Islam

Umar ibn al-Khattab
Second Sunni caliph and Companion of Prophet Muhammad; a major architect of early Islamic expansion and administration.
Umar Tal
Islamic militant leader and intellectual in 19th-century West Africa, significant for his role in the Islamization of the region.
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.
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.
Urs
A multifaceted term in Islam referring to both marriage and Sufi spiritual union
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.
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-Khassah
In Twelver Shiism, the designation of four successive persons to act as deputies of the Hidden Imam.
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
Waqf
Endowment of property for specific philanthropic or charitable purposes within the context of Islamic law.
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.
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 of Mosques
An international body established for coordination of missionary activities and standardization of Islamic jurisprudence.
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.
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-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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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 Muhammad
Daughter of the Prophet Muhammad and wife of Abu al-As ibn al-Rabia
Ẕū ′l-Jalāl
Explore the term ‘Ẕū ′l-Jalāl,’ its meaning, Qur'anic references, and its importance as one of the ninety-nine attributes of God in Islam.
Zu’l-Janah
The horse of Husayn ibn Ali in the Battle of Karbala, significant in Shi'i tradition
ʿAbd al-Raḥmān ibn ʿAuf - A Companion of Prophet Muhammad
Explore the life and contributions of ʿAbd al-Raḥmān ibn ʿAuf, one of the early companions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Learn about his sacrifices, early acceptance of Islam, and participation in pivotal battles.
ʿADN (عدن)
Explore the term 'ʿADN (عدن),' its meanings and implications in Islamic theology. Understand its references to both the Garden of Eden and celestial paradise.
ʿArafāt (عرفات) - Definition, Etymology, and Religious Significance in Islam
Discover the meaning, origin, and religious significance of 'ʿArafāt,' the 'Mount of Recognition' in Islam. Learn about its importance in the Hajj pilgrimage and the spiritual events that occur there.
ʿArsh (عرش‎)
Learn about the term 'ʿArsh,' its relevance, and usage in the Qur'anic context along with scholarly interpretations. Understand the theological implications and how it relates to Islamic cosmology.
ʿAzīmah (عزيمة‎)
Explore the term 'ʿAzīmah' in the Islamic context. Understand its meaning, association with incantations and exorcisms, and its broader implications in Islamic practices.
ʿIddah
Discover the Islamic concept of 'ʿIddah', its stipulated durations, and the religious reasoning behind this period for divorced or widowed women.
ʿĪdu 'l-Aḍḥā
Learn about ʿĪdu 'l-Aḍḥā (عيد الاضحى‎), also known as the Feast of Sacrifice. Understand its religious significance, historical background, and how it is celebrated by Muslims worldwide.
ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr
Learn about ʿĪdu ʾL-Fiṭr, its implications, and significance in the Islamic context. Understand the traditions, rituals, and cultural practices associated with this important festival celebrated by Muslims around the world.
ʿIzrāʾīl (عزرائيل) - The Angel of Death in Islam
Discover the role and significance of ʿIzrāʾīl (عزرائيل), known as the Angel of Death in Islam, his duties, and the Islamic beliefs surrounding the process of death and the afterlife as depicted in the Qur'an and Hadith literature.
ʿUshr (عشر‎)
Explore the concept of ʿUshr in Islam, its historical and theological significance, and its role in Muslim society. Understand the etymology, usage, and impact on the economic life of Muslims.
Muṣallā (مصلا‎)
Explore the term 'Muṣallā,' its meanings, types, and significance in the daily worship practices of Muslims. Understand its usage, variations in different cultures, and how it functions as a prayer mat in Islam.
Zaqqūm
Explore the term 'Zaqqūm,' its depiction in the Qur'ān, and its symbolic significance in the context of Islamic teachings. Understand the theological perspectives and real-world analogs associated with this infernal tree.
Ḥajj
Discover the concept of Ḥajj in Islam, its requirements, rituals, and importance as the fifth pillar of Islam. Learn about the historical and theological context of this pilgrimage.
The Ten Commandments - Understanding their Mention in the Qur'an
Explore the differences and clarities regarding the Ten Commandments mentioned in the Qur'an, their significance, and the debated interpretations by Islamic scholars.
Feminism in Islam
The definition and exploration of feminism within the context of the Islamic tradition, including its historical development, main themes, and modern trends.
