Ilaahay
From Halbeeg, the open encyclopedia · Af-Soomaali
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Ilaahay is the Somali word for the sole creator worshipped in tawhid (monotheistic faith). Other Somali terms with the same meaning include Eebe, Alle, Rabbi, Ilaah, and the invocational form Ilaahow. The Arabic equivalent is الله (Allah), the form most frequently appearing in the Quran.
The concept of Ilaahay in monotheistic faith rests on the existence of a single creator, without peer or equal among created things, possessing infinite power, knowledge, and existence. Various religions explain the attributes and relationship to humanity differently, but all agree that worship is due to Him alone.
Etymology
The Arabic word 'Allah' is generally explained as deriving from 'al-ilaah', meaning 'the deity'—the definite article 'al-' combined with 'ilaah', meaning 'deity' in general. The Somali forms 'Ilaah' and 'Ilaahay' are related to the same Semitic root found also in Hebrew (Elohim) and Aramaic (Alaha). The word 'Eebe' is considered a native Somali term of earlier origin.
Islam
In Islam, belief in Ilaahay is the foundation of the faith, encapsulated in the shahada: 'There is no deity worthy of worship except Ilaahay.' Islamic theology rejects that Ilaahay shares divinity (shirk) or is comparable to creation. The Quran describes numerous names and attributes—such as Raxmaan (the Merciful), Raxiim, Malik, Quddus—commonly called the Most Beautiful Names (al-asmaa' al-xusnaa).
Use in other faiths
The word 'Allah' is not exclusive to Muslims. Arabic-speaking Christians and Jews use it when referring to God, and it appears in Arabic translations of the Bible. Likewise, the Somali 'Ilaahay' can be used by anyone speaking of the creator, without designation to a single faith.
Everyday use in Somali
In Somali, the name Ilaahay appears in everyday speech and proverbs. Expressions such as 'Ilaahay baa og' (God knows), 'Alle ha u naxariisto' (may God have mercy), and 'Insha Allaah' (if God wills) are among the most common phrases in daily use. Somali poetry, verse, and song typically begin with or invoke praise of Eebe.