The Birth of Jesus in the Qur'an - Analysis and Commentary
Explore the narrative of the birth of Jesus as presented in the Qur'an. Analyze Surah Maryam (19:22-34) and understand the theological, historical, and cultural context of this significant event in Islamic tradition.
Al-Baqarah
The second surah (chapter) in the Quran, known as 'The Cow,' primarily addressing themes of divine guidance.
Al-Baqi
The Everlasting One - One of the ninety-nine special names of God in Islam
Bābu ʾL-Abwāb (باب الابواب‎) in Sufism
Explore the term 'Bābu ʾL-Abwāb' in Sufi tradition, its linguistic roots, and its deep spiritual significance in the practice of repentance.
Badawī (بدوى‎)
Explore the term 'Badawī,' its significance, etymology, and cultural implications within the context of Islamic and Arab culture. Understand the historical and modern-day perspectives on the Bedouin Arabs.
Baghdad
Baghdad: The City of Peace and the Cradle of Islamic Civilization
Baha Allah
Title used by Mirza Husayn Ali Nuri, the prophet-founder of the Bahai faith.
Baha'i
Follower of the Iranian Baha'u'llah, Mirza Husayn Ali Nuri (d. 1892)
Bahira
Christian monk believed to have recognized signs of prophethood in the child Muhammad, affirming the continuity of his prophethood with that of Moses and Jesus and the continuity of Muhammad’s message with Jewish and Christian scriptures.
Baitu ʾl-Māl (بيت المال)
Explore the concept of Baitu ʾl-Māl, its etymology, sources of income, and its function as the public treasury in a Muslim state. Learn about its roles and responsibilities in Islamic governance.
Baiʿu ʾL-Wafāʾ (بيع الوفاء‎)
Understand the concept of Baiʿu ʾL-Wafāʾ, a sale with a promise in Islamic finance. Learn about its implications, legality, and usage in historical and contemporary contexts.
Bakkai al-Kunti, Ahmad al-
West African religious and political leader during the 19th century, known for his accommodationist approach towards European Christian presence and for his influence in the Qadiri brotherhood.
Bakri Tariqah
A specialized branch of the Khalwati Sufi order established in the mid-eighteenth century in Egypt by Mustafa ibn Kamal al-Din al-Bakri.
Balad
Explore the term 'Balad' (بلد), its broader meanings, significance in Islamic texts, and its specific importance with reference to Makkah and the Qur'anic context.
Bangladesh, Islam in
A brief historical and contemporary overview of the role and influence of Islam in Bangladesh.
Bani Sadr, Abol-Hasan
Iranian dissident, theorist of the revolutionary movement, and the first President of the Islamic Republic of Iran
Banishment (Taghrīb)
Explore the concept of Banishment (Taghrīb) in Islamic law, its basis in Shari'a, varying opinions among Islamic jurists, and its application as a punishment for certain crimes.
Banu Israil
Historical Jewish community referred to in the Qur'an and subject of God's various favors.
Banu Qurayza
A significant Jewish tribe in Medina known for their alliance and subsequent conflict with Prophet Muhammad and the early Muslim community.
Baqa
Abiding or remaining in God, a state achieved following annihilation of the self in Sufi practice.
Baqillani, Abu Bakr Muhammad al-
Ash'ari theologian and Maliki jurist of Iraq, instrumental in the propagation of Ash'ari Kalam.
Barakah
Blessing conferred by God upon humankind, central to diverse aspects of Islamic belief and popular practices
Barelwi, Sayyid Ahmad Reza Khan
North Indian reformer and activist, associated with the family of Shah Wali Allah of Delhi, known for his opposition to certain Sufi, Shii, and local practices, and his jihad against Sikh domination in Punjab.
BĀRIQAH (بارقة‎) in Sufism
Explore the concept of BĀRIQAH in Sufism, its etymology, spiritual significance, and role in the enlightenment journey of a true Muslim. Learn about the transformative power of this initial refulgence of the soul.
Barmakids
A powerful family of originally Buddhist priests from Balkh who became influential administrators within the Abbasid Caliphate.
Barter
Explore the concept of barter (Bai') in Islamic tradition, its legal and economic implications, and its role within the Islamic financial system. Understand the traditional and contemporary applications of barter in Islamic culture.
Basmachis
Basmachis: Anti-Soviet Muslim rebels in Central Asia during the early 20th century.
Bathing
Explore the significance of bathing and religious purification in Islam, including the terms 'ghasl' and 'ghusl,' and their implications in the daily lives of Muslims.
Battle of Badr
The pivotal battle fought in 624 by Prophet Muhammad and his followers against the larger Meccan army, symbolizing the triumph of Islam over polytheism.
Bay'ah
The oath of allegiance to a leader in Islamic tradition.
Bayan
Bayan refers to clearness, lucidity, and manifestation in Islamic literature and Arabic rhetoric.
