The phrase “Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem” is one of the most beloved forms of dhikr in Islam. It is short, gentle on the tongue, and full of deep meaning. Muslims say it to praise and glorify Allah. These words express both love and respect for the Creator.
In Arabic, this phrase carries beauty and power that touch the heart. It reminds us that Allah is perfect, free from all faults, and worthy of all praise. When said with sincerity, it brings peace, forgiveness, and countless rewards. It is truly a treasure in the daily life of a believer.
The Meaning of “Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem” in Arabic
The Arabic phrase “Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem” (سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ وَبِحَمْدِهِ، سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ الْعَظِيم) is a beautiful dhikr (remembrance) often recited by Muslims around the world.
It is deeply spiritual, short in words but vast in meaning. It reflects praise, glorification, and gratitude toward Allah.
The phrase can be translated as:
“Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him, Glory be to Allah, the Almighty.”
Muslims recite it frequently to seek Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and blessings. It’s one of the most beloved phrases to Allah, as mentioned in several authentic Hadiths.
Linguistic Root and Grammatical Usage
The Arabic language carries deep meaning in every word. Let’s break down the phrase linguistically:
| Word/Phrase | Arabic | Literal Meaning | Root Word | Explanation |
| Subhanallah | سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ | Glory be to Allah | S-B-H (سبح) | Denotes declaring Allah free from imperfection |
| Wa Bihamdihi | وَبِحَمْدِهِ | And with His praise | H-M-D (حمد) | Expresses gratitude and praise to Allah |
| Subhanallahil Azeem | سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ الْعَظِيم | Glory be to Allah, the Great | A-Z-M (عظم) | Declares Allah’s greatness and majesty |
Each component adds to the full meaning. “Subhan” shows Allah’s perfection, while “Bihamdihi” adds a sense of gratitude. “Al-Azeem” emphasizes His supreme greatness.
Grammatically, the phrase uses the noun form (Ism) rather than verbs, implying continuous glorification, not limited by time or action.
Thus, when reciting this dhikr, one is not merely speaking words one is acknowledging Allah’s eternal perfection and boundless greatness.
Examples of “Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem” in Arabic Sentences
Here are a few examples of how this phrase is used in context:
| Arabic Sentence | Transliteration | English Translation |
| أقولُ سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ وَبِحَمْدِهِ سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ الْعَظِيمِ كُلَّ يَوْمٍ | Aqoolu Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem Kulla Yawm | I say “Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him, the Almighty” every day. |
| يُسَبِّحُ المُؤْمِنُونَ سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ وَبِحَمْدِهِ | Yusabbihu al-mu’minoon Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi | The believers glorify Allah and praise Him. |
| التَّسْبِيحُ بِـ “سُبْحَانَ اللَّهِ الْعَظِيمِ” يُقَرِّبُ الْعَبْدَ مِنْ رَبِّهِ | At-tasbeeh bi “Subhanallahil Azeem” yuqarribu al-‘abda min rabbihi | The glorification with “Subhanallahil Azeem” brings the servant closer to his Lord. |
These examples show that the phrase is not only used in daily dhikr but also appears in Quranic commentary, Hadith, and Islamic literature.
Cultural or Quranic Significance of “Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem”
In Islamic tradition, Tasbeeh (تسبيح) glorification of Allah is a key act of worship. This specific dhikr holds a special place in both the Quran and Hadith.
1. Quranic Reflection
The term “Subhanallah” appears multiple times in the Quran. For example:
“So glorify the Name of your Lord, the Most Great.” (Surah Al-Waqi‘ah 56:74)
This reminds believers to always glorify Allah’s perfection and greatness.
2. Hadith Reference
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“There are two words that are light on the tongue but heavy on the Scale and beloved to the Most Merciful:
‘Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi, Subhanallahil Azeem.’” (Sahih Bukhari & Muslim)
This hadith shows that simple remembrance carries immense spiritual reward.
3. Cultural Practice
Muslims often repeat this dhikr:
- After Salah (prayer)
- During morning and evening adhkar
- On tasbeeh beads or digital counters
- During times of reflection or hardship
It brings peace, forgiveness, and divine closeness.
Common Misunderstandings or Mistakes
While many Muslims recite this dhikr daily, there are some common errors and misconceptions.
1. Mispronunciation
- Some say “Subhanallahi wabihamdihi” too quickly, merging the words.
- Correct pronunciation requires clear articulation of each syllable.
2. Forgetting the Meaning
Repeating the phrase without understanding its depth reduces its impact. True dhikr involves both tongue and heart.
3. Using it only in specific times
This dhikr can be said anytime, not just after prayer. Limiting it to one context may cause people to miss its broader value.
4. Overlooking Sincerity
The Prophet ﷺ emphasized intention (niyyah). Dhikr without sincerity becomes a routine while sincere dhikr transforms the soul.
