Gabriel (Jibril)
An archangel in Islam who revealed the Quran to Prophet Muhammad and acts as his protector.
Gadd al-Haqq
Gadd al-Haqq, the Egyptian Shaykh of al-Azhar known for his controversial fatwa on female circumcision.
Galiyev, Sultan Mir Said
Tatar Muslim Communist intellectual who reinterpreted Communism in the Muslim context during the 1917 Bolshevik revolution.
Gaylani Family
Religious and political notables of Afghanistan, known for their leadership in the Qadiri Sufi order and political influence.
Genghis Khan
Creator of the Mongol Empire, who united diverse tribes and founded an extensive empire.
Geomancy
An ancient method of divination that involves interpreting marks made on the ground or patterns formed by thrown handfuls of soil, rocks, or sand.
Ghabn (غبن‎)
An exploration of the term 'Ghabn,' which denotes fraud or deceit in sales within an Islamic context. Understand its implications, usage, and significance in Islamic law and daily life.
Ghadir Khumm
Historical site where Prophet Muhammad proclaimed Ali ibn Abi Talib as his successor, interpreted differently by Sunni and Shia Muslims.
Ghaib
Explore the term 'Ghaib,' its spiritual and theological implications in Islam, particularly within Sufi mysticism. Understand the esoteric dimensions and how they shed light on the mystical nature of God.
Ghaṣb (غصب) in Islamic Law
Explore the concept of Ghaṣb (غصب‎) in Islamic jurisprudence, its legal implications, and the nuances in determining usurpation of property.
G͟HASSĀN (غسان‎) - Historical Tribe in the Syrian Desert
Learn about the G͟HASSĀN (غسان‎) tribe, its historical significance, and its role during the time of Prophet Muhammad. Understand their geographical and cultural impact in pre-Islamic Arabia.
Ghatfan in Islamic History
Explore the historical context and significance of the Ghatfan tribe, its origins, and its role in Islamic history. Understand the tribe's lineage and its interactions in the pre-Islamic and early Islamic eras.
Ghazal
A Ghazal is a form of Arabic, Persian, Turkish, and Urdu poetry that is crafted as a rhyming couplet accompanied by a refrain, steeped in themes of love, loss, and mysticism.
Ghazan Khan, Mahmud
Celebrated Mongol ruler who converted to Islam and made significant contributions to Persian governance and culture.
Ghaznavids
The Ghaznavids were a South Asian dynasty ruling from 962 to 1186, famed for their Persianate culture and military prowess under Mahmud of Ghazna.
G͟hībah (غـيبة‎)
Explore the term 'G͟hībah,' its definition, significance, and condemnation in Islamic teachings. Understand what constitutes G͟hībah, its impact on social harmony, and the related Qur'anic and Hadith references.
Ghulam
A term referring to a young boy or slave, primarily used in the context of military organization during the medieval Islamic period, often associated with Turkish slave-soldiers known as Ghilman.
Ghulām (غلام‎)
Explore the term 'Ghulām,' its meanings, and significance in Islamic and modern contexts. Understand its etymology, portrayal in the Qur'an, and usage in historical and contemporary Muslim societies.
Ghulam Ahmad, Mirza
Founder of the Ahmadi movement in Punjab, India, claiming to be a prophetic figure across multiple religious traditions.
Ghulat
Refers to Shii groups critical in opposition to the centrist tendencies of Islamic doctrine and government, emphasizing the elevated status of Ali and subsequent Shii imams.
Ghurids
Eastern Persian Sunni dynasty of the mid-twelfth to early thirteenth centuries, known for their military conquests and patronage of literature, architecture, and the arts.
Ghusl
Major purification ritual in Islam, necessary for various forms of worship and situations, and involves full-body washing
Ghusl (غسل‎)
Explore the term 'Ghusl,' its religious significance, practices, and detailed explanation based on Islamic teachings and traditions. Understand when and how Ghusl is performed, as well as its importance in maintaining ritual purity.
