Nasheed in it's basic form simply means song. However in Islam what is meant by Nasheed is a song that carries with it an Islamic belief, practice, etiquette, lesson etc.

They do take many forms. Some are just pure simple praises of Allah(swt), some have very specific lessons related to Qur'anic passages, some are lessons of life stated in an Islamic manner.

According to many scholars a Nasheed should be voice only with no use of musical instruments.

Here are some examples of simple Nasheeds meant to acknowledge Allah(swt)
it is normal to break out in words of joy when speaking of Allah(swt).

http://s167.photobucket.com/albums/u...allah-Arab.flv

This one also gives a lesson.

http://s167.photobucket.com/albums/u...outPraying.flv


This one is to send a Message to all people to help them understand Islam

http://i167.photobucket.com/albums/u...everwonder.swf

To me the most Beautiful Nasheeds are those by Children.

http://s167.photobucket.com/albums/u...children11.flv

http://s167.photobucket.com/albums/u...rChildren4.flv

http://s167.photobucket.com/albums/u...rChildren5.flv


Then there are the ones made especially for children. Pure wholesome songs, intended to give lessons and messages of joy.


http://s167.photobucket.com/albums/u...hrahQalbee.flv

http://s167.photobucket.com/albums/u...rChildren1.flv

http://s167.photobucket.com/albums/u...ent=YaMama.flv

http://s167.photobucket.com/albums/u...children10.flv

Islam is a very joyful Religion. Song is one way of expressing the joy of Islam.

sorry a little off topic, but -
it just occurred to me - is 'nasheed' from the same root as "shahada"?

No it is not off topic. Very good question in fact.


I can not think of the root of either. But, it would make sense if they where as both are reference to something spoken.

Perhaps a member more versed in Arabic Grammar will fill us in.

Nashid is not from "shahada" rather from "Nashada".
Nashid = song , Hymn, anthem.
Best of luck

Assalamu Alaikum

Just to add, anasheed is the plural form of nasheed. So the root word would most commonly appear in the singular form rather than the plural form.

fi aman allah
w'salaam

nassheed does create peace i someone's heart..try it..u'll find peace =)