Muslims, Jews, and Christians have many similarities in the way they pray, among them the use of the phrase “amen” or “ameen” to end prayers or to punctuate key phrases in important prayers.
For Christians, the closing word is “amen,” which they traditionally take to mean “so be it.”
For Muslims, the closing word is quite similar, though with a slightly different pronunciation.
Where did the word “amen”/ “ameen” come from? And what does it mean?
Ameen, also pronounced ahmen, aymen, amen or amin, is a word that is used in Judaism, Christianity and Islam to agree with God’s truth. It is believed to have originated from an ancient Semitic word consisting of three consonants: A-M-N. In both Hebrew and Arabic, this root word means truthful, firm and faithful. Common English translations include “verily,” “truly,” “it is so,” or “I affirm God’s truth.”
This word is commonly used in Islam, Judaism, and Christianity as an ending word for prayers and hymns. When saying “amen,” worshipers confirm their belief in God’s word. It is a way for believers to offer their words of acknowledgment and agreement up to the Almighty, with humility and hope that God hears and answers their prayers.
The Use of “Ameen” in Islam
n Islam, the pronunciation “ameen” is recited during daily prayers at the end of each reading of Surah Al-Fatihah. It is also said during personal supplications (du’a), often repeated after each phrase of prayer.
Any use of Ameen in Islamic prayer is optional (sunnah). The practice is based on the example and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He reportedly told his followers to say “ameen” after the imam (prayer leader) finishes reciting the Fatihah, because: If a person’s saying ‘ameen’ at that time coincides with the angels saying ‘ameen,’ his previous sins will be forgiven. (Al Bukhari)
It is also said that the angels recite the word “ameen” along with those who say it during prayer.
There is some difference of opinion among Muslims about whether we should say “Ameen” during prayer in a quiet voice or a loud voice.
Most Muslims voice the words aloud during loud prayers: fajr, maghrib, isha, and silently during silent prayers: dhuhr, asr. When following an imam who recites aloud, the congregation will say “ameen” aloud, as well.
During personal or congregational du’as, Muslims often recite it aloud repeatedly. For example, during Ramadan, the imam will often recite an emotional du’a towards the end of the evening prayers. Part of it may go something like this:
Very few Muslims debate about whether “Ameen” should be said at all; its use is widespread among Muslims. However, some “Quran only” Muslims or “Submitters” find its use to be an incorrect addition to the prayer.
