اللَّهُ أَكْبَرُ كَبِيرًا، وَالْحَمْدُ لِلَّهِ كَثِيرًا، وَسُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ بُكْرَةً وَأَصِيلًا
Allah is the Greatest, with much greatness. Praise is to Allah, in abundance. Glory be to Allah, both in the morning and the evening.
Allahu akbaru kabeeran, walhamdu lillahi katheeran, wa subhanallahi bukrataw wa aseela
When to Read
This powerful statement is uttered as you begin your prayer, standing for the obligatory congregational prayer or even when praying alone. It marks the transition from the outside world into the sacred space of communion with Allah. After making your intention (niyyah), you raise your hands to your earlobes or shoulders and say 'Allahu Akbar', signaling the start of your Salah. This specific wording, 'Allahu akbaru kabeeran...', is a part of the opening supplication (Du'a al-Istiftah) recited after the initial Takbir but before seeking refuge in Allah.
How to Read
Stand with reverence, facing the Qiblah. Make your sincere intention for the prayer. Raise your hands to the level of your shoulders or earlobes, palms facing forward, and say 'Allahu Akbar' with conviction. This is followed by the Du'a al-Istiftah, including the phrase 'Allahu akbaru kabeeran...'. It is recommended to place your right hand over your left hand on your chest or below the navel while reciting the Du'a al-Istiftah.
Virtues & Benefits
Saying 'Allahu Akbar' at the start of prayer signifies the absolute supremacy of Allah over all else. It is a declaration that nothing in this world – no worries, no people, no tasks – is greater than your Creator. This humility and acknowledgment of divine greatness set the tone for the entire prayer, helping you focus and disconnect from worldly distractions. The extended Du'a al-Istiftah, including 'Allahu akbaru kabeeran...', further humbles the heart and fills it with praise and glorification of Allah, preparing it for sincere worship and supplication.
Source & Authentication
‘Abdullah b. Mas‘ud reported: When the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) commenced the prayer, he said: 'Allahu akbaru kabeeran, walhamdu lillahi katheeran, wa subhanallahi bukratan wa aseela.' (Sahih Muslim 601)