Talbiyah

What Does Talbiyah Mean in Detail?

The Talbiyah is among the most recognizable sounds of the Hajj — a rhythmic, heartfelt chant that rises from millions of pilgrims simultaneously, creating an atmosphere of profound spiritual unity. The full text, as transmitted from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is: 'Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk. Innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak.' This translates to: 'Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Indeed, all praise, grace, and sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.' The pilgrim begins reciting the Talbiyah upon entering the state of ihram at the miqat and continues to repeat it throughout the journey — while walking, riding, ascending hills, descending into valleys, after each prayer, and upon meeting other pilgrims. For Hajj pilgrims, the Talbiyah is recited until the stoning of Jamarat al-Aqabah on the morning of the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. For Umrah pilgrims, it is recited until the beginning of tawaf. Men recite it aloud; women recite it in a voice audible to themselves. The Talbiyah traces its origins to the call of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him). After building the Kaaba with his son Ismail, Allah commanded Ibrahim: 'And proclaim to the people the Hajj; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass' (Quran 22:27). The Talbiyah is humanity's ongoing response to that ancient divine summons. Some companions of the Prophet, including Abdullah ibn Umar, would add the words 'labbayka wa sa'dayk, wal-khayru bi yadayk, war-raghba'u ilayk wal-'amal' (Here I am in happiness, all good is in Your hands, and desire and action are directed to You).