Question
Is it permissible to start the prayer with (There is no god but Allah) instead of Takbir?
Answer
Yes, it is permissible with dislike; because the obligation in the takbir is glorification, and the required phrase is "Allahu Akbar". If he says instead of the takbir: "Allah is more exalted," or "more magnificent," or "the Most Merciful is greater," it is sufficient for him, but he must perform a prostration of forgetfulness for neglecting the obligation. See: Al-Tahawi 1: 308.