Islamic Culture

RAHN (رهن‎)
Explore the concept of RAHN in Islamic law, its legal implications, and its scriptural basis. Understand the practice of pledging or pawning and its relevance in the daily life of Muslims.
Riḍwān (رضوان‎)
Explore the term 'Riḍwān,' its role, and its significance within Islamic beliefs. Learn about the character who is known as the gardener or keeper of Paradise.
Adab
Medieval anecdotal form of prose designed to be both edifying and entertaining
Ahl al-Bayt
Members of the Prophet Muhammad’s family and descendants, who hold a revered status in both Sunni and Shii Islam.
Al-ʿAẓbāʾ
Explore the historical and cultural significance of Al-ʿAẓbāʾ, one of the Prophet Muhammad's favorite camels. Understand its role in Islamic tradition and its etymological roots.
AL-ʿAZ̤ĪM (العظيم‎)
Explore the name AL-ʿAZ̤ĪM (العظيم‎), one of the ninety-nine names of God in Islam, understanding its meaning, significance, and usage in daily Islamic prayers and practices.
Ayb
An Arabic term meaning disgrace, defect, or shame associated with dishonorable behavior.
Bay'ah
The oath of allegiance to a leader in Islamic tradition.
BURQAʿ (برقع‎)
An in-depth exploration of the term 'BURQAʿ (برقع‎),' its etymology, cultural relevance, and different perspectives within the Islamic context.
Circumcision in Islam
Circumcision as a rite of passage in Islamic traditions, conveying status change for males and its religious significance.
Dance
Understanding the Role of Dance in Islamic Civilization
Dogs in Islamic Tradition
An exploration of the religious and cultural perspectives on dogs within Islam, considering their legal status and mentions in sacred texts.
Faqīh (فقيه‎)
Understand the role and significance of a Faqīh, a Muḥammadan lawyer or theologian, within the Islamic legal and theological framework.
Farsakh (فرسخ‎)
Explore the term 'Farsakh,' its historical context, and its importance in Islamic legal and cultural dimensions. Understand how this land measurement was used and its modern relevance.
Farsi Language
Farsi is an Indo-European language, also known as New Persian, that replaced Pahlavi following the Islamic conquest of the Persian Sasanian 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.
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.
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.
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.
Handkerchiefs
Explore the cultural and theological perspectives on the use of handkerchiefs in Islamic tradition, including scholars' opinions and legal rulings.
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.
Hijab: The Islamic Practice of Modesty and Identity
A detailed exploration of the Hijab, its etymology, historical context, cultural significance, and contemporary debates.
Isfahan
A prominent province and its capital city in Iran, rich in historical and cultural significance.
Islam in Morocco
An examination of the presence and evolution of Islam in Morocco, including historical, cultural, and political perspectives.
IʿLĀN (اعلان‎)
Explore the concept of IʿLĀN, its historical and cultural significance in Islam, along with the prophetic traditions endorsing this practice during marriage announcements.
Jahannam (جهنم)
Explore the concept of 'Jahannam,' its meaning, etymology, and significance in the Islamic belief system. Understand the different levels and depictions of Jahannam according to Islamic teachings.
Jahiz, Abu Uthman Amr ibn Bahr ibn Mahbub al-
A master of Arabic literature renowned for his prose and role in shaping classical Arabic and Persian literary traditions.
Jawzi, Bandali al-
Palestinian intellectual and author known for his Marxist interpretation of Islamic thought.
Jilbab
A women's outer garment used in Arabian sedentary communities before and after the rise of Islam.
Kachkūl in Islamic Culture
Explore the meaning and cultural significance of 'Kachkūl,' the begging bowl of religious mendicants in Islamic tradition. Learn about its etymology, historical context, and role within Sufi practices.
Khatt (خط‎)
Explore the concept of 'Khatt' (خط‎) in Islam, encompassing its linguistic, historical, and cultural significance. Understand its origins, uses, and development in Islamic civilization.
Kiswah
The ceremonial drape covering the Kaaba, embroidered with verses from the Quran.
Laqab (لقب‎)
Explore the concept of 'Laqab,' a significant element in Islamic culture for identifying individuals either by titles of honor or by nicknames. Understand the usage, historical background, and its implications in the social and cultural context of Muslim societies.
Locusts
Explore the significance of locusts (Arabic jarād, جراد‎) as lawful food in Islam. Learn about the permissibility of consuming locusts without the need for ritual slaughter (ẕabḥ) and its cultural and religious context.
Magic
Explore the term 'Magic' (Arabic: siḥr), its condemnation in Islamic scriptures, the types of magic, its significance in Islamic culture, and the divide between what is considered permissible and impermissible.
Maḥmal, Maḥmil (محمل‎)
Understand the historical and cultural significance of the Maḥmal, a ceremonial covered litter sent from Cairo and Damascus to Makkah during the Hajj pilgrimage. Explore its origins, use, and the views surrounding it.
Mahram
Definition and significance of Mahram in Islam
Majnūn
Explore the term 'Majnūn,' its implications, and usage in Islamic context. Understand the legal and social status of lunatics in Islamic law and culture.
