Tahnik: A Sacred Practice for Newborns

As Muslims welcome a new life into this world, there are certain traditions and practices that are followed. One such tradition is Tahnik. Tahnik is a practice that involves softening a date or any sweet substance and rubbing it onto the baby's gums after birth. This sacred act holds a significant place in Islamic culture and has been a part of the Sunnah for centuries. In this article, we will delve deeper into the meaning of Tahnik and why it is so important for Muslims. 

What Is the Meaning of Tahnik?

Tahnik is an Arabic word that means to soften or to make something tender. In the context of newborns, it refers to the act of rubbing a piece of softened date or any sweet substance onto the baby's gums. Tahnik is considered to be a Sunnah practice, which means it is a tradition that was established by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). In the Islamic faith, the act of Tahnik is seen as a way to welcome the new baby into the world and to seek blessings for the child's future. It is believed that this practice has numerous benefits for the newborn, including strengthening the baby's jaw muscles, calming the baby, and providing a sweet taste in the baby's mouth. 

The Significance of Tahnik in Islamic Culture

Tahnik is considered to be a highly significant practice in Islamic culture, as it is one of the recommended Sunnah practices for newborns. It is seen as a way to seek blessings for the child's future and to protect the baby from harm. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself performed Tahnik for his grandchildren, Hasan and Husain. It is said that the Prophet (peace be upon him) would place a small piece of date in his mouth, soften it with his saliva, and then rub it onto the baby's gums. Furthermore, Tahnik is also seen as a way to initiate the baby into the Islamic faith. It is believed that by performing Tahnik, the baby's first taste will be a sweet one, which symbolizes the sweetness of faith. 

How Is Tahnik Performed?

​Tahnik is a simple practice that can be performed by anyone, including the parents or family members of the newborn. The following are the steps to perform Tahnik: Soften a date or any sweet substance, such as honey or sugar, by chewing it until it becomes soft or by mashing it with a spoon. Take a small amount of the softened substance and rub it onto the baby's gums using your finger. Recite the Adhan (Islamic call to prayer) in the baby's right ear and the Iqamah (the second call to prayer) in the baby's left ear. Make a dua (supplication) for the baby's well-being and future. It is recommended to perform Tahnik as soon as possible after the baby's birth, preferably within the first seven days. However, if it is not possible to perform it within the first seven days, it can be performed at any time. 

Frequently Asked Questions on Tahnik

Q. Can Tahnik be performed with anything other than dates?
A. Yes, Tahnik can be performed with any sweet substance, such as honey or sugar.

Q. Who can perform Tahnik?
A. Anyone can perform Tahnik, including the parents, family members, or anyone who is present at the time of the baby's birth.

Q. Is Tahnik mandatory?
A. Tahnik is not mandatory, but it is a highly recommended Sunnah practice.

Q. What is the significance of reciting the Adhan and Iqamah during Tahnik?
A. Reciting the Adhan and Iqamah during Tahnik is considered to be a way of initiating the baby into the Islamic faith. It is believed that the baby's first experience of hearing the Adhan and Iqamah will be a positive one, and it will encourage the baby to grow up with a strong connection to the Islamic faith.

Q. Are there any scientific benefits to Tahnik?
A. While there is no scientific evidence to support the benefits of Tahnik, some studies have suggested that rubbing a sweet substance onto the baby's gums can have a soothing effect on the baby and may help to relieve pain and discomfort during the teething process.

Q. Can Tahnik be performed for a stillborn baby?
A. Yes, Tahnik can be performed for a stillborn baby as a way of seeking blessings for the baby's soul and asking for forgiveness for any sins the baby may have committed in the womb.
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In conclusion, Tahnik is a sacred practice that holds a significant place in Islamic culture. It is a way of welcoming a new life into the world and seeking blessings for the baby's future. Tahnik is a simple practice that can be performed by anyone, and it is recommended to be performed within the first seven days of the baby's birth. While there is no scientific evidence to support the benefits of Tahnik, it is believed to have numerous benefits for the newborn, including strengthening the baby's jaw muscles, calming the baby, and providing a sweet taste in the baby's mouth.