Islamiyat · May / June 2026 · Paper 21 · Question 4

Write about the two parts of the Declaration of Faith (Shahadah) and their importance. Use AO1 Levels of Response.

Shahada is the first Pillar of Islam and is a pledge made with God, which defines a person as a Muslim. The first part of the shahada is the declaration that there is no god other than God: this belief is the root of Islam. When a person confirms their belief that God is One, they associate no one else with Him.

The words of the shahada make a believer submit to the command and will of God and make them follow the rules and regulations laid down by Him knowing that all power lies with Him alone. Candidates could say here, to develop their answer, how this belief helps Muslims. The second part of the shahada is the belief that Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is the Messenger of God. With the second part of the shahada, Muslims are reminded of the guidance given to them by God through Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). Believers acknowledge the Prophet’s right to be respected and obeyed, knowing that he is the best of creation.

By reciting the shahada, a person, whether they were born amongst Muslims or converted to Islam later in their lifetime, becomes part of the Ummah through their common faith and through brotherhood regardless of their race or background.

The importance of the shahada is further highlighted by the various occasions upon which it is recited, showing its importance. Not only is the shahada recited during every salat, but it is also recited when converting to Islam, in the ear of a baby born to Muslims and when death approaches a believer.

In your opinion, why is belief in God connected to belief in the prophethood of Muhammad (pbuh)?

Use AO2 Levels of Response.

It could be said that belief in God is connected to belief in the prophethood of Muhammad (pbuh) as it is an integral part of the first Pillar of Islam. The Prophet (pbuh) was chosen by God to convey His final message to humanity and to guide them to the path of righteousness. God has highlighted this multiple times throughout the Qurʾan. References from the Qurʾan can be made to develop this point.

God has honored the Prophet (pbuh) by making belief in Himself inseparable from belief in the Prophet (pbuh).

All valid responses to be credited.