Terrorists Asked Victims To Recite 'Kalma' Before Shooting Them In Pahalgam's Baisaran Valley: Know What These Islamic Verses Mean

In a recent act of brutality in Kahsmir's Pahalgam where innocent tourists were shot dead by Militants, reports have emerged that terrorists forced their victims to recite the Kalma-a central tenet of Islamic faith-before executing them.

Sushil Nathaniel (58) was one of the victims of this terror attack. He was with his wife, daughter and son while this henious attack took place. His cousin Sanjay Kumrawat told PTI, "We have spoken to Sushil Nathaniel's wife and son over the phone. They told us that terrorists asked Sushil's name and forced him to kneel down, they then asked him to recite the Kalma (phrase articulating Islamic faith). When Sushil said that he could not recite Kalma, the terrorists shot him.'' Similar stories form the families of victims and eye-witnesses have emerged.

This chilling detail has shocked communities and raised questions about the misuse of religious texts in acts of violence. To understand the gravity of this act, it's important to know what the 'Kalma' is and why its misuse in such a context is deeply disturbing.

What Is the Kalma or Shahada?

The Kalma (or Shahada) is an Islamic declaration of faith, considered the foundation of belief for Muslims. It states:

"La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur rasulullah",
which translates to: "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah."

This declaration is the first of the five pillars of Islam and is recited by those who embrace the faith. It is believed that the first Kalma is read or recited before one dies. It is an expression, spiritual one, of submission, peace, and belief, and that is not something to be forced or manipulated.

Second Kalma - Shahadat

"Ashhadu alla ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lahu wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan abduhoo wa rasooluhu."

It translastes to I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger. It affirms a conscious, personal acceptance of faith.

Third Kalma - Tamjeed

"Subhanallahi walhamdulillahi wa la ilaha illallahu wallahu akbar, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billahi aliyil adeem"

It translates to Glory be to Allah, and all praise is for Allah, and there is no god but Allah, and Allah is the Greatest. This Kalma focuses on praising and glorifying God.

Fourth Kalma - Tawheed

"Laa ilaha illal lahoo wahdahoo la shareekalahoo lahul mulko walahul hamdo yuhee wa yumeeto wa hoa haiy yul la yamooto abadan abada zul jalali wal ikraam beyadihil khair. Wa howa ala kulli shayi in qadeer"

A detailed affirmation of God's unity and denial of any partners, emphasising pure monotheism.

Fifth Kalma - Astaghfar

"Astaghfirullah rabbi min kullay zambin aznabtuho amadan ao khat an sirran ao alaniatan wa atubu ilaihee min az zambil lazee aalamo wa min az zambil lazee la aalamo innaka anta allamul ghuyoobi wa sattaarul oyobi wa ghaffar uz zunoobi wala ha ola wala quwwata illa bila hil aliyil azeem"

It translates to I seek forgiveness from Allah, my Lord, from every sin I committed knowingly or unknowingly. A prayer for forgiveness and spiritual cleansing.

Misuse of faith as a Tool of Violence

Forcing someone to recite the Kalma under threat of death represents a alteration of its meaning. Islam, like many major religions, forbids compulsion in matters of faith. The Quran clearly states, "There is no compulsion in religion" (Quran 2:256).

news