Introduction
The word ‘Bismillah’ has great importance in Islamic faith and culture. It is a powerful reminder to acknowledge Allah’s Almighty presence, seek His blessings, and entrust our actions to Him before initiating any work or activity. The phrase carries deep spiritual implications and encourages believers to recognize the supremacy of Allah Almighty and seek protection against negative influences. In this blog, we will delve deeper into the significance of ‘Bismillah,’ exploring its vital role in the lives of Muslims and its impact on their faith and daily practices.
What Does ‘Bismillah’ Meaning?
Bismillah is a phrase of great importance in Islamic culture. The phrase is derived from Arabic and consists of three words: “bi,” meaning “in,” “ism,” meaning “name,” and “Allah,” which refers to the Islamic concept of Allah Almighty.
The full form of the phrase is “In the name of Allah Almighty, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful,” also known as Tasmiyyah. This phrase is often recited before the recitation of the Quran. It is believed that repeating this phrase before reciting the Quran protects one from evil and brings blessings and guidance from Allah (SWT).
The recitation of Bismillah is preserved in high regard in Islam and is considered an essential aspect of Islamic tradition. Reciting this phrase is believed to bring blessings and protection and strengthen one’s faith and connection with Allah Almighty.
Prophet’s (SAW) Teachings on Bismillah
In Islamic teachings, the phrase “Bismillah” holds great importance and is considered a crucial part of religious practice. As per the teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH), we are encouraged to begin any task or activity by invoking the name of Allah Almighty and reciting the phrase “Bismillah,” which translates to “In the name of Allah (SWT).” This practice is believed to bring blessings, protection, and divine support to the individual and their efforts.
1. Say Bismillah Before Starting the Meal
How many of us say Bismillah before we eat? One just grabs his burger and is done. One eats all of his food without saying the words Bismillah before starting it and Alhumdulillah after finishing it.
It would help if you always recited Bismillah before starting your food. The benefit of having this is that Shaytan does not interfere with your food. When we say Bismillah before starting our food, Shaytan says to his companions, you don’t have anything to eat this food.
Narrated by Hazrat Aisha (RA) said:
“The Messenger of Allah (SAW) was eating food with six of his Companions when a Bedouin came and ate it all in two bites. The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: ‘If he had said Bismillah, it would have sufficed you (all). When any one of you eats food, let him say Bismillah, and if he forgets to say Bismillah at the beginning, let him say Bismillah fi awwalihi wa akhirah (In the Name of Allah Almighty at the beginning and at the end).'”
[Sunan Ibn Majah 3264]
Would you like to discover the Sunnah of Eating and learn how to eat according to its principles? Click on the link below to delve into the insightful guide: Sunnah of Eating – How to Eat According to Sunnah.
Narrated Hazrat Umm Kulthum (RA):
From Hazrat Aishah (RA) the Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: “When one of you eats food, then let him say: ‘Bismillah.’ If he forgets in the beginning, then let him say: ‘Bismillah Fi Awwalihi Wa Akhirih (In the Name of Allah in its beginning and its end.)”
[Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1858]
2. Say Bismillah Enters the Area of Relieving
When we enter the area of relieving ourselves, we should say “Bismillah,” which means “In the name of Allah (SWT)” in Arabic. This is because there are jinns around us that can see our nakedness, and this phrase will act as a screen between them and us.
Hazrat Ali bin Abi Talib (RA) narrated that :
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said: “The screen between the eyes of the jinns and nakedness of the children of Adam when one of you enters the area of relieving oneself is saying: ‘Bismillah.'”
[Jami` at-Tirmidhi 606]
3. Say Bismillah During Slaughter
“Every important word or matter that does not begin with the remembrance of Allah Almighty is maimed.” This means that without beginning with Bismillah, we deprive ourselves of blessing, goodness, and ease. Therefore, by saying Bismillah, we welcome blessings and the help of Allah (SWT) to make things easy and good.
