The Number of Takbeers in the Eid al-Adha Prayer: A Comprehensive Exploration
Eid al-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. It is marked by acts of devotion, including special prayers, communal gatherings, and the act of Qurbani (sacrificing an animal in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son for the sake of Allah). Among the various rituals, the Eid prayer stands as a central act of worship during the celebration. One of its defining characteristics is the inclusion of additional Takbeers (the phrase “Allahu Akbar” meaning “Allah is the Greatest”).
Understanding the number of Takbeers in the Eid prayer is essential for Muslims who seek to observe their worship in alignment with Islamic teachings. However, due to differences in Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), there are slight variations in the number and placement of these Takbeers across schools of thought. This article explores the practice in detail, offering insight into its religious significance and variations.
Structure of the Eid Prayer
The Eid prayer is performed in congregation, typically in open spaces like an Eidgah or a mosque. It consists of two rak’ahs (units of prayer) and is unique because of the additional Takbeers recited within it. The prayer is preceded or followed by a khutbah (sermon) delivered by the imam, emphasizing the values of sacrifice, gratitude, and devotion.
Number of Takbeers in Eid al-Adha Prayer
The number of Takbeers differs among the four major schools of Islamic jurisprudence: Hanafi, Shafi’i, Maliki, and Hanbali. These differences are rooted in variations in prophetic traditions (ahadith) and the methodologies used to derive rulings.
1. Hanafi School
- The Hanafi school prescribes a total of six Takbeers in the Eid prayer, distributed across two rak’ahs.
- In the first rak’ah, there are three Takbeers recited before the Quranic recitation (Surah Al-Fatiha and another surah).
- In the second rak’ah, three additional Takbeers are recited after the recitation of the Quran and before going into the bowing position (ruku).
2. Shafi’i School
- According to the Shafi’i school, there are twelve Takbeers in total:
- In the first rak’ah, seven Takbeers are recited after the opening Takbeer (Takbeerat-ul-Ihram) and before the Quranic recitation.
- In the second rak’ah, five Takbeers are recited after rising from sujood (prostration) and before the Quranic recitation.
3. Maliki School
- The Maliki school prescribes eleven Takbeers:
- In the first rak’ah, six Takbeers are recited, including the opening Takbeer.
- In the second rak’ah, five Takbeers are recited before the Quranic recitation begins.
4. Hanbali School
- In the Hanbali school, the total number of Takbeers is twelve, similar to the Shafi’i practice:
- In the first rak’ah, seven Takbeers are recited after the opening Takbeer and before the Quranic recitation.
- In the second rak’ah, five Takbeers are recited after rising and before the Quranic recitation.
A Table Summarizing Takbeers in the Eid Prayer
| School of Thought | Number of Takbeers in First Rak’ah | Number of Takbeers in Second Rak’ah | Total Number of Takbeers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hanafi | 3 | 3 | 6 |
| Shafi’i | 7 | 5 | 12 |
| Maliki | 6 | 5 | 11 |
| Hanbali | 7 | 5 | 12 |
Why Do the Numbers Vary?
The variations in the number of Takbeers stem from the diversity of narrations attributed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the interpretation of these narrations by scholars. Different companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) transmitted varying reports about the Prophet’s practice during the Eid prayer. These reports formed the basis for the rulings in the schools of jurisprudence. Despite the differences, all approaches are valid and rooted in authentic traditions.
The Religious Significance of Takbeers
Takbeers during the Eid prayer symbolize glorification and praise of Allah. They remind worshippers of the greatness of Allah and instill humility and gratitude in their hearts. The act of reciting Takbeers together as a congregation fosters a sense of unity and collective devotion among Muslims.
In addition to the Takbeers in the prayer, Muslims are encouraged to recite the Takbeerat al-Tashreeq (“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, la ilaha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar wa lillahi al-hamd”) loudly and frequently throughout the days of Eid, beginning from the dawn of the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah (the Day of Arafah) until the sunset of the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.
Practical Considerations for Worshippers
- Following the Imam: Worshippers are encouraged to follow the Takbeers as recited by the imam, even if the number differs from what they may be accustomed to.
- Community Unity: Avoid disputes over the number of Takbeers, as the essence of the prayer lies in devotion and unity, not in the technicalities of practice.
- Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the practice in your community mosque or local prayer ground, as it often adheres to one of the schools of thought.
Conclusion
The Eid al-Adha prayer, with its distinctive Takbeers, serves as a profound expression of faith, unity, and gratitude. The variations in the number of Takbeers across the Islamic schools of thought enrich the diversity within the Muslim ummah and demonstrate the flexibility of Islamic practices. Regardless of these differences, the overarching goal remains the same: to glorify Allah and to celebrate the spirit of sacrifice and devotion exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him).
By understanding and respecting these variations, Muslims can embrace the beauty of their shared faith and partake in the joy and blessings of Eid al-Adha with sincerity and devotion.