Anne Hathaway at the 2026 Met Gala in New York. (Credit: AFP)
During a recent interview with Anne Hathaway, she casually said the word "inshallah," sparking a broad online dialogue.Initially, Arab viewers responded with enthusiasm, instantly recognizing this common phrase used in conversations across Beirut, Baghdad, Cairo, and Casablanca. Others, surprised to hear it from a Hollywood star, responded with curiosity. Soon, familiar questions arose: Was Anne Hathaway referencing Islam? Was this an example of cultural appropriation? Did she truly understand what she was saying?Beyond the chaos of social media, a more detailed, reality-based perspective surfaced. Many clarified that "inshallah" is an Arabic term meaning "if God wills" or "God willing." While it is commonly used by Muslims, it is also adopted by Christians, Jews, Druze, secular individuals, and...
During a recent interview with Anne Hathaway, she casually said the word "inshallah," sparking a broad online dialogue.Initially, Arab viewers responded with enthusiasm, instantly recognizing this common phrase used in conversations across Beirut, Baghdad, Cairo, and Casablanca. Others, surprised to hear it from a Hollywood star, responded with curiosity. Soon, familiar questions arose: Was Anne Hathaway referencing Islam? Was this an example of cultural appropriation? Did she truly understand what she was saying?Beyond the chaos of social media, a more detailed, reality-based perspective surfaced. Many clarified that "inshallah" is an Arabic term meaning "if God wills" or "God willing." While it is commonly used by Muslims, it is also adopted by Christians, Jews, Druze, secular individuals, and...
