الحمد لله
al-hamdu lillah
The English phrase 'thank allah' is expressed in Arabic as الحمد لله (al-hamdu lillah).
الحمد لله translates to 'All praise is due to Allah' and is used to express thanks to Allah. It is a common way to praise God and show gratitude for one's blessings or circumstances. People use this phrase to express gratitude for good news, but it is also a standard response to the question 'How are you?' regardless of one's actual state.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of al-hamdu (the praise) and lillah (to Allah or for Allah).
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the definite article al- on hamd to indicate that all forms of praise belong exclusively to God.
How do you pronounce it?
al-hamdu lillah
Did you know?
- When someone sneezes, they might say الحمد لله as a reflexive habit. This follows the tradition that the sudden, involuntary act of sneezing is a blessing of life and health from God.
- In many Arabic-speaking cultures, saying الحمد لله after a meal or a success is a social cue to avoid 'the evil eye', as attributing success to God prevents arrogance.
- The phrase الحمد لله is the opening sentence of the first chapter of the Quran. It is recited by millions of people during every single one of the five daily prayers.
Examples in context
- الحمد لله على كل حال.alḥamdu lillāhi ‘alā kulli ḥāl.Thank God in every situation.
- لقد نجحت في الامتحان، الحمد لله.laqad najaḥtu fī al-imtiḥān, alḥamdu lillāh.I passed the exam, thank God.
Example conversation
A conversation between two friends meeting at a cafe.
- مريم Maryamكيف حالك يا أحمد؟kayfa ḥāluka yā aḥmad?How are you, Ahmed?
- أحمد Ahmedالحمد لله، أنا بخير.alḥamdu lillāh, ana bikhayr.Thank God, I am fine.
- مريم Maryamهل انتهيت من عملك؟hal intahayta min ‘amalika?Did you finish your work?
- أحمد Ahmedنعم، الحمد لله.na‘am, alḥamdu lillāh.Yes, thank God.