Ghusl Masnun (غسل مسنون‎)
Understanding Ghusl Masnun (غسل مسنون‎), its definition, practice based on the Sunnah, and significance in Islamic teachings. Explore the origins and specific occasions for performing Ghusl Masnun.
Gnosticism in Islamic Thought
An exploration of Gnostic influences within various Near Eastern religions, particularly focusing on their impact on Shii movements, Ismaili cosmology, and Sufi traditions in Islam.
Gokalp, Mehmet Ziya
Turkish writer and nationalist influential in twentieth-century Turkish political and intellectual history, known for synthesizing secular Western and Islamic reform movements.
Golden Calf - Qur'anic Mention and Historical Context in Islam
Explore the Qur'anic mention of the Golden Calf, the historical context of its worship by the Israelites, and key figures associated with this event, including as-Sāmirī.
Goliath (Jalut)
Goliath (Jalut in Arabic) is a figure identified in the Quran as the giant leader opposing Talut (Saul).
Gomorrah
Explore the concept of Gomorrah, its reference in Islamic texts, and its implications. Understand the historical and theological context of Sadūm (Sodom) and G͟hamūrah (Gomorrah) as depicted in Islamic tradition.
GOOD WORKS (aṣ-Ṣāliḥāt)
Explore the concept of 'Good Works' (aṣ-Ṣāliḥāt) in Islam, its etymology, theological significance, and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad on performing good deeds.
Grand Mufti
The leading mufti serving in an advisory capacity to state and court, also known as Shaykh al-Islam, first institutionalized by the Ottoman Empire.
Grave, The Punishments of the (ʿAzab al-Qabr)
Explore the Islamic concept of ʿAzab al-Qabr, or the Punishments of the Grave. Understand its theological foundations, implications, and significance in a Muslim's belief system. Learn how it shapes Muslim practices and perspectives on the afterlife.
Groupe Islamique Armé
The Armed Islamic Group (GIA) was an insurgent faction in Algeria formed to contest the country's socialist and secular policies, engaging in a violent campaign after a disrupted Islamist electoral victory.
Guardianship: Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Explore the concept of guardianship in Islam, including its definition, types, and the roles and responsibilities associated with it. Understand how guardianship (wilāyah and ḥiẓānah) affects the management of a minor's property and upbringing.
Guilds
Urban organizations based on trade, commerce, and artisanal activities, often grouped in specific zones inside cities.
Gulbuddin Hekmatyar
Gulbuddin Hekmatyar: Political Leader and Former Prime Minister of Afghanistan
Gülen, Fethullah
Fethullah Gülen, founder of Turkey’s largest faith-oriented Islamic movement and an influential Muslim thinker emphasizing knowledge, tolerance, and justice.
Gulf War
An international conflict in 1990-1991 between Iraq and a U.S.-led coalition to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait.
Gülhane Rescript of 1839 (Tanzimat Fermanı)
A declaration part of the Ottoman reforms aimed at protecting the rights and property of subjects and affirming the restoration of sharia law.
GURZ (گرز‎) in Islamic Context
Explore the term 'GURZ,' its meanings, and implications in Islamic practices. Understand how an iron mace is used both in religious symbolism and devotional exercises.
Hadd
Hadd (حد) refers to a punishment fixed in the Quran and Hadith for specific crimes considered to be against the rights of God (حقوق الله‎, huquq Allah).
Hadith
Detailed examination of Hadith, its significance, collections, and the science of hadith criticism in Islam.
Ḥadīth - Classification Based on Original Relators
Explore the classification of Ḥadīth with reference to the original relators including Ḥadīth al-Marfūʿ, Ḥadīth al-Mauqūf, and Ḥadīth al-Maqṭūʿ. Understand the significance and differences between these categories in Islamic tradition.
Ḥadīth in Islam: Definition, Etymology, and Classification
Explore the concept of Ḥadīth in Islam, its classification, significance, and method of transmission. Understand the different types of Ḥadīth and their implications in Islamic scholarship and jurisprudence.
