, making it a vital part of both daily worship and moments of hardship.
Benefits of the Kalima Tayyab Based on the Quran and Hadith
The Kalima Tayyab is the root of a Muslim’s belief and connection to Allah. Though the full phrase isn’t together in the Quran, La, ilaha, illallah, and Muhammad Rasulullah are found in different verses. Saying it with true heart and certainty shapes our faith.
Power of the Kalima in Hadith
Mu’adh, bin, Jabal narrated that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “There is no soul that died bearing witness to La ilaha illallah, and that I am the Messenger of Allah.” He added that from the heart, with certainty, but Allah will forgive it (Sunan, Ibn, Majah, 3796).
Another Hadith by Abu Hurairah tells us to urge “your dying ones to say La ilaha illallah” (Majah 1444). I have seen this done at many bedsides, often with calm and hope. It brings peace and dignity in life’s final moments.
The Core Pillars Around the Kalima
According to Ibn ‘Umar, Islam is based upon five: the testimony of La ilaha illallah, belief in Muhammad, and prayer. It also includes the establishment of Salat, giving Zakat, fasting in Ramadan, and performing Hajj to the House. The Kalima anchors every act of faith we practice in life.
Conclusion
The Kalima Tayyab is not just the entry point into Islam—it is the foundation upon which all other beliefs and actions stand. From its early teaching in childhood to its recitation at the time of death, it stays with a Muslim through every phase of life. Its words, whether in Arabic, Urdu, or English, reflect the unity of God and the truth of His Messenger.
Through the Quran and Hadith, we learn that reciting the Kalima with sincerity and certainty brings immense spiritual benefits, including forgiveness, peace, and a strengthened connection to Allah. It is a living declaration of Tawheed, constantly reminding us of our purpose and grounding us in submission to God. In both ease and hardship, the Kalima Tayyab becomes a believer’s greatest source of strength and clarity.