Inchallah OverDose

 Inchallah means “With God’s will” according to the Koran in the Islam religion. “Inchallah” is often used at the end of a conversation to indicate that one “hopes something will happen in the future.” It is unknown whether it will happen rather it is in the “hands of Alllah.”

At first experience, I admired this statement thinking that it was wonderful that people were so in touch with “God’s will.” Now, I currently find this statement to be both overused and misused. For instance, when you say “Yes, I will be there-Inchallah” and then you do not show up or cancel three times in a row.” It is not really in God’s hands rather it is just a person being irresponsible.  A person can take pure responsibility for their actions or they can involve their religion in a superficial way.  

With my student, we had an interesting discussion about how “Inchallah” can be said “with” or “without” meaning.  My student uses “Inchallah” after our meeting or when I discuss something potentially happening, but he uses it in a real, connected way. He is highly religious and his good morals, values, and beliefs shine through his character and his action.  When he says, “Inchallah” it comes directly from the heart and from God. 

For others, it is clear that this connection is superficial as they use “Inchallah” almost as a “Yeah, Okay, Sure, Maybe It will happen.” For instance, my student told me about a friend of his who used “Inchallah” after a meeting with an executive.  He had said, “Inchallah”after their meeting with the intention of meeting again.  The executive actually became angry and said, “No inchallah, No inchallah- you must come next week.” This was a great example of someone being honest and direct with Moroccan’s telling them, “You must come and not leaving them a choice.” And I find that this is how it must be done-be direct, straightforward, and do not offer too many options or choices. One has to be efficient, direct and set boundaries on the “Inchallah.” While I do not comment on the “Inchallah” statement, I can differentiate between the real ones and the “Yeah okay, sure I will try.” It truly depends on the person’s character and the number of times they use it. If the “Inchallah” is being used all the time without any connection to a specific belief or statement-it is evident that one is using it without connecting to it’s religious element. For some people, it may just be replacing an “Okay” or “Hopefully.” Although, the meaning may have a stronger presence by some.  It is a nice word when used appropriately and with discretion, but Pris recommends some reflection on your intention and what you know will happen. If you know you will not meet again, then do not say “Inchallah” just be direct and honest. It is difficult for the Moroccan culture, but just try, try, and try...