غفر الله لنا
ghafara Allāhu lanā
The English phrase 'may allah forgive us' is translated into Arabic as غفر الله لنا (ghafara Allāhu lanā).
This phrase is commonly used as a supplication (du'a) following a realization of a mistake, a sin or during moments of spiritual reflection.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb 'ghafara' (forgave), the subject 'Allāhu' (God) and the prepositional phrase 'lanā' (for us).
How do you pronounce it?
ghafara Allāhu lanā
Did you know?
- The root of the verb used in this phrase, G-F-R, relates to the concept of 'covering' or 'veiling', implying that forgiveness is a way of covering one's faults.
- The word الله is widely believed to be a contraction of الٱِلٰه, which combines the definite article 'the' with the word for 'deity'.
- Because this phrase is a 'du'a' or supplication, it is often accompanied by a gesture of raising the palms of both hands toward the face or sky.
Examples in context
- غفر الله لنا ذنوبنا.ghafara Allahu lana dhunubana.May Allah forgive our sins.
- نحن مقصرون، غفر الله لنا.Nahnu muqassirun, ghafara Allahu lana.We have been negligent, may Allah forgive us.
Example conversation
Two friends are reflecting on their shortcomings after a prayer.
- يوسف Youssefلقد قصرنا في عبادتنا اليوم.Laqad qassarna fi 'ibadatina al-yawm.We have been negligent in our worship today.
- نور Nourصحيح، غفر الله لنا.Sahih, ghafara Allahu lana.True, may Allah forgive us.
- يوسف Youssefنسأل الله التوبة.Nas'alu Allaha al-tawbah.We ask Allah for repentance.
- نور Nourآمين يا رب.Amin ya Rabb.Amen, O Lord.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries الله, لنا, CC BY-SA 4.0.
