خدا
xudā/xu.ˈdaː/
خدا (xudā) is the Persian word for God.
The word خدا is the standard term used to refer to a deity. In a formal context, particularly among Muslims, the term Allah is also used to refer to God. Additionally, when using the word as a way to say goodbye, it forms the common expression خداحافظ (khodā-hāfez), which literally means 'God be your protector'.
Meaning: deity (noun)
Which one should you use?
While خدا is the standard word, خداوند is a more formal and respectful term often used in religious or literary contexts to mean 'Lord' or 'God'.
How does it change in a sentence?
When خدا is the direct object of a verb, it takes the suffix -rā (e.g., خدا را می‌شناسم – I know God).
How do you pronounce it?
xudā. The word has two syllables, with the stress on the second syllable. The IPA is /xu.ˈdaː/.
Did you know?
- The word خدا shares a common ancestral root with the word خاتون meaning 'lady' or 'noblewoman'.
- In Iranian culture, it is common to say خدا را شکر meaning 'thanks to God' even in non-religious contexts, simply to express that things are going well.
Examples in context
- خدا حافظ شما باشد.God protect you.This sentence shows the use of خدا in a protective blessing.Tatoeba #12728632 by cojiluc, translation #6578912 by captcrouton
- خدا به تو برکت بدهد.May God bless you.This sentence shows the use of خدا in a blessing for prosperity.Tatoeba #5117875 by Hussein64, translation #269634 by CM
- فقط خدا منزه از خطاست.Only God is infallible.This sentence shows the use of خدا in a statement regarding infallibility.Tatoeba #7842522 by cojiluc, translation #5385409 by Theocracy
- 34 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Amir and Zahra are talking about faith.
- امیر Amirآیا تو به خدا اعتقاد داری؟Āyā to be khodā e'teghād dāri?Do you believe in God?
- زهرا Zahraبله، من همیشه به خدا توکل می‌کنم.Bale, man hamishe be khodā tavakkol mikonam.Yes, I always trust in God.
- امیر Amirمن هم همین‌طور، خدا مهربان است.Man ham hamintor, khodā mehrabān ast.Me too, God is kind.
- زهرا Zahraبله، خدا همه را می‌بیند.Bale, khodā hame rā mibinad.Yes, God sees everyone.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry خدا, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries خدا, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