Monogamy
Explore the concept of Monogamy in Islam, its endorsement in the Qur'an, and the implications of maintaining equitable treatment in matrimonial relations.
Islamic Sacrificial Practices - Eid al-Adha and Aqeeqah
Examine the two major sacrificial practices in Islam: the Eid al-Adha festival and the Aqeeqah ceremony at the birth of a child. Discover their historical, theological, and cultural significance.
Sajjādah
Learn about the term 'Sajjādah,' its implications, and usage in Islamic context. Understand the importance of this prayer mat in the daily life of Muslims.
ʿILMU ʾL-ḤADĪS̤ (عـلـم الحديث‎) - The Science of Hadith
Explore ʿILMU ʾL-ḤADĪS̤, the Islamic science dedicated to determining the authenticity of Hadith. Understand its significance, methodology, and key texts.
Kitab al-Jafr
A mystical book attributed to Ali ibn Abi Talib, containing esoteric teachings for his descendants, significant in Shia belief and associated with Jafar al-Sadiq
Nubuwwah (نبوة)
Explore the concept of 'Nubuwwah' in Islam, its etymology, implications, and the role of prophets in Islamic theology and history.
ṢAFĪYU ʾLLĀH (صفى الله‎)
Understand ṢAFĪYU ʾLLĀH, its etymology, and significance in Islamic teachings. Learn how this title used for Adam shapes the understanding of his status in the Islamic tradition.
AR-RUKNU ʾL-YAMĀNĪ (الركن اليمانى‎)
Discover the significance of Ar-Ruknu ʾl-Yamānī, the Yamānī pillar, in Islamic tradition. Explore its historical relevance, cultural practices, and spiritual importance for pilgrims visiting the Kaʿbah in Mecca.
As-Salām (السلام) - Meaning, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Explore the term 'As-Salām,' one of the ninety-nine names of God in Islam, its usage in the Quran, and significance in Muslim customs and greetings.
Banū ʾn-Nak͟hʿ - Historical Significance and Role in Early Islam
Explore the history, etymology, and significance of the Banū ʾn-Nak͟hʿ tribe in early Islamic history, including their allegiance to Prophet Muḥammad and interaction with ʿAlī.
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.
Ghanimah
Wealth taken by force from an enemy in times of war in classical Islam, with distribution governed by Quranic directives.
Masjid al-Haram (مسجد الحرام)
Learn about Masjid al-Haram, its historical and religious significance, and detailed architectural features. Understand why it is a central element of Islamic devotion and its role within the broader context of Muslim pilgrimage and daily prayers.
Rūḥu ʾllāh
Explore the term 'Rūḥu ʾllāh,' its significance as the special title for Jesus in Islamic scripture, and its broader implications in Islamic theology and philosophy.
SĀʾIBAH (سائبة‎)
Explore the concept of 'Sāʾibah,' its historical and religious implications, as well as its specific mention in the Qur'an.
Sidratu ʾl-Muntahā (سدرة المنتهى‎)
Explore the term 'Sidratu ʾl-Muntahā,' a significant concept in Islamic theology detailing the Lote-tree at the extremity of the seventh heaven. Understand its origins, Qur'anic references, and cultural importance.
Slavery in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Context
Explore the concept of slavery in Islamic tradition, its Qur'anic basis, and how it was implemented and regulated. Understand the nuances of slavery in Islam, including the social and legal implications.
The Fifth Period – Analysis of Thirty-one Sūrahs
An analysis of the Thirty-one Sūrahs revealed during the fifth period of Muḥammad's ministry. These Sūrahs cover various theological themes, narratives from the Gospel, pilgrimage rites, and vivid descriptions of the Resurrection and Judgment.
Yawning in Islam: Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the significance of yawning in Islam, its perception in Islamic traditions, and practical guidelines for Muslims when experiencing a yawn.
ʿILMU ʾL-MŪSĪQĪ (علم الموسيقى‎) - The Science of Music in Islamic Context
Explore the term 'ʿILMU ʾL-MŪSĪQĪ,' its historical development, cultural implications, and significance within the Islamic tradition. Learn about its role in Islamic intellectual history, notable scholars, and the theological perspectives on music.
Ḥadīth Qudsī
Discover the concept of Ḥadīth Qudsī, its etymological roots, and its profound significance in Islamic teachings. Learn how Ḥadīth Qudsī differs from other ḥadīths and its role in the spiritual life of Muslims.
