Sachin Walls
The phrase Allahu Akbar has been co-opted by Islamist extremists as a war cry, with jihadists uttering the phrase before committing violent acts. As a result, saying Allahu Akbar in an airport or on a plane can provoke fear and panic, as it has become associated with potential terrorist threats. This association has led to Islamophobic sentiments, with some believing that the phrase indicates an impending terrorist attack. While Allahu Akbar has a deeper meaning for Muslims, the phrase has taken on a different connotation in the public consciousness, often evoking fear and suspicion in Western countries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Public perception | Fear, terror, impending danger |
| Usage | War cry, expression of happiness, expression of mourning |
| Connotations | Terrorist attack, bombing, killing, violence |
| Impact | Islamophobia, negative stereotypes, discrimination |
| Real-life incidents | Ryanair flight FR2947 delayed, bomb squad called |
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What You'll Learn
The meaning of 'Allahu Akbar'
Shouting "Allahu Akbar" in an airport or on an aeroplane is likely to provoke a negative reaction from other passengers and security personnel due to the phrase's association with Islamist extremist groups and terrorist attacks. This association has led to Islamophobia, with Muslims feeling pressured to avoid speaking Arabic or using the phrase "Allahu Akbar" in airports and on planes to prevent being perceived as a potential terrorist threat.
Now, moving on to the meaning of "Allahu Akbar", the phrase is an Arabic expression that translates to "God is greater" or "God is [the] greatest". It is derived from the words "Allah", referring to God, and "Akbar", which means "greatest". The word "Akbar" comes from the root word "Kabir", meaning "big", and carries connotations of greatness, nobility, magnificence, and power.
For Muslims, "Allahu Akbar" is a sacred phrase uttered more than a hundred times throughout the day during prayer, upon waking up, when stepping outside, and when beginning a task. It serves as a reminder that Allah is greater than any joy or hardship they might experience. The phrase is also used to express happiness, such as during celebrations, and to seek solace in times of sorrow or frustration.
The phrase "Allahu Akbar" holds profound significance for Muslims, connecting them to the infinite and the Creator. It is whispered into the ear of a newborn and used as a comforting lullaby, becoming a melody throughout their lives. The expression encapsulates the belief that Allah's greatness transcends human comprehension and encompasses all aspects of existence, including strength, intelligence, wisdom, mercy, and more.
In summary, "Allahu Akbar" is an Arabic declaration of Allah's supremacy and perfection, reminding Muslims of their connection to the divine and providing comfort and hope in all circumstances. However, its use in popular culture and media as a war cry by Islamist extremists has led to negative connotations and Islamophobia in certain contexts, particularly in airports and on aeroplanes.
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Islamophobia and 'Allahu Akbar'
The Arabic phrase "Allahu Akbar" has a variety of uses and meanings. It is used by Muslims in many different situations, from celebrations to times of grief, as an expression of joy, surprise, or distress. The phrase, which means "God is greater" or "God is the greatest", is also used as a form of devotion or a general exclamation in emotional situations.
However, the phrase has been co-opted by militants and anti-Muslim activists and is often associated with violence and terrorism. This association has been exacerbated by mass media, television pundits, and films, which use the phrase as a cinematic trope. As a result, many people, particularly Americans, have come to fear the phrase and believe that something bad is about to happen when they hear it. This fear has led to instances of Islamophobia, with Muslims being kicked off planes or facing other repercussions simply for uttering the phrase.
The conflation of "Allahu Akbar" with terrorism has had a significant impact on the Muslim community. Muslims have reported feeling guilty and like potential terrorist threats simply for using the phrase in public, even in casual conversations. This has led to self-censorship, with Muslims avoiding speaking Arabic on planes and being cautious about using "Allahu Akbar" in any context, even though the phrase holds religious and cultural significance for them.
The debate around the phrase "Allahu Akbar" highlights the complexities of language and the potential for phrases to be misinterpreted or appropriated by different groups. While some argue that the phrase is inherently linked to Islamic extremism, others maintain that it is a common expression of faith and emotion within the Muslim community, similar to a Christian saying "Thank God." The negative associations and Islamophobia surrounding "Allahu Akbar" have contributed to a climate of fear and misunderstanding, impacting the lives of Muslims around the world.
While it is important to be mindful of the sensitivities and concerns surrounding the phrase, it is also crucial to recognize the broader context and the diverse meanings that "Allahu Akbar" holds for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
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The use of 'Allahu Akbar' by terrorists
The Arabic phrase "Allahu Akbar" has been used by Islamic extremists and terrorists as a battle cry. This usage has been denounced by other Muslims. The phrase, which translates to "God is the greatest" or "God is bigger/biggest", is used by Muslims in a variety of situations, from celebrations to times of grief. For example, it can be used to express joy or surprise, as applause after a Quran recital, or to celebrate an election win. It has also been used as a cry of victory during battle.