Narrated by Hazrat Jabir bin’ Abdullah (RA):
“I attended the Eid al-Adha with the Prophet SAW) at the Musalla. When he finished his Khutbah, he descended from his Minbar and was given a male sheep. The Messenger of Allah (SAW) slaughtered it with his hand and said: ‘Bismillah, Wa Allahu Akbar, this from me and whoever does not slaughter from my Ummah.'”
[Jami` at-Tirmidhi 1521]
For more details about the traditions and spiritual significance of Eid-ul-Adha that make this celebration so profound. Click now to discover the essence of Eid-ul-Adha: The Festival of Sacrifice and Devotion.
4. Say Bismillah During Sexual Intercourse
Allahumma Jannibna shaitan is a dua for having relation with a wife. One of the noble goals of intercourse is producing a righteous progeny. Thus, the copulating spouses need to supplicate to Allah Almighty, asking him to keep Satan away from their progeny.
Allahumma Jannibna Shaitan Dua
In the Name of Allah (SWT), O Allah Almighty! Shield us from Satan and keep him away from us and from what You [may] bestow upon us [i.e., children].
Interested in learning more about marriage in Islam? Explore the profound teachings and guidance provided by the Quran and Sunnah on this sacred occasion. Click the link to learn more about Marriage in Islam According to the Quran & Sunnah and gain valuable insights into the principles and practices that shape this relationship.
Narrated by Hazrat Ibn Abbas (RA):
The Prophet (SAW) said, “If any of you, when intending to have sexual intercourse with his wife, says: ‘Bismillah, Allahumma jannibna-sh-shaitan, wa cannabis-sh-shaitan ma razaqtana,’ and if the couple is destined to have a child (out of that very sexual relation), then Satan will never be able to harm that child.”
[Sahih al-Bukhari 6388]
Spiritual Benefits of Reciting Bismillah
Reciting Bismillah is considered to be a highly significant act in the Islamic faith, as it is believed to hold numerous spiritual benefits for Muslims. Whenever we start something saying bismillah, Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala puts special blessings in it. He removes any deficiencies that may come into the task, aids it to flourish, and removes the influence of Shaytan from it. Some of the benefits associated with reciting Bismillah include. By uttering this powerful phrase, Muslims may feel more centred, peaceful, and spiritually fulfilled.
Reciting Bismillah is a highly effective and spiritually improving routine in the Islamic faith. We believe that uttering this powerful phrase before starting any task bestows them numerous spiritual benefits. According to this belief, when we say Bismillah, Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala showers His blessings upon the task and eliminates any deficiencies that may hinder its success.
Reciting Bismillah not only benefits the task itself but also extends beyond its immediate action. We also believe that uttering this phrase fills the heart with peace, contentment, and spiritual fulfilment. It is said that reciting Bismillah helps us feel more centred and focused and brings us closer to Allah Almighty.
Looking for Allah’s (SWT) Blessings
Reciting “Bismillah” is an act of submission and devotion to Allah Almighty. It is a way of seeking Allah’s Almighty mercy and guidance before undertaking any action or effort. By saying “Bismillah,” we acknowledge that all our efforts are for the pleasure of Allah (SWT) and to gain his favour. It is a powerful reminder of our faith and a means of seeking Allah’s Almighty blessings in all aspects of life.
Remembrance of Allah Almighty
Bismillah helps to remember Allah Almighty and keep Him best in the mind. It is a constant reminder of the presence of Allah (SWT) and the need to look for His help and guidance in all parts of life.
Saying Bismillah also expresses the concept of tawakkul, which is the Islamic term for complete reliance on Allah and acceptance of His will. By saying Bismillah, a Muslim acknowledges that Allah is the source of all power, strength, mercy and knowledge and that nothing can happen without His permission.
If you want to learn more about Tawakkul click on the link provided to explore more about this concept: Understanding Tawakkul in Allah (SWT).
Protection from Evil
Believers consider that saying Bismillah actively protects from evil and negative influences. We believe that by calling for the name of Allah Almighty before any action, We are looking for His protection from any harm or evil that may come our way.
Discover the secrets to defeating Shaitan and reclaiming your spiritual power! Discover the five powerful methods to overcome evil and protect yourself from its influence. Click here to learn more: 5 Ways To Defeat Shaitan.
