Islamic History

NUʿMĀN (نعمان‎) - Definition, Historical Significance, and Cultural Impact
Explore the historical significance of the name Nuʿmān (نعمان‎), its association with the rulers of Ḥirāʾ, and the renowned Imām Abū Ḥanīfah. Understand its cultural and literary influence in pre-Islamic Arabia.
Ommiades - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
Discover the history and significance of the Ommiades (Banū Umaiyah) dynasty in Islamic history, their notable leaders, and the impact they had on the Islamic world. Learn about their rule from A.H. 41 (A.D. 661) to A.H. 132 (A.D. 750), key figures, and eventual downfall.
Pact of Umar
Historical treaty attributed to the second caliph, Umar ibn Khattab, that regulates the activities of non-Muslims under Islamic rule.
Padri Movement
Sumatran revivalist movement (1803–37) associated with religious reform, commercialization of the coffee industry, and resistance to Dutch imperialism.
Plunder (Ghanīmah) in Islam: Definition, Etymology, and Legal Context
Explore the concept of plunder (Ghanīmah) in Islam, its definitions, legal implications, and historical context. Understand how spoils of war are treated under Islamic law and their distribution among the Muslim community.
Qadisiyyah, Battle of
A pivotal 637 CE battle between Arabs and Persians marking the collapse of the Sasanian empire and opening Persia to Arab-Muslim conquest.
Qahtani, Muhammad al-
Self-declared Mahdi and central figure in the 1979 seizure of the Grand Mosque in Mecca.
Qubbat al-Sakhra (Dome of the Rock)
Muslim shrine erected circa 692 in the Haram al-Sharif, Jerusalem, situated on the site of the rock where, according to Muslim tradition, the Prophet Muhammad ascended during his Mi'raj.
Rabiah al-Adawiyah
A seminal female mystic who introduced the doctrine of selfless love into Sufism.
Rashti, Sayyid Kazim
A leading Shii Shaykhi figure, succeeding Shaykh Ahmad Ahsai, involved in early Sufism and Shii gnostic debates.
Rawafid
Derogatory term historically used by Sunnis to describe Shiis who reject the early caliphs.
Rayhana bint Zayd ibn Amr
Rayhana bint Zayd ibn Amr (d. 632): Wife of the Prophet Muhammad. Originally from the Jewish al-Nadir tribe, captured with the Banu Qurayza. Freed and married by the Prophet, with some historical ambiguity regarding her status.
Ribat
A fort or stronghold founded by Muslims in non-Muslim areas, often evolving into centers of Sufi teaching and spiritual devotion.
Ribāt̤ (رباط‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance in Islam
Explore the concept of 'Ribāt̤,' its historical significance, and its role in Islamic military and spiritual contexts. Understand the origins and functions of ribāṭ as a fortress and spiritual retreat for Muslim warriors.
Rightly Guided Caliphs
The first four successors of Prophet Muhammad who played pivotal roles in early Islamic governance and expansion.
Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas
Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas: Early convert to Islam, prominent Companion of Prophet Muhammad, and key military leader in early Islamic history.
Sabbah, Hasan-i
Eleventh-century founder of a branch of Ismaili Shi'is known as the Nizaris or Assassins.
Saffah, Abu al-Abbas al-
First Abbasid caliph known for initiating the Abbasid Caliphate and brutally suppressing opponents
Ṣaḥābī
Learn about the term 'Ṣaḥābī,' its implications, and usage in Islamic context. Understand who are considered Ṣaḥābī and their importance in Islamic history.
Saiḥūn (سيحون‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
An in-depth look into the term 'Saiḥūn,' its historical context, and significance in Islamic tradition. Understand the river's inclusion in both religious and cultural narratives.
Salah al-Din
Commander of Muslim forces during the third phase of the Crusades and founder of the Ayyubid dynasty.
Salman the Persian
Salman the Persian: Iranian Companion of the Prophet Muhammad, renowned for his contributions to Islamic history and legend.
Samarra
Ancient town on the east bank of the Tigris River in Iraq, notable for being the capital of the Abbasid Empire between 836 and 892, and renowned for its architectural and artistic heritage.
Sarah
Wife of Abraham and mother of Isaac; notable figure in Islamic tradition known for her piety and faithfulness.
Satanic Verses
Refers to an incident in Islamic tradition involving the interjection of words by Satan during the revelation of a particular Qur'anic verse.
Saud, Faisal ibn Abd al-Aziz
King Faisal of Saudi Arabia, noted for transforming the nation into an oil power and promoting Islamic values.
Saul
Saul, known as Talut in Arabic, is depicted in Islamic tradition as the king anointed by prophet Samuel who led the Israelites to victory.
Sawda bint Zama
Second wife of the Prophet Muhammad and an early Muslim who emigrated to Abyssinia
Sayf al-Dawlah, Abu al-Hasan Ali
Hamdanid ruler of Aleppo, known for his patronage of scholars and resilience against Byzantine aggressions.
