A very narrow minded ruling

Dont they have anything better to do in these courts?

Seems like downfall of Malaysia started....

Now humans decide who can recite Allah.

Are non-Muslims children of a lesser Allah?

so now we brand / trademark Allah also....what else is left?

How rigid and arcane. Yet you want the rest of the world to be more flexible in accommodating Islam in all walks of Christian communities in the West in education, advancements in science, technology etc.. How come then Muslims do not have any problem in sending their children to Christian run convent schools. Oh but that is an accepted double standard, is it?

Ridiculous.

Damn! Why didn't the Pakistanis think of it first? This would have been a huge leap in their effort to be Arabs. I would go as far as saying that atleast Arabs would have allowed Pakistanis to travel without a visa, alas....

Whoever God wants to destroy, He first makes them Mad.

Terrible decision. The word "Allah" had been used before Islam. The name of the father of the Holy Prophet of Islam (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was "Abdullah".

Muslims are insecure in their own faith. Amazing how the use of the word will cause confusion to Muslims but not to other faiths.

I hope Muslims in the world will not protest if Christian countries ban usage of words like angel, God , love, peace, truth etc etc by Muslims because such words were first used in Bible and Christians should have the copyright. A Muslim from Pakistan

Wow, What else now these people have copyright of "Allah" word

I always thought Malaysia as a progressive Islamic nation. An unfortunate court's decision. Has anyone ever thought what does the word Allah mean? It is the Islamic name for God in the Arabic language. Allah derives from Al-llah and means literally 'The One' or 'The God' or 'The One God'. The word Allah was always being used even before the advent of Islam. Our beloved prophet father's name was Abdullah meaning Servant of God. Why would Christian's be stopped from using the name Allah as they are ahl-e-kitab. The Quran itself says:

Almighty great god must be laughing at the circus on earth.

Laughable judgement. Allah in Arabic, God in English, Bhagwan in Hindi refer to the invisible authority creation of mankind. I have no idea how it is refer to in Malay, the language of Malaysia

Malaysian Muslims do not belong to the civilized world. Egyptian, Lebanese, Syrian, Iraqi Christians use Allah for their god.

If other monotheistic religions can't use the word Allah for their God, then does it also change their God from us? I hope not..

@Ayaz: that's what happens when religion becomes a property!!!

Gentlemen, it is not use of word "Allah" but it is misuse of name "Allah". if a person is lying infront of an idol by using word Allah I must say he should not have the right to call upon that idol with the name of "Allah". Allah name is only dedicated to Almighty and no one else can use.... other religions people especially with the support of devil "shaitan" doing such blasphamouse things and when hampered come up with basic rights issues. we being muslims should stop anything which is falsely related to Allah or Prophet.....

When Muslims (and Christians) develop mutual respect for ALL faiths, THEN the world will become a better place. As long as deep-hatred exists for people of other faiths, there will continue to be terrorism and wars. Can't Christians evolve enough to say "God extends his love to all humanity, even if they don't turn to Him"? Can't Muslims evolve enough to say "Allah smiles upon all humanity, even if they don't bow to him"??

Allah is Rab-ul-alameen and never once the Quran says Rab-ul-muslimeen. Who is this judge to stop non-Muslims from calling Allah. No human being could ever stop people from that.

in arabic speaking countries chiristian use the word allah when addressing about god, eg lebenese tic copchristian, iraqi christian egyptian christian, they have been using this words before islam came as a religion in this world 1400 years ago ridiculous, are muslim so insecure in malayasia that they will be converted to christainity malayasia will soon follow other islamic nations sad indeed

I thought Malaysia was an example to follow. I guess I was wrong. This rigid fundamentalism is spreading like cancer.

What's in a name? that which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet; Likewise, Whats in a name? that which we call allah By any other name would sound just as fake!

So what. We've been doing that to Ahmadis for years.

I swear, us muslims are turning more and more jahil each day!! Kab khuda inko akal dey ga.

It was mission of The Prophets, Saints, Sufis to spread the word of Allah so that more and more people remember him and take his name. But now Malaysian Authority is stopping people to take HIS name. Isn't this in itself against Islam. Where are we going. Seems like I am reading some court ruling on Intellectual Property or a patent /brand name. Wherein people are not allowed to use a certain Brand Name. What is our interpretation and understating of Almighty.-Another blow on the Muslims

Has any judge in Malaysia read the Holy Quran where Allah says his name is called in monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques? The Malaysians should have judges who know Islam....Period. They should know Allah and God is the same Being but in different languages. Quran 22-40 translated by Yusuf Ali: (They are) those who have been expelled from their homes in defiance of right,- (for no cause) except that they say, "our Lord is Allah". Did not Allah check one set of people by means of another, there would surely have been pulled down monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, in which the name of Allah is commemorated in abundant measure. Allah will certainly aid those who aid his (cause);- for verily Allah is full of Strength, Exalted in Might, (able to enforce His Will). May Allah guide Malaysian judges to learn Islam.

Everyday Muslim Fundamentalists create stir and controversy in matters least matter to majority of world population. Governments and judges should never involve in religious matters as such rulings create misgivings and hatred for Islam all over the world.

Just imagine trying to teach a class in comparative religion? Wow.

@Arif: You're embarrassing yourself. Please show yourself out.

Haay Allah - I'm glad I don't live in Malaysia. It sounds like the newest madhouse on the block.

Why cannot Muslims in Muslim countries treat minority religions the way Christian countries treat Muslim and other minorities Do Muslims not realise how they are judged for the way they treat other religions

@APR: yes. Christian god (may Allah forgive me) has son. Allah does not. by using world Allah in other religion; we are accepting their philosophy of holy father, son & holy spirit which is against of our belief .