Marabout
Definition and elaboration of the term 'Marabout,' referring to Sufi saints or leaders in North Africa.
Modern Legal Reform in Islamic Law
Overview of the evolution and impact of modern legal reforms in various Muslim-majority countries, detailing both indigenous developments and Western influences.
Mosque
Discover the meaning, history, and cultural significance of the mosque (masjid) in Islam. Learn about its etymological roots and its role in the spiritual and communal life of Muslims.
Mustaʾmin (مستأمن)
Explore the term 'Mustaʾmin,' its origin, and its usage within the context of Islamic jurisprudence. Understand what it signifies for foreigners seeking security and immunity in Muslim territories.
Nafs̤ (نفث‎) in Islamic Context
Learn about the term 'Nafs̤,' its implications in the Qur'anic verses and its significance in Islamic culture. Understand the spiritual and mystical aspects associated with it.
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.
Necklace (Qilādah قلادة‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Cultural Significance in Islam
Explore the concept of 'Necklace' (Qilādah قلادة‎) in Islamic culture. Learn about the religious rulings on wearing necklaces for men and how this practice varies among Muslims, particularly in India.
Pickthall, Muhammad Marmaduke
British translator of the Quran into English and influential figure in early 20th-century Islamic thought.
Rings - Definition, Significance, and Usage in Islam
Learn about the term 'K͟hātim (خاتم‎),' its implications, and usage in Islamic context. Understand the rules surrounding the wearing of rings for men and women in Islam, and the cultural practices associated with them.
Salaam(u) Alaykum(u)
A customary greeting among Muslims meaning 'Peace be upon you.'
Shah
Title commonly used by the dynastic rulers of Iran and the Turko-Persian cultural area, connoting sacred kingship.
Shiraz
Capital of the province of Fars in south-central Iran known for its literary and historical significance.
Shrine (Qubbah)
A site considered a locus of spirituality in Islam, often dedicated to deceased descendants of Muhammad, saints, or associated with natural phenomena, which offers spiritual blessings and attracts pilgrims.
Sirius - Ash-Shiʿrā: Significance in Islam
Explore the significance of Sirius, known as Ash-Shiʿrā in Arabic, within the Islamic context. Learn about its mention in the Qur'an, cultural relevance, and historical background.
T̤Ā HĀ (طه‎) - Understanding Surah Ṭā-Hā in the Qurʾān
Explore Surah Ṭā-Hā (طه‎) from the Qur'an, diving into its etymology, interpretations, and significance within Islamic teachings. Understand the various theories about the meaning of the letters Ṭā-Hā and their implications.
Taʿwīẓ (تعويذ‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Usage in Islam
Explore the term 'Taʿwīẓ,' its significance, and usage within the Islamic context. Understand the cultural and religious value of amulets and charms inscribed with Qur'anic verses and Hadiths, and how they are used in daily life.
Thaalibi, Abu Mansur Abd al-Malik ibn Muhammad al-
Renowned Arabic writer of the premodern era, known for his contributions to Arabic literature, grammar, and cultural history.
Turban
A headdress worn by men from northern Africa to western and southern Asia consisting of a cap around which a long cloth is wound.
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.
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.
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.
Zunnar (زنار‎) - Etymology, Cultural Significance, and Usage in Islam
Explore the term 'Zunnar,' its etymological origins, cultural significance in different regions, and its role within Sufi practices. Understand how the term integrates with the attire and practices of different religious communities.
Zurkhaneh
Traditional gymnasium in Iran dedicated to the development of physical strength and ethical values.
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.
Mukātib (مكاتب‎)
Explore the concept of 'Mukātib' in Islamic law, its etymology, cultural and theological implications, and significance in the historical context of slavery.
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.
Kalīsa, Kilīsa (كليسة‎)
Explore the term 'Kalīsa, Kilīsa,' its origins, and its usage in Islamic legal and cultural contexts. Understand how this term is applied to Christian and Jewish places of worship within the framework of Muhammadan law.
Jināzah
Learn about the term 'Jināzah,' its implications, and usage in Islamic context. Understand what actions and behaviours are associated with Jināzah, and how it impacts the rituals surrounding death in Islam.
Libās (لباس‎)
Explore the term 'Libās' (لباس‎), its etymology, significance, and relevance in Islamic culture and jurisprudence. Understand the diverse implications of clothing and attire in the daily lives of Muslims.
Qalam - The Pen of Fate in Islamic Tradition
Explore the concept of 'Qalam,' referred to as the 'Pen of Fate' in Islamic beliefs. Understand its etymology, theological significance, and place in Islamic culture, as well as recommended readings for further exploration.
Shahīd (شهيد‎)
Explore the concept of 'Shahīd,' its etymology, historical significance, and role in Islamic theology and culture. Understand what it means to be a martyr or witness in the context of Islam.
QĀF (قاف‎)
Learn about the term QĀF (قاف‎), its linguistic roots, significance in the Qur'an, and cultural implications. Explore how this letter and term are utilized in various Islamic contexts.
