baraka
The Swahili word for "blessing" is baraka.
The word baraka refers to the act of declaring, seeking or bestowing favor. It is used frequently in both religious contexts, such as referring to a divine blessing and secular contexts, such as referring to good fortune or luck.
Meaning: act of declaring, seeking or bestowing favor (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Kenya, Baraka is the term used for "Blessing".
How does it change in a sentence?
The noun baraka is an invariant noun, which means it does not change its form to indicate plurality.
Did you know?
- When seeking baraka from an elder, it is common in some traditional contexts to accompany the request with a specific gesture of respect, such as bowing slightly.
- The word baraka is borrowed from the Arabic word baraka, which carries a similar meaning of divine grace and blessing.
- In some East African contexts, if someone describes a meal as having 'baraka', they are not just saying it tastes good, but that it will provide spiritual or physical nourishment.
Examples in context
- Sio hadi tupoteze afya zetu ndio tutambue baraka zake.It is not until we lose our health that we recognise its blessing.This sentence is useful for demonstrating how to use baraka when discussing health and recognizing blessings.Tatoeba #10807265 by ecorralest101, translation #28755 by Swift
- Tunahitaji baraka za Mungu katika kazi yetu.We need the blessing of God in our work.
- Kuwa na familia bora ni baraka kubwa.Having a wonderful family is a great blessing.
Example conversation
Omari and Aisha are talking about their new home.
- OmariNyumba hii mpya ni baraka kwetu.This new house is a blessing to us.
- AishaNi kweli, Omari, tumepata baraka nyingi.It is true, Omari, we have received many blessings.
- OmariTunaomba baraka zaidi kwa nyumba yetu.We pray for more blessings for our home.
- AishaAmina, baraka zikufuate kila siku.Amen, may blessings follow you every day.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “blessing” translations and entries baraka, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries baraka, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
