Umdah
Multipurpose term referring to a village chief or magistrate, veteran master in a guild, and basic argument in a debate
Umm
Explore the term 'Umm,' its meaning, etymology, and cultural significance in Islam. Learn about its usage in various contexts and its importance within Islamic tradition.
Ummu ʾl-Kitāb (ام الكتاب‎)
Explore the term 'Ummu ʾl-Kitāb,' its varied applications within Islamic texts, its significance in different Qur'anic contexts, and its profound implications in Islamic theology.
Umrah
Voluntary pilgrimage to Mecca performed outside the period of Hajj
Unclean Meats
Explore the concept of 'Unclean Meats' in Islam, their implications, and the rules governing dietary restrictions. Understand which meats are considered unclean and how this impacts the daily life of Muslims.
Uncleanness (Najāsah) - Definition, Etymology, and Purification in Islam
Explore the concept of uncleanness (Najāsah) in Islam, the types of impurities, and the methods of purification as prescribed by Islamic teachings. Understand how purification affects the daily religious practices of Muslims.
Union des Organisations Islamiques de France (UOIF)
A federation of local Islamic associations in France, established to support and manage religious and educational activities for Muslims.
Universal Islamic Declaration of Human Rights (UIDHR)
An Islamic counterpart to the UN's Universal Declaration of Human Rights, outlining human rights based on traditional Islamic law.
Urabi, Ahmad
An Egyptian colonel and national hero who played a significant role in the struggle for independence from Britain
Urs
A multifaceted term in Islam referring to both marriage and Sufi spiritual union
Urwat al-Wuthqa, al-
Islamic periodical advocating for reform and resistance to colonialism, co-published by Muhammad Abduh and Jamal al-Din al-Afghani
Ushr
A tithe or tenth, Ushr is the land tax levied on the produce of agricultural land owned by Muslims in the premodern era and revived in Pakistan in the 1980s during the Islamization regime.
Ustadh
Honorific title of respect assigned to learned individuals, commonly used for teachers in Islamic traditions and Sufi masters.
Usulis
Usuli Shii school of Islamic law emphasizing rational and independent reasoning
USWAH: Meaning, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Explore the term 'USWAH' (also ISWAH) as found in Islamic texts. Understand its implications as an example for Muslims and its usage in the context of the Qur'an.
Utaybi, Juhayman al-
Leader of the militant group that seized the Grand Mosque in Mecca in 1979, protesting Saudi royal family corruption and promoting a purer form of Islam.
Uthman Dan Fodio
Nigerian religious leader and reformer who led Fulani efforts to spread Islam among the Hausa aristocracy in present-day northern Nigeria.
Uwaysi Tariqah
A branch of the Qadiri tariqah founded by Shaykh Umar Uways al-Barawi, known for its missionary activities and revivalism in East Africa.
Virtue Party (Fazilet Partisi)
Short-lived Turkish political party serving as the successor to the Welfare Party, advocating for a moderate Islamic profile and integration with the West, banned in 2001.
Waḥdanīyah
Explore the concept of Waḥdanīyah, its theological significance in affirming the Unity of God, its historical background, and its implications within Ṣūfī traditions.
Wahdat al-Shuhud
Oneness of appearance, an Islamic mystical doctrine distinguishing from the Oneness of Being (Wahdat al-Wujud), primarily propagated by Indian Sufi Ahmad al-Sirhindi.
Wahid, Abdurrahman (Gus Dur)
Indonesian Islamic thinker, writer, politician, and former president of Indonesia known for his contributions to Islamic thought and advocacy for religious pluralism.
Wahy
Divine inspiration in Islam, particularly the revelation of the Quran and other scriptures.
Wajd (وجد) in Sufi Mysticism
Explore the meaning of 'Wajd,' its connotations within Sufi mysticism, and its role as an essential stage in the spiritual journey towards divine illumination.
Wakalat al-Ammah, al-
Concept in Twelver Shiism that justifies the assumption by the ulama of the leadership role and the prerogatives of the Hidden Imam as his collective deputy.
Wakalat al-Khassah
In Twelver Shiism, the designation of four successive persons to act as deputies of the Hidden Imam.
