Arabic is the language of revelation for the Qur'an, and it is the language used by Muslims around the world to recite their five daily prayers. In addition, Muslims of all backgrounds and cultures use Islamic expressions in Arabic.
Following is a list of Islamic expressions with Arabic transliterations from A to I. The English translations are sometimes used by English-speaking Muslims.
Alayhi Salam
Peace Be Upon Him - This invocation is said after the name of a prophet in honor of his high religious status. It’s also used after the names of angels.
Alhamdulillah
Praise Be to Allah - Muslims liberally use “alhamdulillah” in the same context as “thank God” to express gratitude and to indicate that all is well. "Alhamdulillah” is also said after eating, drinking, and as a matter of etiquette after sneezing or burping.
Allahu Akbar
Allah is the Greater - Known as the takbir, this expression is commonly mistranslated to “God is Great.” Muslims use it to praise Allah, show approval, or express surprise or awe.
Allahu ‘Alim
Allah Knows Best - Muslims say "Allah knows best" to express uncertainty, or to describe a situation on which one can only speculate.
Ameen
Please Accept or May It Be So - Like the English equivalent “amen,” this expression is typically recited at the end of prayers, supplications or invocations.
Assalamu Alaykum
Peace Be Upon You - "Assalamu alaykum" is the customary greeting between Muslims, with “wa alaykum salam – and upon you be peace” the reply. The greeting is sometimes shortened to "Salam” or lengthened to “Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh – Peace be upon you as well as the mercy and blessings of Allah."
Astafighurallah
I Seek Forgiveness from Allah - Muslims typically express this after doing something sinful. In Islamic etiquette, “astafighurallah” is also said after burping.
Atqaa Allah
Fear Allah - This expression is used to advise someone who is engaging in sinful behavior, and remind him that he will be accountable for his actions.
Audhu Billahi Min Ash Shaytani Ar Rajim
I Seek Protection in Allah from the Accursed Satan - Muslims invoke Allah with this expression when confronted with something unpleasant or contradictory to Islam, or before reading or reciting Qur'an. A shortened version, “audhu billah – I see refuge in Allah,” is also sometimes used.
Barak Allahu Feek
May the Blessings of Allah Be Upon You - In place of saying “thank you,” a Muslim frequently shows appreciation by invoking Allah’s blessings for someone.
Bismillah
In the Name of Allah (God) - Muslims remember Allah by saying "bismillah” many times throughout the day, particularly before beginning something. This includes before eating, drinking, cooking, working, studying, entering or leaving a home, and more.
Bismillahi Rahmani Rahim
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful - These are the opening words of the Qur’an, repeated by Muslims when reciting Qur’an and when making their five daily prayers. The expression is also used to commence writing, speaking, and other acts.
Fi Amanallah
In Allah’s Protection - Muslims frequently use this expression when parting company.
Fi Sabilillah
In the Way of Allah - This Arabic expression might also be interpreted as “for the cause of Allah.” It’s used when seeking or making a charitable act.
Hasbi Allah
Allah Will Suffice Me - When they find themselves in a difficult situation, Muslims use this expression to show trust in Allah.
Inna Lillaahi Wa Inna Ilayhi Rajiun
To Allah We Belong and to Allah We Return - Muslims pronounce this upon learning of the death of someone. It’s also used when a Muslim suffers from a serious affliction or trial.
Insha Allah
If Allah Wills - The English equivalent is “God willing.” Muslims use this expression whenever mentioning an intended act or future event.
Using Islamic expressions like the ones above is just one way that Muslims stay mindful of Allah in their daily and religious lives. To learn more expressions used by Muslims, see the Islamic Expressions Glossary - J to Z.
Christine Benlafquih - Christine (Amina) Benlafquih is a Morocco-based writer. She covers varied topics including religion, food, health and culture.
