Common Words & Phrases
Common Islamic Words & Phrases
As salaam alakium
Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh
Common phrase greeting a fellow Muslim. The meaning is, “Peace be upon you and God’s mercy and blessings.”
Bismillah hir rahman nir raheem
A phrase often recited before doing an activity. The reason is to remember God before starting whatever it is you were about to do. The meaning of this phrase is “In the name of Allah, the most beneficent, the most merciful.”
Alhumdulillah
“Praise to God”. Used to express satisfaction. “Alhumdulillah today was good”.
SubhanAllah
“Glory to God”. Allah’s greatness is said and realized everytime something good happens. Example, “It’s snowing outside, Subhanllah!”
MashAllah
“As God has willed”.
A reminder that all good things come from God and are blessings from Him. Example, “Your baby is so cute mashAllah!”
Insha’Allah
If God wills. Usually used to refer to planning to do a future action, I will do this …if Allah wills it. Do not say of anything, ‘I shall do such and such tomorrow,’ without adding, ‘Insha’Allah.’ And call your Lord to mind when you forget… (18:23-24).
Jazaka Allahu Khairan
May Allah reward you with good.
Astaghfirulillah
I seek forgiveness from Allah.
Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala (SWT)
Followed after using one of Allah’s names. For example saying, “Allah (SWT)”. It means to “May He be praised and exalted.”
Salla llahu ʿalayhi wa-sallam (SAWS)
Followed after saying Prophet Momammad. Example, Muslims believe that Muhammad (SAWS) was the last Prophet and Messenger of God. Can also be interchanged with Peace be upon Him (PBUH).