Semantics and Theology of Muslim basmallah

Abstract

Author proposes a study on every single word of basmallah, aiming to promote Islamic-Christian dialogue and the understanding of Islamic faith. Author also explains the solemn invocation (In the name of Allah, the Merciful and Compassionate) with its linguistic source, meaning and translation. The close link between Arabic and Hebrew vocabulary of basmallah points to the Only-One God of Abraham, recognized as merciful and beneficent. The divine attributes of rahman (merciful) and rahim (compassionate) are theologically explained by the Author: similarities, differences and specific emphasis in according to some Islamic theological schools. In conclusion, Author remarks the God of Abraham’s Revelation shared by Jews, Christians and Muslims, and the mercy toward neighbors as religious duty for believers.