Wakīl - Definition, Etymology, and Roles in Islam
Explore the term 'Wakīl,' its meanings, significance in Islamic law and daily life, and its different applications. Understand its etymological roots and related roles in Islamic society.
Walad
A term meaning descendant, offspring, child, son, boy, or young one.
Walayah (ولاية)
The Islamic concept of being chosen by God for spiritual and leadership roles, particularly significant in both Shiism and Sufism.
Wali al-Amr
The male legal guardian responsible for overseeing minors' and unmarried females' affairs within Islamic law
Wallace D. Fard
The controversial figure believed to be the founder of the Nation of Islam, revered as the Great Mahdi by followers.
Waqf
Endowment of property for specific philanthropic or charitable purposes within the context of Islamic law.
Waqidi, Abu Abd Allah Muhammad ibn Umar al-
Esteemed historian and judge from Arabia, renowned for his extensive works on the military expeditions of the Prophet Muhammad and the early caliphs.
WAQṢ (وقص‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Usage in Islam
Explore the term 'WAQṢ,' its meanings and implications in Islamic law and its relevance to zakāt or legal alms. Understand its nuances and applications in the context of Islamic finance and obligations.
Waraqah (ورقة‎) - Historical Significance and Role in Early Islam
Explore the figure of Waraqah ibn Naufal, his connection to Khadijah and Prophet Muhammad, and his impact on the early days of Islamic revelation. Understand his religious background and scholarly contributions.
Warith Deen Muhammad
Warith Deen Muhammad (1933–2008) - Leader who transformed the Nation of Islam towards orthodox Sunni Islam.
Wasi
The legatee of religious knowledge and esoteric truths in Shiism, designated for continuance by formal nass.
Wasīlah (وسيلة)
Learn about the term 'Wasīlah,' its profound implications in Islamic theology, and the special station it signifies in Paradise. Understand its relevance for daily prayers and its theological significance as a means of nearness to God.
Wazifah
An assigned or appointed task or portion in Islamic tradition, including distribution of Quranic recitations, religious financial provisions, and taxation on land.
Wāʿiẓ - Definition, Etymology, and Role in Islam
Explore the term 'Wāʿiẓ,' its definition, and significance in Islamic tradition. Understand the duties of a Wāʿiẓ, how they differ from a Khatīb, and when their sermons are typically delivered.
WAʿZ̤ (وعظ‎)
Explore the concept of 'WAʿZ̤,' a type of sermon in Islam, its etymology, usage, and significance. Learn about its context, how it compares to 'Khutbah,' and its role in Muslim devotional practices.
Welfare Party
The Welfare Party (Refah Partisi, RP) was a Turkish Islamist political organization established in 1983.
White Revolution
White Revolution: Social, economic, and legal reforms by Shah Reza Pahlavi in 1960s-1970s Iran aimed at modernization, significantly impacting urban elites while neglecting rural and traditional sectors and contributing to the Islamic Revolution of 1979.
Widows in Islamic Law - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the Islamic perspectives and legal rulings regarding widows. Understand their rights, mourning period, inheritance share, and the conditions under Muslim law.
Winds (Riyāḥ) in Islamic Tradition
An exploration of the significance and types of winds (riyāḥ) mentioned in the Qur'an, including historical and theological contexts. Learn how winds were perceived by the Prophet Muhammad and how they are interpreted within Islamic culture.
Wird
A form of devotion or liturgical practice specific to a particular Sufi order.
Wives of the Prophet
An overview of the wives of the Prophet Muhammad, designated as 'Mothers of the Faithful' in Islam
Women's Action Forum
A Pakistani advocacy group formed in 1981 to counter the discrimination against women within Islamic penal code and broader societal norms.
Word of God: Inspiration, Old and New Testaments, Prophets, Qur'an
Explore the concept of the 'Word of God' across various religious traditions including inspiration, the Old and New Testaments, the role of prophets, and the Qur'an in Islam.
World Ahl al-Bayt Islamic League
An international Shia Islamic organization headquartered in London, focusing on various socioreligious and humanitarian activities within Shia communities.
World Assembly of Muslim Youth
An international organization founded to support Islamic youth organizations through various initiatives and planning.
