Page:Thomas Patrick Hughes - Notes on Muhammadanism - 2ed. (1877).djvu/124

Rh 2.—That the meaning of it shall be fully understood.

3.—That it shall be believed in "by the heart."

4.—That it shall be professed until death.

5.—That it shall be recited correctly.

6.—That it shall be always professed and declared without hesitation.

Something similar to this celebrated symbol of the Muhammadan creed appears to have existed in Arabia previous to the foundation of Islamism. Dr. Arnold in his work on "Islám and Christianity," quotes the following prayer from the writings of Abulfaraj, which is said to have been used by the idolatrous Arabians:—"I dedicate myself to Thy service, O God! Thou hast no companion, except Thy companion, of whom Thou art absolute Master of whatever is his."