Sayf al-Din al-Amidi
Influential Shafi'i jurist who integrated theology with jurisprudential methods
Seljuk Dynasty
A Turkic family of Central Asian origin that ruled much of the eastern Islamic world from 1038 to 1194
Shadow of God
A concept of divine right kingship popularized by Muslim rulers claiming to be vicegerents of God on earth.
Shah
Title commonly used by the dynastic rulers of Iran and the Turko-Persian cultural area, connoting sacred kingship.
Shah Abbas I
Major ruler of the Safavid dynasty in Iran, renowned for his military, administrative, and cultural achievements.
Shahid, Shah Ismail
Prominent scholar-activist of Muslim South Asia (d. 1831). Follower of Sayyid Ahmad Barelwi and pivotal figure in reforming Sufism through the 'Way of Muhammad'.
Shajar al-Durr
Concubine, queen, and ruler of Egypt during the Ayyubid and early Mamluk Sultanate periods
Shamil, Imam
Muslim leader and key figure in resistance to Russian conquest of the Caucasus in the nineteenth century.
Shirazi, Sayyid Ali Muhammad (The Bab)
Messianic religious leader known as the Bab who founded a separate religious movement, Babism, diverging from Islam
Sinai
Discover the significance of Mount Sinai in Islamic tradition, its mentions in the Quran, and its role in the stories of Prophet Moses (Musa).
Sinan, Rashid al-Din
Medieval Nizari Ismaili missionary and state leader, influential in regional politics and known in European lore
Siyar
A term encompassing the biography of exemplary figures and conduct of state in Islamic law
Spoils, The. Arabic al-Anfāl (الأنفال)
Discover the meaning of 'Spoils,' known in Arabic as 'al-Anfāl,' and its significance in the context of Islam. Understand the instructions regarding the division of war spoils as given in the 8th Sūrah of the Qur'an, revealed during the Battle of Badr.
Successors (Tābi‘ūn)
Refers to those Muslims of the second generation who came after the generation of personal Companions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
Suhail ibn ʿAmr (سهيل بن عمرو‎) - Life and Contribution
Discover the life and legacy of Suhail ibn ʿAmr, a noble of Quraish, his role in Badr, and his eventual embrace of Islam. Learn about his prominence in early Islamic history and his noteworthy contributions.
Suhrawardi Tariqah
The Suhrawardi Tariqah is an orthodox Sufi order founded by Shihab al-Din Umar Suhrawardi in twelfth-century Baghdad.
Sult̤ān (سلطان‎)
Explore the term 'Sult̤ān,' its etymology, Qur'anic references, and contemporary usage. Understand the historical and religious implications of the title within Islamic culture.
Sultanate
An Islamic political office possessing real political power, created by the Seljuks
Taghlib (تغلب‎) - Historical Overview, Etymology, and Significance
Learn about the Taghlib tribe, their historical significance, and their interaction with the early spread of Islam. Explore the cultural and religious dynamics between the Taghlib Christians and Prophet Muhammad.
Talhah (طلحة‎) - A Distinguished Companion of Prophet Muhammad
An in-depth look at Talhah (طلحة‎), son of ʿUbaidu ʾllāh, one of the eminent Companions of Prophet Muhammad. This entry covers his life, achievements, and his role in Islamic history.
Talhah ibn Ubayd Allah al-Taymi
Early convert to Islam and one of the ten eminent Companions of Prophet Muhammad to whom he promised paradise.
T̤ĀLŪT (طالوت‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Role in Islamic Tradition
Explore the figure of T̤ĀLŪT (Saul) in Islamic tradition, his role in the Qur'an, and his significance in Islamic and biblical narratives. Understand his leadership and relevance in religious history.
The Battle of Chaldiran
A pivotal battle in 1514 between the Ottoman Empire and the Persian Safavid Dynasty that resulted in significant territorial and political changes.
The Position of Women in Islam
Examine the role and status of women in Islamic societies, addressing historical contexts, critiques, and the evolution of women's rights. Understand misconceptions and reforms initiated by Prophet Muhammad.
Trench, Battle of the
A significant battle fought in 627 CE during which the Muslims defended their community in Medina from an attacking Meccan army by digging a trench.
Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz
Umar ibn Abd al-Aziz (r. 717–720), also known as Umar II, was an Umayyad caliph recognized for implementing judicial and taxation reforms that emphasized equality among Muslims.
Umar Tal
Islamic militant leader and intellectual in 19th-century West Africa, significant for his role in the Islamization of the region.
Umayyad Caliphate
The Umayyad Caliphate was a dynastic empire that ruled the Islamic Caliphate from 661 to 750, establishing Damascus as its capital and expanding Islamic rule across a vast territory.
