Islamic Studies

Al-Baldah
Explore the term 'Al-Baldah,' its etymology, and its significance in Islamic context, particularly as a name for Makkah, as mentioned in Hadith.
Ad-Dahr (الدهر‎)
Explore the term 'Ad-Dahr,' its significance, and how it is used within the Islamic context. Understand the importance of the LXXVIth chapter of the Qur'an, also known as Suratu 'l-Insan, and its implications for understanding the human condition in Islam.
Al-Fajr (الفجر‎)
Explore the term 'Al-Fajr,' its etymological roots, and significance in Islamic tradition. Understand the importance of this time of day and its spiritual connotations in the context of the Qurʾān.
Al-Falaq (الفلق)
Explore the term 'Al-Falaq,' its linguistic roots, and theological implications. Understand the significance of Surah Al-Falaq in the Qur'an, its themes, and its impact on Islamic spirituality and daily life.
Al-Karīm (الكريم‎)
Explore the meaning and significance of 'Al-Karīm,' one of the ninety-nine attributes of God in Islam. Understand the concept of divine generosity and its impact on Muslim theology and everyday life.
Al-Mursalāt (المرسلات‎)
Explore the significance of Surah Al-Mursalāt in the Qur'an, its etymological roots, and its theological implications in Islam.
Al-Muzzammil (المزمل)
Explore the term 'Al-Muzzammil,' the 74th Surah of the Quran, its implications, and historical context. Understand the significance of the title and its message in Islamic teachings.
Amina Wadud
Muslim academic and activist known for her work on gender equality in Islam.
An-Najm (النجم‎)
Learn about the term 'An-Najm,' its implications, and usage in an Islamic context. Understand the significance of the LIIIrd Sūrah of the Qurʾān, which begins with the words, 'By the star when it falls.'
As̤ar (أثر)
Explore the term 'As̤ar' (أثر), its definition, historical context, and significance within Islamic traditions, particularly in Hadith literature.
AT-T̤ĀRIQ (الطارق‎)
Explore the term 'At-T̤āriq,' its meaning, Qur'anic context, and significance in Islamic tradition. Understand the diverse interpretations and implications of this title in the religious and cultural landscape of Islam.
Ayatollah Sayyid Shihab al-Din Marashi-Najafi
An influential Iranian cleric known for his scholarship, social and educational activities, and his support for the Iranian Revolution.
Commercial Law
An overview of commercial law in Islamic legal tradition and its comparison with Western legal systems
Farahi, Hamiduddin
Indian Qur'an exegete who emphasized nazm (thematic and structural coherence) as the most significant organizing principle of the Qur'an.
Hadith
Detailed examination of Hadith, its significance, collections, and the science of hadith criticism in Islam.
Ḥadīth in Islam: Definition, Etymology, and Classification
Explore the concept of Ḥadīth in Islam, its classification, significance, and method of transmission. Understand the different types of Ḥadīth and their implications in Islamic scholarship and jurisprudence.
Hasan al-Basri
Major religious figure of the Umayyad period known for his influential theological writings, asceticism, and sermons
Ilmu al-Adab (Islamic Grammar) - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the concept of 'Ilmu al-Adab,' its significance in Islamic scholarship, its structure, and its impact on Arabic linguistics and literary studies. Learn about key texts and scholars in this field.
Ilmu'l-Uṣūl - The Interpretation of the Qurʾān
Explore the complex science of interpreting the Qurʾān, known as Ilmu'l-Uṣūl. Understand the classifications, principles, and authoritative texts that guide this essential Islamic discipline.
Ismail Raji al-Faruqi
Palestinian Islamic scholar, writer, and activist known for his work on Islam and its relationship to modern life and culture.
Isnad (Chain of Authority)
A detailed explanation of Isnad, its significance in Islamic theology and hadith studies, and its variations among Islamic sects and mystic traditions.
Istibṣār in Shīʿah Islam
Explore the term 'Istibṣār,' its origins, and its importance in Shīʿah Islam. Understand the compilation and role of traditions in shaping Shīʿah thought and practices.
Khassah
Term referring to passages from the Quran believed to apply to specific persons, times, places, or circumstances.
King Faisal Foundation
Saudi Arabian philanthropic organization established in 1976, promoting Islamic education, healthcare, and global solidarity.
KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL (كتاب الأعمال‎)
Understand the term 'KITĀBU ʾL-AʿMĀL (كتاب الأعمال‎),' its significance, and usage in Islamic context. Explore the historical, theological, and cultural dimensions of this concept in Islam.
La'nah (لعنة‎)
Explore the term 'La'nah,' its implications, and usage within an Islamic context. Understand the gravity of imprecation and how it reflects in Islamic teachings and the Qur'ān.
