If you’ve ever heard someone say “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” or seen the abbreviation “SWT” in writing, you might wonder what it means and why it’s used so often. This phrase is an important part of the way Muslims show respect for Allah.
In this blog post, we will explain what “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” means, why Muslims say it, and when it is used.
Here is how to read or write Allah subhanahu wa ta`ala in Arabic text,
الله سبحانه وتعالى
Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala Meaning in English
“Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” is an Arabic phrase made up of three parts:
Allah: This is the Arabic word for God. Muslims believe that Allah is the one and only God who created everything in the universe.
Subhanahu: This means “Glorified is He” or “He is free from any imperfection.” By saying this, Muslims are praising God and recognizing that He is perfect and without any flaws.
Wa Ta’ala: This means “and Exalted is He” or “He is above everything.” This part of the phrase highlights that God is higher, greater, and more powerful than anything else.
When you put all these parts together, “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” means “Allah, Glorified and Exalted is He.” It is a way of showing deep respect and admiration for God, acknowledging His greatness and perfection.
Meaning: But they have attributed to Allah partners – the jinn, while He has created them – and have fabricated for Him sons and daughters. Exalted is He and high above what they describe
Translation: And they worship other than Allah that which neither harms them nor benefits them, and they say, “These are our intercessors with Allah ” Say, “Do you inform Allah of something He does not know in the heavens or on the earth?” Exalted is He and high above what they associate with Him.
Translation: Allah is the one who created you, then provided for you, then will cause you to die, and then will give you life. Are there any of your “partners” who does anything of that? Exalted is He and high above what they associate with Him.
Translation: They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal, while the earth entirely will be [within] His grip on the Day of Resurrection, and the heavens will be folded in His right hand. Exalted is He and high above what they associate with Him.
Why Do Muslims Say “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala”?
Muslims say “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” to show respect for God every time they mention His name. It’s a way of recognizing that God is the most powerful, the most perfect, and above all human limitations.
Here are a few reasons why Muslims say it:
1. Showing Respect
Whenever Muslims talk about Allah, they want to show the greatest respect. Saying “Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” (Glorified and Exalted is He) adds a sense of honor to Allah’s name. It’s a reminder that Allah is not like anyone or anything else. He is unique and deserves the highest form of respect.
2. Recognizing God’s Perfection
By saying “Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala,” Muslims acknowledge that God is perfect. This means that Allah makes no mistakes and has no faults. He is free from any weakness or need. By using this phrase, Muslims show that they believe in the absolute perfection of God.
3. Reminding Ourselves of God’s Greatness
Saying “Wa Ta’ala” means that God is higher and greater than everything. This reminds Muslims that no matter how great something seems in this world, God is always greater. It helps them stay humble and remember that God’s power and wisdom are beyond human understanding.
4. Encouraging Humility
When Muslims say “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala,” it reminds them to be humble. They are acknowledging that they are small compared to God’s greatness. It helps them stay modest and recognize that they depend on God for everything.
When Do Muslims Say “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala”?
Muslims say “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” whenever they mention God’s name. It can be said in daily conversations, prayers, or even in written texts. You might hear it in situations like:
During Prayers: Muslims say God’s name many times in their daily prayers, and they often add “Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” to show even more respect.
When Teaching or Speaking About God: If a Muslim is teaching or talking about religion, they will say “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” whenever they mention God’s name.
In Written Texts: You might see the abbreviation “SWT” after the name Allah in religious books, articles, or even on social media. This stands for “Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala,” which shows respect for God.
Example of How It Is Used
Let’s look at an example to understand how it’s used:
Without saying Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala: “Allah created the universe.”
With saying Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala: “Allah, Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala, created the universe.” This version shows extra respect and emphasizes God’s perfection and greatness.
The Meaning of SWT in Written Texts
Sometimes, instead of writing out “Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala,” you might see the letters SWT after the name “Allah.” This is just a short form of “Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala.” People use it to make it quicker to write, but it still holds the same meaning of respect and glorification of God.
For example:
Allah created the earth (SWT).
Even though it’s shortened, it still shows respect for God and acknowledges His greatness and perfection.
Conclusion
“Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” is an important phrase for Muslims. It helps them show respect, recognize God’s perfection, and remind themselves of God’s greatness every time they mention His name.
It is a small phrase with a powerful meaning. Whether in daily conversation or written texts, Muslims use it to glorify and exalt God, acknowledging that He is above everything in the universe.
Next time you hear someone say “Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala” or see the abbreviation “SWT,” you’ll know that they are showing the highest level of respect and praise for God. It’s a simple way to remind ourselves of the greatness of Allah in everything we do.
