The Tradition of Adhan for Newborns
In Islam, the birth of a child is a moment filled with joy and gratitude. One of the first acts performed when a Muslim baby is born is the recitation of the Adhan (the Islamic call to prayer) in the newborn’s right ear. This beautiful Sunnah holds deep spiritual meaning, introducing the child to the faith and creating an early bond with Islamic teachings.
Quick Overview: Covers the Sunnah of reciting the Adhan in a newborn’s right ear (with Hadith citation), a step-by-step how-to, related newborn Sunnahs (Tahnik, naming, Aqiqah, head-shaving, circumcision, breastfeeding), the child’s rights in Islam, avoiding superstitions, and an FAQ block on timing, who can recite it, and gender differences.
The Significance of Adhan for Newborns in Islam
The Adhan, softly recited into the newborn’s ear, serves as a blessing and establishes their first connection to the Islamic faith. This initial act of faith is believed to instil a spiritual foundation. Furthermore, it connects the child to Allah (SWT) and guides them toward a life rooted in the core beliefs of Islam.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed this act when his grandsons, Hazrat Hasan (RA) and Hazrat Husayn (RA), were born.
Hazrat AbuRafi (RA) narrated that:
I saw the Messenger of Allah (SAW) uttering the call to prayer (Adhan) in the ear of al-Hasan ibn Ali when Fatimah gave birth to him. [Sunan Abi Dawud 5105]
This symbolic act establishes the child’s lifelong relationship with prayer, worship, and belief in Allah (SWT). The words of the Adhan are not just a prayer but a declaration of the foundation of the Islamic faith, introducing the newborn to:
The Full Text of the Adhan (Call to Prayer)
Every parent performing this Sunnah needs the exact words. Recite the standard Adhan below into the baby’s right ear, phrase by phrase, in a calm and gentle voice.
| Arabic | Transliteration | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ | Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar (x4) | Allah is the Greatest. |
| أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ | Ash-hadu an la ilaha illallah (x2) | I bear witness that there is no god but Allah. |
| أَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللّٰهِ | Ash-hadu anna Muhammadar Rasulullah (x2) | I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah. |
| حَيَّ عَلَى الصَّلَاةِ | Hayya ‘alas-salah’ (x2) | Come to prayer. |
| حَيَّ عَلَى الْفَلَاحِ | Hayya ‘alal-falah (x2) | Come to success. |
| اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ | Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar | Allah is the Greatest. |
| لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا اللّٰهُ | La ilaha illallah | There is no god but Allah. |
Whisper each line softly and clearly, pausing briefly between phrases so the words register even as a gentle sound in the baby’s ear. Reciting the complete Adhan takes less than a minute, yet it carries lifelong spiritual significance.
How to Perform the Adhan for a Newborn: A Step-by-Step Guide
Giving the Adhan to a newborn is a simple yet profound act. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to perform it:
- Hold the Baby Gently: The father or a close male relative typically performs this act. The person should gently hold the newborn, nestling it with care.
- Whisper in the Right Ear: Begin by softly reciting the Adhan in the baby’s right ear. The words should be whispered clearly and gently.
- Recite the full Adhan: Complete all the phrases of the Adhan in sequence, keeping your voice calm and unhurried.
- Recite the Iqamah (Optional): Some families also recite the Iqamah, the second call to prayer, into the newborn’s left ear. The Iqamah offers a shorter version of the Adhan.
This simple act creates a lifelong impression. It starts the baby’s life with the remembrance of Allah (SWT), setting the tone for their future spiritual growth.
A note on who performs it: While tradition often places the father in this role, any practising Muslim a grandfather, uncle, or close relative, can recite the Adhan when the father can’t be present. The Sunnah applies equally to both baby boys and girls.
Adhan vs Iqamah for Newborns
Families often wonder how the Adhan and Iqamah differ, since both involve reciting a call to prayer near the baby. Here’s a simple comparison:
| Adhan | Iqamah |
|---|---|
| Recited into the right ear. | Recited into the left ear. |
| The full, longer call to prayer. | A shorter version of the Adhan, with fewer repetitions. |
| Considered the primary Sunnah act for newborns. | Considered optional, practised by some families but not required. |
| Directly supported by the hadith of Abu Rafi (RA). | Added by some families as an extension of the same tradition, though less directly documented for newborns specifically. |
Reciting only the Adhan fulfils the Sunnah completely. Adding the Iqamah afterward remains a matter of family preference rather than religious obligation.
