These words are thus similar to those recited at the conclusion of ablution.

The words concluding ablution include glorifying and praising Allah, affirming His oneness, and seeking forgiveness. Glorification, praise, and the affirmation of oneness are directed to Allah, for He alone brings good. Forgiveness is sought for the sins of the soul, from which evil arises. In several places in His Book, Allah joins the affirmation of His oneness with seeking forgiveness, as in His words:

“So know that there is no god worthy of worship but Allah, and seek forgiveness for your sin and for the believing men and women.”

And His words:

“Worship none but Allah. Indeed, I am to you from Him a warner and a bearer of good news.”

“And seek your Lord’s forgiveness, then repent to Him.”

And His words:

“Say, ‘I am only a human being like you. It is revealed to me that your God is One God, so take a straight course to Him and seek His forgiveness.’”

In a hadith narrated by Ibn Abī ʿĀsim and others:

“Satan says, ‘I destroyed people through sins, but they destroyed me by seeking forgiveness and affirming that there is no god worthy of worship but Allah. When I saw that, I spread whims among them. Thus they sin without seeking forgiveness, because they think they are doing good.’”

“There is no god worthy of worship but Allah” entails sincerity and reliance upon Allah, and sincerity entails gratitude. It is therefore the best of all utterances and the highest branch of faith. As is authentically established in the two Sahīh collections, the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said:

“Faith has more than