التوكل على الله
al-tawakkul 'ala Allah
The phrase "trust in Allah" is translated into Arabic as التوكل على الله (al-tawakkul 'ala Allah).
This phrase refers to the act of relying on God's will and providence for the outcome of one's affairs. While the noun form التوكل على الله names the concept, individuals often use the verbal form توكلت على الله (I have placed my trust in Allah) to personally express their reliance on God when starting a new endeavor or facing a challenge.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the noun al-tawakkul (reliance/trust) and the prepositional phrase 'ala Allah (upon Allah).
How do you pronounce it?
al-tawakkul 'ala Allah
Did you know?
- The concept of التوكل (tawakkul) is often explained by the proverb 'Trust in God, but tie your camel', meaning faith requires taking practical precautions first.
- The word على (on/upon) in the phrase is cognate with the Hebrew word עַל ('al), meaning they share a common linguistic ancestor from thousands of years ago.
- In Arabic culture, stating توكلت على الله is not just a prayer but acts as a social signal to others that a person is now fully committed to a decision and will not turn back.
Examples in context
- علينا التوكل على الله في كل أمر.alayna al-tawakkul 'ala Allah fi kulli amr.We must trust in Allah in every matter.
Example conversation
Ahmad and Noor are discussing a difficult job interview.
- أحمد Ahmedهل أنتِ قلقة بشأن نتيجة المقابلة يا نور؟hal anti qaliqa bisha'n natijat al-muqabala ya Noor?Are you worried about the interview result, Noor?
- نور Nourقليلاً، لكن التوكل على الله هو أهم شيء.qalilan, lakin al-tawakkul 'ala Allah huwa ahammu shay'.A little, but trust in Allah is the most important thing.
- أحمد Ahmedنعم، أنتِ محقة تماماً.na'am, anti muhiqqa tamaman.Yes, you are absolutely right.
- نور Nourبإذن الله، كل شيء سيكون بخير.bi-idhn Allah, kullu shay' sayakun bi-khayr.God willing, everything will be fine.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries الله, على, CC BY-SA 4.0.
