Islamic Theology

His Exaltation in Heaven - Perspectives in Islamic Theology
Explore the differing opinions within Islamic theology regarding the current abode of Jesus Christ in heaven. Learn about the various stages of celestial bliss and the traditions supporting each view.
K͟HAUF (خوف‎)
Explore the term 'K͟HAUF,' its implications, and usage within an Islamic context. Understand the significance of fearing God in Islam and how it shapes a Muslim's life and behavior.
Mushabbiḥah in Islamic Theology
Explore the term 'Mushabbiḥah,' its etymological roots, and its theological implications. Understand how this sect views the nature of God and its place within Islamic thought, especially among certain Shīʿah groups.
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.
Abu al-Fath Muhammad ibn Abd al-Karim al-Shahrastani
Shahrastani, Abu al-Fath Muhammad ibn Abd al-Karim al- (d. 1153) was a scholar, philosopher, theologian, and historian of religions from the Iranian province of Khurasan.
Abu Nasr Muhammad ibn Tarkhan al-Farabi
Founder of Islamic political philosophy and formal logic, known for synthesizing Plato's political philosophy and Islamic political thought.
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.
Ahl al-Bayt
Members of the Prophet Muhammad’s family and descendants, who hold a revered status in both Sunni and Shii Islam.
Al-Barr (البر)
Explore the term 'Al-Barr,' one of the ninety-nine names of God in Islam. Understand its meaning, usage, and significance within the Islamic faith.
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-Ḥalīm (الحليم‎)
Explore the significance of 'Al-Ḥalīm,' one of the ninety-nine attributes of God in Islam. Understand its etymology, how it is used in the Qur'an, and its implications in the Islamic faith.
Al-Jabarīyah in Islamic Theology
Understand the Al-Jabarīyah sect, its beliefs in predestination and compulsion, its division into 'pure' and 'middle' factions, and its historical and theological context in Islam.
al-Manar
Influential Egyptian journal founded by Muhammad Abduh and Muhammad Rashid Rida, focusing on Quranic exegesis, theological explication, and dissemination of reformist ideas.
Al-Mursalāt (المرسلات‎)
Explore the significance of Surah Al-Mursalāt in the Qur'an, its etymological roots, and its theological implications in Islam.
Al-Nabi al-Ummi
A term used to refer to the Prophet Muhammad, variably translated as 'the unlettered prophet' or 'the prophet sent to a people without a scripture.'
Al-Qaiyūm (القيوم)
Learn about the term 'Al-Qaiyūm,' its implications, and usage in an Islamic context. Understand what the attribute signifies and how it embodies the essence of God in Islamic theology.
Al-Wadūd (الودود‎)
Explore the term 'Al-Wadūd,' one of the ninety-nine special attributes of God in Islam, its occurrences in the Qur'an, and its implications in Islamic theology.
Al-Wārith (الوارث)
Learn about the term 'Al-Wārith,' its meaning as one of the ninety-nine names of Allah. Understand its theological nuances and significance in Islamic doctrine.
al-Yaqīn
Concept of Certainty in Islamic Theology and Mysticism
Al-ʿIlmu ʾl-Yaqīn (العلم اليقين‎)
Explore the concept of Al-ʿIlmu ʾl-Yaqīn, its implications in Islamic theology, and its significance in the spiritual and everyday lives of Muslims. Learn about the deeper meanings and how it is interpreted within Islamic thought.
Ālu ʿImrān (آل عمران)
Explore the term 'Ālu ʿImrān,' its meaning, and its importance within the Islamic context. Understand the key themes and narratives of Sūrah Ālu ʿImrān, the third chapter of the Qurʾān, and its impact on Muslim beliefs and practices.
An-Naba' (النباء‎)
Explore the meaning and significance of An-Naba' (النباء‎), the title of the 78th Sūrah of the Qur'an. Understand its context within Islamic theology and its implications.
An-Najjārīyah - Definition, Etymology, and Historical Significance
An in-depth exploration of the An-Najjārīyah sect, its founder, beliefs, and distinctions from other Islamic theological schools. Understand the divisions within An-Najjārīyah and their historical context.