Is their any sanity left in the Muslim world? Such ridiculous judgement indicates a lack of intellect among the Muslims even those who are considered educated (from HG Wells' view point these people are college pass men and women but not educated). Muslims have reached to the lowest point in their history and no one knows how low they will go? Simply pathetic!

World wide muslims demand equality but constantly deny it to others in muslim majority countries. Worldwide muslims want democracy and secularism except when they are in the majority. Persecution of others seems to come naturally in muslim majority countries - persecution to the extent of choking people off - suffocation - until they convert to Islam or move away in disgust and fear. sadly, it does not seem to bother muslims - who are proud to be closer to heaven by such deeds. I am glad most other do not want the same heaven that muslims want - spare us in heaven at least.

Did not expect this from Malaysia. I used to be able to give example of Malaysia, Indonesia and Turkey as possible role model countries for Pakistan. Alas, now I am down to Indonesia and Turkey only. What is happening to your common sense muslims?

@Arif: Mr Arif, I ask that you check the etymology of the word "Allah" before telling everyone that only muslims have a monopoly on this word.

No wonder muslims are so confused about their religion. There are so many do's and dont's in islam.

@ahmedj: Beware Malaysia, Once Pakistan was a progressive nation, They did same mistakes, watch your fate like Pakistan in next few decades.

With Christians using the name ALLAH was blessing it means that half the battle was already won, as soon as they are convinced that Jesus was not the son but a Prophet of ALLAH you have muslims. Quran asked us to talk to people of the book on common terms, there it was a common terms but as usual we blew it (Pun intended here).

The pakistanization of malasia has begun. It was bound to happen as in the last decade we have seen a large influx of pakistani to my country.

@Ayaz: No brother, its the downfall of Muslims int he worst way towards its final humiliation.

PATHETIC! RIDICULOUS! I am appalled by this tragic decision. Now muslims will decide who can recite the name of Allah. Do they any copyright on HIS name. This is another step towards the spiraling downfall of Muslims are the heading from 500 years or more. Shame on you!

Guru Granth Sahib the Sikh holy book has verses and teaching of many Muslim Sufi saints which includes Sant Kabir, Rahim and Farid. One of the verse from Guru Granth sahib says EK NOOR SE SAAB JAAG UPJAYIA KHON BHALE KHON MANDE AWAL ALLAH NOOR UPAYA KURDAT KE SAB BANDE. There are many references of Allah in Guru Granth Sahib. So what should Sikhs do in Malaysia?

Didn't the Malyasian PM just give a speech in the UN for preaching moderate Islam in Pakistan? He forgot to look at his own house did he? Its interesting to think how they own that word. As far as I'm concerned, they Malaysians aren't even the the original Muslims, or Arabs to own that word as their own. Let them go to Saudi Arabia and see how much their Muslim "brothers" consider them as their own. Jahils.

Jesus Christ would have used the word "Allaha" which is God in ancient Aramaic. Most non-Muslims in the Middle East still use "Allah". It is not of exclusive Muslim usage!

Myself being an Indian & hindu by religion,many a times refer to the Almighty by the name ALLAH. It cannot be a copyright of a particular religion !!!!!!!!!!

What is the harm if they also call ALLAH? ALLAH is the GOD for all, Muslims or Non-Muslims. HE is the GOD of whole world and not for only Muslims.

What difference does it make if you use the word Allah, Jesus or anything else to talk to the almighty? And what difference does it make if you are using it in the wrong manner (saying in front of idol, facing wrong side, using wrong phrase etc. etc.)? I would rather be a "theologically ignorant" but civilized, peace loving human being who does not harm anyone than be a "theologically confirming" but uncivilized human being who kills and harms or is willing to do it in the name of the religion. And for those who support the ban but who think that they are "theologically confirming" civilized, peace loving human beings who do not harm others, I ask them a simple question -- what you do if you find someone not using the word Allah in the right manner even after the ban? Would you just let them be? Think about it.

Obvious symptoms of the Society turing into Jihadi terrorist mob a natural effect of Islam.

Did Allah send the prophet Isa (Jesus)? Did Allah also send Mosa (Moses) as prophet? Doesn't that prove that the Allah of Christians and the Allah of Jews is the same Allah? Then why can't the followers of Isa and Mosa call Him Allah, too?

@Kags: If there is any!

@Arif: So is Allah different from God? Tell me when you do your sijda in front of Kaaba is Kaaba an idol or not? Is Hajr e Aswad an idol - or in your biased mind idol only has a human form?

I used to think of Turkey,Indonesia and Malaysia as sane Muslim countries. This,despite the fact that Indians/Hindus have been largely marginalized and the community sizzles over with discontent. I remember reading sometime back that some clergy in Malaysia ruled that yoga is "unislamic"! This copyrighting of Allah....is anther retrograde step in Malaysia.When will the government in Muslim countries learn to stay out of religious beliefs of it's citizens? Probably never as religion and politics are very closely intertwined in Islam. Only a few weeks back,this newspaper carried news about the Malaysian PM pleading for "moderation" in Islam in the United Nations,quickly followed by this court decision. It is time for the non Muslim world to put the Muslim world on notice about the religious intolerance being thrust upon non Muslims.

@Kags: Not at all.He might just be howling in agony for all you know?

Being a Muslim, I really feel this is really a sad news. Allah SWT is not God of Muslims only, He is the God of all humans (Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs, Budhs, Jain), the things that we can see and the things that we can not see, and everything that is in this universe. It's like Muslims are now trying to copy right Allah SWT naoozbillah. I have no idea how this judge became a judge.

