Spain’s National Flag
Moors occupied parts of southern Spain for 700 years (from 711 to 1492 A.D.). They were people of Islamic faith arriving from northern Africa.
The Moorish era remains evident in both regional architecture and the Spanish language. Arabic-influenced words have traveled across seas and endured in Spanish usage over centuries.
“Ojalá que…” is a common construction. This translates as “I hope that…” or “I wish that…”. Ojalá evolved from “O Allah.” Historically speaking, the feeling behind this phrase is along the lines of “God willing.”
Many easily recognizable Spanish words of Arabic influence begin with “al-.” Examples include alfombra (rug) and almohada (pillow). For an extensive list of Spanish words influenced by the Arabic language, see: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arabic_language_influence_on_the_Spanish_language
