Quwwah

Quwwah is an Arabic noun meaning power, strength, or might. It denotes physical strength, inner resolve, or the capacity to act, as well as external power such as influence or resources. The term is widely used in classical and modern Arabic and is often transliterated as quwwah or quwwa.

Etymology and usage: Quwwah is derived from an Arabic root associated with strength and capability. In everyday language, it can describe a person’s physical vigor, mental resilience, or the strength of a system, organization, or nation. The plural form quwwat is used to speak of multiple kinds or sources of power or strength.

Religious and cultural context: In Islamic discourse, quwwah is used in discussions of divine power and human capacity. The attribute of strength is associated with God in names and theological descriptions, and believers are encouraged to seek strength through faith, righteousness, and submission to the divine will. The concept also appears in Qur’anic rhetoric to convey God’s might and the empowerment granted to people.

Modern usage: Beyond theology, quwwah appears in science and everyday speech to denote power in various senses—physical strength, energetic capacity, or the power of a device or institution. It coexists with related terms such as quwwat (plural) and with adjectives and phrases that specify the kind of strength being referred to.

See also: strength, power, capability, Al-Qawiyy.