Islam is being mocked by its followers itself.

If Allah doesn't have a problem with other religions why do Muslims have. Allah , god , ishvar , Vai guru , is all the same. He created Muslims , Hindus , budhs , Christians and Muslims. ,Malaysian govt has gone bananas

It shows great deal of insecurity on part of Malaysian court. Even Pakistan chiristians and people of book in Pakistan use word Allah. Still no fusss is made despite being less religiously tolerant society. Sad to say its happening Malaysia, the religiously tolerant society. Islam gives great deal of respect on human right so no one has any right to stop non-muslims from using word Allah for God.

That Malaysian ruling is perfect. being non-muslim, i should let my family get used to using "Allah" to refer to my Creator.It would be the slippery slide! But what about Eloheim, Elahi,Ilahi, Elehu --cognates of the word in question?

@BKH: In Hinduism, He is Param Pita Parameshwar(a). (Prime Father, Prime Deity). "Bhagwan" is a corruption of Bhaya+wan, whic is "the Blessed One"---actually a Avatar, like Rama, Krishna, Ganesha,et all, usually regarded as an incarnation of Prameshawar(a). In Tok Pisin: He would be Im pela Bik Pela! :)

If we believe there is ONE god, what difference does it make what name is used for him.? All prayers sent to Allah, Yahweh, Jehovah or Bhagwan all reach the same address, because there is only one address. I do not think God is laughing at this stupidity. He is surely lamenting at the ignorance and hatred being practiced in his name.

What a ridiculous judgement. Pathetic.

Hi, I am a Muslim and I find the ridiculous, and I fail to understand the insecurity behind this. It is because of such insecurities today Muslim across the globe are in pain. I wish somebody could use their pea brains and be more rational.

@Arif: Although I don't see any misuse here. But, lets suppose there was, would you stop the misuse or stop the use of the word?

The spirit behind this issue is religious pluralism. They are saying that Muslim God is the same as God in other religion. They wanted to convey that we, Christians and Muslims, have the same God. This is against Islamic creed.Our Aqidah tells us that other god is not the true God. When Muslims renounce religious pluralism, it does not mean that we also reject religious tolerance and religious diversity. In fact Muslims are the one who introduce these concept to the world. The charter of Madinah is the conclusive evidence on this.

It is the use of the word Allah by non Muslim and not the status of Allah itself that of our concern. Non Muslim may acknowledge that God is the Creator, at the Rububiyyah level, but they deny the Uluhiyyah part when they commit shirk and believe in polytheism. A Muslim is the one who submit to Allah in the level of Uluhiyyah. At this level only Muslims recognize that Allah is the one and only true God. And this is the message of tawhid, the message that was corrupted by religions before Islam.

It amazes me how the " defenders " of Islam re the ones who are a threat to Islam. Are these people for real, what could be a greater form of shirk then when we decide that the Name of Allah can only be associated with us. Who are we to determine who can call Allah by what name, can someone come and tell you what to call your mother or father then how can we determine what someone will call his creator. Islam is the most perfect way of life and encompasses the final Law of Allah, if you believe that then there is no reason to fear any conversion or misunderstanding. the fact that Muslim countires and Ullema fear that people will be converted and devise plans to help stop that is a sign that they are weak in their own faith. Anyone having full faith in Allah would never come up with these laws.

@Shah: thank Allah and that is not INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY.

@ahmedj: a fearful muslim who thinks Allah name will be used to convert the sadah looh Malaysians to Christianity ---- if you cannt fight then join the patents and protect yourself.

quite useless & counter productive discussion. But reflect the deterriorating state of mind of Muslims. A big blow to the Islam in reality by the occupants of Islam...

Christians should start copyright of Internet, TV and other Global inventions. Will see what Muslims will do.

This is better than what some right wing activists want in India. They want Allah to be a banned for all religions, including Islam.

@BKH: well done

@ahmedj: why all of you are arguing sitting out of malaysia????? you even don't know that what is the intention of christs to use the word ALLAH and you are flaying. We don't know the intentions and circumstances of there so how can we criticize the regime of a muslim country.

@Shocked Citizen: why all of you are arguing sitting out of malaysia????? you even don't know that what is the intention of christs to use the word ALLAH and you are flaying. We don't know the intentions and circumstances of there so how can we criticize the regime of a muslim country.

Such proceedings should not even be allowed in the courts. Abdullah ibn-Ubayy was considered as the leading Munafiq at the time of the prophet. Did the prophet order him to change his name?

At-least one can see this is in muslim countries..................no one can justify accept Deobandi of KSA and this shows where is heading?

I am shocked that now the word Allah has copyright issues. So sad. Total denial of the teachings of Islam.

@Arif: This fellow I am sure is a Malaysian.

@Arif: God is omnipotent, omnipresent and everywhere - in us, around us, in the air, water, tree, mountain, rock and yes idol too. Those who are blind cannot see --- does not mean nothing exists. Allow your Soul to guide you, not destroy you.

@rich: I copnfirm what you have said. My lebanese friend uses the same vocabulary: Allah, Shukar Alhamdolillah ...etc

Its very good decision. If they love Allah, why the don't become Muslims then? Most of the time, Islamic words like Allah, Salam Alekum, Alhamdolillah, MashaAllah etc are used to disguise one's faith or to decieve others and pretend to show as to be Muslims. Non-Muslims have their own synonyms, so they shoukd use them. Here in Pakistan, non-Muslims use names which no one can recognize them. So it must be clear that who is who. I am for this decision and this is on merit.

