Is it Permissible to Say “Labbaik Ya Rasool Allah”?

Saying Labbaik Ya Rasool Allah is prohibited in Islam.

Islam has instructed Muslims to follow the teachings of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) and obey the commandments of Allah.

To show deep devotion and readiness to follow the beloved Prophet many Muslims use the phrase “Labbaik Ya Rasool Allah”. This phrase is translated as “Here I am at your service, O Messenger of Allah”.

Few scholars have argued that saying this phrase is not permissible in Islam while others have discussed the significance of this phrase.

Is it Permissible to Say “Labbaik Ya Rasool Allah?”

No, it is prohibited to say this phrase.

The use of this phrase “Labbaik Ya Rasool Allah” was commonly used in previous times during the lifetime of the Holy Prophet. By saying these phrases, the companions of the Holy Prophet used to demonstrate their devotion and readiness to follow his guidance.

The incident where one of the companions said this phrase was when Mu’adh ibn Jabal and the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) were riding together.

When the Prophet called Mu’adh, he would reply with “Labbaik Ya Rasool Allah wa Sa’dayk” showing his obedience to the Prophet. (Al-Bukhari & Muslim).

The term ‘Sa’dayk’ means to follow earnestly and ‘Labbayk’ indicates obedience as per Ibn Al-Anbari.

However, after the beloved Prophet passed away scholars informed Muslims not to use this phrase. This is because the phrase implies that Allah and the Holy Prophet both can hear and respond to the prayer.

As the Holy Prophet has left the world this phrase can be misleading.

Evidence

• Some hadiths highlight the usage of this phrase by the companions of the Holy Prophet. The use of this phrase during the lifetime Prophet was appropriate.
• Shaykh Salih Al-Fawzan suggests that this expression should not be recited in recent times. This is because the Holy Prophet is no longer with us and cannot hear us. Any phrase from a Muslim mouth must be directed only towards Allah to avoid any misunderstandings.
• The obedience to the beloved messenger should be stated with a proper meaning after the passing of the Holy Prophet.
• Scholars have focused on the importance of clarity while expressing devotion to Allah and the Holy Prophet.

Bottom Line

The phrase Labbayk Ya Rasul Allah was often used by the companions of the Holy Prophet peace be upon him when he was alive. However, as the beloved messenger is no longer with us, the use of this phrase is prohibited now. All the expressions shall be directed towards Allah only.

Allah knows best.

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