What If You Miss Giving the Adhan?
Many new parents feel worried or guilty if a hospital delivery, C-section, or medical complication prevents them from reciting the Adhan in the first few minutes after birth. Islamic scholars offer reassurance here: no fixed deadline exists for this Sunnah, and recitation within the first few days still fulfils its purpose.
If circumstances delay the moment, recite the Adhan as soon as you’re able, even if that means waiting until you bring the baby home. The spiritual intention behind the act matters more than perfect timing, and Allah (SWT) doesn’t burden parents beyond what they can manage during a difficult or unexpected delivery.
The Sunnah of a Newborn Baby in Islam
Welcoming a newborn into the world in Islam isn’t just about the Adhan. Other beautiful Sunnah practices go hand-in-hand, each with its meaning and blessing. These are rooted in Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) teachings, ensuring the child’s spiritual and physical well-being from the first moments of life.
Tahnik (Softening the Palate)
Another significant Sunnah is Tahnik, where a small piece of date is softened and gently rubbed on the newborn’s palate. If a date is unavailable, another sweet substance may be used. This practice carries both religious and health benefits. It is believed to strengthen the baby’s mouth and jaw muscles and introduce them to a blessed act, as it was performed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on many occasions.
Additionally, the sweetness of the date symbolises a sweet beginning to life, while the physical act supports the baby’s ability to suckle effectively.
Naming the Baby
Naming a child is a meaningful event in Islam, as names carry spiritual significance and reflect one’s connection to faith. According to Sunnah, it is recommended that a baby be given a meaningful and positive name, ideally by the seventh day following their birth. A name is chosen not only for its beauty but also for its significance and the values it conveys.
Names such as Abdullah (Servant of Allah Almighty) or Abdur Rahman (Servant of the Merciful) are highly encouraged, as they are beloved to Allah (SWT). In addition, names of prophets, companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), or names that embody positive attributes and qualities are popular choices among Muslims. The purpose is to give the child a name that connects them to Islamic heritage and virtues.
Islamic tradition also provides guidelines on avoiding names with negative meanings. Furthermore, it advises against names that imply arrogance or suggest servitude to anyone other than Allah (SWT). Selecting a good name is considered an act of respect and a prayer for the child’s well-being. Moreover, it is believed that a person’s name can influence their character and outlook on life.
Aqiqah: The Sacrificial Offering
Aqiqah involves slaughtering an animal (two sheep for a boy and one sheep for a girl) as a sign of gratitude to Allah (SWT) for the gift of a newborn. This practice also helps the community, since families distribute the meat from the sacrifice to the needy and relatives.
Hazrat Abdullah bin Buraidah (RA) narrated from his father:
“The Messenger of Allah offered the ‘Aqiqah for Al-Hasan and Al-Husain.” Sunan an-Nasa’i 4213
Families ideally perform Aqiqah on the seventh day after the child’s birth, though they can conduct it later if necessary. Beyond the act of sacrifice, this tradition formally celebrates the newborn’s arrival and fulfils a charitable duty, sharing blessings with the community.
Shaving the Baby’s Head
On the seventh day after birth, it is Sunnah to shave the baby’s head. This practice signifies cleanliness and purification, symbolising the shedding of impurities. Additionally, shaving the head is believed to be beneficial for the baby’s health, promoting hair growth and maintaining cleanliness.
Circumcision
Male circumcision, known as Khitan, is an important Sunnah in Islam. It is considered an act of purification and is recommended to be performed early in a boy’s life. Although circumcision is not obligatory to perform immediately after birth, many parents choose to carry it out within the first few days or weeks.
In Islam, circumcision is highly regarded for promoting hygiene and cleanliness, making it a valued practice for all Muslim males.