The spirit behind this issue is religious pluralism. They are saying that Muslim God is the same as God in other religion. They wanted to convey that we, Christians and Muslims, have the same God. This is against Islamic creed.Our Aqidah tells us that other god is not the true God.When Muslims renounce religious pluralism, it does not mean that we also reject religious tolerance and religious diversity. In fact Muslims are the one who introduce these concept to the world. The charter of Madinah is the conclusive evidence on this.

another muslim country on its way to extremism.... allah raham kare..

I am thinking of all the songs having the word "Allah" featuring non-muslim actors in Hindi Films. Will they be banned in Malaysia or be allowed with a disclaimer ?

@APR: Christianity is NOT monotheistic. Judaism is.

@BKH: "Allah in Arabic, God in English, Bhagwan in Hindi refer to the invisible authority creation of mankind." Not so...

Everybody known it already especially Non-Muslims.

@AbbasToronto: I guess living in Toronto you represent the civilised world?. Your choice of words and mannerism suggests otherwise. Please watch your language. People will mistakenly think you are a Pakistani and trust me none of the Pakistanis I know are as rude as you are.

The judge has mis-judged. How can anyone ban the use of a word. This is a sick mindset.

It's unfortunate that Muslim governments and courts should depict such a dogmatic and fanatic view of Islam ,though it's proclaimed to be such a progressive religion. I tend to endorse Rich's views.

this is rubbish, and a biased decision. I think the decision was made under the influence of Taliban. Allah is RABBUL AALAMEEN NOT RABBUL MUSLAMEEN,,,,,,,,,,

This is quite strange and un-islamic. Allah is an Arabic word. Different nations call ' GOD, RUB, KHUDA, BHAGWAN" to address their Allah. So what is the problem if non-,Muslims use the word "ALLAH" ? Do not look far away, Different words are used to address "Allah" within Pakistan. Such verdict is not Islamic and preaches hatred and enemity..

@Imran B: Absurd!

@rashid: It is these initricacies that actually kill us. Most of the peopl (Muslim, Hindu, Christian etc.) are so much into argument that we dont explore. We think that if follow exact rituals then we will reach to God. But if it was true then many would have achieved sainthood. We have to drop the meanings etc and focus on real stuff. Also Muslims are so senitive that i think they have highest negativety. i dont knwo how can one achieve God with negativity.

A very sad day for Islam. We don't have monopoly on the word "ALLAH" He is 'RABUL ALAMEEN" We are going back to stone age. May GOD forgives our shortcomings. Amen

Frankly i believe humans are biggest stupids. i consider all religions just as a path to reach the "one and only God". So basically there can be 4 routes to reach one place (lets say Time Square). We all keep fighting on my route is better etc. but never take that route. We all will say that this religion is better than that but 99% people are liars who will not speak truth when there turn comes. So what is the point. We are like lost people just bragging about something we dont even know or follow.

Muslims regretfully are going crazy on non issues. NON SENSE all in caps!

@Patrick: Do you think we are that sane. Islam is hijacked by crazy people in all muslim countries. Thec silent majority must stand up and speak. This is not t y e islam that I follow and will never follow.

@Sonal: Malaysia is probably also glad that you don't live there.

@BKH: "Allah in Arabic, God in English, Bhagwan in Hindi refer to the invisible authority creation of mankind." Yes but my concept of Allah is very different from a being who would steal women's clothes and peek at them while they are bathing.

@BRR: There is more freedom in Malaysia than most of Europe. You can go to jail for denying holocaust, that doesn't sound very free.

@rashid: You have unfortunately used wrong ignorant Mullah's interpretations. Go Alighten your mind from Quran. There is only ONE GOD, and all good names belong to GOD. You can Call HIM ALLAH,RAB, GOD, ELI ,KHUDDA........ what ever is your language.

@Singh: Dear singh, I am hindu but have come very close to sikhism. Every word in gurubani is like a pearl which is very delicately wooven like a necklace to give beauty and peace of mind. There is nothing wrong to call allah,khuda, waheguru....etc. etc. from the depth of our heart. A song liked by me is khwaja mere khwaja dil me samaja,. I wonder to read a country like malaysia does not allow non muslims to call allah!!!

The final verse from John Godfrey Saxe's poem, The Blind Men and the Elephant, sums it all up quite well: So oft in theologic wars, The disputants, I ween, Rail on in utter ignorance Of what each other mean, And prate about an Elephant Not one of them has seen! To put it simply, 'GOD' is too big to fit into one religion.

Even "sane" Muslim governments are now behaving in un-Islamic and racist manner. One cannot impose one's opinion on other peoples' religions. Why should the word "Allah" cause confusion? It is the name of God or Eeshwar etc in Arabic. What do these uneducated and corrupt governments know about history? In pre-islamic days of Arabia, the word for God was Allah, used by the non-Muslim Arabs, who still use the same word. Was our prophet (SAW) wrong not to distinguish the "Muslim" God from the "non-Muslim" God? Christians in Arabic countries have Arabic names, which Muslims in Arabia and elsewhere also use. There is no worry about any confusion here. And why is it so important anyway? One's religion is one's private business. No one should interfere with this. Muslims with such negative and illogical thoughts should know that Muslims believe that Allah is the only God and he is Allah of all that He has created.

There we go again. Muslims reserve the divine right to exclude and deprive any one who is a Non-Muslim of any thing they think is exclusively for themselves. How does one prohibit some one from using a word? What ABSURDITY? No wonder the Indians and Chinese Malays who from the back bone of professional and business in Malaysia are voting with their feet and migrating to Australia and the West. And, it is NOT a trickle either. If Malaysian Government does not stop it's discriminatory policies towards Non-Muslims; it will become another Muslim paradise but a pariah in the nations of the world just like other Muslim paradises. Pakistan, Afghanistan any one?

