The words Allahu Akbar are used regularly and again in every Muslim’s life; you may have heard them while a friend was praying, in a mosque, or even abused in a movie and wondered what they meant.
But these are some of the most significant words we frequently use during each salah (prayer), and they have a very vital significance, so if you want to know what Allah Akbar means, all you have to do is keep reading.
Allahu Akbar- A short study of its meanings:
Allāhu Akbar means ‘Allāh is the greatest.’ “Allāh is greater” may be a more appropriate translation.
The takbīr (Allāhu Akbar) consists of two words: Allah and Akbar.
Ism Tafdīl
Akbar is an ism tafdīl term.
There is such a thing in English as ism tafdīl. Adjectives are characterizing words in English that can have either a superlative or comparative structure.
When comparing more than one noun (object/thing), comparatives and superlatives are particular adjectives. For instance, the superlative is smartest, and the comparative is more thoughtful regarding the adjective smart.
Adjectives with a comparison convey more. Usually, they finish in -er. Examples are more excellent, quicker, and more powerful.
Superlatives provide the highest meaning. Most often, they finish in -est. The most significant, fastest, and strongest are a few examples.
Ism tafdīl is the Arabic phrase for both superlative and comparative.
Akbar is a Tafdīl
Akbar derives from the trilateral root kāf―bā―rā, meaning “greatness.” This refers to one of Allah’s names, Al-Kabīr.
Akbar, an ism tafdīl, can be rendered more significant (comparative) or greatest (superlative) based on its structure and context. Akbar in the takbīr (Allāhu akbar) has a relative meaning of ‘greater.’
The phrase Allāhu akbar translates to ‘Allāh is more significant.
The takbīr is open-ended.
‘Allāh is bigger’ is not a complete sentence. It invites the question, “Greater than what?” “What is Allah greater than?”
By omitting the item that Allāh is more excellent than, the takbīr remains open-ended.
Context brings this phrase’s open-endedness (or incompleteness) to completion. For example, when the caller to prayer (mu’adhdhin) says, “Allāhu Akbar! Allāhu Akbar!” a trader quickly recognizes and realizes that Allāh is more significant than his trade and leaves the lesser for the larger by establishing the prayer.
The takbīrāt (plural of takbīr) brings meaning and life to the rigid prayer rules. During prayer, it is forbidden to mention anything other than the words and praises of Allah, as Allāhu Akbar. During worship, it is not permitted to turn away from the Lord (Allāhu Akbar).
The first takbīr in the prayer is known as takbīratul-ihrām. As a result of this takbīr, what was previously acceptable, such as eating and drinking, became prohibited during prayer due to Allahu Akbar.
The takbīr is required in practically all prayer movements. It partially serves as a technique of bringing oneself out of heedlessness, as the mind is likely to wander during prayer. The Muslim is led from remembering the smaller to the remembrance of the greater.
Takbir and Al-Kabir
Al-Kabīr (The Most Great) is one of Allah’s names. The takbīr comes from this name. It is a Name that, when comprehended, restores peace and confidence to everyone who is overwhelmed. A Name reminds us of our goals, where true greatness rests, and who ultimately holds power.
The name Al-Haq (The Truth), Al-A’alā (The Most High), Al-Ghaniyy (The Rich and Self-Sufficient), Al-‘Azīz (The Mighty), Al-Qadīr (The Most Able), Al-Ajall (The Most Exalted, Noble and Beautiful), Al-A’alam (The Most Knowledgeable), Al-Ahkam (The Most Wise), and others are all associated with greatness.
Takbīr affirms these traits for Allāh alone, as people naturally gravitate towards them. The takbīr is heard and said in the adhān and salāh because many people forsake prayer to achieve specific characteristics.
If people seek provision and riches, they should recognize Al-Kabīr as Al-Ghaniyy. Similarly, if they seek ‘izzah (honor) or fear what others may do to them, they should realize Al-Kabīr as Al-Qadīr Al-‘Azīz as their supreme guardian.
The Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wa sallam would turn to His Attributes of Greatness for guidance and refuge when faced with challenges.
Implications of the Takbīr
Allāhu Akbar gives Muslims power, courage, and hope, removing fear and anxiety from their hearts. The mujāhidīn use the takbīr when facing the enemy, recognizing that despite their artillery, money, and numbers, a guardian is more vital than them.
Perhaps this explains why the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wa sallam declared, “Allāhu Akbar!” May Khaybar perish!” [Ahmad]
The Muslim uses Allah Akbar to seek relief from his hardships and make things easier. “And seek assistance with patience and ṣalāh,” declared Allah. “It is tough and weighty, save for al-khāshi’īn.” [2:45]
The path to Khushū’u is the takbīr, the firm recognition that Allah is more significant than all other things, along with an engaged heart and an aware mind.
The Muslim uses Allāhu Akbar as a method to purify his đmān in Allah. Through the takbīr, he proclaims the Name Al-Kabīr and acknowledges that Allāh is the only one deserving ultimate glory. This helps him purge unworthy beliefs about Allah, such as shirk, from his heart and mind. This is because Allah is more significant than any spouse or need.
The Muslim confirms Allāh’s Absolute Greatness in His Essence, Names, Attributes, and Actions through the takbīr. This Greatness is unique and particular to Him, free of shortcomings, deficiencies, or blasphemy.
The takbīr includes phrases such as lā ilāha illā-Allāh, subhānAllāh, alhamdulillāh, and so on. Allahu Akbar declared His magnificence by saying:
“And to Him belong the most beautiful Names.” [7:180]
“Do you know any similar to Him?” [19:65]
“There is nothing like Him.” [42:11]
To address the Misconceptions:
Sadly, some who engage in extremist activities have usurped the word. However, it’s crucial to understand that “Allahu Akbar” has a benign and constructive connotation.
Rather than being a violent cry, it represents a core belief for Muslims. It’s critical to separate the phrase’s actual meaning from its appropriation.
Its intended context is a profound appreciation for the divine, deep devotion, and humble submission. It is not an excuse to do damage but a summons to communion with the sacred.
Recall that the actual significance of “Allahu Akbar” is not in the misinterpretation of a select few but in its intrinsic message of divine greatness.
What Is the Meaning of Allahu Akbar in Salah (Prayers)?
Allahu Akbar is frequently used in salah; we repeat it at the beginning of our prayer as a declaration that “God is greater.” We use it at specified points throughout salah (prayer), such as transitions between positions.
- Takbir al-Ihram (Opening Takbir): It signifies the commencement of the prayer; thus, if you observe someone doing salah and uttering the opening Takbir, know that they have begun their prayer and are entirely focused.
- Takbir when transitioning between prayer positions: The phrase “Allahu Akbar” is said when changing poses in prayer, such as from standing to bowing (Ruku) and from turning to prostration (Sujud).
- Takbir before proceeding to Prostration: Another time occurs during the transition from standing to prostration, highlighting the worshipper’s humility and surrender to Allah.
- Takbir, before concluding the prayer: Every word helps to sustain an uninterrupted connection with the divine amidst the various movements and postures of worship.
Wrap-Up
“Allahu Akbar” is, at its core, a profound declaration of Allah’s glory that permeates every aspect of a Muslim’s life and transcends the confines of prayer. Its complex richness, bringing courage and spiritual purification, becomes evident when one examines its language origins, religious meaning, and practical uses in salah.
“Allahu Akbar” weaves through crucial points in the salah as a constant conduit to the almighty. It is more than just a word; it is a continual reminder that Allah’s majesty is paramount in every victory and breath, encouraging steadfast faith in His omnipresence and control over all facets of existence.