Matn
The content or text of a hadith report in Islamic tradition.
Maurice Bucaille
Maurice Bucaille - French surgeon, historian, spiritualist, and author of 'The Bible, the Quran, and Science' who claimed that all scientific facts were anticipated in the Quran.
Muslim ibn al-Hajjaj
Scholar and author of one of the six canonical hadith collections in Islam.
Mutawatir Hadith
Highest classification of a tradition in hadith criticism characterized by an established series of reliable transmitters in every generation.
Nahw
An essential branch of Arabic grammar focusing on syntax and structure within the language.
Qalam
Explore the term 'Qalam,' its etymological roots, and its profound significance in Islamic thought. Learn about its representation in the Qur'an and its theological implications.
Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim (صحيح مسلم)
Learn about Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, its compilation, and its importance among the Kutuub as-Sittah in Islamic tradition. Explore the work of Abū ʾl-Ḥusain Muslim ibn al-Ḥajjāj and its enduring significance.
Sayyid Sulayman Nadwi
A leading religious scholar of twentieth-century South Asia, known for his contributions to Islamic studies, history, and historiography.
Shaykh
A pre-Islamic honorific title for leaders, elders, and notable men in Islamic societies, encompassing various religious, scholarly, and societal roles.
Shuʿaib (شعيب)
Explore the figure of Shuʿaib (شعيب‎) in Islamic tradition, his role as a prophet in the Qur'an, and his significance in Islamic culture and theology.
Umdah
Multipurpose term referring to a village chief or magistrate, veteran master in a guild, and basic argument in a debate
Ummu ʾl-Kitāb (ام الكتاب‎)
Explore the term 'Ummu ʾl-Kitāb,' its varied applications within Islamic texts, its significance in different Qur'anic contexts, and its profound implications in Islamic theology.
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.
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.
ṢĀD (صاد‎)
Explore the significance of ṢĀD (صاد‎), the fourteenth letter of the Arabic alphabet, its usage in the Qur'an, and its etymological background.
SABAʿU ʾL-MAS̤ĀNI (سبع المثانى‎)
Explore the term 'SABAʿU ʾL-MAS̤ĀNI,' its etymology, significance, and reasons for its designation within the Islamic tradition.
UṢŪL (اصول‎): Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Explore the concept of Uṣūl (اصول‎), its components, and its importance in Islamic studies. Understand how these foundational elements underpin Islamic jurisprudence and theology.
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.
AL-ANʿĀM (الانعام‎)
Explore Sūrah Al-Anʿām, its significance, themes, and context within the Qur'an. Understand the historical and cultural backdrop to its revelation and the specific mention of customs related to cattle.
Ghishawah (غشاوة)
Explore the term 'Ghishawah' (غشاوة), its etymology, and profound implications in the Islamic context. Understand its usage in the Qur'an and how it symbolizes spiritual impediments.
Madrasah
Explore the concept of 'Madrasah,' its historical roots, and its importance in the Islamic educational system. Understand the different functions and types of madrasahs in the Islamic world.
Baitu ʾl-Midras
Explore the term 'Baitu ʾl-Midras,' its historical context, and its significance in Islamic and Jewish tradition.
Commentaries: Tafsir in Qur'anic Studies
Introduction to commentaries (Tafsir) of the Qur'an, their significance, methodologies, and leading works. Learn about classical and contemporary scholars who have contributed to Qur'anic exegesis.
Sahih
The most authentic collections of hadith in Sunni Islam, primarily referring to Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim.
Plagues of Egypt - Qur'anic References and Significance
Explore the references to the Ten Plagues of Egypt in the Quran. Understand their significance in the Islamic context and the similarities and differences from the Biblical account.
ḤĀFIZ̤ (حافظ)
Understand the meaning and significance of the term 'ḤĀFIZ̤' (حافظ) in the Islamic context. Learn how it is used to denote one of the names of God, a governor, and a person who has committed the entire Qurʾān to memory.
Ḥaqīqah
Explore the term Ḥaqīqah, its meanings, implications, and significance in Islamic thought, particularly in Sufism. Understand its usage and the journey towards 'the Truth'.
Sahih al-Bukhari
One of the six canonical collections of hadith, considered the most authoritative among Sunni Muslims alongside Sahih Muslim.
Asmāʾu Allāh (آسماء الله‎)
Explore the concept of Asmāʾu Allāh (The Names of God) in Islam, understand their meanings, and their importance in Islamic theology and practice.
Ḥanīf
Explore the term 'Ḥanīf,' its etymology, and significance in the Islamic faith. Learn how this concept is portrayed in the Qur'an and its importance in Islamic theology and practice.
