الشَّهِيدُ
50. Ash-Shahid
The Witness
Meaning of Ash-Shahid
The One who is the ultimate witness to all things, and nothing is hidden from Him. He witnesses all actions, intentions, and events, and His testimony is the ultimate truth on the Day of Judgment.
Benefits of Reciting Ash-Shahid
- Instills a profound sense of accountability, knowing that Ash-Shahid is the ultimate witness to every deed, good or bad.
- Provides immense strength and solace to those who are falsely accused or whose good deeds are denied by others, as they know The True Witness sees the truth.
- Encourages honesty and truthfulness in all aspects of life, as one strives to have a good testimony from Ash-Shahid.
Ash-Shahid in the Quran
Mentioned 18 times in the Quran, including '...And sufficient is Allah as Witness.' (4:79).
How to Make Dua with 'Ya Ash-Shahid'
When calling upon Ash-Shahid, you are declaring that His witness is sufficient for you. It is a plea for your deeds to be accepted and for the truth to be made manifest.
When Falsely Accused or Slandered
"'Ya Shahid, You are the Witness over all things. You know the truth of my situation. Your witness is sufficient for me against what they say.'"
After Performing a Good Deed in Secret
"'Ya Shahid, I did this deed for Your sake alone. Be my witness for it and accept it from me.'"
For Bearing Witness to the Truth
"'Ya Shahid, make me among those who stand firm for justice, bearing witness for You, even if it is against myself.'"
Frequently Asked Questions
They are very similar. Ar-Raqib (The Watchful One) often emphasizes the act of observing and guarding with care. Ash-Shahid (The Witness) often emphasizes the act of bearing witness for the purpose of testimony and accountability on the Day of Judgment. Ar-Raqib is the guard on duty; Ash-Shahid is the one who will testify in court about what the guard saw.
The Quran mentions that many will bear witness: the angels who record our deeds, the Prophets against their people, our own limbs (hands, feet, skin), and the earth itself. However, the ultimate, all-encompassing, and most perfect witness is Allah Himself, Ash-Shahid.
It is a source of hope for the righteous person whose good deeds are done in secret, because they know Ash-Shahid witnesses and will reward them. It is a source of healthy fear for the sinner, because they know Ash-Shahid witnesses their sins, and they will be held accountable. This balance encourages good and discourages evil.
Quick Quiz
Question 1: The name Ash-Shahid means that on the Day of Judgment, Allah will be the ultimate:
Question 2: For a person who is falsely accused, belief in Ash-Shahid provides a strong sense of:
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