Taujīh (توجيه)
Definition
Taujīh (توجيه) refers to any pious ejaculation or invocation recited by devout Muslims either before or after the Takbīr during their prayers. This practice is emphasized in Islamic traditions to enhance the spiritual quality of the prayer by invoking Allah’s name and seeking His guidance and blessings.
Etymology
The term Taujīh is derived from the Arabic root word “و ج هـ” (w-j-h), which means “to direct, guide, or turn towards.” The term embodies the idea of directing one’s heart and mind towards Allah, seeking His guidance and blessings.
Arabic: توجيه (Transliteration: Taujīh) Turkish: Tevcih
Context and Usage
In Islamic practice, Taujīh is particularly mentioned in the Hadith collection “Mishkāt al-Maṣābīḥ” (Book IV, Chapter XII), emphasizing its importance before or after the Takbīr. The Takbīr is a vital component of Islamic prayer where the phrase “Allāhu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest) is proclaimed. Reciting Taujīh during this time is considered a means of purifying the heart and focusing the mind on the solemnity and significance of the prayer.
Significance in Islamic Prayer
According to traditional Islamic teachings, engaging in Taujīh serves multiple functions:
- Spiritual Preparation: It helps Muslims enter a state of humility and mindfulness before engaging in the obligatory acts of worship.
- Invocation of Blessings: Taujīh is an invocation that seeks Allah’s guidance, making the prayer more spiritually enriching.
- Focus and Sincerity: By beginning or ending with such pious ejaculations, Muslims aim to align their intentions and direct their focus towards Allah.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Mishkāt al-Maṣābīḥ” by Muḥammad ibn Abd Allāh Al-Khatīb Al-Tibrīzī
- “The Vision of Islam” by Sachiko Murata and William Chittick
- “Understanding Islamic Worship” by Dr. M. Rida Beshir
- “Essential Islamic Knowledge: A Textbook for Primary Schools and Madrasahs” by M. A. Haleem Elias
Takeaways
- Taujīh is an important Islamic practice involving pious invocations recited before or after Takbīr.
- It is aimed at purifying the heart, seeking Allah’s guidance, and enhancing the spiritual focus of the prayer.
- Understanding and practicing Taujīh can deepen one’s connection with Allah and improve the spiritual quality of their Islamic worship.
Conclusion
In sum, Taujīh (توجيه) embodies the spirit of seeking continuous guidance and blessings from Allah, making it a crucial element in Islamic prayers. By reciting pious ejaculations, Muslims aim to prepare themselves spiritually and mentally, ensuring that their worship is sincere and focused. This practice, deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, continues to hold great significance for Muslims around the world.
