TAS̤WĪB (تَثْوِيب)
Definition
TAS̤WĪB (تَثْوِيب) refers to the unique practice during the Islamic call to prayer (Aẕān) for the early morning (Fajr) prayer, where the muʾaḏḏin (the individual who calls to prayer) includes the phrase: “Aṣ-ṣalātu k͟hairun mina ʾn-nāum” (Arabic: “الصلاةُ خيرٌ مِنَ النوم” - “Prayer is better than sleep”). This phrase serves as a reminder for the believers of the importance and virtue of performing the prayer over continuing sleep at dawn.
Etymology
The term TAS̤WĪB is derived from the Arabic root ث و ب, which connotes the meanings related to returning, compensation, and calling. In this specific context, it refers to the calling back to prayer and acts as a spiritual invitation for Muslims to prioritize their Fajr prayer over sleeping.
Arabic and Turkish Translations
- Arabic: تثويب
- Turkish: Tesvib
Significance in Islam
The practice of TAS̤WĪB emphasizes the significance of the Fajr prayer in the life of a Muslim. By incorporating “Aṣ-ṣalātu k͟hairun mina ʾn-nāum” in the Aẕān, it serves not just as a call to prayer, but also as a poignant reminder of the spiritual benefits of starting one’s day in prayer. This phrase is unique to the Fajr prayer and reflects the virtues of waking up early to engage in worship.
Ritual and Practice
During the Aẕān for Fajr, after proclaiming the standard phrases, the following is included:
- After “Hayya ‘ala ṣ-ṣalāh”: The muʾaḏḏin recites “Aṣ-ṣalātu k͟hairun mina ʾn-nāum” twice.
This addition highlights that prayer at dawn is held in higher regard than sleep, promoting discipline and mindfulness among the faithful.
Legal Rulings
In Islamic law (Sharia), TAS̤WĪB is considered an encouraged and recommended practice (Sunnah) particularly for the Fajr prayer but not obligatory. Its inclusion in the Aẕān helps to underline the high spiritual significance of starting the day with prayer.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Fiqh al-Sunnah” by Sayyid Sabiq
- “The Five Pillars of Islam: Laying the Foundations of Divine Love and Service to Humanity” by Musharraf Hussain
- “In the Shade of the Quran” by Sayyid Qutb
- “The Call to Islam” by Wahiduddin Khan
Takeaways
- TAS̤WĪB is a phrase specifically used in the Aẕān for the Fajr prayer.
- It symbolizes the importance of prayer over sleep.
- It highlights the significance and virtue of beginning the day with the remembrance of Allah (God).
Conclusion
TAS̤WĪB plays a vital role in Islamic religious practice, particularly emphasizing the value of the early morning prayer. It serves as both a devotional practice and a mnemonic device encouraging Muslims to rise for Fajr prayer, fostering a disciplined and spiritually aware life. This practice, though specific to the early morning, beautifully underscores the broader Islamic principle of valuing spiritual duties over mundane comforts.
