Have you ever wondered what pbuh stands for or s.a.w stands for?

As original Arabic texts have started to get translated, the language of the translations came with its own linguistic rules too. So it wasn’t always translated to the absolute meanings, i.e. you can always find discrepancies or in some translations you are sure to find a note saying ‘to the nearest meaning’.

One of the other characteristics of the English language is the ability to use abbreviations and as a sign of respect and for hope of gaining reward, Muslims tend to say ‘Peace be upon him’ every time they hear or say the name of the Great Prophet (peace be upon him). As a result writers have started to use abbreviations for such repetitions. Many people ask and wonder what does saw stand for? Or what does pbuh mean? Hopefully this post will shed some light.

Below is a list of such abbreviations add yours in the comments below and I may include in the list.

Swt (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala)

This is found in some writings after, someone who has referred to Allah. To show reverence and humility Muslims say Subhanahu wa Ta’ala which is translated to Glorified and Exalted be He!

S.a.w / saws or saas (Sallalahu alaihi wasallam)

This is by far the most common one used sallalahu alaihi wasallam whic means peace and blessings be upon him i.e. the Prophet Muhammad.

P.b.u.h (Peace be upon him)

This also another most common one used it is the translation of sallalahu alaihi wasallam in english.

R.a (Radi Allahu anh)

Everytime a name of any sahaba (Companion), male or female of the Prophet (peace be upon him) is mentioned you are likely to come across this abbreviation. Depending on whether it is a male of female it ends with Anhu or Anha respectively. This means May Allah be Pleased with him/her.

A.s (Allaihis Salam)

Usually found after names of other Prophets of Islam such as Musa (as) or Adam (as), this simply means Peace be upon him. Said as a sign of respect to the Prophets.

 

Now you know some of them, have you encountered anymore? What are they?