@desiinpardes: I agree. This is a sign of a rotting society/system. Even animals would not do this kind of judgment. Hope this kind of stupidity will turn tourists away from Malaysia.

This judge who made this judgement is insane and will be an inspiration for wannabe Jihadis. She and her team should be packed and hauled to outer space so the rest of the world could be peaceful.

@rashid: Rubbish

So that means we all non muslims should pray to god and ask never by mistake we should be saying allha othereise we will be punished By the way is this judge also banned Muslims from using the word god

Say (O Muhammad ): "O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians): Come to a word that is just between us and you, that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate no partners with Him, and that none of us shall take others as lords besides Allah. Then, if they turn away, say: "Bear witness that we are Muslims." Malaysian courts are disputing a non disputing word according to above verse of Al Imran 64 / Quran

This ruling is utter non-sense. Its like English speaking world puts a ban on Muslims that we can't use the word "God". Allah is for the entire universe. Anyone can use this pro-noun. Allah created us all. There is no distinction between man-kind. We as Muslims do not have sole ownership of Allah. Allah is Rabulaalameen.

The most stupid court ruling I have ever heard. This will keep non Muslims away from the beautiful religion of Islam. What a pity.

Insecurities Muslims have will destroy them and their religion. The word Allah was used much before Islam that is why the Prophet's father was called "Abdullah". Do we Muslims not have any brains left in us?.

@rashid: Please show me from the Quran or Hadith where non Muslims are banned from calling Allah by his proper name. In the Quran It is mentioned that non Muslims attribute progeny of Allah, In the Quran that is called shirk, but it still does not ban or prohibit non Muslims from calling Allah by his proper name.

@FAHAD ULLAH: Wow! Man! Do you know some thing that rest of the humanity doesn't? What ever you call him or her everybody who believes does in the supreme being, could be called Allah,god , Bhagwan.

A question to Muslims. When Allah, your God and my God says in the Holy Quran "My name is called abundantly in Monasteries, Synagogues, Churches and Mosques, who are you to question the words of Allah and deny Non-Muslims from calling the name of "Allah". Open the Holy Quran and read this verse: Quran 22-40 translated by Yusuf Ali: (They are) those who have been expelled from their homes in defiance of right,- (for no cause) except that they say, "our Lord is Allah". Did not Allah check one set of people by means of another, there would surely have been pulled down monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, in which the name of Allah is commemorated in abundant measure. Allah will certainly aid those who aid his (cause);- for verily Allah is full of Strength, Exalted in Might, (able to enforce His Will). If you believe in Allah and his words the Holy Quran, you will be a sinner if you deny the words of Allah which is

According to the Malaya Court, there is Allah for the non-progressive Muslims and God for the rest of the progressive World. May God put some sense in the believer of Allah with long beards, considered passport to heaven by them and behind 1000 years of the believer of God

@Rao Tahir: sine when did muslims have the copy right of the word Alla.I do not know what the hell is going on in the minds of some muslims

@Agha Ata: well said .

Regradless of this obstinate attitude of malayan government/courts, I'm heartened to see how sane people here are united in their view about this unfortunate affairs. This is what will decide the future. Time and again it is the people who will drive and in-turn implement change and peace.

As much as the Malayan court wants full copyrights on the word "Allah", Allah is historically and linguistically an Arabic word used for God even in pre-islamic times, and hence used in other religions too. It is interesting to note however that more and more Muslims have been using the name Allah as opposed to "Khuda" (also a word for God derived from Persian and used to refer to God in Urdu, Pushto and a couple of other regional languages). This was more common until a decade ago. People would use every day phrases like Khuda Hafiz or Khuda khair karay to bid goodbye to or wish safety upon someone but as more conservative Islamization gained velocity, especially in Pakistan, there has been a conscious effort to move away from the word Khuda and replace it exclusively with Allah. For instance news anchors started to use Allah-hafiz to replace khuda-hafiz. Another way which muslims strive, yet again, to create their exclusive identity from the rest of the Non- Muslim world. My own friends who in school would say khuda hafiz, 15 years later, use Allah hafiz instead. To these courts who argue that it is a tool used by the Malaysian christians to confuse muslims and convert them, may I bring your attention to the fact that Muslims living in the west use the word "Church" to refer to the Mosque they attend in these western countries. And their children go to "Sunday school". I am not aware of any court appeal against that incorrect usage. Who is trying to confuse/deceive who? Again, even though "Allah" is historically and linguistically an Arabic word used for God even in pre-islamic times, and hence used in other religions as well to-date. The word "Church" is definitively a christian place of worship. But it is the blind leading the blind. I rest my case.

Who has given Muslims the liberty to copyright the name of Allah? It is His name, and He is the God of the universe, as He has said in the scriptures. There is no religion that does not believe in the existence of God. Why are we trying to deny people owning God in all His attributes?

ha ha ha! this is actually very VERY funny. A little government from a little bit of a country has assumed to define what people can do with their 'Alla'. If there is an Alla he/she would be amused

Non Hindus cannot use numerals 1, 2, ..9 and 0.

It is unfortunate what happened in Malaysia. The narrow-minded Muslims have again shot themselves in their feet. A world religion that traces its roots from Prophet Ibrahim, Judaism and Christianity cannot claim exclusivity of their belief or monopoly in calling EVERYONES' GOD. When Prophet Mohammad, peace be upon him, always showed forbearance when others disagreed with him, can his followers show such narrowness? Another sign the Muslims are going backwards than moving forward. May Allah have mercy on all of us.

