The word yā indicates the vocative case, signifying direct address to a person.
It is a common prefix used by Arabic speakers before personal names.
[2] It is used to seek intercession through the prophet or his family, companions and venerated figures.
The majority of its practitioners are the Shias and Sunnis including the Sufis.
[citation needed] The vocative yā when used with Allāh is used to call upon God for help.