Ever found yourself in a situation where you wish you knew the meaning behind a Muslim saying or sayings but hesitated to ask? You’re not alone in this experience. We’ve all been there, feeling the discomfort of not being in the loop. Acquainting yourself with the linguistic nuances of Muslim daily life can be a game-changer, helping you sidestep those cringe-worthy moments when you’re unsure about a particular phrase’s meaning.
Introducing our meticulously curated list—a comprehensive glossary of the most frequently used phrases by Muslims in everyday conversations. Consider this your go-to resource for unlocking the depth and richness of Muslim sayings.
Are you ready to delve into the fascinating realm of common Islamic phrases used in everyday communication? Get ready to navigate the mosaic of Islamic phrases with confidence and understanding!
Common Muslim Sayings and Phrases
| Muslim Sayings | Literal Meanings | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Alhamdulillah | Praise to Allah | This phrase is commonly used to express satisfaction, often heard after successfully completing a task. It’s also a typical response when someone asks about your day, such as saying, ‘Alhamdulillah, it was good.’ |
| Allahu Akbar | God is great | Frequently employed to convey joy. |
| Ashokrulillah | Means Thanks to Allah | “Ashokrulillah” is a variation of the phrase “Alhamdulillah” and is used to express gratitude or thanks to Allah. It can be said in various situations, such as when expressing thanks for a blessing, after achieving a goal, or in any situation where gratitude is appropriate. |
| Asalamu Alaikum | Peace be upon you | The traditional Islamic way of greeting or bidding farewell. |
| Astaghferullah/Astaghfirullah | I seek forgivenesshttps://www.speakersofislam.com/mufti-menk-sweetness-of-imaan-faith/https://www.speakersofislam.com/islamic-months-name-in-order-english-arabic-and-significances/https://www.speakersofislam.com/fortress-of-the-muslim-guide-pdf-app-and-more/https://www.speakersofislam.com/top-10-islamic-scholars-in-the-world-2023/ from Allah. | The phrase “Astaghfirullah” is commonly said in Islam as a form of seeking forgiveness from Allah. It is expressed when acknowledging a mistake, seeking repentance, or asking for divine pardon. |
| Aaoozobillahe minushaitanir rajeem | I seek refuge with Allah from Satan, the accursed. | This phrase should be uttered before starting the recitation of the Holy Qur’an, along with “Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem.” Additionally, it is employed to ward off negative thoughts, control anger, or repel evil. |
| Amen/Amin | “Amen” or “Amin” is an expression of agreement, affirmation, or confirmation. It is often used in prayers or religious contexts to signify a strong affirmation and endorsement of what has been said. | |
| Barakallaho fee ahleka wa maleka. | May Allah bless your family and wealth. | You say this to someone who gives you a gift, a prize, or money. |
| Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem | In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful. | The phrase “Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem” is often said by Muslims before beginning any task or activity. It is a common way to seek blessings and invoke the name of Allah before embarking on something. |
| Baraka | Blessings | “Baraka” is an Arabic term that translates to “blessings” or “divine grace” in English. It signifies a state of spiritual presence and divine favor, often associated with an increase in goodness, prosperity, or well-being in various aspects of life. |
| Baraka Allahu fik /Barak Allahu Feekum | “May Allah bless you” or “May Allah grant you blessings” | “Baraka Allahu fik” (بارك الله فيك) is an Arabic phrase that translates to “May Allah bless you” or “May Allah grant you blessings” in English. “Barak Allahu Feekum” is a plural form, used to convey blessings to a group of people. These expressions are often used to show appreciation or gratitude in Islamic culture. |
| Da’wah | “Invitation” or “Call” | The term “Da’wah” refers to the act of inviting or calling others to Islam. It involves conveying the message of Islam, sharing its principles, and inviting people to embrace the faith through peaceful and respectful means. |
| Deen | “Religion” or “Way of life” | “Deen” is an Arabic term that translates to “religion” or “way of life” in English. In the context of Islam, it refers to the comprehensive system of beliefs, practices, and values that guide the life of a Muslim. |
| Fee amaan Allah. | In the protection of Allah. | You say this when bidding farewell to someone embarking on a journey. |
| Fatwa | “Fatwa” is an Islamic legal pronouncement or ruling issued by a qualified Islamic scholar (mufti) on a specific issue or question. It provides guidance on religious matters, often addressing legal, ethical, or social aspects of Islamic practice. | |
| Fi-Sabi-Lillah | “Fi-Sabi-Lillah” is an Arabic phrase that translates to “in the path of Allah” or “for the sake of Allah” in English. It often refers to actions or endeavors undertaken for the cause of Allah or in the service of Islam. | |
| Hadith | “Hadith” refers to the sayings, actions, approvals, or descriptions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Islamic tradition. These narrations provide guidance and insight into various aspects of life and are an essential source of understanding for Muslims. | |