@Sandeep Singh: Your argument is absurd. And what if Muslim's started a copy-right on maths? Muslims made maths clear to the world and gave the world simple numerals. Without it the world would be lost. I must say your argument is rubbish. Try a more sensible argument.

Now, it depends how these Christians would use it. Would they get people confused into thinking Christianity and Islam are the same? They may have similar beliefs but differences as-well. More needs to be covered as to what the aims were of the Christian magazine. How they approached the issue, what they did etc. I can't come to a conclusion with, maybe biased, limited information.

Perhaps word "Allah" ought to be banned completely in that case. God is God and how we say that and worship. At the end we all are going to be at one place finally. Any religion or sect preaches otherwise is sick and almighty God would take care of.

@zafar: According to my Sanskrit Dictionary published 100 years ago defines Alla means mother. So the word cannot have a copyright on it. The Malaysian court is wrong as courts often are.

@Muslim: Remember one very important point, Muslims do Sajda towards Kabba not to Kabba. Sajda is done to one being and one being only and that is Allah, that is why Kabba or Hajar Aswad are not idols. The purpose of doing Sajda towards Kabba is unity among Muslims.

@Patrick: "Why cannot Muslims in Muslim countries treat minority religions the way Christian countries treat Muslim and other minorities." We don't have money to build concentration camps like Guantanamo Bay, Abu Gharaib and Auschwitz.

@Ram: "Jesus Christ would have used the word "Allaha" which is God in ancient Aramaic." As far as Muslims are concerned, Jesus was a Muslim.

@Jaykumar: "Myself being an Indian & hindu by religion,many a times refer to the Almighty by the name ALLAH." You are just making it up, please don't insult your own intelligence.

Malaysian Muslims are unique entity. On one hand they project moderate Islam, on other they skew the message of Allah, who is God Almighty of the entire universe. I always believed that my God is the same as God of Jews and Christian (as long as it is not Jesus). So let these Malays explain to the rest of the Muslim world how their Allah is different to my Allah, i.e. a Muslim from United States or from Allah of an Arab (Muslim or Christian) or Allah of an Iranian Muslim?

@Rao Tahir: The same deceptive trends are used by muslims in the west. They call their mosque "church" in public speaking and many have all sorts of interesting versions of names for their children. Meanwhile, if you delve into history, Christians and Jews were already using the word Allah for God. Allah was also used by the bedouins for one of their pagan gods. Later on when Islam came into being, it was adopted by the Muslims. The sad fact is that Muslims have already demonstrated that as an ethnic group they do not like to integrate with the world around them wherever they may be, and so if this is another way their clerics believe will "distinguish" them as a group, then so be it in Malaysia (and any other Islamic country who wishes to preach nonsense to people). Practically, I do not see how they would implement that in the rest of the world. So whats the use of such regional laws.

I will go and indulge with my ALLAH in my neighborhood temple. Stop me if you can.

@Parvez: Excellent

@BRR: well said.....

I used to think Malaysia as a sane muslim nation !

Having been brought up in a gulf country during all my school years and despite being a hindu, the word "insha-allah" automatically comes out whenever i talk of something which i have to do or when i wish something goes off well!! Now with this ruling shud i stick to "insha-ram" or "insha-krishna"???

Fantastic! Just a few weeks back, Malaysian PM was proposing moderation in Islam at the UN. He should cleanse his own country first from extremism before mouthing off in International forum. I am amazed at the direction all Muslims are taking by their words and deeds. They are their own worst enemy.

@Sandeep Singh: Most inventions done in the west has roots dates back to Muslims of the 7th and 8th century. Now if you are serious about copy rights then Muslims hold most pattens. Just ask the guys at google where did they get the idea to develop the search Algorithm.

This takes religious fanaticism and insecurity to another level! What is next? anyone using word Allah will be jailed or executed?

Every country have their own law n order system. It is baseless to ridicul their law n order without any specific region. Why they took this decision, majority of us is unaware about their intention. I think it would be a very serious matter for the muslims of Malaysia, that's why they ban this specific word for other no-muslims. Even you know it does not violate violate any human right.

@Mustafa: You are right. We are all witnessing the unity between Muslims.

@Khalid: No, not at all.

''Allah'' should be exclusively reserved for Muslims because of concerns its use by others would confuse Muslims and could be used to convert them. I think Word Allah should not be used by non muslims when they try to preach their religion to Muslims as this could be misleading but if they want to remember God themselves there is no harm using word Allah . and i think that was the main concern of the court.

Another case of muslim intolerance! No wonder they face interesting times all around the world!

Can women use the word or they too can continue hiding in their veils?

Really? Are there not more important things to pay attention to? Hundreds and thousands go homeless and hungry everyday, many of them Muslims in Malaysia and neighboring countries? Will Allah (swt) question about the use of the word or about Huqooq-ul-Ibaad and generosity in general? Amazed at the levels of priorities nowadays. No wonder the world is in a position as present.

Another step that will only increase the divide between muslims and non-muslims. I knowthat a lot of hindu sindhis address their god as allah sai. How are they going to enforce this?? Are they going to bug everyones house or place of worship and listen to the recording?? Come on guys, time has changed and muslims must realise this and change with time. Are there any less existing conflicts involving muslims that they want a new controversies in new regions??

@Mustafa: Saudi arabia does not have ..religious freedom,political freedom,gross restrictions on women,funds terror through mosques the world over..who needs Auschwitz,Guantanamo or Abu Gharib? All that oil money helps to keep a functioning a near-concentration camp going? Right?:):):)

@Moiez: Muslims claim theirs is the only religion-true spirituality. So,they have a copyright on that? Jizya is the fee others have to pay to practice their spirituality ...am I right??

