Talbiyah (تلبية)
Definition
Talbiyah (تلبية) - Talbiyah represents a special devotional expression uttered by Muslims during the pilgrimage (Hajj and Umrah) to the holy city of Makkah. The term means “waiting or standing for orders,” symbolizing the believer’s readiness to serve and answer the call of Allah.
Etymology
The Arabic origin of “Talbiyah” comes from the root “لبى” (l-b-y), which carries the meaning of responding or answering a call. This directly ties into the ritual recitation where pilgrims vocally express their readiness and submission to Allah’s service.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: تلبية (Talbiyah)
- Turkish: Telbiye
The Talbiyah Recitation
The pilgrims chant the following words during their pilgrimage:
<p>“Labbaika! Allāhummah! Labbaika! Labbaika! Lā Sharīka laka! Labbaika! Inna ʾl-ḥamda wa-niʿmata laka! Wa ʾl-mulka! Lā Sharīka-laka!”</p>
Translated to English, it means:
<p>“I stand up for Thy service, O God! I stand up! I stand up! There is no partner with Thee! I stand up for Thy service! Verily Thine is the praise, the beneficence, and the kingdom! There is no partner with Thee!”</p>
Historical Context
From sources such as the Mishkāt (book xi. ch. ii. pt. 1), it appears that this hymn was in use among the idolaters of Arabia before the advent of Islam. The early Arabs would recite a similar call during their pre-Islamic pilgrimages, yet with time, it was given a monotheistic meaning and incorporated into Islamic rituals by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to affirm the Islamic creed of monotheism (Tawhid).
Significance in Islam
The Talbiyah is a profound expression of a Muslim’s readiness to respond to the call of Allah, symbolizing devotion and submission. It emphasizes the oneness of God (Tawhid) by rejecting any association of partners with Him and acknowledges His absolute sovereignty, praise, and beneficence. This chant is a spiritual declaration made often during the sacred journey of Hajj and Umrah, reinforcing the unity and faith of the Muslim community.
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “Hajj: Journey to the Heart of Islam” by Venetia Porter
- “The Hajj: Pilgrimage in Islam” by Eric Tagliacozzo
- “Approaching the Qur’an: The Early Revelations” by Michael Sells
- “The Message of the Qur’an” by Muhammad Asad
Takeaways and Conclusion
- Talbiyah is a crucial element of Islamic worship, especially during Hajj and Umrah, reflecting readiness, devotion, and monotheism.
- Etymologically rooted in the concept of responding to a call, it aligns perfectly with the spiritual act of pilgrimage.
- Its historical origin underlines the transformation from pre-Islamic practices to a cornerstone of Islamic ritual.
- Understanding Talbiyah deepens one’s appreciation for the profound submission and unity it represents within the Islamic faith.
In conclusion, Talbiyah embodies the essence of Islamic worship and submission, highlighting the eternal devotion and love Muslims hold for their Creator as they chant in complete unity during one of the most holy journeys in their faith.