World Community of Islam in the West
A reformist group led by Warith Deen Muhammad that transitioned from Black Muslim nationalism to mainstream Sunni Islam.
World Council for Islamic Call
A sub-organization established to promote Islamic dakwah internationally, representing Muammar Qaddafi’s political ideology.
World Council of Mosques
An international body established for coordination of missionary activities and standardization of Islamic jurisprudence.
World Islamic Council for Propagation and Relief
A comprehensive international organization founded to integrate Islamic missionary activities with humanitarian relief work, supported by the Muslim World League.
Wounds: Definition, Etymology, and Legal Implications in Islamic Law
Explore the term 'Wounds' (Arabic: شجاج‎ - Shijāj), its types and their specific legal compensations in Islamic Jurisprudence according to the Hidāyah.
Wuquf
Ceremonial pause or halt in the Hajj pilgrimage and a specific practice in Naqshbandi Sufism
Yahūd (يهود‎)
Explore the term 'Yahūd,' its etymology, and its significance in the Qur'anic context. Understand how this term relates to Jews and Judaism, and its usage within Islamic texts.
YAḤYĀ (يحيى‎)
Explore the figure of Yahya (John the Baptist) in Islamic tradition. Learn about his significance, mentions in the Qur'an, and his role as a prophet.
Yashruti Tariqah
A reformist branch of the Shadhili tariqah founded by Ali Nur al-Din al-Yashruti, known for its activities in Palestine, Syria, and East Africa
Yasin, Abd al-Salam
Moroccan Islamic activist, leader, and ideologue of the movement of al-Adl wa’l-Ihsan
Yaumu ʾl-Fiṭr (يوم الفطر) - Definition, Etymology, and Importance in Islam
Learn about 'Yaumu ʾl-Fiṭr,' its etymology, and significance in Islamic tradition. Understand the cultural, religious, and social importance of this day for Muslims worldwide.
Yaumu ʾL-Ḥisāb
Explore the concept of 'Yaumu ʾL-Ḥisāb,' known as the Day of Reckoning or Day of Judgment in Islam. Understand its theological significance, Qur'anic references, and its impact on the daily lives of Muslims.
YAUMU ʾL-K͟HULŪD (يوم الخلود‎) - Definition, Context, and Significance in Islam
Explore the term 'YAUMU ʾL-K͟HULŪD,' its Quranic reference, and its significance in Islamic eschatology. Learn about its implications for the concepts of afterlife and eternity in Islam.
YAUMU ʾL-K͟HURŪJ (يوم الخروج) - Etymology, Quranic Significance, and Eschatological Meaning
Explore the term 'YAUMU ʾL-K͟HURŪJ' from its etymology to its Quranic significance and eschatological interpretation in Islam. Understand the implications of 'The Day of Exodus' and its meaning in the context of the Day of Judgment.
Yaumu ʾl-Qarr (يوم القر‎)
Discover the meaning and significance of Yaumu ʾl-Qarr, also known as 'The Day of Rest,' an essential day of rest for the pilgrims after the sacrificial rituals during Ḥajj.
Yazid
Umayyad caliph from 680–683, known for the events leading to the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali at Karbala. Seen as a personification of evil and oppression in Shi'a Islam.
Year of the Elephant
According to tradition and early biographical accounts, the year marking the birth of Prophet Muhammad, named for a significant historical expedition.
Young Turks
The Young Turks were a political reform movement in the late Ottoman Empire that opposed Sultan Abdulhamid II's regime, ultimately restoring the constitution in 1908 and influencing modernization efforts until the empire's dissolution in 1918.
YŪḤANNĀ (يوحنا‎) - Definition and Significance in Islam and Christianity
Explore the term 'YŪḤANNĀ (يوحنا‎)' in the context of Islamic and Christian traditions, noting its implications and corresponding names in both religions.
Yusufi Tariqah
A Sufi order founded by Ahmad ibn Yusuf al-Milyani al-Rashidi, prominent within the Shadhili tradition in North Africa.