Hadith Qudsi
Sacred tradition or report in Islam, distinct from both the Qur'an and Hadith Nabawi, involving sayings of the Prophet Muhammad where the meaning is revealed by God.
Hafsa bint Umar
A notable figure in early Islamic history, the daughter of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab and wife of Prophet Muhammad.
Hafsids
Hafsids Dynasty of North Africa, centered in Tunis; reigned 1229–1574.
Hagar
Hagar, the mother of Abraham’s son Ishmael (Ismail), and the servant of Abraham and Sarah.
Hagiography
Accounts of lives of saints, prophets, and Companions of the Prophet Muhammad as portrayed in Islamic literature and various media.
Hair in Islamic Tradition - Definition, Etymology, and Religious Significance
Explore the term 'Hair' in Islamic reference, its etymology, religious implications, and practices regarding human hair. Understand the prohibitions and societal norms based on Islamic teachings.
Hajar al-Aswad, al-
The black stone set within a silver ring in the eastern corner of the Kaaba in Mecca, venerated in Islam.
Ḥājī (حاجي): Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Discover the meaning, significance, and etymology of the term 'Ḥājī' in Islamic tradition. Learn about its cultural and spiritual dimensions, as well as its use as an honorific title for those who have completed the Ḥajj pilgrimage.
Haji Abdul Hadi Awang
Malaysian religious and political leader, influential in advocating for an Islamic state and social justice.
Hajj
The annual pilgrimage to Mecca during the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, considered one of the five pillars of Islam, obligatory for all adult Muslims able to perform it.
Hajji
Honorific title for Muslims who have undertaken the pilgrimage to Mecca.
Hakim, Muhsen al-
Influential Iraqi Shii cleric known for his moderate theology, educational and political initiatives, and opposition to Communism.
Ḥāl
A transitory spiritual state of enlightenment or ecstasy in Sufism, viewed as a gift from God distinct from an acquired spiritual stage (maqām).
Halal
A Quranic term denoting what is lawful or permitted according to Islamic law.
Halaqah
A concept referring to a circle of learners gathered typically for Sufi spiritual study or ritual.
Hamadani, Ayn al-Qudat al-
Islamic scholar and mystic known for his contributions to Sufi thought and literature.
Hamallah, Shaykh
Shaykh Hamallah was the founder of the Hamallism Sufi order, known for his asceticism and mysticism, and his opposition to French colonial rule.
Hamasah
Enthusiasm, courage, and zeal, often associated with a genre of Arabic, Persian, and Turkish heroic and martial epic poetry recounting chivalrous exploits and military glories.
Hamd
An Arabic term meaning praise, often used in reference to God in Islamic practice.
Hamdanids
An Arab Shiite clan that influenced political dynamics in the Islamic world from 905 to 991.
Hamdard Foundation
Pakistani charitable society and pharmaceutical company founded in 1953 by Hakim Mohammed Said.
Hamzah ibn Abd al-Muttalib
Hamzah ibn Abd al-Muttalib, known as the bravest and strongest warrior of the Quraysh tribe and a key supporter of the Prophet Muhammad, played a critical role in early Islamic history.
Hanafi School of Law
Islamic school of legal thought attributed to Abu Hanifah, predominant in personal status and religious observances, noted for its liberal doctrines and extensive use of reasoning and analogy.
Hanbali School of Law
An Islamic school of legal thought with origins attributed to Ahmad ibn Hanbal, emphasizing strict adherence to the Quran and Hadith.
Handkerchiefs
Explore the cultural and theological perspectives on the use of handkerchiefs in Islamic tradition, including scholars' opinions and legal rulings.
Hanif
One who is utterly upright, exemplified by Abraham's pure monotheism, sincerity, and complete submission to God.
Ḥanīf
Explore the term 'Ḥanīf,' a significant concept in Islam that refers to the pure monotheistic faith of Abraham, devoid of idolatry. Understand its scriptural references and theological implications.
Haqiqah
Haqiqah, meaning 'reality,' represents the inward vision of divine power attained through mystical union with God in Sufi thought.