Why You Should Learn “Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem”
Learning and understanding this dhikr brings countless spiritual and emotional benefits.
1. It Cleanses the Heart
Regular recitation helps remove spiritual heaviness, arrogance, and worldly attachments. It purifies the soul through constant remembrance of Allah.
2. Brings Forgiveness
In a Hadith, the Prophet ﷺ said:
“Whoever says ‘Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi’ a hundred times a day, his sins will be forgiven even if they are like the foam of the sea.” (Sahih Bukhari)
This shows its immense power of forgiveness.
3. Increases Rewards
Each repetition earns tremendous ajr (reward) in the Hereafter. It’s among the easiest acts of worship with the greatest benefits.
4. Creates Peace and Gratitude
The dhikr fills the heart with tranquility. It nurtures thankfulness, humility, and awareness of Allah’s greatness.
5. Enhances Focus in Prayer
Those who regularly say this dhikr find increased concentration in Salah, as their hearts remain attached to Allah.
Spiritual Benefits Table
| Benefit | Description |
| Forgiveness | Wipes away sins through sincere repetition. |
| Reward | Multiplies good deeds effortlessly. |
| Peace of Mind | Brings inner calm and divine comfort. |
| Spiritual Growth | Strengthens connection with Allah. |
| Gratitude | Encourages thankfulness for all blessings. |
Daily Ways to Practice This Dhikr
Here are some simple daily practices to include this phrase in your routine:
- 🌅 Morning: Recite it after Fajr prayer to start your day with peace.
- 🌇 Evening: Repeat it during sunset reflection for spiritual calm.
- 📿 Tasbeeh Beads: Use prayer beads or digital counters to maintain focus.
- 🚶 Walking or Driving: Quietly repeat it to stay mindful of Allah.
- 🌙 Before Sleep: End your day with this remembrance for serenity.
Consistency is more important than quantity. Even saying it 10 times daily with sincerity can bring enormous blessings.
The Rewards of Saying “Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem”
The rewards for reciting this dhikr are immense and continuous. It’s one of the simplest yet most rewarding phrases a believer can say.
1. Light on the Tongue, Heavy on the Scale
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said this dhikr is “light on the tongue but heavy on the Scale”.That means even though it’s easy to say, its spiritual weight is enormous on the Day of Judgment.
2. Continuous Reward (Sadaqah Jariyah)
Every time a believer says it with sincerity, Allah records it as a good deed that multiplies.
Even if you teach it to someone else, their remembrance adds to your eternal reward.
3. A Protection from Sin and Neglect
The more you engage your tongue with dhikr, the less room there is for idle or harmful speech.This simple practice builds spiritual discipline and shields the heart from heedlessness.
| Action | Reward |
| Recite 100 times daily | Forgiveness of sins |
| Recite after Salah | Peace and focus |
| Recite in hardship | Calm and divine help |
How to Teach “Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem” to Children and New Muslims
Passing this dhikr to the next generation keeps its spiritual legacy alive.
Teaching it early helps children and new Muslims connect to Allah’s beauty and perfection.
1. Make It Part of Daily Routine
- Recite it together after prayers.
- Use a tasbeeh counter app or physical beads.
- Encourage saying it before bed or after meals.
2. Explain Its Meaning Simply
Tell children that Subhanallah means “Allah is perfect,” and Al-Azeem means “The Great.”Keep explanations short and emotional, focusing on Allah’s love and greatness.
3. Use Visual and Interactive Tools
You can create:
- Flashcards with Arabic and English.
- Reward charts for consistent dhikr.
- Storytime moments linking it to Prophet Muhammad’s teachings.
This makes learning dhikr fun, meaningful, and lifelong.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem mean?
It means “Glory be to Allah and praise be to Him, Glory be to Allah, the Almighty.”
How do you pronounce Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem?
Say it as Sub-haan-allaa-hee wa bee-ham-dee-hee Sub-haan-allaa-hil Azeem.
Why is Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem important?
It’s beloved to Allah and brings forgiveness, peace, and great reward.
When can I recite Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem?
You can recite it anytime morning, evening, or after prayer.
How many times should I say Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem?
The Prophet ﷺ advised saying it 100 times daily for forgiveness.
Conclusion
The beautiful phrase “Subhanallahi Wa Bihamdihi Subhanallahil Azeem” carries a universe of meaning within just a few words. It reminds every believer of Allah’s perfection, greatness, and endless mercy. When spoken with sincerity, it softens the heart, erases sins, and fills the soul with peace.
In a world full of distractions, this simple dhikr reconnects you to the Creator’s greatness. Make it part of your daily routine say it in the morning, after prayer, or before sleep and let its light bring tranquility, forgiveness, and divine blessings into your life.
Hi, I’m Michael Grant. I have 4 years of experience writing for BibleTruthsNow.com, sharing insights on prayer, Bible meaning, and faith to encourage believers in their spiritual journey.