Eid is not just a celebration. It’s a spiritual moment. A time when our hearts feel full, and our tongues remember Allah. One of the most beautiful traditions during Eid is the Takbeerat al eid.
As a child, I remember walking to the mosque early in the morning with my father. The air was cool. The streets were quiet except for one sound echoing from every direction:
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahil hamd.
This rhythm filled our hearts with joy. But what does it really mean? Why do we recite it? Let’s explore.
What Is Takbeerat al Eid?
Takbeerat al Eid means the proclamation of Allah’s greatness. Muslims chant these beautiful words during Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha to express gratitude and joy after completing acts of worship.
These takbeers begin after Maghrib on the night before Eid and continue until the Eid prayer. On Eid al-Adha, especially during the days of Tashreeq, it is a daily Sunnah after every obligatory prayer.
Full Arabic Verse of Takbeer
The most well-known and commonly recited Takbeer is:
Arabic:
اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ، وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلّٰهِ الْحَمْدُ
Transliteration:
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil hamd.
English Translation:
Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. There is no deity but Allah. Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, and to Allah belongs all praise.
These words are more than just phrases. They are a declaration of faith, unity, and humility before our Creator.
The Meaning Behind the Words
Let’s break it down:
- Allahu Akbar – “Allah is the Greatest.”
It reminds us that nothing is above Allah. All our problems, blessings, hopes – everything is under His control. - La ilaha illallah – “There is no god but Allah.”
This is the foundation of our belief. Tawheed. It brings peace to the soul and clarity to the heart. - Wa lillahil hamd – “And to Allah belongs all praise.”
We thank Him for guiding us, blessing us, and allowing us to witness another Eid.
When Do We Recite Takbeer e Tashreeq?
Takbeer e Tashreeq is a specific type of Takbeer said after every Fardh (obligatory) Salah from the Fajr of 9th Dhul Hijjah to the Asr of 13th Dhul Hijjah. It is a Sunnah for both men and women.
Arabic:
اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ، وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلّٰهِ الْحَمْدُ
This shows how Islam reminds us to stay connected to Allah – even during celebrations. The more we remember Him, the more peace we feel in our hearts.
The Wisdom from Quran and Hadith
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And that you must magnify Allah for having guided you so that you may be grateful.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185)
This verse was revealed regarding the completion of Ramadan. The scholars say it is a reason for the Takbeer on Eid al-Fitr.
The Prophet ﷺ and the Sahabah used to recite these Takbeerat in the streets, markets, and mosques to glorify Allah. (Ibn Abi Shaybah)
Even women in their homes were encouraged to join in the Takbeer – showing its importance for every believer.
How to Make Your Eid More Spiritual
- Start your morning with the Takbeer. Wake up before Fajr. Say the Takbeer out loud with your family.
- Say it while walking to the mosque. If possible, walk instead of driving.
- Teach your kids the meaning. Let them hear it from you and learn why it matters.
- Play it softly at home. Fill your home with remembrance of Allah.
- Say it with reflection. Don’t just repeat – feel the meaning.
Personal Reflection
Every year, when I say the Takbeerat, I remember how my grandparents used to say it with tears in their eyes. They had gone through struggles. But during Eid, all they did was praise Allah.
It made me realize: No matter what we go through, Allah deserves our praise.
Conclusion
Takbeerat al eid is more than a tradition. It’s a heartfelt expression of faith, gratitude, and love for Allah. It connects us to the Sahabah, to the Prophet ﷺ, and to each other as one Ummah.
Let us not treat it as a formality. Let’s bring it to life in our homes, streets, and hearts.
May Allah accept our Eid, our worship, and our Takbeerat.
Ameen.
References:
- The Holy Qur’an (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185)
- Ibn Abi Shaybah – Musannaf
- Tafsir al-Tabari
- Sahih al-Bukhari (General Eid guidance)
