Mungu ni mwema
The English phrase 'God is good' is expressed in Swahili as Mungu ni mwema.
This phrase is a religious statement used to express that God is benevolent and kind. The word Mungu means 'God', ni means 'is' and mwema means 'good'.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Mungu (God), ni (is) and mwema (good/kind).
Which one should you use?
While mzuri can also be translated as 'good', it typically refers to quality or beauty. In contrast, mwema is the standard term used when describing a person's or a being's moral character or kindness.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word mwema is the singular form of the adjective used for beings in the M-WA noun class.
Did you know?
- The phrase Mungu ni mwema is frequently used as a response to good news or a narrow escape from danger, serving as a verbal expression of gratitude.
- While ni translates to 'is' in this sentence, it originally functioned as a tool to point things out or a 'focus marker' rather than a simple linking verb.
- The word Mungu is shared across many different languages in the Bantu family, appearing as Mulungu in Chichewa and Mlungu in Yao.
Examples in context
- Mungu ni mwema kila wakati.God is good all the time.
- Hakika, Mungu ni mwema kila siku.Truly, God is good every day.
Example conversation
Omari and Aisha are discussing a recent blessing in their lives.
- OmariTumeipata habari njema leo!We received good news today!
- AishaNdiyo, Mungu ni mwema sana.Yes, God is very good.
- OmariTunamshukuru kwa kila jambo.We thank Him for everything.
- AishaNi kweli kabisa, Omari.That is very true, Omari.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Mungu, ni, CC BY-SA 4.0.