Haqiqah al-Muhammadiyyah
The Muhammadan Reality - a key concept in Islamic mysticism describing the primordial essence and model of creation.
ḤAQĪQĪ - Definition, Etymology, and Usage in Islamic Context
Explore the term 'ḤAQĪQĪ,' its various implications in Islamic theology, philosophy, and linguistics. Understand the difference between literal and figurative meanings within Islamic texts.
Harakat al-Mahrumin
The Movement of the Dispossessed founded by Musa al-Sadr in 1974 in Lebanon aimed at addressing Shiite sociopolitical and economic challenges.
Harakat al-Tawhid al-Islami
A militant Sunni movement originating in Tripoli, Lebanon during the 1980s with a goal to establish an Islamic state.
Harakat ul-Ansar / Harakat ul-Mujahidin
A Pakistan-based militant organization active in Indian-administered Kashmir, established originally as Harakat ul-Ansar in 1993, later reorganized as Harakat ul-Mujahidin in 1997.
Haram
Legal term in Islamic law for what is forbidden or inviolable; also used to refer to sanctuaries around the three holy cities of Islam.
Ḥarīm, or Hareem (حريم‎)
Explore the concept of Ḥarīm, its historical and cultural significance, and how it shapes the lives of women in various Muslim societies.
Harun al-Rashid
Harun al-Rashid (r. 786–809) was an Abbasid caliph known for his contributions to the Islamic Golden Age and for his depictions in The Thousand and One Nights.
Hasan al-Banna
Founder of the Muslim Brotherhood and advocate for political and social activism grounded in Islamic principles.
Hasan al-Basri
Major religious figure of the Umayyad period known for his influential theological writings, asceticism, and sermons
Hasan ibn Ali
Hasan ibn Ali (d. 669), Muhammad’s grandson, oldest son of Ali and Fatimah, and second imam in the Shii tradition.
Hasan, Muhammad Abdallah
Somali Sufi and intellectual leader who led the resistance against European and Ethiopian occupation from 1899 to 1920.
HĀSHIM (هاشم‎) - An Ancestor of the Prophet Muḥammad
Explore the significance of HĀSHIM (هاشم‎), the great grandfather of the Prophet Muḥammad, his historical background, and his contributions to Meccan society.
Hashiyyah: Glosses or Supercommentaries
Hashiyyah are supercommentaries or glosses written in the margins of texts, reflecting the cumulative nature of Muslim scholarship.
Hassan al-Turabi
Sudanese Islamist and political leader influential in the promotion of Islamic governance in Sudan.
Ḥassān ibn Thābit
Explore the life and contributions of Ḥassān ibn Thābit, an eminent poet who embraced Islam during the time of Prophet Muhammad. Understand his literary impact and his role in early Islamic society.
Ḥāt̤ib Ibn ʿAmr (حاطب بن عمرو) - An Early Convert and Trusted Companion of the Prophet Muhammad
Explore the life and contributions of Ḥāt̤ib Ibn ʿAmr, an early convert to Islam and one of the most trusted companions of the Prophet Muhammad. Learn about his significance during the early Islamic period and his role in the conquest of Makkah.
Ḥaulānu ʾl-Ḥaul
Explore the term 'Ḥaulānu ʾl-Ḥaul,' its meaning, usage, and significance in Islamic jurisprudence. Understand how it relates to the obligation of zakāt and its implications for the possession of property.
Hawāzin (هوازن‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
Understand the historical and religious significance of the Hawāzin tribe in Arabia, their interaction with Prophet Muhammad, and their mention in the Qur'an.
Haykal, Muhammad Husayn
Egyptian novelist and thinker who used religious symbols to harmonize Islam with modern rational, scientific analysis.
ḤAẔAR (حذر‎)
Discover the meaning and significance of the term 'ḤAẔAR' in Islamic context. Learn about its occurrences in the Qur'an and its implications on the concept of fear and vigilance in Islam.

Dictionary of Islam

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