THIS refers to the letter by Syed Ali Baqar (Nov 3). The word ‘Allah’ is unique as it does not admit of plurality, while Muslims declare “Allah is One” in their daily prayers reciting Sura Ikhlas.

We use god, God and gods as they can be used in singular and plural but not the word Allah.

Monotheism is a precondition for using the word ‘Allah’.

Semantically every word when used implies certain specific attendant characteristics. In polytheism many gods exist. But in Islam, Allah means one God. If you believe in one God you may freely use the word Allah; otherwise it would be an erroneous use of the word.

SAEED KHAN GHORI

Karachi