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
Salat al-Jama'ah (Congregational Prayer)
The congregational prayer, where Muslims pray together in rows behind an imam.
Du'a Arafah (Imam Husayn's Supplication at Arafah)
Imam Husayn's famous supplication, recited on the Day of Arafah, the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah.
Umrah (Lesser Pilgrimage)
The lesser pilgrimage to Mecca, which can be performed at any time of the year.
Qiyam (Standing Position)
The standing position in prayer, during which the Quran is recited.
Raf' al-Yadayn (Raising the Hands)
The practice of raising the hands to the shoulders or ears at specific points in the prayer.
Qiyas (Analogical Reasoning)
Legal analogy used to derive Islamic rules for new situations based on established rules.