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.'
Animals in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the concept of animals in Islam, their creation, significance in the Qur'an, and eschatological beliefs concerning them.
Aṣ-Ṣamad
Learn about the term 'Aṣ-Ṣamad (الصمد‎),' its implications, context in the Qur'an, and its significance in Islamic theology. Understand how this attribute of God underlines His eternal and absolute nature.
Ash-Shahīd (الشهيد‎)
Delve into the term 'Ash-Shahīd,' one of the ninety-nine names or attributes of God in Islam. Understand its meaning, significance, and occurrence in Islamic texts.
Ash'arī Tradition
A classical Sunni theological school founded by Abu al-Hasan al-Ash'ari that occupies a middle ground between rationalism and literalism.
At-Taghābun (التغابن)
Understand the term 'At-Taghābun,' its implications as the 64th Sūrah of the Qurʾān, and its meaning in the Islamic context. Discover the theological and ethical significance of mutual deceit as described in the Qur'ān.
At-Tawwab (التواب‎)
Explore the term 'At-Tawwab,' one of the ninety-nine names of God in Islam. Understand its meaning, contextual significance in the Qur'an, and implications for believers.
Auliyā' (أولياء‎)
Explore the term 'Auliyā',' its meaning, and significance in Islamic context. Understand who the 'favourites of God' are and how they are depicted in the Qurʾān.
ĀZAR (آزر‎)
Explore the term 'ĀZAR (آزر‎),' its role in Islamic tradition, its mention in the Qur'an, and its cultural and theological significance. Discover how Āzar is viewed in Islamic and Eastern literature.
Baqillani, Abu Bakr Muhammad al-
Ash'ari theologian and Maliki jurist of Iraq, instrumental in the propagation of Ash'ari Kalam.
Baydawi, Abd Allah al-
Medieval Shafi'i jurist and Ash'ari theologian renowned for his concise Quranic commentary
BAʿS̤ (بعث‎)
Explore the multifaceted term 'BAʿS̤ (بعث‎),' its etymology, significance within Islamic theology, and its dual references to the Day of Resurrection and the mission of prophets.
BIDʿAH (بدعة‎) - Definition, Etymology, and Implications in Islam
Explore the term 'Bidʿah,' its definitions, etymological roots, and implications within the Islamic faith. Understand how innovations in religious practices are viewed and categorized.
Cain
Explore the story of Cain (Qābil) in Islamic tradition, its etymological roots, and its significance within the Qur'an and related commentaries.
Canaan
Explore the identity of Canaan (Kanʿān) in Islamic context, according to classical commentators and the Qur'an. Understand his significance in the narrative of Prophet Noah and related theological implications.
Cherubim
Explore the term 'Cherubim' as understood in Islamic context, its etymology, role in Islamic theology, and significance in relation to Islamic belief systems.
Dar al-Sulh
Territory of treaty where a non-Muslim region enters into an armistice with a Muslim government, ensuring mutual protection and often tribute arrangements.
Dualism
A worldview or doctrine that posits two fundamental and often opposing principles or divinities.
Ezra
A brief entry on Ezra (Uzayr) in Islamic context with reference to the Qur'anic mention and its theological implications.
Faiẓ-i-Aqdas
Explore the concept of 'Faiẓ-i-Aqdas,' its etymology, and importance in Islamic intellectual tradition. Understand how it relates to divine communications with angels, prophets, and other superior intelligences.
Fitan
Explore the term 'Fitan,' its etymology, significance in Islamic thought, and its prophetic context. Understand how 'Fitan' relates to historical and theological aspects of Islam.
Forgiveness of Injuries in Islam - Definition, Etymology, and Significance
Explore the concept of forgiveness of injuries in Islam as enjoined in the Qur'an, particularly in Sūrah xlii, verse 38. Understand the ethical, legal, and spiritual dimensions of forgiving those who have wronged you.
