Takbir (Allahu Akbar)
The exclamation "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest), marking transitions in the prayer.
Takbir (Arabic: تكبير) is the exclamation "Allahu Akbar", meaning "Allah is the Greatest" or "Allah is Greater". Takbir is used throughout the Islamic prayer to mark transitions between the prayer's different positions.
The first takbir in the prayer is called "takbirat al-ihram" (the opening takbir) and is what officially starts the prayer. From this moment, the worshipper is in a state of ihram (sanctity), and worldly actions such as speaking, eating and drinking are forbidden until the prayer's conclusion.
Takbir is also said during the transition from standing to ruku, from ruku to sajdah, between the two sajdah, and when rising to the next rak'ah. It reminds the worshipper of Allah's greatness at each shift in the prayer.
Outside of prayer, takbir is used during Islamic holidays (Eid), during the adhan, and as a general expression of joy and gratitude toward Allah.
Related terms
Adhan (Call to Prayer)
The Islamic call to prayer, recited by a muezzin.
Niyyah (Intention)
The conscious intention in the heart to perform a specific prayer.
Du'a Tawassul (Supplication of Intercession)
A supplication where one asks Allah through the intercession of the Prophet and Ahl al-Bayt.
Muezzin (Caller to Prayer)
The person who calls to prayer by reciting the adhan.
Hajj (Pilgrimage)
The annual pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the five pillars of Islam, obligatory for every Muslim with the ability.
Tawakkul (Trust in Allah)
Total trust and reliance on Allah in all of life's matters.