| Hajj | “Hajj” is an Arabic term that refers to the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is obligatory for all Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey at least once in their lifetime. The Hajj occurs annually during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah | |
| Halal | permissible | “Halal” is an Arabic term that translates to “permissible” or “lawful” in English. In the context of Islam, it refers to things and actions that are allowed or lawful according to Islamic law. This term is often associated with food, but it extends to various aspects of life, encompassing what is permitted in accordance with Islamic principles. |
| Haram | Prohibited | “Haram” is an Arabic term that translates to “forbidden” or “prohibited” in English. In the context of Islam, it refers to actions, items, or practices that are not allowed or are considered unlawful according to Islamic law. It is the opposite of “halal,” which signifies what is permissible or lawful. |
| Inshallah | If Allah so wills. | This should be said when discussing future plans. |
| Inna lillahe wa inna ilaihe raajeoon | Surely we belong to Allah and to Him we return. | We say this on hearing of the death of someone. It is also said when trying to find something you have lost, and upon hearing any bad news. |
| Imaan | Faith | “Imaan” is the Arabic term for faith or belief in Islamic theology. It represents a believer’s conviction in the core tenets and principles of Islam. |
| Jumu’ah | Friday Prayer or Congregational Prayer | It is a congregational prayer that Muslims observe every Friday. It occurs just after noon and serves as a substitute for the Zuhr (midday) prayer. |
| Jazaka Allahu Khairan | May Allah reward you with all good | A sign of appreciation. It is said when someone does something good for you, such as giving you something or helping you with something. |
| Jannah | Paradise | “Jannah” is an Arabic term that translates to “Paradise” or “Heaven” in English. In Islamic theology, it refers to the ultimate and blissful abode that believers strive to attain in the afterlife. |
| Jahannam | Hell | “Jahannam” is an Arabic term that translates to “Hell” in English. In Islamic theology, it refers to the place of punishment for those who have rejected or disobeyed the principles of Islam. |
| La hawla wala quwwata illa billah | There is no power nor strength except through Allah | The saying conveys that man is inherently weak, unable to transition from one state to another without the assistance of Allah. It is used in unfavorable situations beyond one’s control and also to express dissatisfaction. |
| Maashallah | As God has willed | The phrase “Maashallah” is an Arabic expression commonly used to express admiration, appreciation, or acknowledgment of the beauty, goodness, or blessings in someone or something. It is often translated as “God has willed it” or “As God has willed” in English. |
| Rabbe zidni ilma | O Lord, increase my knowledge. | This brief prayer can be recited before reading the Holy Qur’an or engaging in any form of study. |
| Radi Allaho ta’ala anho/anha. | May Allah be pleased with him/her. | These blessings are recited after mentioning the names of the companions of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) or of the Promised Messiah (peace be on him). |
| Rahmatullahe alaihe. | May Allah have mercy on him. | This is said when referring to the Khalifas of the Promised Messiah who are not his companions and to the saints of Islam. |
| Subhana Rabbe yal Aa’la | Glory to my Lord the most High. | This phrase is said during prostration in prayer (salaat). |
| Sallahu alaihim wa sallam | Peace and blessings of Allah be on him. | This is said whenever you hear the name of the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) mentioned. |
| Subhaan Allah | Glory to Allah | To show admiration or praise for Allah. |
| Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala (SWT) | Glorified and Exalted is He. | “Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” (SWT) is an Arabic phrase used after mentioning the name of Allah. In English, it translates to “Glorified and Exalted is He.” This term is often added as a sign of respect and reverence when referring to Allah in Islamic contexts. |
| Umrah | “Umrah” is an Arabic term that refers to the pilgrimage to Mecca performed by Muslims, which is not obligatory but highly recommended. It involves specific rituals and can be undertaken at any time of the year, unlike the Hajj, which has specific dates. | |
| Wa alaikum salaam. | And peace be on you too. | The phrase “Wa alaikum salaam” is used in Islam as a common greeting in response to “Assalamu Alaikum.” It means “And upon you be peace” and is often said in return to someone who has greeted you with “Peace be upon you.” |
| Yerhamo komullaho | May Allah be merciful to you. | This is an Arabic expression often said to someone who has experienced a loss, such as a death in the family. It translates to “May Allah have mercy on him” or “May Allah show compassion to him” in English. |
| Yarhamuka Allah | May Allah have mercy on you | When you sneeze, it is said after someone sneezes: ‘May Allah have mercy on you.’ |
| Yahdeekomullaho. | May Allah guide you all | “Yahdeekomullaho” is an Arabic phrase that translates to “May Allah guide you all” in English. |
Feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments for any additional words you’d like to see included in this list of Muslim sayings. Your input is valuable, and we’re eager to expand this collection based on your preferences!