Although only 20 percent of the world's Muslims are Arab, most Muslims eventually learn a few phrases and expressions in Arabic, the language of revelation for the Holy Qur'an.
All Muslims, for example, learn to pray in Arabic. They also refer to God the Creator as Allah, the name which God calls Himself in the Qur'an. Christians and Jews in the Arab-speaking world also refer to God as Allah.
Following is a list of Islamic expressions with Arabic transliterations from J to Z. These expressions are used by Muslims worldwide irrelevant of their different backgrounds, languages and nationalities.
Jazak Allahu Khayran
May Allah Reward You for the Good - This invocation is said in gratitude to someone who has done a kind act, provided help, or given a gift. Such expressions of appreciation are preferable to simply saying “thank you.”
La Hawla Wala Quwata Illa Billah
There Is No Power Nor Strength Except Allah - Muslims frequently acknowledge that all matters are ultimately controlled and decreed by Allah. This expression is particularly used at times of calamity, trouble or difficulty.
La Ilaha Ill-Allah
There Is No God Other Than Allah - The declaration that Allah is One God with no partners is the most important phrase in Islam. Belief in the oneness of Allah is the foundation of a Muslim’s faith.
Ma Salama
With Peace - Some Muslims use this casual expression when parting, ending phone conversations, or when closing a letter.
Masha Allah
What Allah Wills - Muslims use this expression to show appreciation when hearing or seeing something nice, or when acknowledging compliments.
Radiyallahu Anhu (RA)
May Allah Be Pleased with Him - This invocation is made upon hearing, saying or writing the name of a companion of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The expression changes to “radiyallahu anha” for a woman, and “radiyallahu anhum” for several people.
Rahimahullah
May Allah Have Mercy on Him - Whenever a deceased Muslim is mentioned, Muslims use this expression to ask for Allah’s mercy on his soul. A variation, “rahmah Allah” might be used to ask Allah to have mercy on someone who is in distress.
Sallalahu Alayhi Wa Sallam (SAW)
May the Peace and Blessings of Allah Be Upon Him - Muslims say this whenever speaking, hearing, writing, or reading the name of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).
Subhan Allah
Glory Be to Allah - Muslims frequently praise Allah and His creation with this expression, or they use it to express joy and relief.
Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala (SWT)
Highly Praised and Glorified - This expression often follows a mentioning of Allah, signifying His Greatness and His Oneness.
Tabarak Allah
Blessed Is Allah - Upon learning of someone’s accomplishments or hearing good news, Muslims will say this expression.
Tawkkalna Alay Allah
We Have Put Our Trust in Allah - Muslims use this expression while waiting patiently for a problem to be solved. A variation, “Tawakkaltu Allah – Trust in Allah,” is said when advising or comforting someone who has a difficulty.
Ya Allah
O Allah (O God) - Muslims call on Allah with this expression when upset, in distress, or in pain.
Yarhamuk Allah
May Allah Bless You - A Muslim says "yarhamuk Allah" in response to another Muslim who has sneezed and said, “alhamdulillah.”
These are only some of the Islamic expressions Muslims use regularly. Although many Muslims use the actual Arabic, it's acceptable for Muslims to use their native language instead. Only the five daily prayers in Islam must be recited in Arabic.
To learn more Arabic Islamic expressions, see the Islamic Expressions Glossary - A to J.
Christine Benlafquih - Christine (Amina) Benlafquih is a Morocco-based writer. She covers varied topics including religion, food, health and culture.
