The Takbeeraat of Dhul-Hijjah: Living with Divine Remembrance

During the first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah, it is Sunnah to recite the Takbeeraat after every prayer: "Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Lā ilāha illa Allah, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar wa lillāhil-ḥamd" (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. There is no god except Allah. Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest and to Allah belongs all praise).

These are not just words of dhikr—they are declarations of our worldview. If we internalize them, they transform how we see, feel, and live.

Allah is greater than anything and everything in your life: your problems, fears, desires, ambitions, people's opinions, even your own ego.

When you're anxious about the future, say: "Allah is greater than my fears." When you're attached to the dunya, remind yourself: "Allah is greater than my desires." When facing injustice or weakness: "Allah is greater than the oppressors. Allah is Al-'Adl." When you stand to pray: "I am meeting the One who is greater than all creation."

Start your day with the mindset: "Ya Allah, today, you are Akbar in my time, my heart, and my decisions." Before every decision, ask: "Is this pleasing to Allah—or just pleasing to people?" Modesty, discipline, and worship become easier when you truly believe that Allah is Greater than your nafs.

There is no one worthy of worship, love, fear, reliance, obedience or trust except Allah.

Ask yourself: Who do I turn to first in difficulty—Allah or the world? Reflect: Is my heart attached to Allah more than fame, money, relationships, or comfort?

When a storm comes in life, whisper: "Lā ilāha illa Ant, Subḥānaka, innī kuntu minaẓ-ẓālimīn." When a relationship breaks, remember: He is al-Wadūd. He never leaves. When you succeed: Attribute it to Allah—not your cleverness or effort.

All good is from Allah—even if it comes through people or effort. Every blessing, even the smallest, is a sign of His Mercy.

Practice gratitude that leads to humility. True praise of Allah softens the heart, makes you more content, and kills pride.

Thank Him for food before, during, and after meals. When you feel peace or joy, say: "Alḥamdulillāh, this is from You." Even in illness or loss, say: "Alḥamdulillāh 'alā kulli ḥāl." It reminds your soul that Allah is Wise, not random.

In Salah: Pray with presence—He is greater than your phone, to-do list, or anyone watching you.

On Social Media: Post with purpose. Ask: Would I post this if I remembered Allah sees it?

In Career/Studies: Work with excellence but never sell your akhirah for dunya. Trust that rizq is in His control.

With Family & Friends: Love for His sake. Forgive for His sake. Make Allah the center of your relationships.

During Trials: Say "Allāhu Akbar" when tested—like the Prophet ﷺ did after hardship. It brings strength.

In Joy: Praise Him with "Alḥamdulillāh." Celebrate the joy, but don't forget the Giver.

In Du'ā: Make du'ā like you truly believe Allah is Greater than the impossible.

Ibrahim (AS) said: "Indeed, my prayer, my sacrifice, my life and my death are all for Allah, the Lord of the worlds." (Surah Al-An'am 6:162). This is what "Allahu Akbar" really means—every part of your existence aligned with Allah.