In Arabic | English transliteration | Meaning | Benefits
This Arabic prayer allows you to begin any action with good intentions and to ask for the mercy of God.
In Arabic
﷽
English transliteration
Bismillah-ir-Rahmann-ir-Rahim
Meaning
Bism (name, by, or with) Illah (God) ir Rahmann-ir Rahim (the all-Merciful, the especially-Merciful)
Benefits
Reciting Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim before starting anything allows you to seek the mercy and the protection of the Almighty. By saying this prayer, you recognize the Almighty and ensure the sanctity of your action.
History
Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim can be found in the holy Quran. Every chapter of the holy book begins with Bismillah, except for the Surah at-Taubah. The phrase can also be seen at the beginning of all the letters written by the Prophet Mohammed (pbuh) during his entire lifetime.
Important information
While it is believed that the chant should be repeated during the entire day to seek the mercy of the Almighty, it is even more important at specific times to chant Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim. These include:
- When you are leaving your house to ensure that you will be protected outside
- When you are entering the toilet to prevent evil spirits from spying on you
- Before eating your meal as you must always remember the Almighty when starting to eat
- When you are ill to ensure that the Almighty protects you from the ailment
