"Salim told me that his father said: "I heard the Messenger of Allah say the Talbiyah: "Labbaika Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaika La sharika laka Labbaik. Innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak (Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty, You have no partner)." 'Abdullah bin 'Umar used to say: "The Messenger of Allah used to pray two Rak'ahs in Dhul-Hulaifah, then when his she-camel stood up straight with him at the Masjid of Dhul-Hulaifah, he would enter Ihram saying these words."
The Book of Hajj - Sunan an-Nasa'i 2747
This narration from Abdullah ibn Umar, transmitted through his son Salim, establishes the precise wording of the Talbiyah as recited by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and demonstrates the proper occasion for its commencement.
Commentary on the Talbiyah Wording
"Labbaika Allahumma Labbaik" - The repetition signifies persistent response and readiness to obey Allah's call to pilgrimage. Scholars explain this repetition emphasizes the pilgrim's complete submission.
"La sharika laka" - This declaration of Allah's absolute oneness negates all forms of polytheism, making the Hajj purely for Divine pleasure alone.
"Innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk" - This comprehensive acknowledgment affirms that all praise belongs to Allah for His perfect attributes, all blessings originate from His grace, and all sovereignty rests exclusively with Him.
Ritual Context and Implementation
The Prophet's practice of praying two rak'ahs at Dhul-Hulaifah before assuming Ihram demonstrates that the Talbiyah should commence after crossing the miqat (designated boundary) when the conveyance becomes properly positioned for the journey.
Ibn Umar's meticulous imitation of the Prophet's actions shows the importance of following the Sunnah in both words and deeds during Hajj rituals, particularly in the precise timing and manner of entering the sacred state of Ihram.