Prayer callus
A prayer callus, zabiba or zebiba (
Arabic: زبيبة zabība, "raisin") is a callus on the forehead present in some devout praying Muslims, mainly in Egypt.[1] Owing to its societal significance it is also known as the "devout sign".[2] Among notable Egyptian leader Anwar Sadat's reputation for personal piety was evidenced by a callus on his forehead from repeated prostration in prayer.[3]
salat), which involves kneeling on a prayer mat and touching the ground (or a raised piece of clay called turbah
by the Shia) with one's forehead. When done firmly for extended periods of time, a callus – the "prayer bump" – can develop on the forehead which may be considered as a sign of piety and dedication. Some Muslims believe that It is referred to in the Quran as:
Muḥammad is the Messenger of Allah; and those with him are forceful against the disbelievers, merciful among themselves. You see them bowing and prostrating [in prayer], seeking bounty from Allah and [His] pleasure. Their sign is in their faces from the effect of prostration [i.e., prayer]. That is their description in the Torah. And their description in the Gospel is as a plant which produces its offshoots and strengthens them so they grow firm and stand upon their stalks delighting the sowers – so that He may enrage by them the disbelievers. Allah has promised those who believe and do righteous deeds among them forgiveness and a great reward[4]
Some Muslims also believe that on the
Day of Resurrection, this callus will fluoresce with an immense white light.[5] With the growing popularity of the zabiba in Egypt, its visibility can enhance societal standing and reflect an individual's commitment to prayer, creating a favorable first impression.[6] In some cases, the callus can be thick enough to create a noticeable bump that protrudes from the forehead.[6]
References
- ^ Slackman, Michael (December 18, 2007). "Fashion and Faith Meet, on Foreheads of the Pious". New York Times. Retrieved 2021-10-02.
- ^ Bhargava R and Bhargava M. Devout Sign (Prayer Mark). Austin J Surg. 2018; 5(5): 1141.
- ^ John L. Esposito Islam and Politics Fourth Edition 1998- p36 "Sadat had a reputation for personal piety; the callus on his forehead from repeated prostration in prayer".
- ^ "Surah Al-Fath – 29". quran.com. Retrieved 2021-09-18.
- ^ Magdi Abdelhadi (23 June 2008). "Signs of division on Egypt's brow". BBC News. Retrieved 2011-01-10.
- ^ ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2024-07-01.