In Islamic tradition, the call to prayer traditionally recited into a newborn’s ear is the adhan.
The adhan is the Islamic call to prayer, normally proclaimed to announce the times of the five daily prayers. In a widely known newborn custom, the words may be recited softly into the baby’s right ear soon after birth.
The practice connects the child’s first hearing with a declaration of Islamic faith and worship. Customs vary among Muslim communities, and not every family follows the same newborn ritual or timing.
The adhan should not be confused with the iqama, another call associated with beginning congregational prayer. The shahada is a declaration of faith, while takbir refers broadly to proclaiming God’s greatness.