Mimbar (منبر) in Islam
Definition
The mimbar (منبر) is a pulpit in a mosque where the Imam (religious leader) stands to deliver the khutbah (sermon) during Friday prayers and on the two major Islamic festivals, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: منبر (mimbar)
- Turkish: Minber
The term “mimbar” originates from Arabic, the root “ن ب ر” (n-b-r), which connotates elevating or raising something.
Description and Usage
The mimbar is traditionally a wooden structure with three steps and is often movable. However, in larger mosques, particularly in Turkey and Egypt, it can be a fixed feature made of brick or stone.
Historical Significance: It is related that the Prophet Muhammad, when addressing the people, would stand on the highest step of the mimbar. His close companions, like Abu Bakr and Umar, stood one step lower, thereby maintaining a hierarchy of respect and humility. Uthman, known for his humility, would prefer to stand lower but due to the structural limitations of the mimbar, he continued delivering his speech from the second step, a practice that continues today.
Types and Structure
- Traditional: Made of wood, usually portable.
- Large Mosque Fixtures: Built from bricks or stones, and are permanent structures.
Cultural and Religious Significance
The mimbar is not just a platform; it is a symbol of authority and leadership. It is from this elevated position that the Imam addresses the congregation, offering guidance, religious interpretations, and communal unity. The sermons delivered from the mimbar play a crucial role in educating the Muslim community about their faith, social responsibilities, and current issues within an Islamic context.
Historical Context
- Prophet’s Era: Prophet Muhammad initially used a palm trunk to deliver sermons before a proper mimbar was constructed.
- Caliphate Period: Subsequent caliphs maintained the tradition of using the mimbar to address the faithful, each respecting the hierarchy established by the Prophet.
Importance on Fridays and Festivals
The role of the mimbar is especially prominent during:
- Friday Prayers (Jumu’ah): The khutbah is an essential part of the Friday prayer, and it is delivered standing on the mimbar.
- Eid Prayers: Special sermons marking the end of Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr) and during the Hajj season (Eid al-Adha).
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Friday Prayer and the Sermon” by Aisha Stacey
- “Khutbahs: Friday Sermons in Islam” by Abdul-Fattah Ashour
- “Islamic Sermons: A Guide to Delivering Khutbahs” by Abdul Hameed Siddiqui
Takeaways
- Sacred Symbol: The mimbar is a pivotal part of the Islamic faith, symbolizing leadership and authority.
- Hierarchy of Humility: The practice of delivering sermons from specific steps on the mimbar underscores humility among Islamic leaders.
- Educational Role: Sermons from the mimbar help educate and guide the Muslim community.
Conclusion
The mimbar remains a fundamental feature in mosques worldwide, representing a place of religious and moral authority. Understanding its history, from the Prophet’s time to present-day practices, enriches one’s appreciation for its enduring significance in Islam.