Breastfeeding
Islam places great emphasis on the importance of breastfeeding. The Quran encourages mothers to breastfeed their children for two full years if possible, as this practice not only nourishes the child but also strengthens the bond between mother and child. Breastfeeding is considered a right of the child, and mothers are encouraged to receive support in fulfilling this vital duty.
In situations where breastfeeding is not feasible, Islam allows for alternatives, prioritising the health and well-being of the child above all.
Rights of the Child in Islam
In Islam, every child is granted essential rights from birth. These rights include being given a good name, the right to be breastfed, and the right to be raised in a loving and nurturing environment. Additionally, children have the right to receive education, protection, and both physical and emotional support.
Islamic teachings offer guidance on raising righteous, well-rounded children with strong faith and moral values. Explore practical insights on the principles of parenting in Islam, including tips for nurturing young souls and raising children in the light of Islamic values.
- The Art of Parenting in Islam – Nurturing Young Souls
- Islamic Parenting Tips: Raising Children in the Light of Islam
Avoiding Superstitions
It is essential to recognise that some cultural practices surrounding a child’s birth lack basis in Islamic teachings. Muslims are encouraged to avoid superstitions, such as tying objects around the baby to ward off evil or participating in un-Islamic rituals. Instead, they should adhere to the practices taught by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
By focusing on Sunnah practices and avoiding superstitions, Muslims ensure that their actions are firmly rooted in authentic religious teachings.
Celebration and Gratitude
In Islam, the birth of a child is a moment for celebration and deep gratitude. Beyond performing the Aqiqah, parents are encouraged to express their thanks to Allah (SWT) through acts of charity, prayer, and good deeds. This expression of gratitude reinforces the belief that children are a blessing and a trust from Allah (SWT).
Visiting a Newborn
It is Sunnah for family and friends to visit a newborn and offer congratulations and prayers. However, visitors should be mindful of the health and comfort of both the mother and child. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged Muslims to make du’a for the newborn and to offer kind words of support to the family.
The Sunnah of a newborn in Islam provides a structured and meaningful way to welcome a new life. These practices serve religious purposes and encourage health, well-being, and a sense of community. By following these traditions, Muslim parents ensure that their child is raised with a strong foundation in the Islamic faith.
Conclusion: A Lifelong Connection with Faith
Reciting the Adhan for a newborn is a beautiful way to introduce a child to Islam, filling their first moments with words of faith, prayer, and devotion. By following the Sunnah practices—such as Adhan, Tahnik, Aqiqah, and others—parents provide their children with blessings and a strong foundation in Islam from the very beginning.
Welcoming a newborn is a moment of joy, as well as a spiritual responsibility. Through these Sunnah acts, parents nurture a lasting connection to faith and the remembrance of Allah (SWT).
Do you know someone expecting a baby soon? Share this article with them to help them understand the significance of Adhan for newborns and how they can fulfil this beautiful Sunnah. Begin your child’s spiritual journey with the blessings and guidance of Allah (SWT)!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What exactly do you say when giving the Adhan to a newborn?
Recite the complete standard Adhan, starting with “Allahu Akbar” four times, followed by the declarations of faith and the call to prayer. Whisper it gently into the baby’s right ear, using the same words recited from the mosque minaret for daily prayers.
2. Which ear does the Adhan go in for a baby?
Whisper the Adhan into the newborn’s right ear. Some families also recite the Iqamah into the left ear afterward, though this second step remains optional rather than required.
3. Who is allowed to recite the Adhan for a newborn?
The father traditionally performs this Sunnah, but any practising Muslim can step in when the father is unavailable or has passed away. Grandfathers, uncles, or a trusted family member commonly fulfils this role in such cases.
4. What is the difference between Adhan and Tahnik for a newborn?
Adhan involves whispering the call to prayer into the baby’s ear to introduce them to Islam spiritually. Tahnik involves rubbing a softened piece of date on the baby’s palate, a separate Sunnah focused on both physical benefit and a sweet symbolic start to life.
5. How soon after birth should you perform the Adhan?
Perform the Adhan as soon as possible after birth, ideally within the first few minutes or hours. Islamic scholars agree the exact timing carries flexibility, so reciting it within the first few days still fulfils the Sunnah if immediate recitation isn’t possible.
