Ya Muhammad

Yā Muhammad (Arabic: يَا مُحَمَّد "O Muhammad") is an Arabic expression invoking Muhammad.^[1][2]

Definition

The phrase means "O Muhammad". The word yā indicates the vocative case, signifying direct address to a person. It is a common prefix used by Arabic speakers before personal names.^[2]

Use

It is used to seek intercession through the prophet or his family, companions and venerated figures. The majority of its practitioners are the Shias and Sunnis including the Sufis.^{[citation needed]} The vocative yā when used with Allāh is used to call upon God for help.^[3][4]

Mourning of Muharram

During the mourning of Muharram, spontaneous slogans of Ya Hussain, Ya Ali, and Ya Rasul Allah (Arabic: يَا رَسُولُ الله "O Messenger of God") are common. On such occasions, the slogans demonstrate support.^[5]