Takbir is the Arabic phrase “Allahu Akbar” (الله أكبر), meaning “Allah is the Greatest.” It is a fundamental expression in Islam, used in prayers (Salah), Adhan (call to prayer), Eid celebrations, Hajj, and moments of gratitude or hardship. Takbir signifies Allah’s supreme greatness and authority, strengthening faith and devotion among Muslims. It is widely mentioned in the Quran and Hadith, emphasizing its spiritual significance.
What is Takbir?
Takbir is the Arabic phrase “Allahu Akbar,” which means “Allah is the Greatest.” It is one of the most frequently recited phrases in Islam, expressing Allah’s greatness and majesty.
Takbir Meaning
The term Takbir is derived from the Arabic root “K-B-R” (Kabir), meaning “great.” When a Muslim utters “Allahu Akbar”, it signifies that Allah is above all things in power, might, and authority. This phrase is an essential part of Islamic worship and devotion.
Eid Takbeer full
The full Eid Takbeer (Takbirat al-Eid), recited during Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, is as follows:
اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ، لاَ إِلٰهَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ، اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلَّهِ الْحَمْدُ
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa Lillahil Hamd.
Translation:
“Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. There is no deity except Allah. Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, and to Allah belongs all praise.”
It is Sunnah to recite this Takbeer multiple times, especially on the Eid prayer day, starting from Maghrib of the night before Eid until the Eid prayer. For Eid al-Adha, the Takbeer continues throughout the Days of Tashreeq (11th-13th Dhul-Hijjah) after every Fard prayer.
Takbir in Islam
Takbir holds immense significance in Islam and is mentioned multiple times in the Quran and Hadith. It serves as a declaration of faith, submission, and glorification of Allah.
Quranic References of Takbir
Allah commands the believers to glorify Him by reciting Takbir in various places in the Holy Quran:
- Surah Al-Isra (17:111) – “And say: Praise be to Allah, Who has not taken a son and has no partner in sovereignty, nor has He any protector out of weakness; and magnify Him with great Takbir.”
- Surah Al-Hajj (22:37) – “It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him. Thus, have We subjected them to you that you may glorify Allah for His guidance to you. And give glad tidings to the doers of good.”
Hadith on the Importance of Takbir
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the significance of Takbir in various Hadiths:
- Sahih Bukhari – The Prophet (PBUH) said: “The best words are four: SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah), Alhamdulillah (Praise be to Allah), La ilaha illa Allah (There is no deity but Allah), and Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest).”
- Sahih Muslim – The Prophet (PBUH) said: “When a believer says ‘Allahu Akbar,’ the heavens open, and the mercy of Allah descends upon him.”
Takbir in Namaz (Prayer)
Takbir plays a crucial role in Islamic prayer (Salah). It is recited multiple times during prayer to signify different postures and movements.
Types of Takbir in Namaz
- Takbir al-Ihram (Opening Takbir)
- The prayer begins with “Allahu Akbar”, signifying entering the state of Salah.
- This is an obligatory act (Fard) without which prayer is invalid.
- Takbir al-Intiqal (Transition Takbir)
- Recited when moving between different positions in prayer, such as from standing to bowing (Ruku) or prostration (Sujood).
- Takbir in Eid Salah (Takbirat al-Tashreeq)
- Recited during Eid prayers and on the days of Tashreeq (11th to 13th Dhul-Hijjah).
- Eid Takbir: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa Lillahil Hamd.”
Takbir in Daily Life
Takbir is not limited to Salah; it is also used in daily life, to express gratitude, joy, and submission to Allah’s will.
Situations Where Takbir is Recited
- During Adhan (Call to Prayer): The phrase “Allahu Akbar” is repeated multiple times in the call to prayer.
- In Times of Difficulty: Muslims say Takbir when facing challenges, trusting in Allah’s power and wisdom.
- During Islamic Celebrations: Takbir is recited abundantly during Eid festivals, Hajj, and other significant Islamic occasions.
- In Battle and Victory: Historically, Takbir has been used as a phrase of strength and faith in times of war and success.
Virtues and Benefits of Reciting Takbir
Reciting Takbir carries numerous spiritual and psychological benefits, including:
- Strengthening Faith: Constantly reminding oneself of Allah’s greatness enhances one’s Iman (faith).
- Bringing Inner Peace: The remembrance of Allah through Takbir brings tranquility to the heart.
- Earning Rewards: Every recitation of “Allahu Akbar” earns rewards in the Hereafter.
- Protection from Evil: Regular remembrance of Allah protects against Shaytan’s whispers.
Conclusion
Takbir is a powerful phrase that signifies the greatness of Allah. It is deeply embedded in Islamic worship, daily life, and special occasions. By reciting “Allahu Akbar” with sincerity, Muslims reinforce their faith and strengthen their connection with Allah.
Whether in Namaz, Adhan, Eid, or personal devotion, Takbir remains a profound expression of glorification, submission, and trust in Allah. Let us incorporate this beautiful phrase into our lives and reap its spiritual blessings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is Takbir in English? A: Takbir in English means “Allah is the Greatest.”
Q2: How many times is Takbir recited in prayer? A: It is recited at the beginning (Takbir al-Ihram) and throughout the prayer during movements.
Q3: What is the significance of Takbir in Eid? A: Takbir is recited during Eid prayers and celebrations to glorify Allah and express gratitude.
Q4: Is Takbir only recited in prayer? A: No, it is also recited during Adhan, celebrations, battles, and daily life for spiritual strength.
By understanding and implementing the practice of Takbir, we can strengthen our faith and devotion to Allah in all aspects of life.
