What does allahou akbar mean?

Islam > Glossary > allahou akbar

Discover the meaning of the term allahou akbar (الله أكبر) in Islamic vocabulary.

Updated on 11 April 2026 at 1:05 AM

📖 1 min read

Definition allahou akbar

The takbir: the saying "Allahou akbar" (Allah is greater), that is, Allah is greater than everything and too great to be encompassed. It is said at the opening of the prayer (takbirat al-ihram) and at the transitions between its pillars, in the adhan and the iqaama, at wonder, joy and exaltation of Allah, at meeting the enemy, and at all times as remembrance of Allah.
When to say it? In the adhan and the iqaama ; At the opening of the prayer and at the transitions between its pillars ; To exalt Allah ; At meeting the enemy in jihad ; At all times, as remembrance of Allah

Related terms: allahou akbar

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم Mon 21 Jumada al-Awwal
الاثنين 21 جمادى الأولى
التربيع الأخير Last Quarter Day 22.2 / 29.5
Illumination 50%
New moon in 7 days
سبحان الله وبحمده Glory and praise be to Allah

إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ وَمَلَٰٓئِكَتَهُۥ يُصَلُّونَ عَلَى ٱلنَّبِىِّ ۚ يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ صَلُّوا۟ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلِّمُوا۟ تَسْلِيمًا

God and His angels shower their blessings on the Prophet. O believers, you should also send your blessings on him, and salute him with a worthy greeting.

Al-Ahzab 33:56

Blessings on the Prophet ﷺ