Baybars I
Third Mamluk sultan of Egypt known for his military prowess, statecraft, and major contributions to the Mamluk Empire.
Baydawi, Abd Allah al-
Medieval Shafi'i jurist and Ash'ari theologian renowned for his concise Quranic commentary
Bayrami Tariqah
An overview of the Bayrami Tariqah, a Turkish Sufi order established in the fifteenth century by Hacı Bayram Veli.
Bayt al-Hikmah
Bayt al-Hikmah, also known as the House of Wisdom, was an influential institution of learning in Baghdad renowned for its significant contributions to the translation of Greek and Persian works into Arabic, particularly during the Abbasid Caliphate.
Bayt al-Mal
Historical financial institution responsible for administration of taxes, royal treasury functions, and zakah distribution in Islamic governance.
Bayyumi Tariqah
An Egyptian successor to the Badawi tariqah, founded by hadith scholar Ali ibn al-Hijazi al-Bayyumi, notable for its divergence from the Khalwati tariqah and its role in championing the rights of the poor.
Bazaaris
Small shopkeeper/merchant sector of the traditional middle class of Iran involved in both economic and religious spheres, historically supporting anti-state movements.
Bazargan, Mehdi
An influential Iranian modernist, professor, and reformer active in the pre- and post-1979 revolutionary eras.
Bazzaz, Abdul-Rahman al-Bassaz
Iraqi Arab nationalist politician instrumental in shaping Iraq's mid-20th century political landscape.
BAʿS̤ (بعث‎)
Explore the multifaceted term 'BAʿS̤ (بعث‎),' its etymology, significance within Islamic theology, and its dual references to the Day of Resurrection and the mission of prophets.
Bedouin
Nomadic people primarily found in the desert regions of the Arabian Peninsula with a rich cultural heritage...
Beheshti, Muhammad Hossein
Leading Iranian Shia intellectual, cleric, and political organizer, instrumental in the consolidation of clerical rule after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Bel Hadj, Ali
Leader in the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) of Algeria, known for his Salafi orientation and influential leadership.
Beneficence (Arabic: سماحة‎ samāḥah)
Learn about the concept of Beneficence (samāḥah) in Islam, its significance, etymology, and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad regarding beneficence and faith.
Bequest (Wasiyyah)
A testamentary disposition in Islamic law, limited to one-third of the decedent’s total estate, with specific rules and exceptions.
Bequests for Pious Purposes in Islam
Explore the concept of bequests for pious purposes in Islam, the prioritization of duties ordained by God, and the rules surrounding legacies for pilgrimage.
Berbers
Indigenous inhabitants of North Africa with a distinct cultural heritage and history, known for their contributions to the Islamic world.
Bible
The Islamic perspective on the Jewish and Christian scriptures, including the concepts of Tawrat, Injil, and the doctrine of Tahrif.
BIDʿAH (بدعة‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Implications in Islam
Explore the term 'Bidʿah,' its definitions, etymological roots, and implications within the Islamic faith. Understand how innovations in religious practices are viewed and categorized.
Bihzad
Painter of Persian Timurid and early Safavid dynasties, director of royal library, and supervisor of manuscript workshops noted for lifelike and colorful paintings.
Bilqis
According to Arab tradition, Bilqis is the biblical Queen of Sheba known for her interaction with Prophet Solomon in the Quran.
Bimaristan
A hospital in medieval Islamic society, also applied to modern mental hospitals, known for medical services, research, and education.
Bioethics in Islam
An examination of the ethical guidance provided by Islamic principles in the realm of healthcare and medical advancements.
Birth Rites
Islamic rituals, customs, and significance associated with the birth of a child
Biẓāʿah - Mercantile Share and Property in Trade
An in-depth exploration of the concept of Biẓāʿah in Islamic mercantile practices, including its etymology, application, and cultural significance.
Bīʿah (بيعة‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Usage in Islamic Context
Explore the term 'Bīʿah' (بيعة‎), its linguistic roots, historical context, and significance in Islamic and interfaith discussions. Understand its application in Islamic texts and cultural dialogues.
Bohras
A description of the Bohra community, an Ismaili Shia Muslim group with significant traditions and distinct cultural practices.
Borujerdi, Mohammad Hosayn
An influential Iranian cleric known for his quietist stance toward politics, opposition to the 1963 land reform, promotion of independent investigation of hadith, and efforts to foster Sunni-Shi'i relations.
Bukhara Khanate
A Central Asian state that existed from circa 1500 to 1920, formed by the Uzbeks, with significant ties to Islamic culture and politics.
Bukhari, Muhammad ibn Ismail ibn Ibrahim ibn al-Mughirah al-
Major collector and transmitter of Sahih al-Bukhari, one of six works of hadith recognized as authentic and canonical and considered the most authoritative source of hadith along with Sahih Muslim.
