Islamic History

ʿUbūdīyah (عبودية‎)
Explore the concept of 'ʿUbūdīyah' in Islamic tradition. Understand its etymology, historical background, and implications in both religious worship and social contexts.
Aswad (الاسود‎) - Definition, Historical Significance, and Context in Islam
Delve into the historical figure Aswad al-Ansi, his claim to prophethood during the time of Muhammad, and his eventual downfall. Learn about his impact on early Islamic history.
Baḥīrā (بحيرا‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
An exploration of Baḥīrā, the Nestorian monk who, according to Islamic tradition, met the Prophet Muḥammad and recognized signs of his prophethood. This entry delves into the historical, theological, and scriptural context of Baḥīrā's encounter with Muḥammad.
Christianity and Christians in Early Islamic Context
An in-depth exploration of the presence and influence of Christianity among early Muslim communities, the representation and perceptions of Christians in the Qur'an and Hadith, and the historical interactions between Islamic and Christian traditions.
Goliath (جالوت‎)
Learn about Goliath (Jālūt in Arabic), the giant whom King David slew as mentioned in the Qur'an. Understand the significance of this figure in Islamic tradition and its cultural impact.
Granada
The last Muslim stronghold in western Europe and the last remnant of al-Andalus, renowned for its rich cultural and economic contributions, and most famously, the Alhambra Palace.
Ḥunain (حنين‎)
Understand the name 'Ḥunain', its historical context, significance in the early Islamic period, and its mention in the Qur'an. Explore details about the Battle of Ḥunain and angelic assistance.
Ḥuwayrith (حويرث‎) - Historical Context and Significance in Islamic Tradition
Explore the history and significance of the figure Ḥuwayrith (حويرث‎) in Islamic tradition. Understand his actions and their consequences during the early days of Islam and the events that led to his exclusion from the general amnesty.
Ḥuẕaifah (حذيفة‎) - Prominent Companion of the Prophet Muhammad
Learn about Ḥuẕaifah ibn al-Yamān, a distinguished companion of the Prophet Muhammad. Discover his role in early Islamic history, including his contributions to the recension of the Qur'an and his life's dedication to Islam.
ILĀHĪ (الهى‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Context in Islam
Explore the term 'ILĀHĪ,' its etymology, significance in the Islamic context, and historical usage during the era of Emperor Akbar. Learn about its divine connotations and historical role.
Imran
Imran, father of Moses and Aaron, is a significant figure in Islamic tradition and is believed to be the father of Mary’s mother, Hannah.
Jabalu Mūsa (جبل موسى‎)
Discover the historical and theological significance of Jabalu Mūsa (Mount of Moses) in Islamic tradition, its mentions in the Qur'an, and its cultural impact.
K͟HULT̤ĪN (خلطين‎)
Explore the meaning and context of K͟HULT̤ĪN (خلطين‎), a fermented infusion of dates and raisins. Understand its historical background, and its significance in Islamic jurisprudence and cultural practices.
Kiswah (كسوة)
Learn about the term 'Kiswah,' its historical and religious significance as the covering of the Kaʿbah in Makkah. Understand its evolution, construction, and ritual importance in Islamic culture.
Modern Muslim Slavery - Historical Review and Context
An examination of the practice of slavery within Muslim societies, focusing on historical accounts, regional variations, and the implications of Islamic teachings. This includes the treatment of slaves and the socio-political dynamics that influenced slavery.
Month
Explore the concept of 'Month' (shahr) in Islam, its linguistic origins, and the significance of each month in the Islamic lunar calendar. Understand the special features of sacred months and their roles in Islamic rituals and historical events.
Muslim Literature - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
Explore the rich history of Muslim literature, known in Arabic as 'ʿIlmu ʾl-Adab (علم الادب‎),' and its development from pre-Islamic poetry to its profound influence on global cultural and intellectual traditions.
Muʿāwiyah (معاوية)
Explore the life and historical significance of Muʿāwiyah, the sixth Caliph and the founder of the Umayyad dynasty. Understand his role in early Islamic history and the controversy surrounding his leadership.
