Minbar (Pulpit)
The elevated platform in the mosque from which the imam delivers the Friday khutbah.
Minbar is the elevated platform or staircase-like structure in the mosque from which the imam delivers the Friday khutbah and other sermons. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had his minbar built by a carpenter in Medina, and it consisted of three steps. He stood on the second step and used the top as a seat.
In a famous hadith in Sahih al-Bukhari, it is narrated that when the Prophet's minbar was built, the date palm trunk he used to lean against during sermons began to moan and weep, until the Prophet came down and comforted it. This event is known as "Hanin al-Jidh'" (the longing of the trunk).
The minbar has an important symbolic and practical function in the mosque. It ensures that the imam can be seen and heard by the entire congregation. Historically, the minbar has also served as a symbol of religious and political authority. The four rightly guided caliphs all used the Prophet's minbar in Medina. Today, minbar designs range from simple structures to elaborate architectural masterpieces in grand mosques around the world.
Related terms
Laylat al-Mi'raj (The Night of Ascension)
The night when Prophet Muhammad journeyed to the heavens and received the gift of prayer.
Tartib (Order in Prayer)
The correct sequence of the prayer's actions and the daily prayers.
Salat al-Duha (Forenoon Prayer)
A voluntary prayer performed after sunrise and before noon, with great reward according to the narrations.
Sunnah Mu'akkadah (Emphasized Sunnah)
Voluntary prayers that the Prophet (peace be upon him) performed regularly and rarely omitted.
Ziyarah (Visitation Prayer)
Visitation and greeting to the Prophet, the Imams, and holy persons at their graves.
Marja' al-Taqlid (Religious Authority)
The highest religious authority in Shia Islam, whom the believer follows in prayer and legal matters.