Labbaik

Labbaik is an Arabic expression meaning “Here I am” that appears in the Talbiyah, the devotional prayer recited by Muslims during the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. The phrase, typically rendered as Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, proclaims willingness to respond to God’s call and to undertake the sacred journey. In the Talbiyah, the words symbolize submission, humility, and obedience as pilgrims prepare for the rites at Mina, Arafat, and other holy sites. The tradition is well established in Islamic liturgy and has been part of pilgrimage practices since the early centuries of Islam.

Linguistic and cultural usage: The term Labbaik is used in religious discourse, poetry, and devotional music to convey commitment and readiness to adhere to divine commands. It is especially associated with devotion to the Prophet Muhammad’s honor in some Muslim communities, and the phrase is widely recognized across Arabic- and Urdu-speaking populations.

Labbaik also refers to Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), a political party founded in 2015 by Khadim Hussain Rizvi. Aligned with reformist and vigilante-style activism centered on the protection of the Prophet Muhammad’s honor, the party has organized large protests and campaigned on blasphemy-related issues. Its activities have been controversial and have prompted government responses, including legal actions, temporary bans, and police crackdowns, highlighting tensions between religious movements and state authority in Pakistan.