The word “tasbih” (meaning “ablution”) is one that has been around for centuries. In fact, it is an important part of Urdu poetry and has a very special role in the ceremony of marriage. But why is this word so significant? What does it mean?
TASBih is a form of Shrestha that involves the praise of God in Islam by reciting Subḥānallahu. It’s used in both Islamic and non-Islamic weddings. It’s also commonly used in other situations outside of the sacred occasion, such as on New Year’s Day, Christmas, birthdays, and many other occasions. It’s often recited using both hands, with the right hand spelling the letters and using a pointed pen, or using a book or plate for guidance. It is also commonly repeated, using either the palms of the left or right hands, Muslim prayer beads, or any other object that is appropriate to recite the numbers. This form of dhrishtha also occurs quite often in classical poetry from India and Arabic, which would make sense if we were thinking in terms of an equivalent word or phrase in any other language.
So what is tasbih exactly? It’s a phrase that translates literally to “inward is your knowledge.” The literal translation is “where your knowledge is,” but in Arabic, this phrase is interpreted literally as “where your knowledge is seated.” This refers to the spiritual truth of inner wholeness or self-knowledge that dwells within each individual. This is one of the central teachings of all Islamic schools, and it is frequently taught in Urdu poetry, hadith, and in traditional Islamic courts as well as other forms of art, literature, science, and technology. It is also often used in a religious context, to represent the ultimate goal of all religions, which is a return to God.
What exactly is tasbih, and why is it recited this way in Arabic or any other language for that matter? The traditional interpretation of tasbih has it referring to the twenty-one universal signs of Allah, as mentioned in the second chapter of the Islamic Bible, the Holy Book of Arabic. These twenty-one symbols are also referred to as the ” Koran’s “Quran.” In addition to being an important part of traditional Muslim prayer, the Quran is recited in a number of other contexts, including everyday conversations, as a means of worship, and in a number of rituals and cultural events.
In Islamic cultures, the phrase tasbih is also used to honor the twenty-one sacred signs mentioned in the Quran, and to show reverence to the great prophet Muhammad (SAW), the holy, textual text’s messenger. Although there are some traditional customs and beliefs associated with tasbih and the use of prayer beads, the meaning of the phrase is anything but exclusive to Muslims. In fact, anyone reciting the Quran or its words may do so in an Islamic way. This is true of believers from many different cultures and religions around the world. So when you are praying, don’t be surprised if you hear the phrase or catch yourself saying it.
When you think of tasbih and its meaning, think of Allah, and all of his perfect creations. Think of all the knowledge and power of Islam possesses, and of all the beings, animals, and plants who have prospered and flourished under the guidance of Allah. It doesn’t matter which religious community or that school of thought, those who are devout to Islam can all benefit from this deep and profound expression of faith. It’s truly a beautiful and meaningful way to pray.
When you purchase Muslim prayer tasbeeh, make sure you know exactly what type you have purchased. Many times Islamic prayer beads are mixed with other types of prayer beads, which is contrary to how they were originally intended. It is strongly recommended that you purchase authentic tasbih, prayer beads created by the Islamic religious community.
You may wish to purchase tasbih online, which is fine, but purchasing them from a local retailer who specifically sells tasbih, prayer beads, or tasbeeh, is the most authentic way to purchase your items. When purchasing from an online retailer, you can rest assured that you are purchasing authentic prayer beads made by the very religious community that created them. When you purchase directly from a country such as Morocco where Islamic art is deeply rooted in the culture, religion, and history of the people, you will receive authentic tasbih, or prayer beads, that are beautiful and very meaningful to use during your prayers.
