The late Sheikh Mohamed Metwally El-Shaarawy explained that saying “Bismillah Al-Rahman Al-Raheem” is far more than a verbal habit—it is a divine key that grants blessing and completeness to every action. Any deed that does not begin with the name of Allah, he said, lacks true blessing.

El-Shaarawy clarified that every human action requires different forms of energy: physical strength, mental focus, or spiritual balance. While one might say “In the name of the All-Powerful” when seeking strength, or “In the name of the All-Knowing” when seeking knowledge, the name “Allah” encompasses all divine attributes, making “Bismillah” sufficient for every purpose.

He emphasized that even sinners should never abandon saying “Bismillah,” because Allah is the Most Merciful, and His mercy remains open to all who remember Him.

Using the metaphor of a ship, El-Shaarawy explained that just as a vessel needs movement and arrival to survive, its journey begins and ends with “Bismillah,” symbolizing that success comes only through invoking Allah at both the start and the conclusion of any matter.

Scholars further explain that “Bismillah” signifies seeking help and blessings from Allah, with “Ar-Rahman” representing universal mercy for all creation, and “Ar-Raheem” reflecting special mercy for believers.

Despite scholarly differences on whether the Basmala is an independent verse in every chapter of the Quran, there is unanimous agreement on its ‘Azimah (greatness) and spiritual significance in Islam.