The Excellence of Sincere Declaration of Faith

This noble hadith from Jami' at-Tirmidhi (3590) highlights the immense spiritual weight and divine acceptance of the kalimah tawhid when uttered with true conviction and sincerity of heart.

Scholarly Commentary on the Ascent to the Throne

The phrase "until it reaches to the Throne" signifies the ultimate acceptance and honor bestowed upon this declaration. Classical scholars explain that the testimony of faith ascends through the heavenly realms, gaining divine approval at each level, until it arrives at the highest point of creation - the Divine Throne ('Arsh).

Imam al-Mubarakfuri in his commentary on Jami' at-Tirmidhi states that this ascent demonstrates the statement's purity and its bearer's sincerity, causing the heavens to open in reverence to the greatest name of Allah contained within this declaration.

The Condition of Avoiding Major Sins

The qualification "so long as he avoids the major sins" indicates that while the declaration itself is immensely powerful, its full spiritual benefits require the avoidance of kabā'ir (major sins). Scholars note this doesn't nullify the declaration's validity but rather ensures its uninterrupted spiritual ascent and complete divine acceptance.

As Imam Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali explains in his commentary, major sins create spiritual barriers that may hinder the full manifestation of the kalimah's blessings, though the fundamental faith remains intact for the believer who avoids shirk.

Practical Implications for the Believer

This hadith encourages frequent and mindful recitation of La ilaha illallah with proper understanding of its meaning and requirements. It teaches that true monotheism must be coupled with righteous action and avoidance of grave disobedience.

The scholars emphasize that this narration serves as both a great encouragement toward sincere faith and a gentle warning against complacency regarding major sins, creating a balanced approach to spiritual development.