The association of "Allahu Akbar" with terrorism has been argued to be exacerbated by mass media and television pundits, as well as films and shows that utilize it as a cinematic trope. This has led to fear and Islamophobia among non-Muslims, who often associate the phrase with terrorist attacks and other atrocities committed in the name of Islam. For instance, in 2025, a man was charged by counter-terror police for making a bomb threat on a plane and shouting "Allahu Akbar" three times.
Muslims have expressed concern that using Arabic, especially the phrase "Allahu Akbar", in certain places like airports or planes, may lead others to think they are planning a terrorist attack. They may be kicked off the plane or face other repercussions. This is despite the fact that the vast majority of Muslims condemn the actions of Islamic extremists and terrorists who claim to commit atrocities in the name of Islam.
The use of "Allahu Akbar" by terrorists and the subsequent association of the phrase with terrorism have thus created a situation where Muslims may feel guilty or fearful of using this phrase in public, even though it is a common and meaningful expression in their religion.
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The consequences of saying 'Allahu Akbar' in an airport
Shouting "Allahu Akbar" in an airport can have serious consequences, as the phrase has become associated with terrorist attacks and extremism. The phrase, which means "God is the greatest" in Arabic, is commonly used by Muslims in a variety of contexts, including expressions of happiness, mourning, and resignation to God's will. However, due to its use by Islamist extremists as a war cry before committing atrocities, the phrase has taken on a negative connotation in Western societies, particularly in airports and on planes.
Consequences of shouting "Allahu Akbar" in an airport can range from attracting stares and suspicion, as reported by a Muslim individual at JFK airport, to more severe reactions such as being removed from a flight or even facing legal repercussions. In one instance, a Ryanair flight was delayed when a man yelled "Allahu Akbar" as a joke, leading to the pilot refusing to fly with the man and his companions onboard. The bomb squad was called in, causing a two-hour delay, and the individuals were reportedly considered for jail time.
The association of "Allahu Akbar" with terrorism and extremism has led to Islamophobia and a climate of fear. Some commenters argue that this association is unjustified and that the actions of a minority of extremists do not represent the peaceful nature of Islam. Others express concern that speaking Arabic or using the phrase "Allahu Akbar" in airports or on planes can lead to discrimination and profiling of Muslims as potential security threats.
The consequences of shouting "Allahu Akbar" in an airport highlight the complex dynamics at play and to the impact of cultural and religious contexts. While the phrase may hold religious and cultural significance for Muslims, its co-optation by extremists has led to a negative perception in certain settings, particularly in the West. As a result, Muslims may face challenges and discrimination when using this phrase in public spaces, even when it is used innocuously or in private conversations, as illustrated by the JFK airport example.
It is important to acknowledge the complex dynamics at play and to address Islamophobia and discrimination while also recognizing the legitimate security concerns arising from the misuse of religious phrases by extremists. Balancing these considerations is crucial to ensuring both public safety and cultural sensitivity in airports and other public spaces.
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The perception of Muslims in airports
One of the main issues is the perception of the phrase "Allahu Akbar" in airports and on planes. "Allahu Akbar" translates to "God is the greatest" and is commonly used by Muslims in various contexts, such as before exams, to express happiness, or when mourning. However, due to its association with Islamist extremists who have co-opted the phrase as a war cry, many people, particularly Americans, associate it with terrorism and believe something bad is about to happen when they hear it. As a result, Muslims avoid saying "Allahu Akbar" in airports and on planes to avoid negative reactions, suspicion, and even removal from the plane.
Racial profiling and extra security screening of Muslims at airports have also been widely reported and perceived by the Muslim community. A study found that over 63% of Muslim Americans indicated they were singled out for extra screening or racial profiling after 9/11. Many Muslims have shared their experiences of being treated as the "dangerous other" and being ""randomly selected" for additional security checks. This has led to feelings of anxiety, distress, and trauma for many Muslim travellers, with some reporting changes in their behaviour, dress, and habits when travelling through airports.
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Frequently asked questions
'Allahu Akbar' means God is the greatest in Arabic.
Islamist extremists have used the phrase 'Allahu Akbar' as a war cry. Many jihadis have been reported to utter the phrase before killing. As a result, people, especially Americans, tend to associate the phrase with something bad about to happen.
People may be terrified and think that a terrorist attack is about to take place. In one instance, a Ryanair flight was delayed when a man yelled "Allahu Akbar" onboard. The pilot refused to fly with the man and his companions, and the bomb squad was called in.
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