ʿILMU ʾL-INSHĀʾ
Explore the concept of ʿILMU ʾL-INSHĀʾ, its etymology, significance, and role in Islamic culture and literary tradition. Understand how the art of literary composition is regarded in Islamic intellectual history.
Arabic Lexicons - Historical Development and Notable Works
Explore the history and development of Arabic lexicons, from the earliest works to modern dictionaries. Learn about significant contributions and their impact on the study of the Arabic language.
European Opinions on the Qurʾān - Analyzing Different Perspectives
A comprehensive examination of European writers' opinions on the Qurʾān, focusing on the stylistic, rhetorical, and thematic elements articulated by key scholars and translators, including Mr. Sale, Professor Palmer, Stanley Lane Poole, Mr. Rodwell, and Dr. Steingass.
Riwāyah (رواية‎)
Learn about the term 'Riwāyah,' its usage in Islamic context. Understand how Riwāyah is used in both ordinary narratives and authoritative traditions in Islamic scholarship.
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.
JUZʾ (جزء‎)
An exploration of the term 'JUZʾ (جزء‎),' its structure, significance, and usage in the context of the Qur'ān, including its etymology and related terms.
ʿIlm al-Taṣawwuf
Explore the study of ʿIlm al-Taṣawwuf, its etymology, and its profound significance in Islamic mysticism (Sufism). Understand the nature of ʿIlm al-Taṣawwuf, its historical development, and its role in the spiritual life of Muslims.
Dictionary of Islam - Preface and Introduction
Introduction to the 'Dictionary of Islam,' detailing its purpose, scope, and methodology. Learn about the compilation, scholarly sources, and foundational principles guiding this work on Islamic doctrines and practices.
ʿILMU ʾS-SĪMIYĀʾ (علم السيمياء‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the term ʿILMU ʾS-SĪMIYĀʾ, its definitions and implications in Islamic culture. Understand its application in natural magic, chiromancy, and palmistry from a historical and intellectual perspective.
AR-RASS (الرس‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Context in Islamic Scripture
Explore the term 'AR-RASS (الرس‎),' its appearances in the Qurʾān, various interpretations, and historical significance. Understand its uncertain meaning and the scholarly debates surrounding it.
Ṣaḥīḥu 'l-Bukhārī (صحيح البخاري)
Learn about Ṣaḥīḥu 'l-Bukhārī, its historical significance, and its importance in the collections of ḥadīth within Sunni Islam. Understand the structure, compilation, and authoritative weight of this essential Islamic text.
The Divisions of the Qurʾān - An Overview
An in-depth exploration of the various divisions of the Qur'an, including their numbers, meaning, and significance in Islamic tradition. Understand the different methodologies for dividing and referencing the Qur'an.
Fire
Explore the term 'Fire' (Arabic: nār) within the Islamic context, its symbolic meanings in the Qur'an, and its theological implications.
International Islamic University, Islamabad
The International Islamic University, Islamabad is a Pakistani institution established to provide advanced courses in Islamic studies.
Islamic Research Institute
Institute established for interpreting the teachings of Islam within the context of modern intellectual and scientific progress.
Man-Lā-Yastaḥẓirahu ʾl-Faqīh - A Comprehensive Study
Learn about 'Man-Lā-Yastaḥẓirahu ʾl-Faqīh,' a seminal Shi'ah tradition collection, its significance, author, and historical impact in Islamic scholarship.
Public Treasury and Inheritance in Shiʿah Islam
Explore the intricacies of the Public Treasury (Bayt al-Mal) and the rules of inheritance in Shiʿah Islam. Learn about classical texts, modern interpretations, and essential legal principles.
Theology in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the concept of theology in Islam, known in Arabic as 'al-ʿIlmu ʾl-Ilāhī.' Understand its subdivisions and its role in Islamic scholarship. Discover key books for further study and the overarching significance of this 'Science of God.'
Ẓarb (ضرب‎)
Explore the multifaceted term 'Ẓarb (ضرب‎),' its definitions, and its usage across different contexts within Islamic culture, including arithmetic, poetry, and Sufi mysticism.
ʿIlmu ʾt-Tajwīd (علم التجويد‎)
Explore the significance of ʿIlmu ʾt-Tajwīd in Islamic tradition, its etymology, its importance in reciting the Qur'an accurately, and noteworthy literature on the topic like al-Muqaddamatu ʾl-Jazarīyah.
Ash-Shams (الشمس)
Explore the term 'Ash-Shams,' its meaning, usage in the Qur'an, and significance in Islamic context. Understand the themes and messages of Surah Ash-Shams and its importance in Islamic teachings.
Fuṣṣilat (فصلت‎)
Explore the definition and significance of 'Fuṣṣilat,' the 41st Sūrah of the Qurʾān. Understand the etymology, themes, and context of this chapter, often referred to as the Hāmīm as-Sajdah.
