"Whoever says, when he hears the Mu'adhdhin: 'Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lahu wa anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa Rasuluhu, raditu Billahi Rabban, wa bil-Islami dinan was bi Muhammadin Rasula (I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah alone, with no partner or associate, and that Muhammad is the His slave and Messenger; I am content with Allah as my Lord, Islam as my religion and Muhammad as my Messenger),' his sins will be forgiven."
The Book of the Adhan (The Call to Prayer)
Sunan an-Nasa'i - Hadith 679
Hadith Text & Translation
"Whoever says, when he hears the Mu'adhdhin: 'Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah wahdahu la sharika lahu wa anna Muhammadan 'abduhu wa Rasuluhu, raditu Billahi Rabban, wa bil-Islami dinan was bi Muhammadin Rasula (I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah alone, with no partner or associate, and that Muhammad is the His slave and Messenger; I am content with Allah as my Lord, Islam as my religion and Muhammad as my Messenger),' his sins will be forgiven."
Scholarly Commentary (Tafsir)
This noble hadith establishes a profound spiritual opportunity for the Muslim community. The response to the adhan is not merely a repetition of words, but an affirmation of faith that carries immense reward.
The declaration begins with the twin testimony of faith (Shahadatayn), affirming Allah's absolute Oneness (Tawhid) and the truthful messengership of Muhammad (peace be upon him). The phrase "'abduhu" (His slave) emphasizes the Prophet's perfect servitude to Allah, which is the highest honor for a created being.
The subsequent expression of contentment (rida) with Allah as Lord, Islam as religion, and Muhammad as Messenger represents the perfection of faith. This contentment signifies complete acceptance and satisfaction with divine decree, demonstrating a heart free from doubt and full of submission.
The promise of forgiveness for sins refers to minor sins, as major sins require specific repentance. This demonstrates Allah's immense mercy in granting such comprehensive forgiveness for a brief, yet sincere, utterance of faith following the call to prayer.
Legal Ruling & Practice
The scholars are unanimous that responding to the adhan with this specific supplication is a highly recommended Sunnah (mustahabb). It should be recited silently after hearing the call to prayer, particularly after the Mu'adhdhin completes the full adhan.
This practice connects the believer directly to the fundamental pillars of faith each time the call to prayer is heard, serving as a regular renewal of one's Islamic creed and commitment.