A quantum compiler is provided. The quantum compiler may generate, based on a text-based programmer input, an executable Hamiltonian for a quantum computer such as a quantum annealing computer or an adiabatic quantum computer. The quantum compiler may generate the program Hamiltonian by generating Hamiltonian phrases corresponding to portions of the programmer input and combining the Hamiltonian phrases. Various terms and values in the program Hamiltonian may correspond to physical features of the quantum computer so that the quantum computer can be operated, based on the program Hamiltonian, such that a low energy state of the quantum computer corresponds to the low energy state of the Hamiltonian.