الشهادة
The phrase "the shahada" in Arabic is الشهادة.
In a religious context, الشهادة refers specifically to the Islamic declaration of faith.
What does it mean word for word?
The word الشهادة means "the testimony/witnessing" and is derived from the root sh-h-d, meaning to witness or testify.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word includes the definite article 'al-' (ال), making it 'the testimony' rather than just 'testimony'.
Did you know?
- The word الشهادة is also used in modern Arabic to refer to a formal educational certificate or diploma.
- The term الشهادة can also refer to 'martyrdom' in certain historical and religious contexts, describing the act of bearing witness through death.
- Although it is a formal declaration, the الشهادة is often whispered into the ear of a dying person to help them transition peacefully into the afterlife.
Examples in context
- لم يعلن الشهادة بعد.He hasn't said the shahada yet.This sentence shows the use of الشهادة regarding whether someone has declared it.Tatoeba #11824755 by dididodo, translation #8276036 by Amastan
- يريد أن يؤدي الشهادة.He wants to take the shahada.This sentence uses الشهادة to express a desire to perform the declaration.Tatoeba #10259579 by Amghar, translation #8249600 by Amastan
- كرر الشهادة بعدي.Repeat the shahada after me.This sentence uses الشهادة in the context of repeating the declaration after someone.Tatoeba #11974719 by dididodo, translation #8203991 by Amastan
Example conversation
Sarah is asking Omar about the requirements for becoming a Muslim.
- سارة Saraماذا يجب أن أفعل أولاً؟Madha yajib an af'al awwalan?What should I do first?
- عمر Omarيجب عليكِ نطق الشهادة.Yajib 'alayki nutq ash-shahada.You must recite the shahada.
- سارة Saraهل الشهادة صعبة الحفظ؟Hal ash-shahada sa'bat al-hifz?Is the shahada difficult to memorize?
- عمر Omarلا، إنها بسيطة وقصيرة جداً.La, innaha basita wa qasira jiddan.No, it is very simple and short.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
