Understanding the Testimony: “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah”
Understanding the Testimony: “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah” is essential for every Muslim. This declaration is not merely a verbal affirmation but a reflection of deep conviction and commitment to follow the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It emphasizes that Muhammad is the final prophet sent by Allah to guide humanity towards truth and righteousness. By accepting this testimony, believers commit to embodying the values he taught and following the Quran and Sunnah in every aspect of life. This statement is a fundamental part of the Shahada, shaping the identity and actions of Muslims worldwide.
The declaration that “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah” is not just a statement but an affirmation of several key beliefs and responsibilities. Failing to understand and implement this testimony properly can lead one astray from the Straight Path. Here are the core aspects of this declaration:
1. Affirming the Prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him)
- Chosen by Allah: This testimony asserts that Allah selected the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) specifically to convey His message. Allah declares in the Quran, “Allah knows best with whom to place His Message” (6:124).
- Significance of Choice: Allah’s wisdom and justice ensure that He chose someone trustworthy, truthful, and capable of fulfilling the mission faithfully. Doubting the Prophet’s message implies doubting Allah’s choice, which constitutes disbelief.
2. Prophet for All Mankind
- Universal Messenger: The declaration also means believing that the Prophet (peace be upon him) was sent for all people and all times until the Day of Judgment. Allah says, “Say [O Muhammad]: O mankind! Verily, I am sent to you all as the Messenger of Allah” (7:158).
- Obligation to Follow: This means that his teachings and Sunnah are binding on everyone from his time onward, making his guidance relevant for all people, including those alive today.
3. Complete Conveyance of the Message
- Total and Clear Guidance: This testimony affirms that the Prophet (peace be upon him) conveyed the message completely, accurately, and clearly. Allah states, “The Messenger’s duty is only to convey (the message) in a clear way” (29:18). The Prophet said, “I left you on a bright path whose night and day are alike. No one strays from it after me except he is destroyed.” Sunan Ibn Majah 43
- No Need for External Sources: Given that the Prophet provided comprehensive guidance, there is no need for a Muslim to seek religious teachings from other sources, such as the texts of Jews, Christians, or Greek philosophers. This includes any other guidance outside the Quran and Sunnah.
Also see: Learn Quran Online.
4. Finality of Prophethood
- Last Messenger: Declaring Muhammad as the Messenger of Allah affirms that he is the final prophet, as Allah says, “Muhammad is not the father of any man among you, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Last of the Prophets” (33:40).
- Denial of Future Prophets: After the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), no new prophet will come, nor will there be any scripture that alters his message. If anyone claims prophethood after him, they are a deceiver, and belief in them nullifies the testimony of faith.
Responsibilities Stemming from the Testimony
- Implying Responsibilities: The testimony of faith not only signifies belief but also brings specific responsibilities. Declaring “there is none worthy of worship except Allah” obligates one to worship only Allah. Similarly, declaring “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah” obligates one to follow the Prophet’s teachings.
A. Loving the Prophet (peace be upon him)
- Greater than All Worldly Attachments: True faith requires that one loves the Prophet (peace be upon him) above everything else. Allah states, “Say: If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your wives, your kindred, the wealth that you have gained, the commerce in which you fear a decline, and the dwellings in which you delight are dearer to you than Allah and His Messenger, and striving hard and fighting in His cause, then wait until Allah brings about His Decision (torment)” (9:24).
B. Following the Prophet as an Example
- Model of Conduct: This testimony means taking the Prophet (peace be upon him) as an example for behavior and lifestyle. Allah says, “Indeed in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example to follow for him who hopes in (a good meeting with) Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much” (33:21).
- Complete Submission: Those who profess faith in the Prophet yet refuse to follow his example contradict their declaration. The Prophet stated, “I swear by Allah that I am the most fearful of Allah and most conscious of Him than all of you. But I also [as part of my Sunnah] fast and break my fast, pray and sleep [at night] and I marry women. Whoever turns away from my Sunnah is not from me [that is, is not one of my true followers].” Refusing his Sunnah undermines the declaration of faith itself.
Conclusion
The testimony that “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah” is a comprehensive statement that includes beliefs, responsibilities, and obligations. This declaration affirms belief in his unique prophethood, the finality of his message, and the necessity to follow his example as the complete model for a life of faith. Neglecting these aspects can contradict the core foundation of one’s Islamic faith, underscoring the importance of fully understanding and embracing the implications of this testimony.
