Mashallah in German: meaning and origin

Mashallah has an important meaning in German as well as in the original in Arabic. The term is also used frequently in Germany. On this page we explain the exact meaning and its connection in today's usage.

What does Mashallah mean? - German translation, origin and language use

• Translation: Mashallah is Arabic and literally means "As God wills".
• Origin: It is a very old but common phrase from the Koran. Therefore, the word is primarily found in Muslim countries and cultures.
• Current usage: "Mashallah" is often used as a compliment and praise. But it is often also a protector formula - similar to "God protect you".

Mashallah: frequent use

The term Mashallah already occurs in the Koran and is also a first name. But the term came into use today mainly through the youth language. For many young people, often Muslim, Mashallah is part of everyday language and has a positive connotation. Mashallah is also often said about babies to thank God for the child and to ask for protection. Further examples:

• Mashallah your hair looks great.
• Your beard is Mashallah.

Spellings of Mashallah

There are different spellings of Mashallah: In Arabic spelling it means ما شاء الله (Mā schā'a llāh). Mā šāʾa llāh as well as Masha'Allah and Masha Allah are also common. Merely written together (Mashallah) is not used in Arabic because it distorts the meaning. Already knew? The Koran is also available as an app with MP3 suras.