Minbar (Pulpit)
The elevated platform in the mosque from which the imam delivers the Friday khutbah.
Minbar is the elevated platform or staircase-like structure in the mosque from which the imam delivers the Friday khutbah and other sermons. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had his minbar built by a carpenter in Medina, and it consisted of three steps. He stood on the second step and used the top as a seat.
In a famous hadith in Sahih al-Bukhari, it is narrated that when the Prophet's minbar was built, the date palm trunk he used to lean against during sermons began to moan and weep, until the Prophet came down and comforted it. This event is known as "Hanin al-Jidh'" (the longing of the trunk).
The minbar has an important symbolic and practical function in the mosque. It ensures that the imam can be seen and heard by the entire congregation. Historically, the minbar has also served as a symbol of religious and political authority. The four rightly guided caliphs all used the Prophet's minbar in Medina. Today, minbar designs range from simple structures to elaborate architectural masterpieces in grand mosques around the world.
Related terms
Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba)
The ritual of walking seven times around the Kaaba counterclockwise as part of Hajj and Umrah.
Muharram (The Sacred Month)
The first and one of the four sacred months in the Islamic calendar.
Munajat (Intimate Supplication)
Intimate, personal conversations with Allah, an important part of Shia prayer tradition.
Du'a Kumayl (Kumayl's Supplication)
One of the most famous Shia supplications, taught by Imam Ali to Kumayl ibn Ziyad.
Tashahhud (Declaration of Faith in the Seated Position)
The specific recitation during the seated position in prayer, with greetings to the Prophet.
Akhirah (The Hereafter)
Life after death — the eternal life that prayer prepares the believer for.