الْكَبِيرُ
37. Al-Kabir
The Greatest
Meaning of Al-Kabir
The One who is greater than everything, whose greatness is absolute. When we say 'Allahu Akbar' (Allah is greater), we acknowledge that He is greater than anything we can imagine or compare Him to.
Benefits of Reciting Al-Kabir
- Provides immediate perspective and relief when facing challenges that seem overwhelming. Saying 'Allahu Akbar' reminds us that Al-Kabir is greater than our problem.
- Is the ultimate cure for arrogance, as it forces us to acknowledge a greatness far beyond our own.
- Deepens the meaning and focus of the Salah (prayer), as every stage is initiated by affirming the greatness of Al-Kabir.
Al-Kabir in the Quran
Mentioned 6 times in the Quran, including '...because Allah is the Most High, the Grand' (22:62).
How to Make Dua with 'Ya Kabir'
We constantly call upon Al-Kabir every time we say 'Allahu Akbar'. The dua is in the declaration itself—an affirmation of His greatness that calms our fears and humbles our hearts.
When Feeling Anxious or Overwhelmed
"Simply repeat with conviction, 'Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar.' (Allah is Greater, Allah is Greater). Remind your heart that He is greater than what you fear."
To Cultivate Humility
"'Ya Kabir, all greatness belongs to You. I am small and needy. Protect me from thinking I am great and keep me humble before You.'"
When Witnessing Something Awe-Inspiring
"'Allahu Akbar!' Acknowledge that the beauty or power you see in creation is just a small reflection of the greatness of its Creator, Al-Kabir."
Frequently Asked Questions
It does not just mean 'Allah is great'. The 'Akbar' form means 'Allah is Greater'. Greater than what? Greater than everything. It is a declaration of comparison that states Allah is on one side, and everything else in existence is on the other, and He is greater.
They are very similar. Al-Kabir (The Greatest) often emphasizes that He is greater *in comparison* to anything else. Al-Azim (The Magnificent) often emphasizes His intrinsic, awe-inspiring greatness in and of Himself, which is beyond comparison. Both point to His absolute and perfect greatness.
Saying 'Allahu Akbar' at the start of prayer is called the 'Takbirat al-Ihram'. It is the key that transitions you from the worldly life ('dunya') into a state of worship. By declaring that Allah is Greater, you are effectively saying that He is greater than your work, your worries, your family, your desires—everything that was occupying your mind—and now you are fully focused on Him.
Quick Quiz
Question 1: When we say 'Allahu Akbar', we acknowledge that Allah is:
Question 2: The opening declaration of the Salah (prayer) is a direct affirmation of which name?
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