talbiyah

Talbiyah is an Islamic devotional supplication recited by Muslims during Hajj and Umrah. It expresses willingness to respond to God's call and signals the pilgrim’s entry into the state of ihram and their intention to perform the pilgrimage solely for God’s sake. The recitation is traditionally begun when a pilgrim enters ihram and is commonly continued throughout the rites of pilgrimage, including tawaf around the Kaaba and the sa'i between Safa and Marwah, though practices may vary by tradition and locale.

The most widely used form is: Labbaik Allahumma labbaik. Labbaik la sharika laka labbaik. Inna al-hamda wa'n-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika laka. Transliteration: Labbayka Allahumma labbayk. Labbayka la sharika laka labbayk. Inna al-hamda wa'n-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika laka labbayk. Some variations exist in wording, and pilgrims may recite in Arabic or in their native languages as appropriate for personal devotion.

Variations in practice include differences in voice and duration. Traditionally, men recite the talbiyah aloud in crowds and women recite it softly, though local customs vary. The text is often repeated multiple times as part of the overall dhikr (remembrance of God) associated with the pilgrimage.

Significance of the talbiyah lies in its expression of tawhid (the oneness of God) and the pilgrim’s complete submission and dedication to performing the rites for God’s sake. It is regarded as a central element of the pilgrimage ritual and a public declaration of intention.