My dear friends please forgive them because they don't know what they are saying. I am simply afraid that now some Nut from our own country will also file a similar kind of petition before our Chief Justice who is already a confused and controversial PCO Judge.

@shiva: Please continue using Inshallah as youare used to it and ignore rulings made due to bigotory or political reasons. I do not think anyone has exclusive rights over any phrase or word!!!

@Sanjay: I don't think there is any sane Muslim nation left on the world.

@shiva: Suite yourself, when you imply "Inshallah" then you are referring to the best name of the the lord of all creation.In Arabic, the word Allah means

I am wondering if He will now be addressed as "He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named".

Allah = God, what's the difference who uses what? Muslims use God as well, should we ban them from using God instead? Sorry but many muslims come up with the most idiotic reasoning

If one is not too orthodox, people in general simultaneously use the words God and Allah to denote the same Almighty or Creator whom the believers submit and pray. it is said that the word "Allah " has been derived from the name given to the top idol which was set by the "Kureish" tribe at what is now Kaaba Sharif. Before the advent of Islam. Arabs were idol- worshipers. Any way, what's in a name ? After all, one's faith should not be so shaky as to be influenced by just a name.

@Moiez: Most funniest answer I have ever read.

@Moiez: ha ha ha ha ha Good Sarcasm

@Aamer Khan: Then why so hue and cry for Burqa ban in France and minerat ban in Switzerland.

In INDIA, Muslims use Ishwar, Bhagwan, Parmatma. They should also be banned. Because they also use Hindu word to seek converts. Thumbs Up if you agree

@Mustafa: agreed Mustafa. Muslims only have money to somehow buy into visas to western nations where they don't then acclimatise with the local culture, but become even more staunchly Islamic than the lands they came from ! Idiotic lies about the true nature of Muslim migrants who are just falling over themselves to migrate to west.

The bard DID sya "what's in a name? ...a rose by any other name would still smell as sweet.." etc. Allah is just a noun. Forget it. Everyone uses their mind to pray to an almighty. These courts etc are just giving in to a madness seeping into Malay Muslims to become very defensive about their religion (arabs and their money to Muslim preachings have reached their shores too, with the news "Islam Khatrey Main Hai" and this has sparked a mad neo Muslim movement of ultra conservatism in Malaysia). That's the root of the problem.

Malaysia happens to be just like the middle eastern countries when it comes to supporting there own kind. This attitude is called rascism world over. However, just like the middle east is the apple of the west's eye and nobody pays attention to their attitude towards human rights in general the same happens with malaysia. What I see in the future is that I will be asked not to say Oh God! when needed. I think If anyone chooses to use Allah for their God (or deity to be politically correct) it makes me a little bit proud in certain way (I cannot explain) maybe because they like using my language to describe their most cherished feeling. But I guess some people are not happy with this. I suspect they shall reap what they sow and those who did not sow shall suffer as well.

Another feather in the cap of Islam

@Mustafa: there were no Muslim during Jesus times read ur history, Islam started with Muhammad (P.B.U.H)

I am still curious to know how does the Malaysian court define the word Allah, is it universal one god which may be similar to what Hindus call Bhagwan, and Christians call God, Sikhs call Vaheguru or do they consider Allah to be only exclusive to Muslims. Strange decision. God must be laughing up above

I am really dismayed by the narrow mindset of Malaysian judge Mohamed Apandi Ali. In the Sub-continental context, one feels rather elated if a non- Muslim utters the word Allah. It's as if he/she has become closer to Islam. To me, it's an expression of solidarity among different faiths and there is no question of conversion from one faith to other. I hope the apex court of Malaysia would look into the matter and broaden their horizon.

Did not expect this from Malaysia. I used to be able to give example of Malaysia, Indonesia and Turkey as possible role model countries for Pakistan. Alas, now I am down to Indonesia and Turkey only. What is happening to your common sense muslims?

And I thought Malaysian govt of secular and well aware. I thought they were focused on human rights and economy to improve the well being of their citizens. To Malay govt, did you know Allah is also used in the original bible (Hebrew language for God). They have a stronger claim to the word Allah than the Muslims. Disclaimer: I am a Muslim but am made at this court decision.

@jani: So, who created the non-muslims if not Allah (in Arabic) or God (in English) or Theo (in ancient Greek/Latin) or Yahweh (in ancient Hebrew) or Ella (in ancient Aramaic, the language of Jesus Christ pbuh)? And, as a reminder to you and others who think like you; didn't Prophet Abraham had two sons and the younger son's lineage, Isaac - led to all the Other Jewish/Muslim Prophets incl. Jesus Christ from Mary (pbu both) and the first son, Ishmael - led to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) only, and didn't the Prophet said, "I and all the other Prophets and Messengers are one Brotherhood" (when he placed a brick in one hole of a wall of a building to show how we are all interlinked with each other; and didn't Allah say in the Quran that all mankind are from Adam, who was the first created by Allah (irrespective of how you refer to the Creator). The non-muslims have not accepted the message of Islam and the Prophet/Messenger as the 'Final Messenger/Prophet', sent as a "Mercy to Mankind" and "Jesus Christ as a Sign to mankind" (Quran, Ch. The Prophets verses 120, 91 from memory, if mistaken), but that doesn't mean that the non-muslimsare not worshipping Allah! Moreover, the other two Monotheistic Faiths and their adherents are referred to as the Ahlul Kitab - The People of the Book - in the Quran several times (and the reference to 'The Book' is to the 'Mother of All Books' in the Heaven with Allah/God Almighty), whose Monotheistic Faiths and Roots are Prophet Ibrahim and his lineage! With respect, Sir, as I do not know you but appears to me that you and other muslims like yourself need to go back to the drawing board and study Islamic Theology & History of the Prophets/Messengers (incl. pre-Islamic history) in greater detail and depth!

