neema
The Swahili word for grace is neema.
neema is used to describe elegance, poise or balance. However, it is most commonly used in a religious or spiritual context to refer to divine grace or a blessing from God.
Meaning: elegant movement, poise or balance (noun)
Which one should you use?
While the English word 'grace' can be used to describe physical elegance or movement, the Swahili neema is more frequently applied to the concept of spiritual blessing or divine favor.
Did you know?
- In Swahili, the word for 'grace' as in the prayer said before a meal is not neema, but is typically expressed as sala ya shukrani or 'prayer of thanks'.
- The word neema is frequently used as a feminine given name in East Africa, symbolizing a child who is seen as a blessing or a gift from God.
- In East African coastal culture, the concept of neema is deeply intertwined with the historical influence of Islamic scholars who brought the Arabic-derived term to the region.
Examples in context
- Asante Mungu wetu kwa neema yako katika chakula hiki. Tupe nguvu na baraka zako. Amina.Thank you, our God, for your grace in this food. Grant us strength and your blessings. Amen.
- Mchezaji huyu ana neema sana.This dancer has a lot of grace.
- Kila hatua yake ina neema.Every step of hers has grace.
- Alionyesha neema katika kucheza kwake.She showed grace in her dancing.
Example conversation
Bakari and Zuwena are watching a traditional dance performance.
- BakariZuwena, angalia neema ya mchezaji huyu.Zuwena, look at the grace of this dancer.
- ZuwenaNi kweli, ana neema ya ajabu.It is true, she has amazing grace.
- BakariMienendo yake ni ya kuvutia sana.Her movements are very attractive.
- ZuwenaNdio, anacheza kwa ustadi mkuu.Yes, she dances with great skill.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry neema, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