Kibr (كبر‎)
Explore the concept of 'Kibr' in Islamic teachings, its implications as a vice in humans and a divine attribute when referring to God. Understand the roots, significance, and teachings related to 'Kibr' in Islamic theology and jurisprudence.
Ṣūfīism
Explore the profound mystical tradition of Ṣūfīism within Islam, its doctrinal roots, philosophical implications, and cultural impact. Learn about key figures, practices, and literary contributions that have shaped Ṣūfī thought.
Al-Barāʾ ibn ʿĀzib - Life, Contributions, and Historical Significance in Islam
Explore the life and contributions of Al-Barāʾ ibn ʿĀzib, a notable companion of Prophet Muḥammad, his participation in key Islamic battles, and his role in early Islamic history.
Amina bint Wahab
Mother of the Prophet Muhammad, noted in Islamic history for celestial signs preceding the birth of Muhammad.
Fatimah
Fatimah, Daughter of Muhammad and Khadijah, wife of Ali ibn Abi Talib, and mother of Hasan and Husayn.
Garden (Jannah)
Examine the Islamic concept of 'Jannah,' its etymology, varied usage in the Qur'an, and the multi-faceted stages of heavenly bliss in Islamic eschatology.
Liberation Movement of Iran
An Iranian political party based on a moderate interpretation of Islam that played a significant role in the opposition to the Shah’s regime and the subsequent Iranian Revolution.
Maimūnah (ميمونة‎)
Explore the life and significance of Maimūnah (ميمونة‎), the last of Prophet Muhammad’s wives. Learn about her familial connections, her marriage to the Prophet, and her legacy in Islamic history.
Muslim Brotherhood in Jordan
Islamic revivalist organization in Jordan seeking to promote Islamic values and education, despite its historically complex relationship with the monarchy and regional influences.
Nikah (Marriage) in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the concept of 'Nikah' in Islam, its etymological roots, significance in Islamic culture, and the rituals associated with the Islamic wedding ceremony. Understand the values and legal rulings that underpin the institution of marriage in Islam.
Polygamy
Explore the Islamic perspective on polygamy, its historical context, theological arguments, and its current practice within Muslim communities.
Resignation (Islām)
Explore the concept of resignation in Islam, its significance, and related terms. Understand how resignation is described in the Qur'an and the meanings of related Arabic words like Ṣabr, Taslīm, and Riẓāʾ.
Sexuality in Islam
The concept of human sexuality within the Islamic tradition, its expressions, regulations, and theological underpinnings.
Suwāʿ (سواع‎)
Understand the term 'Suwāʿ (سواع‎),' its historical roots, and its mention in the Qur'an. Discover its significance and archaeological context in pre-Islamic Arabia.
Nimrod in Islamic and Judeo-Christian Traditions - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the various narratives surrounding Nimrod in Islamic and Judeo-Christian traditions, his interaction with the Prophet Abraham, and the etymological roots of his name.
Resurrection in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Understanding the concept of ‘Resurrection’ in Islam, its references in the Qur'an, the eschatological beliefs, associated traditions, and theological implications for Muslims.
SABAʿU ʾL-MAS̤ĀNI (سبع المثانى‎)
Explore the term 'SABAʿU ʾL-MAS̤ĀNI,' its etymology, significance, and reasons for its designation within the Islamic tradition.
Ṣāriq (صارق‎)
Discover the term 'Ṣāriq,' its implications, and usage in Islamic context. Understand what actions and behaviours are considered theft, and how Islamic law addresses this issue.
Sin in Islam (ذنب / Günah)
A breach of the laws and norms set forth by Islam, categorized into major and minor with the most severe being shirk.
Al-Kitābu ʾl-Mubīn
Explore the term 'Al-Kitābu ʾl-Mubīn,' its meanings and significance within the Qur'anic context. Learn how it is used to refer both to the Tablet of Decrees (Lauḥu ʾl-Maḥfūz̤) and the Qur'an itself.
Al-Qurʾānu ʾl-ʿAz̤īm (القران العظيم‎)
Explore the term 'Al-Qurʾānu ʾl-ʿAz̤īm,' a revered title given to the opening chapter of the Qur'an by Prophet Muhammad. Understand its meaning, significance, and role in Islamic texts and daily prayers.

Dictionary of Islam

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