Pure Arabs: Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
Understand the concept of 'Pure Arabs,' their ancestral lineage, and historical significance within Arab culture. Explore the genealogical details and the distinction between tribes descended from Joktan or Qaḥṭān.
Qainuqāʿ (قينقاع‎) - Historical Context and Significance
Explore the history of the Jewish tribe of Qainuqāʿ, their interactions with Prophet Muḥammad, and their ultimate exile from al-Madīnah. This entry delves into the historical events and significance of the tribe in early Islamic history.
Qāriʾ
Learn about the term 'Qāriʾ,' its implications, and usage in Islamic context. Understand the historical and contemporary significance of Qāriʾ and the renowned 'seven readers' in the history of Islam.
Quraish (قريش‎)
Explore the origins, significance, and historical context of the Quraish tribe in Islam. Understand their role in the life of the Prophet Muhammad and their prominence in Islamic traditions and the Qur'an.
Quraysh
Ancient and powerful Meccan tribe influential during the time of Prophet Muhammad
Salaf
Explore the term 'Salaf,' its etymological roots, meanings, and significance within the Islamic tradition, including both historical and financial contexts.
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.
The Practice of Slavery in Islamic Law and Tradition
Explore the historical allowance and regulation of slavery in Islamic jurisprudence, supported by hadith and classical texts. Understand the rules surrounding the trade and treatment of slaves in early Islamic societies.
Uhud, Battle of
The Battle of Uhud, fought in 625 CE, involved Meccan forces seeking revenge against the Muslims for their previous defeat at the Battle of Badr. The Prophet Muhammad was injured, and seventy of his followers and allies were killed, a loss that impacted the Muslim community's morale.
Wahhabi (وهابى)
Discover the origins, beliefs, and historical influence of the Wahhabi movement in Islam, spearheaded by Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, and its lasting effect on Islamic thought and practice.
Zarārīyah
Explore the Zarārīyah, a sect of Muslims founded by Zarārah, delving into their beliefs regarding the attributes of God and their historical significance.
Ẕū l-Qarnayn (ذو القرنين)
An in-depth look at the enigmatic figure of Ẕū l-Qarnayn as mentioned in the Qur'an. Explore various interpretations across Islamic scholarship, his historical background, and theological significance.
ʿUmar
Explore the importance of ʿUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭāb, the second Caliph in Islamic history, his contributions, and his impact on Islamic governance and legal systems.
ĀMINAH (آمنة‎)
Learn about ĀMINAH (آمنة‎), the mother of Prophet Muḥammad, her lineage, significance, and her place in Islamic history.
Ghifār - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Context
Explore the historical background of the Ghifār tribe, their significance in early Islamic history, and their relation to Abu Zarri al-Ghifārī.
Hūd - The Prophet and His Mission to the Tribe of ʿĀd
Explore the story of Prophet Hūd as mentioned in the Qur'an, his lineage, mission, and the reaction of the tribe of ʿĀd. Understand his significance and the lessons derived from his prophethood.
Ibn al-Zubayr, Urwah
Urwah ibn al-Zubayr: A Leading Authority in Hadith, Jurisprudence, and Islamic Historical Study
IBN MASʿŪD (ابن مسعود‎) - Companion of the Prophet Muhammad
Explore the life and contributions of ʿAbdullah ibn Masʿūd, a distinguished companion of Prophet Muhammad, and his significant role in early Islamic history.
Iqta
The Iqta system was a method of revenue collection and land assignment used during the Abbasid caliphate and subsequent Islamic states.
Jaʿfar (جعفر‎)
Explore the life and contributions of Jaʿfar ibn Abī Ṭālib, a cousin of Prophet Muḥammad and a notable companion known for his compassion and bravery.
Jubair (جبير) - Definition, Historical Context, and Significance in Islam
Explore the life and contributions of Jubair ibn Mut'im, a distinguished Companion of the Prophet Muhammad. Understand his role in Islamic tradition and his legacy in Islamic scholarship.
Kisrā - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Context in Islam
Discover the significance of 'Kisrā' in Islamic and Persian historical contexts. Understand its usage in the Qur'an and Islamic history, particularly during the Islamic Prophet Muhammad's era.
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.
