Tasbeeh (glorification) in the Quran

Summary

This video script explores the deeper meaning of the word **tasbih** in the Quran, challenging traditional interpretations that associate it solely with glorification. Instead, the speaker presents **tasbih** as the concept of working or moving within divine constraints — a reflection of how all elements of creation operate within their appointed boundaries. By examining key Quranic verses, the script highlights how **tasbih** signifies a commitment to live in accordance with divine order. The video emphasizes that **tasbih** is not mere praise, but an active engagement with God’s message and laws, particularly through the Prophet Muhammad’s example.

Takeaways

• 😀 The traditional view of tasbih is that it means glorification or repetition of phrases, but the speaker believes this is a superficial interpretation.
• 😀 The speaker argues that tasbih, derived from the root word 'sabaha,' actually signifies working or moving within an assigned confinement set by God.
• 😀 Surah 48:9 is key to understanding tasbih, as it instructs believers to support, honor, and 'sub' (work within confinements of) the messenger of God.
• 😀 In the Quran, everything in creation—such as heavenly bodies, animals, and humans—moves or works within God’s assigned boundaries, which is an example of tasbih.
• 😀 The speaker emphasizes that tasbih does not mean glorifying the Quran itself, but rather working in alignment with the guidance and laws set by God.
• 😀 Surah 24:41, which speaks of all things in the heavens and earth performing tasbih, is interpreted as indicating that everything follows its divine assignment, not that everything glorifies God.
• 😀 Tasbih, in the speaker’s interpretation, aligns with submitting to and fulfilling the duties God has set for creation, as opposed to merely praising or glorifying Him.
• 😀 The notion of 'working within an assigned confinement' can be applied to natural phenomena like birds flying in formation, or the sun and moon moving in their orbits, all adhering to God’s laws.
• 😀 In Surah 73:7, God instructs Prophet Muhammad to engage in lengthy work during the day (tasbih), which is interpreted as fulfilling his duties rather than glorifying God continuously.
• 😀 The term tasbih is contrasted with dhikr, which refers to recalling or remembering God, whereas tasbih is focused on fulfilling divine assignments through action.
• 😀 The speaker suggests that Surah 50:39’s instruction to glorify God at specific times (before sunrise, sunset, and night) refers to working within the time-bound duties, such as spreading the message of the Quran.

Q & A

What is the traditional understanding of the term 'tasbih' in Islam?

Traditionally, 'tasbih' is understood as glorification of God, typically expressed through repetitive utterance of specific phrases or words, often in a meditative state, aiming to receive God's mercy.

How does the Quranic meaning of 'tasbih' differ from the traditional interpretation?

In the Quran, 'tasbih' goes beyond glorification and signifies a process of working or moving within an assigned confinement. It refers to following God's laws and fulfilling one's duties within the boundaries He has set, rather than just verbal praise.

What is the significance of Surah 48:9 in understanding 'tasbih'?

Surah 48:9 highlights a discrepancy in understanding 'tasbih.' The verse suggests that believers are to support, honor, and 'sub' the messenger, which is not about glorification of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but about working within the message of the Quran, the divine guidance he brought.

What is the root meaning of the Arabic word 'sabaha', from which 'tasbih' is derived?

The root meaning of 'sabaha' refers to moving or working within an assigned confinement. This reflects the natural order in which everything, including celestial bodies, operates according to a divinely ordained structure.

What does Surah 21:33 teach us about 'tasbih'?

In Surah 21:33, it is stated that the sun, moon, and other celestial bodies move within their assigned orbits. This reflects the idea that everything in the universe works within a defined structure, embodying the meaning of 'tasbih' as adherence to God's divine order.

How does the interpretation of 'tasbih' in Surah 24:41 challenge the traditional view?

In Surah 24:41, the verse is often translated as everything in the heavens and earth glorifies God. However, when understood through the root meaning of 'tasbih,' the verse suggests that creation is functioning within its assigned laws and boundaries, not necessarily glorifying God verbally.

What does Surah 38:18 teach about 'tasbih' in the context of Prophet David?

Surah 38:18 mentions that God made the mountains and birds assist Prophet David, but the 'tasbih' here refers to the mountains and birds working within their natural assigned confines, not literally glorifying God. It emphasizes the concept of 'tasbih' as fulfilling divine purpose through action.

How does the concept of 'tasbih' relate to Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) mission?

In Surah 73:7, when God instructs Prophet Muhammad to engage in lengthy work during the day, the 'tasbih' refers to the prophet's active engagement in spreading the message of the Quran, not mere verbal praise. It emphasizes the work within the confines of divine duty.

How is the term 'tasbih' used in Surah 13:13 with reference to thunder?

In Surah 13:13, the thunder's 'tasbih' is not about verbal praise but signifies the thunder moving and working within its natural confines, obeying the divine laws established by God.

What distinction is made between 'tasbih' and 'dhikr' in the context of the Quran?

The distinction between 'tasbih' and 'dhikr' lies in their focus. While 'tasbih' refers to working within an assigned confinement (action-based), 'dhikr' refers to remembrance or meditation, often linked to glorification and praise of God.