Ghaib
Explore the term 'Ghaib,' its spiritual and theological implications in Islam, particularly within Sufi mysticism. Understand the esoteric dimensions and how they shed light on the mystical nature of God.
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.
Hadith Qudsi
Sacred tradition or report in Islam, distinct from both the Qur'an and Hadith Nabawi, involving sayings of the Prophet Muhammad where the meaning is revealed by God.
ḤAQĪQĪ - Definition, Etymology, and Usage in Islamic Context
Explore the term 'ḤAQĪQĪ,' its various implications in Islamic theology, philosophy, and linguistics. Understand the difference between literal and figurative meanings within Islamic texts.
Hashiyyah: Glosses or Supercommentaries
Hashiyyah are supercommentaries or glosses written in the margins of texts, reflecting the cumulative nature of Muslim scholarship.
Haykal, Muhammad Husayn
Egyptian novelist and thinker who used religious symbols to harmonize Islam with modern rational, scientific analysis.
ḤAẔAR (حذر‎)
Discover the meaning and significance of the term 'ḤAẔAR' in Islamic context. Learn about its occurrences in the Qur'an and its implications on the concept of fear and vigilance in Islam.
Hell (Jahannam)
Eternal punishment for evildoers and unbelievers as described in Islam.
Hell: Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
An in-depth examination of the concept of Hell in Islam, including its types, descriptions in the Qur'an and Hadith, and theological interpretations.
Highway Robbery
Explore the term 'Highway Robbery' within the context of Islamic law. Understand its etymology, legal implications, and prescribed punishments according to the Qur'an and classical Islamic jurisprudence.
Hojatallah
A theological term used in the Quran, referring to 'God’s decisive proof,' and also a title for authoritative figures in various Islamic sects.
Ibāḍīyah (إباضية)
Discover the origins, beliefs, and historical significance of the Ibāḍīyah, a sect of Islam founded by ʿAbdullāh ibn Ibāḑ. Learn about its theological stance on sin and infidelity and its unique place within the larger Islamic tradition.
Ibn Abd al-Wahhab, Muhammad
A seminal Saudi Arabian conservative theologian, jurist, reformer, and ideologue of the Wahhabi movement.
Ibn Qudama, Muwaffaq al-Din
A Hanbali theologian and jurist specializing in Quranic and hadith studies, known for his criticism of ijtihad and allegorical interpretation of the Quran.
Ilhad
Heresy that distorts the fundamental teachings of Islam, especially within the community.
Infant Salvation in Islamic Theology - Perspectives and Scholarly Debates
Explore the conflicting views within Islamic scholarship regarding the fate of infants, especially those born to mushrikun, and the theological foundations for these perspectives.
Ismāʾīl (اسمائيل‎)
Explore the meaning, origins, and importance of Ismāʾīl (اسمائيل‎), an angel in Islamic tradition, his association with Angel Gabriel, and his role in Islamic teachings.
Istiqāmah
Explore the concept of 'Istiqāmah,' its meanings in Islamic theology and Sufi mysticism, and how it guides Muslims to lead a life of rectitude and spiritual steadfastness. Delve into its Quranic basis and relevance in contemporary Muslim life.
Jabarīyah - Beliefs and Divisions within Islamic Theology
Explore the concept of Jabarīyah in Islamic theology, including its etymology, beliefs, and various divisions. Understand the perspectives of different Jabarīyah subgroups on free will, responsibility, and divine decree.
Jabīl (جبيل‎): The Angel of the Mountains
Explore the concept of Jabīl (جبيل‎), also known as the Angel of the Mountains, and its significance within Islamic and particularly Shīʿah traditions. Understand its mentions in Islamic literature and theological contexts.
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.
Jannah (جنة‎)
Explore the Islamic term 'Jannah,' its meanings, etymological roots, spiritual implications, and its significance in both everyday life and Sufi mysticism.
Karamah
Grace, miraculous acts in Sufi tradition signifying divine favor and sanctity
Karūbīn (كروبين‎)
Explore the term 'Karūbīn,' its etymology, significance in Islamic theology, and its relation to the concept of cherubim in biblical texts. Understand the role of Karūbīn in Islamic literature and thought.