Bulgaria, Islam in
An overview of the presence and historical development of Islam in Bulgaria, including its demographics and ethnic diversity.
Bunyad
An institution in Iran that serves fundamental socioeconomic and political roles, originating significantly from post-revolutionary foundations.
Buraq
A winged creature depicted in Islamic tradition, often associated with the Prophet Muhammad's Night Journey.
Burhan Family
The Burhan Family: A Distinguished Abbasid-era Family of Ulama from Bukhara
Burning to Death - Prohibition in Islamic Law
Explore the Islamic legal and theological prohibitions against burning to death, supported by historical accounts and prophetic teachings. Understand the significance of this ruling in Islamic jurisprudence and ethics.
BURQAʿ (برقع‎)
An in-depth exploration of the term 'BURQAʿ (برقع‎),' its etymology, cultural relevance, and different perspectives within the Islamic context.
Burying of the Dead - Islamic Perspectives, Etymology, and Practices
Explore the Islamic understanding and significance of burying the dead. Learn about the theological basis, customs, and rituals associated with Islamic funerary practices.
Burying-Ground
Explore the concept of 'Burying-Ground' in Islam, its Arabic terms, and cultural significance. Understand the religious practices and legal considerations surrounding burial grounds in Muslim traditions.
Byzantine Empire
The Byzantine Empire, the Eastern Greek-speaking part of the Roman Empire, spanning from 330 B.C.E. to 1453 C.E.
Hasan al-Banna
Founder of the Muslim Brotherhood and advocate for political and social activism grounded in Islamic principles.
Ibrahim Titus Burckhardt
Expert on Islamic art and culture, translator of Arabic religious and philosophic works, and UNESCO cultural preservationist.
Islam in Brunei
An overview of Islam in Brunei, its historical roots, demographics, and contemporary practices.
Maurice Bucaille
Maurice Bucaille - French surgeon, historian, spiritualist, and author of 'The Bible, the Quran, and Science' who claimed that all scientific facts were anticipated in the Quran.
Moses ben Maimon (Maimonides)
Medieval Jewish legal scholar, philosopher, and community leader known for his works on Jewish law and philosophy.
Mustafa ibn Kamal al-Din al-Bakri
Sufi teacher of the Khalwati order with significant influence on Islamic renewal movements, particularly in Africa.
Naqus (Bells)
Explore the concept of 'Naqus' or bells, their historical references, cultural implications, and their place in Islamic tradition. Understand why bells are mentioned in Islamic texts and their significance in Muslim societies.
Omar Hassan al-Bashir
Sudanese military general and former president who led a coup d'état in 1989 and implemented Islamic policies in Sudan.
Osama bin Laden
Militant extremist leader and founder of the al-Qaeda network
Biʾr Maʿūnah - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance in Islam
Learn about Biʾr Maʿūnah, a significant historical site in early Islamic history. Understand the events surrounding the martyrdom of Prophet Muḥammad's followers and the subsequent divine message.
Banu al-Nadir
Banu al-Nadir, a Jewish tribe in Medina known for their economic contributions and subsequent expulsion following the Battle of Uhud.
Bilādu ʾl-Islām
Understand the term 'Bilādu ʾl-Islām,' its implications, and usage in Islamic jurisprudence. Learn about its synonymous term 'Dāru ʾl-Islām' and its importance in the context of Muslim countries.
Baitu 'l-Haram (بيت الحرام) - The Sacred House in Islam
Explore the significance, history, and meaning of Baitu 'l-Haram, also known as the Sacred House, which refers to the Meccan mosque, Masjidu 'l-Haram.
Barzakh, al-
Concept in Islam referring to the period between individual death and resurrection, acting as a barrier between the deceased and the realm of the living.
Batin
Inner, interior, inward, hidden aspect of Islamic thought, especially prevalent in Shii, Ismaili, and Sufi traditions.
Bilalians
Name used by early African-American Muslims referring to Bilal, former black slave of the Prophet Muhammad.
BAITU ʾL-QUDS (بيت القدس‎) in Sufism
Explore the term 'BAITU ʾL-QUDS,' its meaning, usage, and significance within Sufi traditions. Learn what it represents for the true seeker of God and how it relates to Sufi meditation practices.
Banūn (بنون‎)
Discover the significance of 'Banūn' in the Islamic context, its usage in classical texts, and its historical relevance to various tribes in early Islamic history.
Bint Mak͟hāẓ (بنت مخاض‎)
Explore the term 'Bint Mak͟hāẓ,' understand its definition, etymology, and its role within the context of Islamic practices such as Zakat. Learn about the specific criteria for alms regarding camel herds.
Biruni, Abu Rayhan Muhammad ibn Ahmad al-
A Persian philosopher, scientist, and polymath of the Islamic Golden Age, significant for his contributions to numerous scientific fields and for introducing Hindu philosophy to the Islamic world.

Dictionary of Islam

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