Meaning of holy phrase is distorted

Allahu akbar. It’s one of the most frequently spoken pentasyllabic phrases in the Arabic language. It is recited by millions of Muslims and Arab Christians every day.

And, at least in the West, it has become wrongly linked to terrorism.

Known as the in Arabic, the phrase literally translates to “God is the greatest.”

American Muslims like myself are reclaiming it — from both the misguided extremists who have misappropriated it, and the pundits who’ve supported their agenda by deliberately or inadvertently endorsing its weaponization.

This phrase is used in a multitude of ways: in worship or prayer; in moments of happiness or relief; to glorify and reflect on God's majesty; to express joy and dismay; in appreciation of something that resonates with us.

Personally, to me, this expression evokes a measured sense of balance in an imperfect, increasingly chaotic world.

It serves as an important reminder that no matter how complicated, toxic or stressful times become, Allah, or God, is in control. Stay humble, and don’t despair.

Recently, in a despicable and cowardly attack, the man accused of killing eight people by plowing a Home Depot truck onto a bike path in lower Manhattan, reportedly uttered Allahu akbar after the incident. But don’t be deceived by extremists who use this phrase while waging discord and wreaking terror.

As Council on American-Islamic Relations Florida Executive Director Hassan Shibley elaborated after the attack, “shouting God’s glorious name when committing the worst crime against him is the biggest act of heresy.”

So the next time you hear Allahu akbar — whether it’s in a media report, on an airplane, or in a shopping mall, remember that the phrase used by millions of Muslims and Christians daily to praise God regardless of their circumstances can never be justified for use when harming His creation.