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Certain often repeated words of praise for Allah in Arabic are usually translated in a very boring way. The translation comes off as dull and even confusing at times. However, in Arabic the meaning is very profound but is lost through such translations. Below, I’ve attempted to show the true meaning of four such words in addition to their usual boring translations just to show you the difference.
The following four are also known as tasbeeh, tahmeed, takbir, and tahleel in the Arabic language.
Subhan Allah (سبحان الله): Meaning Allah is perfect in an absolute sense without any defects or imperfections of any kind. Usually translated as Glory be to Allah.
Alhamdulillah (الحمد لله): Meaning all praise and thanks belong to Allah alone because He is the originator of everything. To praise or thank something is indirectly praising and thanking Allah because He is its true Creator. Usually translated as Praise be to Allah.
Allahu Akbar (الله أكبر): Meaning Allah is greater than everything else not just in your life but the entire existence. Usually translated as Allah is Great.
La ilaaha illa Allah (لا إله إلا الله): There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah alone without any partners in any way or form. Usually translated as There is no god except Allah.
What do you think? Does the above make more sense? Tell us in the comments section below!
If you found the above helpful, then please be sure to check our post on Brief Explanation of the Words of the Islamic Prayer (Salah)!
Beautiful translation. Jazakallah Khair!
It was easy to remember, Nice translate.
Masha Allah. Jazak Allahu Khairan.
This was of good help..thank you
Jazak Allah Khair
Beautifully explained.
Thanks!
what a great translation. mashallah. very helpful
sorry can’t i granted permission to downloading images…
Thank you, you Beautiful people.
I can finally feel the words i say- confusing it was indeed but alhamdoulillah with such clarification the dhikr becomes meaningful – jazaakallah
Thanks! I am glad you found it useful!
Subhan Allah! I recently took my Shahadah 6 months ago and it was the best decision I could’ve ever made. By far some of the most beautiful, welcoming people in the world. I have much to learn and room for growth but with Allah by my side each and everyday and forums such as these and/or the internet/youtube in general. And last but definitely not least the Masjid which by far is the best place to learn the Deen, meet other brothers doing the same positive things you’re doing and grow as a Muslim. Insha Allah i will continue to learn and move forward in Islam. Thank you, Allah Akbar!
Mabrook! Welcome to Islam Brother! May Allah bless you and keep you upon the truth! I’m glad you found the above helpful!
Jazakallah, what a great and reviving translation.
Wa iyyak! I’m glad you like it.
Aslm. Your explanation is great. But I would advise you rephrase other’s translation from bring ‘boring to a better a word I.e., concise, hard to comprehend etc. You don’t want to lose your reward by practising religious pride.