What Does "Wallahi" Mean?

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Learn how to say and pronounce this Arabic slang term correctly
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So, you’ve heard someone say the word “wallahi.” What does that mean? In Arabic, Islamic, and African cultures, wallahi or wallah is an oath or swearing to a God. Curious to learn more? Keep reading to find out how wallahi is used in everyday conversation.

Section 1 of 3:

What does wallahi mean?

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    means “I swear to God.” In Arabic, Islamic, and African cultures, wallahi is a slang term used to say “I swear to God” or “by God.” [1] Depending on the individual’s religion and beliefs, they may be swearing to God, Allah, or another divine power. This phrase may be used when making a sincere promise, confirming the truth, or showing frustration. [2]
    • Wallahi is a Somali version of the Arabic term wallah , which has the same meaning. [3]
    • In Arabic, wallahi is written as وَٱللّٰهِ.
    • “Wa” means “swear by,” and “Allah” means God.
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Section 2 of 3:

How do you pronounce wallahi?

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    Wallahi is phonetically pronounced as /wɑˈɫːɑːhi/ or “wah-luh-hee.” [4]
Section 3 of 3:

Is saying wallahi a sin?

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    In many cultures, including Arabic, swearing to God or Allah is sinful, especially if it’s done out of anger. However, swearing to a divine entity to confirm a promise or truth isn’t. [5] Take a look at these examples:
    • If you were to say, “Wallahi,” to prove to a friend that you didn’t take their notebook, that’d most likely be acceptable.
    • If you say, “Wallahi,” when a friend asks you for help with a homework assignment, that’d likely be unacceptable.
    • Avoid saying “Wallahi” if you’re lying. For instance, saying, “ Wallah , this is the most delicious meal I’ve ever had!” isn’t a sin, but saying it if you don’t believe it’s the most delicious meal you’ve ever had is. [6]
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.justice.gov/sites/default/files/opa/press-releases/attachments/2015/04/10/booker_complaint.pdf
      2. ↑ https://blog.rosettastone.com/what-does-wallah-mean-and-more-conversational-arabic-vocab/
      3. ↑ https://seattleglobalist.com/2016/07/13/5-somali-words-wish-english/53609
      4. ↑ https://seattleglobalist.com/2016/07/13/5-somali-words-wish-english/53609
      5. ↑ https://hawramani.com/is-swearing-by-god-permitted-in-islam-the-ruling-on-breaking-an-oath/
      6. ↑ https://blog.rosettastone.com/what-does-wallah-mean-and-more-conversational-arabic-vocab/

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