“Masha’Allah” is more than a wonderful word in Islamic culture – in fact, a word of gratitude, a word of faith, and protection from the evil eye. Whenever anybody is praising the child’s appearance, new car, or success, “Mashallah” is shouted out as an expression of appreciation, but without jealousy. But some hundreds of other people are inquiring, what Mashallah Meaning?
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the Mashallah meaning in English and Arabic, its origin, when and how to use it, and its cultural and spiritual significance. This guide will also answer common questions related to the phrase and compare it with similar expressions like Insha’Allah and TabarakAllah.
What Does Mashallah Mean?
Mashallah (written in Arabic as: ما شاء الله) translates to:
“What Allah has willed”
or
“As Allah has willed.”
It is an expression of acknowledgment that whatever beauty, success, or goodness you’re witnessing is a result of Allah’s will and permission.
Unlike ordinary compliments that may lead to pride or envy, saying Mashallah shifts the credit away from humans and attributes it directly to the Creator—Allah.
Linguistic Structure: Mashallah Meaning in Arabic
Mashallah is composed of:
- Ma (ما) – What
- Sha’a (شاء) – Has willed
- Allah (الله) – Allah
Thus, it means:
“What Allah has willed has happened.”
It comes from the root word sha’a (شاء), which means “to will” or “to wish.” In Arabic grammar, the phrase is in the past tense, suggesting that the thing you’re talking about has already occurred by Allah’s will.
Mashallah in the Qur’an
The Qur’anic use of the phrase Mashallah can be found in Surah Al-Kahf (18:39):
“Why did you not say, when you entered your garden: ‘Mashallah, there is no power except with Allah?’”
(Surah Al-Kahf, 18:39)
A wealthy man entered his garden and lost the chance to praise Allah for having blessed him in his garden. The verse orders us at all times to thank Allah for whatever we have or do.
When To Say Mashallah?
Mashallah is uttered most often:
- When you compliment someone or something.
- When you hear good news.
- When you see a rose in someone’s life.
- To keep others (particularly kids) away from the evil eye (nazar).
Examples of When to Say Mashallah:
- “Mashallah, you performed so nicely!”
- “Mashallah, your child is adorable.”
- “You got in at university? Mashallah!”
Don’t Say Mashallah for Future Events
To say for future events or plans, use the word Insha’Allah, which means “If Allah wills.”
Example: “I will go travelling next week, Insha’Allah.”
Not: “I’ll go with you next week, Mashallah.” ❌
Difference Between Mashallah and Insha’Allah
The two words are ambiguous but have different uses. The Two Arabic Words
| Phrase | Meaning | When to Use |
| Mashallah | What Allah has willed | After good has occurred |
| Insha’Allah | If Allah wills | Speaking of the future |
The Spiritual Purpose of Saying Mashallah
Mashallah is not a sweet thing to say—it’s deflecting the evil eye, which the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ cautioned against.
What is the Evil Eye (Nazar)
The evil eye is a harm caused by envy or excessive admiration. Islamic beliefs affirm that it is real and harmful.
Hadith:
“The evil eye is real, and if anything could overtake the Divine decree, it would be the evil eye.”
(Sahih Muslim)
When you say Mashallah, you’re sending a dua (request) asking Allah to protect the person or thing one envies.
Mashallah’s Cultural Usage
Across Muslim populations—and even non-Muslim, but Arabic-speaking societies—”Mashallah” has entered the vocabulary of popular usage.
In Other Cultures:
- In Turkey, “Mashallah” is embroidered on babies’ baby blankets and cars, too.
- In India and Pakistan, there are shop and house signs which feature the phrase “Mashallah.”
- In the Arab nations, it’s done ritually and casually.
Even non-Muslims who live in Muslim or Arabic countries might use it as a gesture of respect or out of habit.
Mashallah and TabarakAllah
You will even hear people say “TabarakAllah” too, particularly with Mashallah.
| Phrase | Meaning | Usage |
| Mashallah | What Allah has willed | Say when you are admiring something good |
| TabarakAllah | Blessed is Allah | Dua or extra blessing |
Scholars recommend saying both when you’re agreeing to something and you’d like to give a compliment + blessing:
“Mashallah, TabarakAllah!”
This is the way you’re announcing Allah’s will and distributing barakah (blessing) along with it.
Related Islamic Phrases
| Phrase | Meaning | When to Use |
| Alhamdulillah | All praise is due to Allah | Expressing gratitude |
| Insha’Allah | If Allah wills | Future plans or intentions |
| SubhanAllah | Glory be to Allah | When shocked or surprised |
| Bismillah | In the name of Allah | Before doing anything |
They form a normal part of Islamic speech, each serving a specific purpose and religious meaning.
Most Asked Mashallah Questions
What does Mashallah mean in Arabic?
It is “What Allah has willed.” It is a phrase for surrendering to the will and power of Allah.
Is it permissible for non-Muslims to use Mashallah?
Yes, particularly if they are aware and appreciate its significance. It is used by the majority in appreciation.
Can I use Mashallah for myself?
Yes, but it is used more classically for someone else. In wishing blessings on yourself, say:
“Alhamdulillah, Mashallah.”
Is Mashallah mentioned in the Qur’an?
Yes, as quoted in Surah Al-Kahf (18:39), and is a reminder to thank Allah.
Do I say Mashallah for worldly things?
Yes. Whether it’s part of someone else’s achievement, a new vehicle, or an attractive home, Mashallah gets you in a pleasant mood without jealousy.
Real-Life Examples: How Muslims Use Mashallah
- New Baby: “Mashallah, God protect her.”
- Academic Success: “You passed exams well, Mashallah!”
- Instagram Posts: The majority of Muslims employ “Mashallah” in posts to thank and keep evil eyes away.
- Weddings and Birthdays: “Mashallah, they’re a great couple.”
For further reading
Conclusion: The Power of Saying Mashallah
Mashallah is such a beautiful Islamic heritage adopted from the Qur’an, Sunnah, and Muslim lifestyle. It’s not just a word of thankfulness—it’s a word of religion, humility, thanks, and protection.
Wherever good is seen, speak it. May the tongue never know the forgetfulness of Allah’s favor.
Mashallah – That which Allah ordained. All that is in beauty, success, and goodness is of Him.
“Disclaimer: The Quranic verses and Hadiths quoted in this blog are presented as-is, for educational purposes. If any mistake is found, kindly contact us so we may correct it. We highly respect Islamic teachings and strive for 100% accuracy.”
