Alternative Spelling:
Tasbih / Tasbeeh / Tasbeh / Tasbihah / Tasbeehah
What is Tasbih?
- Tasbih is an Islamic term derived from the Arabic root s-b-ḥ (سبح), which literally means “to glorify” or “to declare free from imperfection.” In religious usage, Tasbih refers specifically to the act of glorifying Allah by proclaiming His perfection, most commonly through the phrase Subhan Allah (سبحان الله), meaning “Glory be to Allah.”
- Tasbih holds a central place in Islamic theology as an expression of the believer’s recognition of Allah’s absolute transcendence and flawlessness. By engaging in Tasbih, Muslims affirm that Allah is free from any imperfection or deficiency, which is a foundational belief in Islamic monotheism and is emphasized in the Qur’an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Tasbih has been practiced since the earliest days of Islam, with historical accounts describing its use by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions. Islamic scholars have discussed the importance of Tasbih as both a verbal act and a meditative practice, often recommending its recitation after daily prayers and during moments of reflection to reinforce spiritual mindfulness.
- Tasbih serves as a means of spiritual purification and connection with Allah. Through the repetitive glorification of Allah’s perfection, believers cultivate humility, gratitude, and awareness of the divine presence in their lives. This spiritual exercise helps Muslims internalize the concept of Allah’s greatness and their own dependence on His mercy and guidance.
- Tasbih is commonly performed using prayer beads, known as misbaha or subhah, to keep count of recitations, especially after the five daily prayers. In contemporary practice, Tasbih is also recited individually or in gatherings, serving as a practical tool for remembrance (dhikr) and fostering a sense of peace and spiritual discipline in daily life.
Examples of Tasbih
- After finishing prayer: "Many Muslims recite Tasbih by saying 'SubhanAllah' 33 times after each obligatory prayer."
- During moments of awe: "Upon witnessing a beautiful sunset, a believer might say Tasbih by uttering 'SubhanAllah' to praise Allah’s creation."
- Following the Sunnah: "Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged his companions to perform Tasbih regularly as a means of remembering Allah."
- Seeking forgiveness: "When feeling remorseful for a mistake, a person may engage in Tasbih by repeating 'SubhanAllah wa bihamdihi' to seek Allah's forgiveness."
- During daily chores: "Some Muslims keep a string of prayer beads to help them remember to do Tasbih while working or walking."
References in Qur'an & Hadith
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Shall I not inform you of the most beloved of speech to Allah? The most beloved of speech to Allah is: Subhan Allah (Glory be to Allah)."
Sahih Muslim 2731 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Whoever says: Subhan Allah wa bihamdihi one hundred times a day, his sins will be forgiven even if they are like the foam of the sea."
Sahih Bukhari 6405 (Sunnah.com)
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: "Two words are light on the tongue, heavy in the balance, and beloved to the Most Merciful: Subhan Allah wa bihamdihi, Subhan Allah al-Azim."
Sahih Bukhari 6682 (Sunnah.com)
FAQs for Tasbih
What does Tasbih mean in English?
Tasbih means glorification of Allah.
When should Muslims say Tasbih?
Muslims should say Tasbih after obligatory prayers, during moments of remembrance, or at any time to praise Allah.
What phrases are commonly recited in Tasbih?
The phrases most commonly recited in Tasbih are Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah), Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah), and Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest).
Did Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommend Tasbih?
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended Tasbih as a means of drawing closer to Allah and as a regular practice after prayers.
What is a Tasbih bead and how is it used?
A Tasbih bead is a string of prayer beads used to keep count while reciting phrases of glorification, praise, and remembrance of Allah.