Khoi, Abol-Qasem
An Iraqi Shii mujtahid, teacher of jurisprudence and theology, and spiritual leader
KIRĀMAH (كرامة‎)
Explore the concept of KIRĀMAH (كرامة‎), its implications in Islamic spirituality, and its differentiation from the miracles of prophets. Understand its role and the beliefs surrounding it in Islamic tradition.
Kitābī
Explore the term 'Kitābī,' its significance in Islamic theology, and its implications for interfaith relations. Understand how this term uniquely identifies Jews and Christians within the Islamic tradition.
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.
Lubb (لب‎)
Explore the term 'Lubb' (لب‎), its spiritual and intellectual implications in Islamic thought. Learn about its role in illuminating the heart and soul through divine light.
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.
Magic in Islam
Definition and understanding of 'Magic' (Sihr) as explored in Islamic texts and practices.
Mahdi
The divinely guided eschatological figure in Islam believed to usher in an era of justice and true faith before the end of times
Malaku al-Maut
An in-depth exploration of the term 'Malaku al-Maut' (ملك الموت‎), also known as the Angel of Death in Islam. Learn about its origin, Quranic references, and its role in Islamic theology and eschatology.
Mālik (مالك‎) - The Guardian of Hell in Islamic Tradition
Explore the role and significance of Mālik (مالك‎), the angel who presides over Hell in Islamic theology. Understand the Qur'anic references and similarities with other religious figures.
Maneri, Sharif al-Din
Sharif al-Din Maneri, a 14th-century Sufi saint of Bihar, India, known for his contributions to spiritual literature, especially his 'Hundred Letters'.
Maqām Ibrāhīm (مقام ابرهيم)
Explore the significance of Maqām Ibrāhīm, the Place of Abraham, in Islamic belief. Understand its historical, theological, and cultural importance, and learn about its role in the Hajj rituals.
Maqām Maḥmūd (مـقـام محمود)
Learn about 'Maqām Maḥmūd,' its meaning, importance, and usage in Islamic context. Understand what it represents and how it is integrated into Islamic beliefs and practices.
Martyr
An individual who suffers or loses their life in the process of carrying out a religious duty in Islam.
Maturidi, Abu al-Mansur al-
A major Sunni theologian who introduced new methodological approaches in Islamic theological discourse.
Maturidiyyah
Maturidiyyah is a Sunni theological school founded in the 10th century by Abu Mansur Muhammad al-Maturidi, closely linked to the Hanafi school of Islamic law.
Mi'raj
Muhammad’s Night Journey to heaven, significant in Sufi poetry and spiritual ascension.
Mīkāʾīl - The Archangel Michael in Islamic Tradition
Explore the significance of the Archangel Michael (Mīkāʾīl) in Islam, including his mention in the Qur'an and his role in Islamic theology.
Mit̤raqah
Explore the concept of 'Mit̤raqah,' understood as the iron hammer or mace used in Islamic eschatology for the punishment of sinners in their graves by the angels Munkar and Nakīr.
Mizan
The balance held by Gabriel on the Day of Judgment for weighing deeds and faith.
Mu'tazilah
Eighth-century Islamic theological school emphasizing God's absolute uniqueness, unity, and justice.
Murjiis
Theological school in Islam emphasizing postponement of judgment and God's mercy, opposed to Kharijite puritanism.
Murtadd (مرتد‎): Definition, Etymology, and Significance in Islam
Learn about the term 'Murtadd,' its implications, and usage in the Islamic context. Understand what entails apostasy, and the legal and theological ramifications in Islamic teachings.
Mutawatir Hadith
Highest classification of a tradition in hadith criticism characterized by an established series of reliable transmitters in every generation.
Muʿtazilah
Explore the Muʿtazilah, an Islamic theological school founded by Wāṣil ibn ʿAt̤āʾ. Understand their core beliefs, historical impact, and sub-sects.

Dictionary of Islam

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