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
Usul al-Fiqh (Principles of Jurisprudence)
Islamic legal theory that defines the methods for deriving legal rules from the sacred sources.
Maghrib (Sunset Prayer)
The fourth daily prayer, performed just after sunset.
Masjid (Mosque)
The Islamic house of worship, where Muslims gather for congregational prayer.
Ashura (The Tenth of Muharram)
The tenth day of Muharram, the commemoration of Imam Husayn's martyrdom.
Khalifah (Caliph/Successor)
The political and religious leader of the Muslim community after the Prophet's passing.
Dhuhr (Noon Prayer)
The second daily prayer, performed when the sun passes its zenith.