Allah
/ˈɑː.lɑː/noun
The Arabic word for God, used predominantly in Islam.
Did you know?The term 'Allah' predates Islam and was used in pre-Islamic Arabia, where it referred to the supreme deity worshiped by various tribes, revealing a deep historical connection to monotheism.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Semitic
Proto-Semitic
ʔil
“The ancient term for god, representing the concept of a deity.”
Ancient Arabic
Arabic
ʔillah
“A term meaning 'the god', used in pagan and monotheistic contexts.”
7th Century
Arabic
Allah
“The definitive term for God in Islam, emphasizing uniqueness and oneness.”
Modern Arabic
Arabic
Allah
“The established name for God in contemporary Islamic worship and literature.”