Definition and Meaning:
A minbar (Arabic: منبر, pronounced [min-bar]) is a pulpit in a mosque where the imam (prayer leader) stands to deliver sermons (khutbah) during Jumu’ah (Friday) prayers and important ceremonies. The minbar typically consists of a staircase with about three to five steps, leading to a small platform where the imam sits and addresses the congregation.
Etymology and Background
The term “minbar” derives from the Arabic root “n-b-r” (ن-ب-ر), which means “to raise.” Therefore, minbar essentially means “a raised platform.” Historically, the concept of the minbar traces back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad, who used a simple stone platform in the mosque of Medina to deliver his sermons.
Historical Facts & Dates
- 7th Century: Prophet Muhammad uses a stone platform in Medina for sermons, creating a template for future minbars.
- 661 CE: The Uthman ibn Affan minbar becomes one of the earliest examples of a three-step pulpit.
- 19th Century: Intricate and highly decorated minbars become prevalent in Ottoman mosque architecture.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
Minbars, although common across the Islamic world, vary in design. In Turkish mosques, influenced by the Ottoman style, the minbar is often highly ornate and carved from marble or wood. In South Asia, minbars may feature Mughal artistic elements like inlays and calligraphy.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Khutbah: The sermon delivered from the minbar.
- Mihrab: The niche in the mosque wall indicating the direction of Mecca (qibla).
- Imam: The prayer leader who delivers the sermon.
- Mimbar (Indonesia, Malay): Similar meaning to minbar, but localized in language and pronunciation.
Exciting Facts
- Some historical minbars were movable, allowing imams to preach in different areas within a grand mosque.
- The oldest surviving minbar is from the Great Mosque of Kairouan in Tunisia, which dates back to the 9th century.
- It’s traditional for the imam not to sit or use the top step out of reverence, reserving it symbolically for the Prophet Muhammad.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- The renowned historian Ibn Khaldun mentioned, “The minbar serves as the ambassador of Islamic oratory, where words ascend to the heavens.”
Further Studies
For those interested in exploring more about the minbar and its significance, the following literature and sources are accordingly suggested:
Suggested Literature and Other Sources
- “The Art and Architecture of Islam, 1250-1800” by Richard Ettinghausen and Oleg Grabar
- “Mosques: The 100 Most Iconic Islamic Houses of Worship” by Bernard O’Kane
- “The Mosque: History, Architectural Development & Regional Diversity” by Martin Frishman and Hasan-Uddin Khan
Note: The minbar stands as a significant cultural and religious symbol within Islam, merging historical reverence with the spiritual voice.
Inspirational Thought: “The minbar echoes the reverent duty of sharing wisdom. Let it remind us that the journey of learning is an elevated path, speaking to hearts with the resonance of past prophets.”
Published in 2023 by Ibrahim Safi.