Tulunids
The Tulunids were a dynasty that ruled Egypt from 868 to 905, founded by Ahmad ibn Tulun.
Yūsuf (يوسف‎)
Explore the story of Yūsuf (Joseph) in the Islamic tradition, its implications, and its influence in the Qur'anic narrative. Understand the lessons and moral teachings derived from the life of Prophet Yūsuf.
Al-Wāqidī (الواقدى‎) - Life, Contributions, and Legacy of a Celebrated Muslim Historian
Explore the life, works, and impact of Al-Wāqidī, a preeminent Muslim historian known for his substantial contributions to Islamic historiography. Learn about his legacy, major works, and influence on later scholarship.
AN-NAẒĪR (النضير‎) - Definition, Historical Significance, and Qur'anic Context
Explore the history and significance of the Jewish tribe of Banū ʾn-Naẓīr in Islamic history, their relations with Prophet Muhammad, and their mention in the Qur'an.
Bābu ʾn-Nisāʾ (باب النساء) - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
Discover the historical significance and etymological roots of Bābu ʾn-Nisāʾ, the 'Women’s Gate,' and its importance in the life of Prophet Muhammad and early Islamic architecture.
BĀʿŪS̤ (باعوث‎) in Islam and Christian Tradition
Explore the term 'BĀʿŪS̤,' its meanings and implications in both Islamic and Christian traditions. Understand its origins, significance in cultural practices, and its cross-religious connections.
Logic in Islam: Definition, Etymology, and Historical Development
A comprehensive examination of the Islamic science of logic (ʿIlmu ʾl-mant̤iq), its significance, historical development, and the contributions of early Muslim scholars to the field.
Maḥmūdīyah (محمودية‎) - Understanding the Shīʿah Sect
Explore the history, beliefs, and significance of the Maḥmūdīyah sect, founded by Mīr Sharīf and inspired by Maḥmūd of Busak͟hwān during the reign of Akbar in the Bengal region.
Māriyatu al-Qibṭīyah - Mary the Copt: A Historical and Cultural Perspective
Explore the life, significance, and legacy of Māriyatu al-Qibṭīyah (Mary the Copt), her role in early Islamic history, and her influence on subsequent Islamic culture and traditions.
Rāfiẓī
An exploration of the term 'Rāfiẓī,' its historical origin, usage within Islamic sects, and its implications in Muslim society.
Tamīm - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance in Islam
Explore the historical significance of Tamīm, an independent Arab tribe of Makkan origin. Learn about their contributions, cultural impact, and role in early Islamic history.
Yūshaʿ (يوشع‎) - Definition, Significance, and Historical Context in Islam
Explore the significance of Yūshaʿ (يوشع‎), known as Joshua in English, within the Islamic tradition. Understand his role in Islamic theology and history, and the narrative surrounding his life.
ʾAsharah Mubashsharah (عشرة مبشرة)
Discover the concept of ʾAsharah Mubashsharah, its etymology, and its importance in the Islamic tradition. Learn about the ten individuals who were granted the glad tidings of Paradise by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
ABŪ BAKR (ابو بكر‎)
Learn about ABŪ BAKR (ابو بكر‎), the first Caliph of Islam, including the origin of his name, his contributions, and the significance of his leadership in Islamic history.
Abū Lahab
Explore the life and significance of Abū Lahab, an uncle of the Prophet Muhammad and a staunch adversary to the emergence of Islam. Understand his role, actions, and how he is depicted in the Qur'an.
Abū Tālib (ابو طالب‎)
Delve into the life and role of Abū Tālib, the uncle and guardian of Prophet Muhammad, his contributions, and his position in Islamic history.
Aḥzāb (احزاب‎) - Definition, Origin, and Significance in Islam
Understand the concept of 'Aḥzāb' in Islamic tradition, its usage in the Qur'an, and the historical context surrounding the title of Surah Al-Aḥzāb.
Al-Anṣār (الانصار) - The Helpers of Early Islam
Explore the term 'Al-Anṣār,' its historical significance, and its role in the formation of the early Muslim community. Understand the distinction between Al-Anṣār and Al-Muhājirūn and their contributions to the establishment of Islam in Al-Madīnah.
