If God Wills It

I learnt a new word yesterday.  A group of friends were exclaiming how frustrating it is to work in Dubai.  “They don’t listen to you!” exclaimed one. 

They ask me, do you know what “Insha’Allah” means? 

“No.”  I replied.  “What does it mean?”

“It means “If God wills it”, and they use it for everything they do!”  Can you do this?  Insha’Allah.  When can you do it? Insha’Allah.  Do you speak English? Insha’Allah.  “It is so frustrating!”

I can feel their exasperation.

I looked it up, and Ibrahim Al-Ammar from Arab News gave a very good explanation.  He said, “Don’t fear the word!” 

He explained that Insha’Allah is part of a Muslim’s daily vocabulary as they were taught in Islam that only God knows what will happen, so they should not make any definitive statements about the future.  Also, it is more respectful to say “Insha’Allah” instead of plainly “OK.”

Ah … I see. 

But the problem is, people have come to see the word quite literally, and unfortunately, it has taken on a new, but undesirable meaning. 

So, Insha’Allah. Don’t worry.  Whatever will be, will be. 

#crossculture

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On another note, Dubai takes good care of its Women & Children, and the Rich.  As seen in the Dubai Metro: