Sadūm (سدوم‎)
Learn about the term 'Sadūm (سدوم‎),' its historical context, religious significance, and references in Islamic scriptures. Understand the implications of Sadūm in Islamic teachings and its place in the broader narrative of prophethood and morality.
Shaking Hands (Muṣāfaḥah): Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Discover the concept of shaking hands (muṣāfaḥah) in Islam, its historical roots, cultural implications, and religious significance. Learn how this simple practice embodies deeper Islamic values and the tradition set by the Prophet Muhammad.
SHARʿ (شرع‎)
Explore the concept of Sharʿ (شرع‎) in Islamic tradition. Understand its etymology, legal implications, and cultural significance, and discover recommended readings for a deeper understanding.
Sultan
An Arabic term denoting possession of power, might, or authority, commonly used as a title among Muslim rulers.
Sitting (Julūs)
Explore the practice and significance of sitting (Julūs) in Islamic tradition, with a focus on the specific manners in which the Prophet Muhammad used to sit, and its social and religious implications.
Sultan Selim III
Ottoman sultan known for implementing significant military and administrative reforms.
Sālik (سالك‎) in Islamic Mysticism
Explore the term 'Sālik,' its meaning, etymology, and its importance in the realm of Islamic Sufism. Understand the journey and the stages a Sālik goes through on the path to divine closeness.
Samaritan (As-Samiri)
Explore the term 'Samaritan' and its Arabic cognate 'As-Samiri.' Delve into its etymology, historical context, and significance in Islamic theology and Qur'anic studies.
Shauq
A state of desire or longing in Sufi Islam, associated with the contemplation of the divine beloved.
Sri Lanka, Islam in
The presence and development of Islam in Sri Lanka, focusing on the Sri Lankan Muslim (Moor) community, historical context, and cultural practices.
Sukr (سكر‎) - Understanding Drunkenness in Islam
Explore the term 'Sukr' (سكر‎) in Islamic context, its etymology, religious implications, and how it is addressed in Islamic law and theology.
Sumayah bint Khubbat
Sumayah bint Khubbat, known as the first martyr in Islam, was an early convert who faced persecution and martyrdom in Mecca.
Supererogation, Acts of (Nafl)
Learn about the concept of supererogation acts, known as Nafl, in Islam. Understand their types, significance, and how they enrich the spiritual lives of Muslims.
The Sixth and Last Period of Revelation
An overview of the surahs revealed during the sixth and last period at al-Madīnah, focusing on their content, themes, and historical context.
The Sunnī Law of Divorce: Overview, Etymology, and Regulations
An extensive examination of the Sunni Islamic law of divorce, its types, procedures, and implications in Islamic jurisprudence.
Saiyid (سيد‎)
Explore the term 'Saiyid' (سيد‎), its usage, and the historical and contemporary importance of those who bear this title. Understand its significance in daily prayers, social standing, and Islamic culture.
Sakinah
Sakinah represents the presence or peace of God, associated with divine support, piety, and mystical illumination in Islamic tradition.
Seven Salāms
Explore the concept of 'Seven Salāms' in the Qurʾān, their meanings, and their significance in Islamic practices. Discover the relevant verses and their applications in daily Muslim life.
Singing (Ghināʾ)
Explore the complexities of singing (ghināʾ) in Islamic tradition, its legal rulings, theological debates, and cultural practices. Understand the historical and contemporary perspectives on singing within the Muslim world.
Sabeans
Explore the term 'Sabeans' (Ṣābiʾ), their etymological origins, historical significance, and depiction in Islamic texts including the Qur'an. Understand their belief system and how they are perceived within Islamic theology.
Seal of Prophecy: K͟hātimu ʾn-Nubūwah (خاتم النبوة‎)
Explore the concept of the Seal of Prophecy in Islam, K͟hātimu ʾn-Nubūwah, and its significance as a divine mark on the Prophet Muhammad indicating his status as the final prophet.
Sectarianism in Islam
Sectarianism in Islam refers to the divisions and conflicts that have emerged within the Muslim community despite the Quranic warnings against such divisions.
Statues (Sculpture)
Explore the Islamic perspective on statues and sculptures, including their historical context, theological implications, and contemporary views. Understand how Islamic law has influenced the creation and display of statues.
Sunnah
Established custom, normative precedent, conduct, and cumulative tradition based on Muhammad’s example
Islam in Saudi Arabia
An overview of the state religion of Saudi Arabia and its conservative interpretation according to Wahhabi ideology
Saints in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Cultural Significance
Explore the concept of saints (awliya) in Islam, their cultural significance, various types within Islamic traditions, and the impact of shrines on local practices.
Saudah (سودة‎) - A Prominent Wife of Prophet Muhammad
Explore the life and significance of Saudah bint Zam'ah, one of the early wives of Prophet Muhammad, her role in early Islam, and her historical context.
Sirhindi, Ahmad
An influential Indian Sufi whose ideas shaped the Mujaddidi phase of the Naqshbandi order, promoting orthodoxy and integration of Sufi ideas within Sunni Islam.
Ubaydullah Sindhi
Indian Sikh convert to Islam and a leading exponent of the ideas of Shah Wali Allah.
SHAFʿ (شفع‎) in Islamic Rituals
Explore the term 'SHAFʿ', its etymology, and its specific application in Islamic rituals, particularly within the context of Salah (prayer). Understand the importance of rakʿahs recited in pairs and their place in daily and special prayers.
SHĪS̤ (شيث‎) – SETH: The Prophet in Islamic Tradition
Explore the significance of SHĪS̤ (شيث‎), also known as Seth in the Islamic tradition. Understand his role, etymology, and impact within Islamic theology and cultural history.
Shroud in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Practices
Explore the significance and details of shrouding (kafan) in Islamic burial practices, including the materials used and the differences between Sunni and Shia customs.
Ibrahim Sulaiman
Influential northern Nigerian intellectual and advocate for Islamic identity and renewal in Nigeria.
Sacraments in Christianity - Eucharist and Baptism
An in-depth examination of the European and Baptism as principal sacraments in Christianity, their theological significance, historical background, and ritual practices.
Sacrifice: Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
An in-depth overview of the concept of 'Sacrifice' in Islam, including its etymology, various forms, significance, and practices. Understand the different Arabic terms for sacrifice, the relevant Qur'anic verses, and Hadith related to sacrificial rites.
Salaf
Explore the term 'Salaf,' its etymological roots, meanings, and significance within the Islamic tradition, including both historical and financial contexts.
Salutations in Islam – Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the traditional Islamic salutations, their etymology, and the cultural and religious significance attached to the act of greeting in Islam.
Sasanians
A historical dynasty that ruled Persia from 205–651 CE, characterized by its centralized administration, Zoroastrian state religion, and conflicts with the Roman Empire.
Sattūqah (ستوقة‎) in Islamic Numismatics
Explore the term 'Sattūqah,' a type of base coin in Islamic financial practices, understood for its usage amongst merchants but not accepted in the public treasury. Learn about the implications and characteristics of Sattūqah.
Saul - T̤ālūt (طالوت‎)
Explore the life and significance of Saul (T̤ālūt in Arabic), a King of Israel mentioned in the Qur'an. Understand his role, virtues, and the story of his reign according to Islamic texts.
SAUT̤ (سوط‎)
Discover the meaning, origin, and application of the term 'SAUT̤ (سوط‎)' in the Islamic context, and its correlation with 'Dirrah'.
Sculpture in Islam: Definition, Etymology, and Legal Rulings
Explore the concept of sculpture in Islam, its etymological roots, and legal status according to Islamic teachings. Understand why the creation of carved or sculptured figures is generally prohibited.
Sikhism - Examination of Its Origins and Relationship with Islam
Explore the origins of Sikhism, its foundational principles, and its complex relationship with Hinduism and Islam, as elucidated through historical texts and modern scholarship.
Suicide - Definition, Etymology, and Islamic Perspective
Explore the concept of suicide in Islam with a focus on its Arabic terminology, its treatment in Islamic teachings, and its impact on Muslim practices.
Swine
Explore the concept of 'Swine' or 'k͟hinzīr' in Islam, its prohibition in the Qur'an, and its cultural and religious implications in the Muslim world. Understand the Islamic perspective on swine’s flesh and its broader theological context.
Sajdah (سجدة‎)
Explore the term 'Sajdah' (سجدة‎), its meanings, religious significance, and usage in Islamic practice and scripture. Understand its profound impact on Islamic worship and daily life.
Sama
Spiritual concert and Sufi music ritual in Islamic tradition.
Sandals - Importance and Usage in Islamic Context
Explore the significance of sandals in Islam, including historical use, cultural implications, and religious practices. Understand how sandals are viewed within Islamic law and tradition.
Sawāʾīm (سوايم‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Role in Islamic Obligations
Explore the term 'Sawāʾīm,' its significance in Islamic tradition particularly related to zakāt, and its impact on the management of livestock within the Muslim community.
Sects of Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Diversity
Explore the various sects within Islam, their origins, and their doctrinal differences. Understand the prophetic predictions and historical developments that have led to the wide array of Islamic sects.
Selection of a Wife in Islam - Criteria and Considerations
Understand the Islamic guidelines and criteria for selecting a wife, emphasizing intellect, honor, chastity, and compatibility, according to classical Islamic thought.
Sharḥ in Islamic Scholarship
Explore the term 'Sharḥ,' its etymological roots, and its role in Islamic intellectual tradition. Understand the differences between sharḥ, tafsīr, and ḥāshiyah, and delve into prominent examples of Islamic commentaries.
Sokoto Caliphate
An Islamic state founded in the 19th century by Uthman Dan Fodio in what is now Nigeria, uniting Hausa states under a spiritual and political authority.
Suleyman the Magnificent
Tenth and greatest sultan of the Ottoman Empire, notable for extensive territorial expansion, naval power, legislative reforms, and cultural flourishing.
Satan (Shaitān): Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Explore the concept of Satan in Islam, his role, attributes, and impact on Muslim beliefs and practices. Understand the etymology, significance, and Qur'anic references to Shaitān.
Schools - Definition, Etymology, and Role in Islamic Education
Explore the concept of schools in Islamic context, the etymology of the terms 'maktab' and 'madrasah,' and the interplay between education and religious instruction within Muslim communities.
Seth
Explore the figure of Seth (Arabic: Shīs̤) in Islamic tradition. Understand his status as a prophet, his scriptural revelations, and his historical and theological significance.
Al-Siffah
Characteristic, attribute widely used in Islamic theology to describe the divine attributes of God
Rūḥ (روح‎)
Explore the term 'Rūḥ,' its occurrences in the Qur'an, interpretations, and its significance in Islamic theology and philosophy.
Sadiqi College
Tunisian educational institution founded in 1875 by Khayr al-Din al-Tunisi, aimed at integrating Islamic and modern scientific education
Saifullah (سيف الله): The Sword of God
Exploring the historical and religious significance of the title 'Saifullah,' given to the celebrated General Khalid ibn al-Walid by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Sala Allah Alayhi wa-Salaam
Epithet used by Muslims as a sign of respect and honor after the name of a prophet or holy person, especially Muhammad
Sale (Baiʿ)
A comprehensive overview of the term 'Sale (Baiʿ)' within Islamic law, including its definition, etymology, legal significance, and pertinent practices. Explore how sales are structured under Sharia law.
Samuel (Arabic: Ishmawīl or اشمويل) - A Prophetic Figure in Islam and Judaism
Explore the figure of Samuel, known as Ishmawīl or Shamwīl in Islamic texts, his role and significance in Islamic and Judaic traditions, and his mention in the Qur'an and Islamic exegesis.
Saqar (سقر‎)
Explore the term 'Saqar' found in Islamic texts, its meanings, implications, and theological significance. Understand its uses within the Quran and how it is perceived in Islamic eschatology.
Sermon (Kutbah)
Learn about the term 'Sermon' with a focus on the Friday midday prayer oration called Khutbah (خطبة‎). Understand its importance, purpose, and the distinction from other exhortations in Islam.
Serpent
Explore the term 'Serpent,' known as ḥaiyah in Arabic, its occurrences in the Qur'an, and its significance in Islamic context. Understand the various words used for serpent and their interpretations in Islamic texts.
Shāhinshāh (شاهنشاه‎) in Islam and History
Discover the Persian title 'Shāhinshāh,' its historical context, and its significance in Islamic traditions. Learn why it is considered a prohibited title in Islamic teachings.
Shart̤ (شرط‎) in Islamic Law
Understand the term 'Shart̤,' its usage, and implications within Islamic jurisprudence, particularly in the contexts of marriage and contracts.
Shaving in Islam: Traditions and Rulings
Explore the Islamic view on shaving, specifically the beard and head, as derived from religious Traditions and the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad.
Shawkani, Muhammad al-
A Yemeni scholar, jurisprudent, and reformer who played a significant role in Islamic thought and legal scholarship.
Shaʿbān (شعبان)
Explore the month of Shaʿbān (شعبان), its etymology, historical significance, and practices in Islamic culture. Understand how it prepares Muslims for the holy month of Ramadan.
Shechina (Sakina, Tabut)
Learn about the concept of Shechina (Sakina) in Islamic and Judaic traditions, its symbolic meanings, historical contexts, and its relevance in the everyday lives of Muslims and Jews.
Shīʿah Traditions and Legal Schools: An Overview
An in-depth look at the Shīʿah collections of traditions, differences with Sunnī traditions, major compilers, and significant works on Shīʿah law.
Shu'ubiyyah Movement
A literary movement in Abbasid times that highlighted non-Arab linguistic traditions, particularly Persian, as a reaction against Arab cultural dominance.
Sodom in Islamic Context - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the term 'Sodom' in Islamic context, its linguistic roots, references in the Qur'an, and associated moral implications. Delve into the city's historical and religious importance in Islam.
Solomon
Solomon, described in the Qur'an as the son of David, is a king renowned for his wisdom, the builder of the Temple in Jerusalem, and a prophet with remarkable spiritual insight.
Sorcery (Magic)
Explore the concept of sorcery (magic) in Islam, its definition, historical context, and the implications of practicing or believing in it according to Islamic teachings. Understand how sorcery is viewed within the Islamic tradition and legal rulings.
Soroush, Abd al-Karim
Iranian intellectual, political activist, and philosopher known for his critical views on theocracy and advocacy for the separation of religion and religious knowledge.
Spider, The (Al-ʿAnkabūt)
Learn about the 29th chapter of the Qur'an, al-ʿAnkabūt (The Spider). Understand its meaning, context, and the parable it contains. Explore its profound significance and implications in Islamic theology.
Suleyman, Sultan
Suleyman, Sultan (d. 1873), also known as Du Wenxiu, led a Hui rebellion against the Chinese state in Yunnan from 1855 and sought to establish the state that pacifies the south (Pingnan Guo).
Sunnī
Explore the term 'Sunnī,' its origins, doctrinal foundations, and its role in Islamic tradition. Understand the theological and jurisprudential differences that define Sunni Islam.
Supreme Islamic Shii Council (Lebanon)
A representative body for Shi'ites in Lebanon, advocating for improved conditions and representation.
The Style of Composition in the Imparting of a Tradition in Islam
Explore the structured methods used in Islamic traditions for transmitting Hadith, including specific verbal forms and the historical context of their use among narrators.
Mahmud Shaltut
Influential Egyptian religious scholar and reformer of al-Azhar University
Santri
The term santri refers to Indonesian students deeply dedicated to the study and practice of Islam.
Saʿīr (سعير‎)
Explore the term Saʿīr, its meaning, usage in the Qur'an, and theological implications in Islamic context. Learn how Saʿīr is depicted and its relevance in Islamic eschatology.
Shah Bano Begum Case
A landmark legal case in India concerning the rights of divorced Muslim women and the interpretation of Muslim Personal Law.
Shaikh (شيخ‎)
Explore the term 'Shaikh,' its meanings, implications, and roles within Islamic context. Understand the various connotations of Shaikh, from venerable leaders to authoritative figures in Islamic societies.
Sharawi, Shaykh Muhammad Mutawali al-
A renowned Egyptian religious scholar, writer, and former minister of endowments who was prominent in Quranic interpretation and religious literature.
Shirb (شرب‎)
Explore the term 'Shirb' (شرب‎) and its importance in the Islamic context, particularly in regard to water usage and agricultural practices. Understand how water rights are defined and managed in Islamic law.
Sikandar in Islamic and Persian Culture
Discover the term 'Sikandar,' its etymology, and its historical and cultural significance, with reference to Alexander the Great in Islamic and Persian contexts.
Slaughter of Animals (Zabh)
Discover the Islamic principles and regulations surrounding the slaughter of animals, known as 'Zabh.', its religious significance, proper methods, and related jurisprudence. Understand how this practice aligns with Islamic dietary laws.
Sources of the Qur'an: Influences and Interactions with Judaism, Christianity, and Other Traditions
Explore the sources of the Qur'an, including influences from Judaism, Christianity, and other traditions. Delve into scholarly perspectives, historical contexts, and significant figures that shaped the formation of Islamic scripture.
Subḥah (سبحة‎)
Explore the term 'Subḥah,' its religious implications, its structure and how it is used in Islamic acts of worship and daily life.
Subḥāna ʾLlahi (سبحان الله‎) – Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Explore the term 'Subḥāna ʾLlahi,' its etymology, usage in Islamic prayers, and its applications in daily life. Delve into its significance as an expression of divine glory and reverence.

Dictionary of Islam

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