Zindīq (زنديق)
Learn about the term 'Zindīq,' its origins, implications, and usage in an Islamic context. Understand what the term signifies, its historical applications, and its importance in Islamic theology.
ĀK͟HIR-I-CHAHĀR-I-SHAMBAH - Definition, Etymology, and Observance in Islam
Explore the significance of ĀK͟HIR-I-CHAHĀR-I-SHAMBAH, its historical background, and its unique observance within certain Islamic traditions. Understand how this day is commemorated and its cultural significance.
DĀRU ʾS̤-S̤AWĀB (دار الثواب‎)
Explore the term 'DĀRU ʾS̤-S̤AWĀB,' its etymology, and its significance in Islamic theology. Understand the concept of 'the house of recompense' and its relation to Jannatu ʿAdn as described by commentator al-Baiẓāwī.
Parsī
Explore the term 'Parsī,' its historical background, significance, and cultural implications. Understand the relationship between Muslims and Parsis and delve into how they coexist.
Hadīyah (هدية‎)
Explore the concept of 'Hadīyah' in Islamic tradition, its etymology, and its significance as a present or offering made to people of consequence such as kings or rulers.
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.
ʿIlmu ʾl-K͟hat̤t̤ (علم الخط‎) - The Art of Arabic Calligraphy
Explore the history, etymology, and cultural significance of Arabic calligraphy, known as ʿIlmu ʾl-K͟hat̤t̤ (علم الخط‎), from its origins to its various forms and uses throughout Islamic history.
Ghaddar (غدار‎) in Islamic Culture
Explore the term 'Ghaddar,' a type of demon mentioned in Islamic folklore, especially known around the borders of al-Yaman. Understand its cultural background and implications within Islamic traditions.
The Art of Letter Writing in Islamic Culture
Explore the distinct features and cultural significance of letter writing among Muslims, including materials, etiquette, and formality.
ʿIMLĪQ (عمليق‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance in Islam
Explore the historical and religious significance of ʿIMLĪQ (عمليق‎), the grandson of Shem and progenitor of the ʿAmāliqah, early inhabitants of Makkah and al-Madīnah.
Dress
Explore the concept of dress in Islam, with an emphasis on the significance of modest and appropriate attire. Understand the guidelines as discussed in the Qur’an and Prophetic traditions, as well as cultural practices in different Islamic communities.
HĀJAR (هاجر‎) - Definition, History, and Significance in Islam
Delve into the life and legacy of Hajar (Hagar), a crucial figure in Islamic history, her role in the stories of the prophets, and her enduring influence in Islamic culture.
Manīḥah - Concept and Legal Implications in Islam
Explore the term 'Manīḥah,' its etymology, legal significance, and usage in Islamic context. Understand the rules and conditions surrounding the lending of a camel for its milk, hair, and young while ensuring its return.
Yaum
Explore the term 'Yaum' (day) in Islam, its etymology, plural forms, and the significance of each day of the week in the Islamic context. Understand how days are integral to Islamic daily life and rituals.
Honey (ʿAsal)
Explore the term 'Honey' or 'ʿAsal' in Arabic, its religious significance, especially in the Qurʾān, and its role in Islamic tradition. Understand how honey is considered a gift from God and its mention as a cure for humankind.
Miṣr (مصر‎)
Explore the term 'Miṣr' (مصر‎), its etymology, historical and cultural context, and its significance within Islamic history. Understand the role of Miṣr in the development of Islamic civilization.
Rajab (رجب)
Understand the significance of Rajab, the seventh month in the Islamic calendar. Explore its historical and spiritual importance for Muslims.
Ẕū al-Fiqār (ذو الفقار)
Explore the historical and symbolic importance of the sword Ẕū al-Fiqār, its etymological roots, and its significant role in Islamic tradition.
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.
I'thar (ايثار)
Discover the term 'I'thar', its meanings, and its profound implications in Islamic teachings and daily practices. Learn how this concept shapes human relationships by prioritizing others' well-being over one's own.
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.
Ajnabī
Understand the term 'Ajnabī,' its implications, and usage in Islamic context. Discover what it means to be Ajnabī and how the concept has evolved historically and culturally.
Bakshish
A gratuity given for services in Islamic cultures, distinct from a bribe, with roots in Persian, Turkish, Arabic, and South Asian languages.
Bishārah (بشارة‎)
Explore the term 'Bishārah,' its meaning, etymology, and importance within Islamic tradition. Understand its role in the Arabic language and Islamic culture.
BURIAL OF THE DEAD (جنازة‎ Jināzah or Janāzah) - Procedures and Significance in Islam
Explore the rituals, traditions, and significance of Jināzah (صلاة الجنازة) or Islamic funeral and burial rites. Understand the diversified customs in various Islamic regions and the sacred practices founded upon the example of Prophet Muhammad.
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.
Takiyah (تكية‎)
Understand the term 'Takiyah,' its historical context, and its multifaceted role in Islamic tradition. Discover how it has served as a place of repose, a religious house, and a hostel for pilgrims across various Muslim countries.

Dictionary of Islam

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