@Mustafa: The Aramaic term for Allah was not "Allaha", but "Ella" (with respect). Remember the famous quote which is attributed to Jesus Christ in the Bible, "Ellai or Elloi, Elloi - My (Ai or Oi is the pronoun suffix for My) God, My God, why art thou forsaken me" when he was on the Cross!

@SunCK: I have lived in Pakistan for 20 years and have my degree from Karachi and I have been living in the West for 38 years, and in a progressive country, which is a leading light for community harmonisation and mutli-culturalism and pluralistic society in the World (not only in Europe or the West); and 20 years ago there were over 1,000 pupose-built mosques or masaajid in the UK. Perhaps the 'Muslim Directory in the UK' can confirm if there are, now, well-over 3,000 mosques in GB, but...I have never come across any muslim in the UK or in the USA (which country I have a special relationship i.e.family visited 3 times), who refers to the Masjid or Mosque as a 'Church'; moreover, I also have 23 years of experience of volunteering with Charities and as a social activist in the community in addition to my highly-demanding qualified-professional status and diverse work. Therefore, please do not mislead our brethren and countryfolks in Pakistan and make unintentional or intentional false statements and generalisations about overseas muslims, who are in many respects well-endowed with the fundamental knowledge of Islam (partly due to their foreign environment)!

What a shame that the Malaysian Higher Court has upheld the Malaysian Govt.'s appeal, which it lost in the lower court 4 years ago. The Pre-Islamic Arabs knew the word or term 'Allah' to refer to the highest and 'One Diety' (above Manath, Uzza etc. etc. their smaller dieties, as pagans) before the Quran was revealed in 610 A.D. Even the Jews of Arabia incl. Iraq knew that (viz. one of my clients in the 1990s was an Iraqi-Jew, whose mother tongue was Arabic and he always used the word Allah and greeted with the 'full Arabic salam'. It is unfortunate that the muslims know and the muslim authorities should know better from the Quran and Sunnah that Allah is the Creator of Mankind and All that's in our Universe and that Jesus Christ was the 'Penultimate Messenger of Allah' (and one of the 5 Major Messengers - who received revelations - and a Prophet, but unlike the term used for Prophets for his disciples by Christians - as a miraculous birth and a 'Sign' from Allah to all i.e. born by the Word of Allah out of the Virgin Mary, but NOT 'God Incarnate Dieta' ' (God becoming human on earth but raised up in body and form and sits on the right hand of God i.e. part of the concept of 'Trinity', being the theological difference between muslims and christians) and that our God and their God are the same Person and no different, as perceived by many of them. But, just because the non-muslims (Christinas, Jews, and Others) have not accepted the Quran as the Final Revelation in a series of revelations in the past and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) as the Final Messenger of God - does not imply or mean that they are creations of another God (and the muslims and muslim courts should know better!)! Further, according to Dr. Maurice Bucaille in his book - The Quran, The Bible and Science, he quotes the Vatican Council's minutes/pronouncements, in 1963 (from memory), that for the first time the Vatican Council came to the conclusion that the God of the muslims and the christians is the same Diety or God! Finally, the decision by the Appeal Court (had it upheld the Lower Court's judgement) would have been a positive development in bringing at least the Three Monotheistic Faiths closer rather than creating more confusion amongst some or many muslims and non-muslims alike! However, it would be interesting to obtain the full details of the decision by this Court to analyse and comment further and if Dawn.com can assist me in obtaining it, should be gratefully appreciated.

@Salahuddin Ahmad: The Arabic word for God is not 'Llah' but 'ilah' and Allah is the proper noun or proper name of God in Arabic; and reading and translating literally from the Shahada itself - La (No) ilaha (God is), but in English it's correctly translated as 'There is no God); the verb 'is' denoted by the vowel 'a' after 'h' and is always a suffix at the end of the noun or pronoun - ilah in Arabic, instead of, in English - when it is before the noun or pronoun or proper-noun etc.) ill (except) allah (i.e. the One Diety or Creator) and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah or God. Any arabic-speaking persons can correct me, if my 'basic-intermediate' level of understanding of literary Arabic is in anyway inaccurate representation of the translation, above.

@SunCK: @Sunck: "As much as the Malayan court wants full copyrights on the word "Allah", Allah is historically and linguistically an Arabic word used for God even in pre-islamic times, and hence used in other religions too. It is interesting to note however that more and more Muslims have been using the name Allah as opposed to "Khuda" (also a word for God derived from Persian and used to refer to God in Urdu, Pushto and a couple of other regional languages). This was more common until a decade ago. People would use every day phrases like Khuda Hafiz or Khuda khair karay to bid goodbye to or wish safety upon someone but as more conservative Islamization gained velocity, especially in Pakistan, there has been a conscious effort to move away from the word Khuda and replace it exclusively with Allah. For instance news anchors started to use Allah-hafiz to replace khuda-hafiz. Another way which muslims strive, yet again, to create their exclusive identity from the rest of the Non- Muslim world. My own friends who in school would say khuda hafiz, 15 years later, use Allah hafiz instead". My reply: The Pre-Islamic Arabs knew the word or term 'Allah' to refer to the highest and 'One Diety' (as the proper-noun or proper name of the Creator, as it is gender-free, singular, and perhaps, and by tradition known to them - as Allah clearly states in the Quran that He sent Prophets and Messengers to every Nation from Adam to Muhammad - peace and blessings upon both of them).