Ya Muhammad () is an Arabic expression invoking Muhammad.
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.
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. The vocative
yā when used with
Allāh is used to call upon God for help.
Mourning of Muharram
During the mourning of Muharram, spontaneous slogans of
Ya Husayn,
Ya Ali, and
Ya Rasul Allah ( "O Messenger of God") are common by Shias. On such occasions, the slogans demonstrate support.
