Reno Omokri Explains Christians Using "Alhamdulillah"

Reno Omokri, Nigeria’s Ambassador-designate to Mexico, clarified the appropriateness of Christians using the Arabic expression “Alhamdulillah” and referring to God as “Allah.” He made this statement on X in response to criticism regarding his use of the term, which translates to “Praise be to God.” Omokri noted that “Alhamdulillah” and “Hallelujah” share similar meanings, with the former being Arabic and the latter Hebrew. He explained that Arabs, Hebrews, and many Ethiopians have shared Semitic linguistic origins, leading to similarities in vocabulary.

Omokri cited historical figures like Waraqah ibn Nawfal, an early Arab Christian, who used these terms before Islam's rise. He mentioned that Arab Christians continue to use “Allah” and referenced his visit to a church in Morocco.

Omokri also pointed out that Arabic translations of the Bible predated those in several European languages, emphasizing the historical use of “Allah” in these texts. He urged followers of Abrahamic faiths to recognize their shared heritage.