Eid is a time of joy, gratitude, and remembrance of Allah’s greatness. Among the most beautiful Sunnahs of Eid is the recitation of the Takbeer Tashreeq, a powerful declaration of faith that magnifies Allah’s glory and reminds us of our purpose as believers.
While Takbeer Tashreeq is most prominently associated with Eid al-Adha, it also holds significance during Eid al-Fitr — both being moments of immense spiritual celebration. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning, origin, recitation, and importance of Takbeer Tashreeq for both Eids, helping you revive this noble Sunnah in your worship.
What Is Takbeer Tashreeq?
The term Takbeer Tashreeq comes from two Arabic words:
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Takbeer (تَكْبِير) – meaning to glorify or magnify Allah by saying “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest).
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Tashreeq (تَشْرِيق) – derived from sharq, meaning east or sunrise, symbolizing brightness and spreading light.
Therefore, Takbeer Tashreeq refers to the special glorification of Allah that Muslims recite aloud during specific days surrounding Eid, particularly Eid al-Adha.
The Arabic Text of Takbeer Tashreeq
The most authentic version, agreed upon by scholars, is:
اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ، وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلّٰهِ الْحَمْدُ
Transliteration:
Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La ilaha illa Allah, Wallahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillahil-hamd.
Translation:
Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, there is no deity but Allah, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, and to Allah belongs all praise.
When to Recite Takbeer Tashreeq
During Eid al-Adha
The Takbeer Tashreeq is a confirmed Sunnah (Sunnah Mu’akkadah) during the Days of Tashreeq — that is, from Fajr (dawn) on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah) until Asr (afternoon) on the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.
READ MORE: How to Prepare Spiritually for Jumu’ah Prayer: A Step-by-Step Guide for Muslims
This means Muslims recite it after every obligatory (fard) prayer during these days, whether performed individually or in congregation.
That’s a total of 23 times over five days.
📿 Days of Recitation:
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9th Dhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah)
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10th Dhul Hijjah (Eid Day)
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11th Dhul Hijjah
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12th Dhul Hijjah
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13th Dhul Hijjah
During Eid al-Fitr
Although Takbeer Tashreeq in its strict sense applies to Eid al-Adha, reciting Takbeer in general is highly recommended during Eid al-Fitr as well — from the night before Eid (after sunset of Ramadan 29th) until the Imam begins the Eid prayer.
Allah says in the Qur’an regarding Eid al-Fitr:
“And that you should complete the period (of fasting) and that you should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that you may be grateful.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:185)
This verse is the basis for the Sunnah of reciting Takbeer during Eid al-Fitr, expressing gratitude for completing Ramadan.
How to Recite the Takbeer
The Takbeer can be recited individually or in groups, in mosques, homes, markets, or streets — anywhere permissible.
It’s Sunnah to raise one’s voice (for men) when reciting it publicly, as this revives the spirit of unity and joy among Muslims. Women, however, are encouraged to recite it quietly.
Example:
After completing Fajr prayer during the Days of Tashreeq, you should say aloud:
اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ، وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ وَلِلّٰهِ الْحَمْدُ
This continues after every Fard prayer until Asr of the 13th of Dhul Hijjah.
The Purpose and Significance of Takbeer Tashreeq
1. Declaring Allah’s Greatness
The repeated phrase “Allahu Akbar” reminds Muslims that no matter the occasion — joy or sacrifice — Allah is the Greatest. It cultivates humility and submission to His will.
2. Expression of Gratitude
During both Eids, Muslims express gratitude for Allah’s blessings — fasting during Ramadan and the completion of Hajj. The Takbeer symbolizes thankfulness for His mercy and guidance.
3. Revival of a Sunnah
Reciting the Takbeer connects us to the practice of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his companions, who would fill the streets of Madinah with these blessed words.
4. Unity Among Muslims
When the Takbeer is recited collectively after prayers, it creates an atmosphere of unity and celebration across the Muslim Ummah — a sound of one heart glorifying one Creator.
5. Spiritual Cleansing and Reflection
The act of frequent remembrance during the Days of Tashreeq is a form of purification, reminding believers to remain steadfast, patient, and grateful in all circumstances.
Virtues of the Takbeer Tashreeq
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It is a manifestation of Tawheed (the Oneness of Allah).
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It revives a Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ and his companions.
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It increases remembrance (dhikr) of Allah during sacred days.
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It earns immense reward and strengthens the heart with faith.
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It spreads joy and Islamic identity in the community.
Ibn Abbas (RA) said:
“The days of Tashreeq are days of eating, drinking, and remembering Allah.”
(Sahih Muslim, 1141)
Difference Between Takbeer of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha
| Aspect | Eid al-Fitr | Eid al-Adha |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | From Maghrib on the last day of Ramadan until Eid prayer begins | From Fajr on 9th Dhul Hijjah (Arafah) until Asr on 13th Dhul Hijjah |
| Recitation | General Takbeer (no specific form fixed) | Specific Takbeer Tashreeq recited after each fard prayer |
| Occasion | Celebration after fasting | Celebration of sacrifice and completion of Hajj |
| Purpose | Gratitude for Ramadan | Glorifying Allah during sacred days of sacrifice |
Practical Tips to Revive Takbeer Tashreeq
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Teach your family the meaning and timing of Takbeer Tashreeq.
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Play the Takbeerat in your home or car before Eid prayer.
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Encourage your children to recite it aloud to foster love for Sunnah.
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Join the community Takbeer in the mosque after prayers.
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Reflect on its meaning each time you say “Allahu Akbar”.
Conclusion
The Takbeer Tashreeq is more than just words — it is a spiritual declaration that connects Muslims to their Creator, strengthens faith, and unites hearts.
Whether it is Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha, these Takbeerat are a beautiful reminder that all praise belongs to Allah alone, and that joy, sacrifice, and gratitude all find their true meaning in His remembrance.
So as you prepare for the next Eid, let the air around you echo with the blessed words:
اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ، وَاللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، وَلِلّٰهِ الْحَمْدُ
May Allah accept our Takbeer, our prayers, and our sacrifices — Ameen.