Ẕabḥ (ذبح‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Ritual Significance in Islam
Explore the comprehensive understanding of 'Ẕabḥ (ذبح‎)' including its etymology, the Islamic legal stipulations, rituals involved in the proper method of slaughtering animals, and the theological implications in Islam.
Zabidi, Muhammad Murtada al-
Yemeni grammarian, scholar of Hanafi law, noted for his refutation of materialists, skeptics, and rationalist theologians
Zachariah
Zachariah, identified in both the Qur'an and the Bible as a prophet, is the father of John, the husband of Elizabeth, and a priest entrusted with the care of Mary.
ZAḤF (زحف)
Explore the term 'ZAḤF,' its etymology, and usage in Islamic context, especially in relation to battle and combat as depicted in the Qur'an.
Zahir
Apparent, external, manifest meanings in Islam, contrasted with Batin (inner or hidden aspects)
Zahiri
The Zahiri School of Islamic law, established in the 9th century, known for its literal interpretation of Quran and Hadith.
Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab
Explore the term 'Z̤āhiru ʾl-Maẕhab', its usage among Ḥanafī Muslims, and the significant Sunni books in which these theological questions are addressed.
Z̤āhiru ʾl-Mumkināt
Explore the term 'Z̤āhiru ʾl-Mumkināt,' its meaning, usage in Islamic theology, and its role in demonstrating the existence, power, and attributes of God through nature.
Zaim
Political leader who provides both general and personal services. The leader’s power is based on the loyalty of his clientele and the relationship held with the state or central authorities, commonly seen in Lebanon.
Zakarīyāʾ (زكرياء‎)
Learn about the Prophet Zakarīyāʾ (Zacharias) in Islam. Discover his story, his role as the father of John the Baptist, and his significance in the Qur'an.
ẔAK͟HĀʾIRU ʾLLĀH (ذخائر الله‎) in Sufism
Explore the concept of ẔAK͟HĀʾIRU ʾLLĀH, its roots in Ṣūfī terminology, and its significance as the 'Repositories of God' in preventing national troubles through spiritual attainments.
Zamzam
The Zamzam Well in Mecca, revealed by God to Hagar and Ishmael, integral to Hajj rituals.
Zanānah (زنانة‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Cultural Significance in Islam
Discover the meaning and cultural implications of 'Zanānah' in Islamic and Persian contexts. Learn about the social and historical dimensions of households, especially in South Asia, and how Christian missions have engaged with them.
Zand Dynasty
A brief historical overview and significance of the Zand Dynasty in Iran.
Zann in Islamic Thought
An exploration of the concept of zann (suspicion and probability) in Islamic law, hadith literature, and Qur'anic interpretation.
ẔĀT (ذات‎)
Explore the term 'ẔĀT (ذات‎)' in Islamic theology, its linguistic roots, and how it pertains to discussions about the essence of God and human nature in both theology and law.
Zayd ibn Ali
Grandson of Husayn and an influential figure in Shia Islam, known for his activist stance and rebellion against the Umayyad dynasty.
Zaydis
Moderate branch of Shii Islam that supported Zayd ibn Ali as the fifth imam, emphasizing activist revolutionary ideals.
Zayn al-Abidin, Ali
Fourth Shii Imam, descendant of Prophet Muhammad, survivor of the Karbala massacre, and notable scholar and figure of patience.
Zaynab bint Jahsh
Zaynab bint Jahsh, one of the wives of Prophet Muhammad and a significant figure in early Islamic history.
Zaynab bint Muhammad
Daughter of the Prophet Muhammad and wife of Abu al-As ibn al-Rabia
Ẕaʿfirāniyah (ذعفرانية‎)
Learn about the term 'Ẕaʿfirāniyah,' its theological implications, and the debated doctrine regarding the creation of the Qur'an within Islamic history.
Z̤ihār (ظهار‎)
Explore the concept of Z̤ihār in Islamic law, its origins, and its implications for marital relations. Understand the Quranic perspective and the required expiations for Z̤ihār.
Zina
Unlawful sexual intercourse; fornication or adultery in Islamic law
Ziyarah - Visitation
A ritual act of visiting gravesites for the purpose of praying for the deceased or seeking blessings from the tombs of holy figures or saints.

Dictionary of Islam

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