Nīnawā (نينوى‎)
Discover the historical and religious significance of Nīnawā (نينوى‎), commonly known as Nineveh, within the Islamic tradition, its etymology, and its importance across various Islamic texts.
ʿILMU ʾSH-SHIʿR (علم الشعر‎) - Islamic Poetry Studies
Explore the concept of ʿIlmu ʾsh-Shiʿr, its etymology, and its significance in Islamic scholarship. Understand the role of poetry in Islamic culture, its forms, and historical development.
Al-ʿAnkabūt (العنكبوت‎) - The Spider: Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Explore the meaning and significance of Al-ʿAnkabūt, the 29th Surah of the Qur'an. Understand its relevance, key themes, and metaphorical implications in Islamic teaching.
An-Naml (النمل‎)
Explore the 27th Sūrah of the Qurʾān titled 'An-Naml' which means 'The Ants.' Understand the context, significance, and lessons this chapter offers, especially regarding the 18th verse mentioning the valley of the ants.
Al-Aʿla (الاعلى‎)
Gain understanding of the term 'Al-Aʿla' and its profound implications in Islam. Explore the use and meaning in the LXXXVIIth Surah of the Qur'an, alongside its theological and spiritual significance.
Arabic Letters: Transliterations and Pronunciations
Understand the transliteration and pronunciation of Arabic letters, key to grasping Islamic texts and terminology, crucial for Qur'anic studies, and enriching one's knowledge of Islamic culture.
Az-Zuk͟hruf (الزخرف‎)
Explore the term 'Az-Zuk͟hruf' (الزخرف‎), its meaning, etymology, and its role as the title of the 43rd Surah in the Qur'an. Understand the context of its usage and its significance in Islamic teachings.
Commentaries on the Qur'an - A Historical and Scholarly Overview
A detailed overview of the historical development and prominent scholars of Qur'anic exegesis in both Sunni and Shia traditions from the earliest ages of Islam.
Jawāmiʿu ʾl-Kalim
Explore the term 'Jawāmiʿu ʾl-Kalim,' its meanings, and its importance in Islamic texts. Understand its application to both the Qurʾān and certain Hadiths.
Knowledge ('Ilm)
Explore the concept of 'Ilm' (Knowledge) in Islam, including its definition, significance in Islamic theology and culture, and its usage in daily life. Understand how 'Ilm' shapes the religious and intellectual pursuits of Muslims.
Muḥaddis̤
Explore the term 'Muḥaddis̤,' which refers to the narrators and scholars of Ḥadīs̤ (the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad). Understand their role and significance in Islamic tradition.
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.
INSHĀʾ (انشاء‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Applications in Islam
Understand the term 'INSHĀʾ', its etymology, and its significance in Islamic and Arabic literary traditions. Explore its applications in literary compositions and letter-writing.
Qābīl (قابيل)
Understand the narrative of Qābīl, also known as Cain in Islamic tradition, his role, and the moral and theological implications of his actions. Explore his story as part of Islamic teachings and its reflections in the Qur'an.
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.
ʿIlmu ʾl-ʿAqāʾid (عـلـم العقائد‎) - Definition and Significance in Islam
Discover the essence of ʿIlmu ʾl-ʿAqāʾid, its roots in Islamic theology, and its role in shaping Islamic beliefs. Understand the historical context, key concepts, and contributions to Muslim intellectual heritage.
Al-Baqarah (البقرة‎)
Explore the term 'Al-Baqarah,' understand its etymology, significance, and contextual relevance in the Qur'an. Delve into the implications of the story of the cow as mentioned in the second Surah of the Qur'an.
At-Tatfīf (التطفيف‎)
Explore the term 'At-Tatfīf,' its etymology, and its significance in the Islamic context, particularly as elaborated in the 83rd Surah of the Qur'an. Understand its implications on fairness and justice in both earthly life and the hereafter.
Causes of Difference Among Traditions in Islam
Explore the various causes leading to differences among Islamic traditions, particularly Hadith. Understand how misunderstandings, narrators' perspectives, memory failures, and other factors contribute to the diversity within Islamic traditions.
Ḥadīth
Explore the term 'Ḥadīth,' its meaning, origins, and critical role in Islamic practice and belief. This entry delves into the types of Ḥadīth, their authenticity, and their immense influence on the daily lives and legal rulings within the Muslim community.
Hadith - Types of Chains of Narrators (Muttaṣil and Munqat̤iʿ)
Understand the significance of the chain of narrators (Isnad) in Hadith criticism within Islam, including the differences between Muttaṣil (connected) and Munqat̤iʿ (disconnected) chains.

Dictionary of Islam

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