a solemn form used by the Mahometans at the beginning of all their books and other writings, signifying, In the name of the most merciful God.

Bismillah is also used among the Arabs as a word of invitation to eat. An Arab prince will frequently sit down to eat in the street before his own door, and call to all that pass, even beggars, in this word, who do not fail to come and sit down to eat with him; for the Arabs are great levellers, and set every body upon a footing with them.