In Islam, Gurti is commonly known as Tahneek, a beautiful and significant Sunnah (prophetic tradition) act performed shortly after a child's birth. It involves gently rubbing a softened sweet substance, typically a date, on the newborn's palate. This ritual is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and is seen as a way to welcome the child into the world with blessings and sweetness.
Understanding Tahneek: The Sunnah Act of Gurti
Tahneek, or Gurti, is a practice highly recommended in Islam, following the example of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is one of the first acts performed for a newborn, emphasizing the importance of commencing life with goodness and the remembrance of Allah.
The Ritual and Its Timing
The Tahneek ritual should ideally be performed on the day of birth. It involves a pious individual (often a scholar or an elder) softening a date by chewing it or mashing it thoroughly, then gently rubbing a tiny amount of the softened pulp on the newborn's upper palate. The substance should be soft enough not to cause any harm to the delicate mouth of the baby.
Preferred Substances for Tahneek
The choice of substance for Tahneek follows a specific order of preference, as outlined in Islamic teachings:
| Preference | Substance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Normal Dates | Dried dates are the primary choice. They are softened by chewing or mashing until they become a paste, then a small amount is gently applied to the baby's palate. This was the most common practice of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| 2nd | Rutab (Fresh Dates) | If normal dried dates are not available, fresh dates (Rutab) are the next preferred option. They are naturally soft and sweet. |
| 3rd | Honey | In the absence of dates, pure honey can be used. Honey is known for its natural sweetness and potential health benefits. |
| 4th | Anything Sweet | If none of the above are available, any other pure, sweet substance that is safe for a newborn can be used. The essence is to introduce a sweet taste as the first experience of life, symbolizing a blessed beginning. |
Significance and Wisdom Behind Tahneek
The practice of Tahneek carries profound spiritual and symbolic significance:
- Following Prophetic Tradition: It is a direct emulation of the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) practice, earning spiritual rewards and blessings. The Prophet often performed Tahneek on the newborns of his companions.
- Symbolic Sweetness: Giving the newborn a taste of sweetness as their very first experience in life symbolizes a sweet and blessed future, filled with goodness and ease.
- Nutritional Benefits: Dates are rich in natural sugars and essential nutrients, providing immediate energy to the newborn. Honey also has various health properties, though extreme caution must be exercised with infants due to the risk of botulism in babies under one year old. Many Islamic scholars suggest dates as the primary and safest option.
- Strengthening Mouth Muscles: Some scholars suggest that the gentle act of sucking or tasting during Tahneek may help in stimulating and strengthening the baby's mouth muscles, which can aid in feeding.
- Pious Blessing: When performed by a pious individual, it is believed to bring blessings and goodness into the child's life from the very beginning.
How Tahneek is Performed
To perform Tahneek effectively and safely:
- Select the Substance: Choose one of the preferred substances, ideally a date.
- Soften the Substance: Thoroughly chew or mash a small piece of the date until it forms a soft, smooth paste. Ensure there are no hard pieces or pits.
- Apply Gently: Using a clean finger, take a tiny amount of the softened substance and gently rub it on the newborn's upper palate or inner gums. The amount should be minuscule.
- Recite Prayers: It is common for the person performing Tahneek to make du'a (supplications) for the newborn's well-being, health, and righteousness.
This beautiful Sunnah act is a cherished tradition, welcoming new life with blessings, sweetness, and adherence to the path of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). For more detailed guidance, refer to reputable Islamic resources such as IslamQA or consult local Islamic scholars.
