Slate serves up a brief, but extremely useful explanation of a phrase we have all gotten used to reading over the last few years.

Although newspapers often translate the phrase as "God is great," the proper translation is actually "God is greater." The phrase implies that no matter what you're doing, you should always remember that God is still greater.

Muslims can use Allahu akbar to express general approval, or even as an exclamation of surprise. Sometimes crowds will shout the phrase as a form of applause, the way people might yell "Bravo!" at the end of a performance. The takbir often stands in for applause after a Quranic reading, since it would be inappropriate to cheer for someone who has merely recited God's words. But the phrase might just as well be shouted out at a soccer match.

previously on wtg:

• mainstream media downplays role of iron maiden in middle east
  
• what clash of civilizations? when religious identity isn't destiny
• the nation's take on the ports deal
• john loftus does it again
• bag checks on nyc subways are pointless

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