Al-Fustat
Al-Fustat, also known as Old Cairo, was the first capital established by the conquering Arab armies in Egypt. Built in 643 CE, it eventually evolved into a vibrant commercial, economic, and cultural center.
Al-Masudi
Abu al-Hasan Ali ibn al-Husayn al-Masudi, an Arab historian and geographer, known as the 'Herodotus of the Arabs' for his extensive historical accounts.
Al-Qaṣwāʾ (القصواء‎) - Definition, Historical Significance, and Etymology
Learn about Al-Qaṣwāʾ, the famed she-camel of the Prophet Muhammad, its historical significance during the Hijrah, and its etymological roots. Understand the role and symbolism of Al-Qaṣwāʾ in Islamic tradition.
Arabia: An Overview of Bilādu ʾl-ʿArab (بلاد العرب‎)
A comprehensive examination of the historical, geographical, and cultural background of Arabia, with insights into its various names, ancient tribes, and significant legends according to Islamic sources.
Ark, Noah's (فلك نوح‎)
Explore the concept and significance of Noah's Ark (فلك نوح‎) in Islamic teachings. Analyze its mention in the Qurʾān, understand associated interpretations, and delve into the cultural and historical relevance of this narrative.
Aṣ-Ṣakhrah (الصخرة)
Explore the sacred rock known as Aṣ-Ṣakhrah, its historical, religious, and architectural significance in Islamic tradition, and its role in the spirituality of Muslim, Christian, and Jewish communities.
Banū Isrāʾīl (بنو اسرآئيل‎) - Historical and Qur'anic Significance
Explore the term 'Banū Isrāʾīl' (بنو اسرآئيل‎), its historical context, and significance in the Qur'an. Learn about its etymology, related Quranic chapters, and implications for Muslim understanding.
Battle of the Ditch
Learn about the Battle of the Ditch (Ghazwatu al-Khandaq), its historical context, implications, and its significance in Islamic history and texts.
Biographers of Muḥammad: Key Figures and Works
Explore the pivotal biographers of the Prophet Muḥammad, their contributions, and notable works in Islamic history. Understand the evolution of Prophet Muḥammad's biography through early Islamic scholars to modern-day authors.
Boots (Shoes) - Cultural and Religious Significance in Islam
Explore the cultural, religious, and practical significance of boots and shoes in Islam. Understand their role in daily Muslim life, historical context, and relevant religious guidance.
Buwayhid Dynasty
A dynasty of mercenary soldiers from the Caspian province of Daylam that controlled western Iran and Iraq from the mid-tenth to the mid-eleventh century, dominating the Abbasid Caliphate until the arrival of the Seljuks.
Caliph - Successor of Acknowledged Kindred
Explore the concept of Caliph in Islam, its etymology, historic significance, and role as the successor of acknowledged kindred. Understand the implications of the Caliphate on Islamic governance and its impact on Muslim communities.
Chosroes - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
An exploration of 'Chosroes', known in Arabic as 'K͟husraw', the Persian King to whom Prophet Muhammad sent a letter inviting him to Islam. Discover the historical context and significance of this interaction.
Commander of the Faithful
Learn about the title 'Commander of the Faithful,' its historical implications, and usage in an Islamic context. Understand how this title has been adopted by various rulers throughout Islamic history.
Furāt (فــرات‎)
Explore the significance of the Euphrates River in Islamic tradition. Understand its etymology, religious importance, and historical context.
Ghulūl (غلول‎)
Explore the term 'Ghulūl,' its implications in Islamic context, and its moral and ethical consequences. Understand the Quranic perspective on fraud and the prohibition of purloining war plunder.
ḤAMRĀU ʾL-ĀSĀD (حمرا الاساد‎) - Definition, Historical Context, and Significance in Early Islam
Learn about ḤAMRĀU ʾL-ĀSĀD (حمرا الاساد‎), its historical significance, and its role in one of the expeditions led by Prophet Muḥammad against the Quraish. Understand the strategic measures and key events that occurred at this location.
