Takbirat al-Eid: A Celebration of Faith and Unity

Takbirat al-Eid (تَكْبِيرَات الْعِيد) are the special glorifications of Allah recited during the Islamic Eid festivals, Eid al-Fitr (the Festival of Breaking the Fast) and Eid al-Adha (the Festival of Sacrifice). These recitations serve as a powerful expression of faith, gratitude, and unity among Muslims worldwide.

The Significance of Takbir

The word “Takbir” itself means “to declare Allah to be the Greatest.” The primary phrase recited is “Allahu Akbar” (الله أكبر), which translates to “Allah is the Greatest.” This declaration reaffirms the belief in the absolute supremacy and unparalleled greatness of God. By repeatedly proclaiming this truth, Muslims acknowledge their dependence on Allah and express their submission to His will.

During Eid, the Takbirat take on a heightened significance. They are a public display of gratitude for the blessings Allah has bestowed upon the Muslim community. During Eid al-Fitr, they are recited in thanks for the successful completion of Ramadan, the month of fasting. During Eid al-Adha, they celebrate the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage and commemorate the sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), reaffirming the commitment to obedience and devotion to God.

Different Forms of Takbir

While “Allahu Akbar” is the core component, the Takbirat are often extended with additional phrases that further emphasize the glory and praise of Allah. A common longer form includes:

Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahil hamd.

(الله أكبر، الله أكبر، الله أكبر، لا إله إلا الله، الله أكبر، الله أكبر، ولله الحمد)

This translates to: “Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, There is no god but Allah, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, and to Allah belongs all praise.”

Different regions and Islamic traditions may incorporate variations or additions to these phrases, but the central message remains the same: to glorify Allah and express gratitude for His blessings.

When are Takbirat Recited?

The timing of Takbirat varies slightly between Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

• Eid al-Fitr: Takbirat are generally recited from the sunset of the last day of Ramadan until the Eid prayer is performed the following morning.
• Eid al-Adha: Takbirat al-Adha are more extensive, beginning after the Fajr (dawn) prayer on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (the Day of Arafah) and continuing until after the Asr (afternoon) prayer on the 13th of Dhul Hijjah. This is known as Takbir al-Mutlaq (unrestricted Takbir) and Takbir al-Muqayyad (restricted Takbir), meaning they are recited both at all times and specifically after the obligatory prayers.

Takbirat can be recited individually or collectively, in mosques, homes, and public spaces. The resounding echo of Takbirat during Eid creates a powerful atmosphere of joy, unity, and spiritual upliftment, reminding Muslims of their shared faith and devotion to Allah.