tgml 0002 - Common Arabic Expressions

Assalamu'alaikum.

This posting lists some  Arabic expressions many of which are commonly used but we are sometimes unsure of the meaning.  When we are aware of the meaning of the word or phrase,  the expressions can be used with more sincerity and conviction. InshaAllah. (Information extracted from the book, Glossary of Islamic Terms, by Aisha Bewly)



 Allahu a'lam
 Allah knows best


Amma ba'd
an expression used for separating an introductory from the main topics in a speech; the introductory being  usually concerned with Allah's praises and glorification. Literally it means "whatever comes after." For the

men, they would remember this expression being mentioned before Khutbah Juma'ah!

 'Azza wa jall
a formula used after mentioning the name of Allah meaning "Mighty and Majestic is He".

BaraakAllahu fik

"May the blessings of Allah (be upon you)." When a Muslim wants to thank another person, he uses different

 statements to express his thanks, appreciation, and gratitude. One of them is to say, "BaraakAllah"

Fii amaanillah
valedictory phrase meaning " in Allah's protection."

Innaa lillaahi wa innaa ilayhi raaji'un

This is an expression which a Muslim expresses when he is afflicted by a misfortune (not only when we hear of   

someone's death), the meaning of which is "We are from Allah and to Him we are returning." It is taken

from the ayat of the Qur'an (Al Baqarah: 156).

JazaakAllahu khayran

A statement of thanks and appreciation to a person who does a favor, which means, "May Allah reward you         

for the good."


Laa hawla wa laa quwwata illa billaah
"There is no power and no strength save in Allah."  This is said by a Muslim when he is struck by a calamity, or is taken over by a situation beyond his control.


Ma's-salaama
"With peace", a formula for ending letters.


MaashaAllah
Literally means  "What Allah wishes," and it indicates a good omen.


SubhanAllah
"Glorified is Allah," To honor Allah and make Him free from all (unsuitable evil things) that are ascribed to Him,  (or "Glorified be Allah")


Alhamdu lillah
"Praise belongs to Allah"


RadiyAllahu 'anhu
This is an expression to be used by Muslims whenever a name of a Companion of the Prophet Muhammad is mentioned or used in writing. It means: "May Allah be pleased with him." (" 'anha" - for female Companion and 'anhum - for group of Companions)




That's all for now. If you wish to find out meanings of other (there are many!) expressions please let me know. Until then,


Ma's Salaama