The Word "Wala Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billahil Aliyyil Azeem" Meaning in Arabic
The phrase “Wala Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billahil Aliyyil Azeem” (وَلاَ حَوْلَ وَلاَ قُوَّةَ إِلاَّ بِاللهِ الْعَلِيِّ الْعَظِيمِ) holds deep religious significance in Islam. It is an Arabic expression often recited by Muslims to seek strength and reliance on Allah.
This article explains its meaning, linguistic roots, Quranic connections, and usage in daily life.
The Meaning of “Wala Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billahil Aliyyil Azeem” in Arabic
The English translation of this phrase is:
“There is no power nor strength except with Allah, the Most High, the Great.”
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Pronunciation: Wa-la haw-la wa-la quw-wa-ta il-la bil-la-hil a-liy-yil a-zeem
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Key Words:
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Hawla: Power to change a situation
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Quwwata: Strength or ability
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Aliyyil Azeem: The Most High, the Great (names of Allah)
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This phrase acknowledges that all strength comes from Allah alone.
Linguistic Root and Grammatical Usage
The phrase is derived from classical Arabic with the following roots:
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Hawl (حول): Refers to change, movement, or power to transform circumstances.
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Quwwa (قوة): Means strength or ability.
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Illa Billah (إلا بالله): “Except with Allah” – a negation of independent power.
Grammatically, it is a complete sentence (جملة اسمية) often used as an invocation (dhikr).
Examples of “Wala Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah” in Arabic Sentences
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Arabic: وَعِنْدَ الصُّعُوبَاتِ أَقُولُ: “لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللَّهِ”.
English: During hardships, I say: “There is no power nor strength except with Allah.” -
Arabic: كَانَ النَّبِيُّ يُكْثِرُ مِنْ قَوْلِ “لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللَّهِ”.
English: The Prophet (PBUH) frequently said, “There is no power nor strength except with Allah.”
Cultural or Quranic Significance
This phrase is not directly in the Quran but is based on a Hadith (Sahih Bukhari 6384) where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) called it a “treasure from the treasures of Paradise.”
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Cultural Use: Muslims recite it in difficulties, after prayer, or when seeking patience.
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Variations: Some shorten it to “Hawqala” (حوقلة) for brevity.
Common Misunderstandings or Mistakes
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Mispronunciation: Some confuse “Hawla” with similar words like “Hala” (حلا) meaning sweetness.
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Incorrect Translation: It does not mean “I give up” but rather affirms trust in Allah’s power.
Why You Should Learn “Wala Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah”
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Spiritual Strength: Reinforces reliance on Allah in tough times.
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Daily Dhikr: A recommended remembrance in Islamic tradition.
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Arabic Fluency: Helps understand deeper Islamic phrases.
Conclusion
The phrase “Wala Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billahil Aliyyil Azeem” is a powerful Islamic expression affirming that all strength comes from Allah. Learning its meaning, usage, and significance enhances both Arabic understanding and spiritual connection. Whether used in prayers or daily struggles, it serves as a reminder of divine support.
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