Urabi, Ahmad
An Egyptian colonel and national hero who played a significant role in the struggle for independence from Britain
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.
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.
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.
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.
Wives of the Prophet
An overview of the wives of the Prophet Muhammad, designated as 'Mothers of the Faithful' in Islam
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.
Zand Dynasty
A brief historical overview and significance of the Zand Dynasty in Iran.
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.
Zuhri, Muhammad ibn Muslim ibn Shihab
Zuhri, Muhammad ibn Muslim ibn Shihab (d. 742) was a preeminent Arab historian and hadith scholar in Medina, notable for transmitting material about the Prophet Muhammad and his Companions, frequently appearing in the isnads of various classical Islamic works.
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.
ʿAmr Ibn Al-ʿĀṣī - Military Leader and Early Companion of Prophet Muhammad
Explore the life of ʿAmr Ibn Al-ʿĀṣī, a celebrated companion of Prophet Muhammad known for his military conquests in Syria, Palestine, and Egypt. Learn about his role in early Islamic history and his contribution to the expansion of the Muslim empire.
ʿArabu ʾl-Mustaʿribah: The Mixed Arabs and Their Genealogy
Explore the lineage and significance of the ʿArabu ʾl-Mustaʿribah, the mixed Arabs who claim descent from Ishmael and the daughter of al-Muẓāẓ, King of al-Ḥijāz. Understand their historical and religious importance in the Islamic tradition.
ʿIKRIMAH (عكرمة‎) - Biography, Etymology, and Role in Early Islam
Discover the life and contributions of ʿIKRIMAH, a notable figure in early Islam. Learn about his early opposition to Islam, his eventual conversion, and his role in spreading the faith.
ʿŪJ (عوج‎) in Islamic Context
Explore the origins, historical background, and cultural significance of the giant ʿŪJ (عوج‎) in Islamic tradition. Learn about his legendary life span, connections to biblical and Rabbinic traditions, and how he fits into Islamic narratives.
ʿUmar - Definition, Etymology, and Legacy in Islam
Explore the legacy of ʿUmar ibn al-Khattāb, the second Caliph of Islam. Understand his contributions to the expansion of Islam, the organization of the Islamic state, and his personal characteristics that made him a revered figure.
Mahmud II
Ottoman sultan and reformer known for his Western-inspired reforms and modernization efforts during a period of internal and external threats.
Mamlūk (مملوك‎)
Explore the term 'Mamlūk,' its historical and etymological roots, significance in Islamic context, and its pivotal role in the Mamluk Sultanate's history.
Kurz ibn Jābir (كرز بن جابر‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
Explore the life of Kurz ibn Jābir (كرز بن جابر‎), a Quraish chieftain who transitioned from an antagonist to a devoted Muslim. Understand his historical actions and their impact on early Islamic history.
Biʾr Maʿūnah - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance in Islam
Learn about Biʾr Maʿūnah, a significant historical site in early Islamic history. Understand the events surrounding the martyrdom of Prophet Muḥammad's followers and the subsequent divine message.
Jabr (جبر‎) - Historical Context, Accusations, and Significance in Early Islamic Narratives
Explore the term 'Jabr (جبر‎)' in Islamic historical context. Learn about the accusations against the Prophet Muhammad regarding Jabr and their implications within early Islamic narratives.
Banu al-Nadir
Banu al-Nadir, a Jewish tribe in Medina known for their economic contributions and subsequent expulsion following the Battle of Uhud.
Abū Dāʾūd (ابو داود): Compiler of the Sunan Abī Dāʾūd
Discover the life and contributions of Abū Dāʾūd, the notable Islamic scholar who compiled the Sunan Abī Dāʾūd, one of the six authentic books of Sunni traditions.
Pharaoh (Firʿaun)
Explore the term 'Pharaoh' (Firʿaun), its historical and theological significance in Islam, including its depiction in the Qur'an and Islamic tradition.
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.
Hijrah (هجرة‎)
Explore the term 'Hijrah,' its historical significance, and its meaning in various Islamic contexts. Learn about the migration of Prophet Muhammad, the Muslim era, and how Hijrah marks an important transition in Islamic history.
Ibn Jamaah, Badr al-Din Abu Abd Allah Muhammad
Key historical Shafi'i jurist of Mamluk Egypt, Chief Justice, and author of significant works in Shafi'i jurisprudence and political theory
Khuzāʿah (خزاعة‎)
Explore the origins, historical significance, and contributions of the Khuzāʿah tribe in early Islamic history. Learn about their alliance with the Prophet Muhammad, their role in key events, and their cultural impact.
Safura (Zipporah)
Explore the significance of Safura, also known as Zipporah, in Islamic tradition. Understand her role in history, her connection to Prophet Shuaib, and her impact on Islamic culture and theology.

Dictionary of Islam

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