Bidding The Month Farewell

Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala)  has mandated on us three acts to observe at the end of Ramadan.

1. Zakatul-Fitr,

2. Takbeer,

3. 'Eid Prayer.

Takbeer

Allah has ordained upon the believers the utterance of takbeer, "Allah is the Greatest," at the conclusion of the month, Ramadan. Takbeer should start on the eve of 'Eid at sunset, and it continues until the time of 'Eid prayer. Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) said: "...And complete the prescribed period and glorify Allah in that He has guided you and perchance you shall be grateful." (Al-Qur`an, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185)

The takbeer, Allah is the Greatest, is a superlative form indicating there is nothing in the creation that is bigger or greater than Allah. Everything in creation, things, ideas, institutions and planes, etc., pale into insignificance in the sight of Allah. This utterance is the believer's victory and national anthem upon the forces of evil, low desires, and our faith affirmation, song of obedience, and gratitude to Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala). Takbeer is always said when a Muslim reaches the summit, physical or spiritual, as in the completion of fast at the end of Ramadan. It takes greatness and remarkable inner strength to win one against the forces of evil, and the greatness goes to Allah.

The Formula for Takbeer

“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar La illaha illa llah Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar Wa lillahil hamd.”

“Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. There is no deity worthy of worship but Allah, and Allah is greatest. Allah is the Greatest and all praise is due to Allah.”

It is recommended for men to say the takbeer loud in the Masjid, homes, and market places as a sign of glorification of Allah, and expression of our gratitude and worship to Him. Women, however, should say it silently. Wouldn't it be excellent to see that the Muslim environment is charged with the glorification of Allah? Instead of neon lights, and outdoor decorations, and honking the horns of cars, Takbeer is our outward sign of the festivity.

The 'Eidul - Fitr is another important obligation after Ramadan and Sunnah of the Prophet.