Strengthening Faith
Saying Bismillah regularly in every matter helps us strengthen our faith and connection with Allah Almighty. It serves as a reminder of the importance of depending on Allah (SWT) and seeking His help.
Click here to learn more about the faith and gain invaluable insights into this essential aspect of Islamic theology. The key to understanding the core beliefs of Islam with the Six Articles of Faith: Islamic Concept of Faith and Belief.
Increased Barakah
We believe that saying Bismillah before any action increases the barakah or blessings in that action. It is believed that when Allah’s (SWT) name is called for, He showers His blessings upon the person and the action we are about to take.
It is important to note that the benefits of saying Bismillah are not limited to a certain number of repetitions. The intention, sincerity, and understanding behind the recitation are more significant.
Benefits of Saying Bismillah 21 Times
As Muslims, we believe that reciting Bismillah 21 times before going to sleep can bring many benefits. It is believed that doing so can protect us from Satan’s interference, theft, trouble, and even sudden death in a dream. This is because reciting Bismillah can bring security to the believer, as Allah Almighty wills. Therefore, it is recommended for anyone seeking protection and guidance to recite Bismillah 21 times before going to bed.
Benefits of Saying Bismillah 1000 Times
Reciting “Bismillah” 1000 times is believed to offer protection from harm, attract blessings, purify intentions, provide guidance, increase blessings, ward off evil influences, strengthen spiritual connection, seek forgiveness, and bring peace. Repeating “Bismillah” 1000 times can strengthen a person’s faith and connection with Allah (SWT). Bismillah asked Allah Almighty for His mercy and protection many times. Reciting Bismillah” 1000 times holds great importance and true benefits stem from sincerity, faith, and intention behind the recitation.
Importance and Significance of Saying Bismillah
We begin all our actions with Bismillah to remember that everything is for Him. We begin Bimillah with the hope that we will be successful, rewarded, and blessed. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to say “Bismillah Rahman Rahman Raheem” before starting any work. Many works have instructions to speak or write “Bismillah Rahman Raheem.” From the Shariah point of view, whether it is masnoon or mustahab, Bismillah’s importance and significance are profound.
Hazrat Jabir (RA) reported that:
I heard the Messenger of Allah (SAW) saying, “If a person mentions the Name of Allah (SWT) upon entering his house or eating, Satan says, addressing his followers: ‘You will find nowhere to spend the night and no dinner.’ But if he enters without mentioning the Name of Allah Almighty, Satan says (to his followers), ‘You have found (a place) to spend the night in, and if he does not mention the Name of Allah (SWT) at the time of eating, Satan says: ‘You have found (a place) to spend the night in as well as food.” ‘
[Riyad as-Salihin 729]
Bismillah in Quran
The holy Quran begins with Bismillah. It is the first verse of the surah Fatiha (bismillah hir rahman nir Raheem) of the Quran. The Quran begins with the Word Allah Almighty, shows its importance, and further emphasizes the need to start all one’s actions with the name of Allah Almighty.
How Many Times is Bismillah in the Quran?
There are 114 times Bismillah in the Quran.
Which Surah has no Bismillah?
The only chapter of the Quran is Surah Tawbah which does not begin with bismillah hir rahman nir Raheem.
Which Surah has 2 times Bismillah?
The only Surah of the Holy Quran which has 2 Bismillahs is Surah Namal. The Surah initiates with Bismillah, and then in verse 30, it mentions Bismillah again.
It is from Solomon, and it reads: ‘In the Name of Allah—the Most Compassionate, Most Merciful. [Surah An-Naml Ayat 30]
Conclusion
Finally, the importance of saying Bismillah lies in invoking Allah’s (SWT) name and seeking His blessings, protection, and guidance in all aspects of our lives. It serves as a reminder of our trust in Allah Almighty and helps purify our intentions. We strengthen our spiritual connection with Allah (SWT) by reciting Bismillah and inviting His blessings upon our actions. Incorporate this powerful phrase into our daily lives to increase mindfulness and remembrance of Allah Almighty, emphasizing its importance in Islam.