Hypocrites
Explore the term 'Hypocrites' (Arabic: Munāfiqūn; منافقون‎) as used in Islamic context. Understand its historical significance during the Prophet Muhammad's life in Medina and its implications in Islamic teachings.
Ibrāhīm (ابراهيم‎) - Significance in Islamic History
Explore the life and significance of Ibrāhīm, the infant son of Prophet Muḥammad and Mary the Copt. Learn about his short life, historical context, and theological implications.
Jaifar (جيفر‎) - King of Oman and His Role in the Spread of Islam
Explore the historical figure Jaifar, King of Oman, and his eventual conversion to Islam prompted by the Prophet Muhammad. Understand the significance of this conversion in the context of early Islamic expansion.
Jaʿlu ʾl-Jauf - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance in Islam
Discover the term 'Jaʿlu ʾl-Jauf,' its historical and geographical significance near Tabūk. As an alternative name for Dūmatu ʾl-Jandal, explore its role and context within Islamic history.
Juwayriyah (جويرية) - Historical Significance and Legacy in Islam
Explore the life and significance of Juwayriyah, one of Prophet Muhammad's wives. Understand her background, her role in early Islamic society, and her lasting impact.
Khairu ʾl-Qurūn (خير القرون‎) - Definition and Significance in Islam
Learn about the term 'Khairu ʾl-Qurūn,' its etymology, implications, and significance in Islamic teachings. Understand the importance of the first three generations of Muslims according to the Prophet Muhammad.
Khamenei, Sayyid Ali
Prominent Iranian religious leader and politician, Supreme Leader of Iran since 1989.
Khilʿah (خِلْعَة) in Islamic Culture
Discover the meaning and cultural significance of 'Khilʿah' (خِلْعَة), a dress of honor presented by a ruler as a mark of distinction in Islamic tradition. Learn about its components and historical usage.
Malik Shah ibn Alp Arslan
Great Seljuk Sultan who reigned during the dynasty's peak power from 1072/73–92, fostering assimilation into Persian/Arabic Muslim culture
Nāqūs (ناقوس‎)
Explore the term 'Nāqūs,' its historical, cultural significance, and its usage in Islamic and Christian contexts. Learn about its relation to the Islamic call to prayer and its current use in Christian monasteries.
Nebuchadnezzar (Bukht Nassar) in Islamic Context
Explore the figure Nebuchadnezzar, known in Islamic literature as Bukht Nassar. Learn about his historical background, significance in Islamic tradition, and related Qur'anic references.
Qusayy
Qusayy, an ancestor of the Prophet Muhammad, responsible for taking possession of the Kaaba and becoming the ruler of Mecca.
Ṣafūrāʾ (صفوراء)
Discover the Islamic understanding of Ṣafūrāʾ (صفوراء), known as Zipporah in the Bible, the wife of Moses (Mūsā), and the daughter of Shuʿaib. Learn about her role and significance in Islamic texts.
Ṣafwān Ibn Umaiyah (صفوان بن أمية‎) - Life and Legacy
Explore the life, significance, and historical impact of Ṣafwān Ibn Umaiyah, a notable Ṣaḥābī from Makkah, his connection with the K͟halīfah ʿUs̤mān, and his ultimate sacrifice.
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).
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.
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.
Shu'ubiyyah Movement
A literary movement in Abbasid times that highlighted non-Arab linguistic traditions, particularly Persian, as a reaction against Arab cultural dominance.
Tabaʿu ʾt-Tābiʿīn
Explore the term 'Tabaʿu ʾt-Tābiʿīn,' its etymology, and its importance in Islamic tradition. Learn about their role, how they are regarded, and their impact on Islamic jurisprudence and historical narratives.
Tābiʿūn (تابعون‎)
Explore the term 'Tābiʿūn,' its historical context, and its significance in Islamic tradition. Understand the role of the Tābiʿūn in the transmission of Hadith and their contribution to the Sunnah.
TAHẔĪB (تهذيب‎)
Explore the term 'TAHẔĪB,' its meanings, historical significance, and usage among Shīʿahs in Islamic traditions. Dive into the contributions of Shaik͟h Abū Jaʿfar Muḥammad and the role of this book in Shīʿah Islamic literature.

Dictionary of Islam

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