Understanding the Meaning of "Syafakillah" and "Syafakallah" along with Proper Responses

"Syafakillah" and "Syafakallah" are two words that we often hear or say when someone is sick. These words represent healing prayers taught by the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to his followers. However, do we truly understand the meaning and correct usage of these words? Here is an explanation.

Distinguishing the Meanings of "Syafakillah" and "Syafakallah"

"Syafakillah" and "Syafakallah" originate from the root word (شفا يشفي شفاء) "syafaa-yasyfii-syifa'", which means to heal & healing. The word "Allah" refers to the name of God. Thus, literally, both of these words mean "may Allah grant healing." However, the difference lies in the endings "-illah" and "-allah," which indicate the gender of the person being prayed for.

"Shafakillah" (شفاكِ الله) is said for a female who is sick, while "Shafakallah" (شفاكَ الله) is said for a male who is sick. This follows the Arabic language rule that the ending "-illah" is used for muannats (females) and the ending "-allah" is used for mudzakkars (males).

Responding to "Shafakillah" and "Shafakallah"

When we hear or read someone saying "Shafakillah" or "Shafakallah," it is best to respond with polite words that also contain prayers. There are several ways to respond to these expressions, including:

- Aamiin or Aamiin ya Rabbal 'aalamiin.

Meaning: Amen or Amen, O Lord of all the worlds. This is the simplest and most commonly used response. "Amin" signifies hoping that the prayer is granted by Allah.

- Jazakallahu khairan or Jazakillahu khairan.

Meaning: May Allah reward you (male) or May Allah reward you (female). This is a more polite response that shows appreciation for the person praying for us. "Jazakallahu khairan" is derived from the word "jaza," meaning reward, "Allah," meaning God, and "khair," meaning goodness.

- Barakallahu fik or Barakallahu fiki.

Meaning: May Allah bless you (male) or May Allah bless you (female). This is a response that seeks blessings from Allah for the person praying for us. "Barakallahu fik" originates from the word "baraka," meaning blessings, "Allah," meaning God, and "fik" or "fiki," meaning you.

In conclusion, "Shafakillah" and "Shafakallah" carry the meaning of healing prayers, and the responses mentioned above can be used accordingly. May we all be healthy and protected from all illnesses. And if we have relatives, friends, or neighbors who are sick, let us pray for them using the appropriate expressions of "Syafakillah" or "Syafakallah" based on their gender.