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Badiyyah
A desert or semi-arid environment.
Badr
The first full military confrontation between the Muslims and the enemies of Allah. The battle took place between the Muslims and the Quraish of Makkah in the second year of Hijrah (624 C.E.). Even though the Muslims were outnumbered, the final result was to their favour.
Baghdad (Bagh-dad Shareef)
Meaning of the Name "Baghdad" The origin of the name "Baghdad" is under some dispute. Some say it comes from an Aramaic phrase that means "sheep enclosure" (not very poetic..). Others contend that the word comes from ancient Persian: "bagh" meaning God, and "dad" meaning gift. "The gift of God.." During at least one point in history, it certainly seemed so.
The city's roots date back to ancient Babylon, a settlement as far back as 1800 B.C. However, its fame as a center for commerce and scholarship began in the 8th century A.D. In about 762 C.E., the Abbasid dynasty took over rule of the vast Muslim world and moved the capital to the newly-founded city of Baghdad. Over the next five centuries, the city would become the world's center of education and culture. This period of glory has become known as the "Golden Age" of Islamic civilization, when scholars of the Muslim world made important contributions in both the sciences and humanities: medicine, mathematics, astronomy, chemistry, literature, and more. Under Abbasid rule, Baghdad became a city of museums, hospitals, libraries, and mosques.
Baghdad is home to the shrine of the great Saint of all saints, al-Ghawth al-A'zam Shaykh Abd'al-Qadir al-Jilani Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu, as well as many other tombs of the Ahl al-Bayt and Awliya-Allah (May Allah be pleased with them all.)
Most of the famous Muslim scholars from the 9th to 13th centuries had their educational roots in Baghdad. One of the most famous centers of learning was Bayt al-Hikmah (the House of Wisdom), which attracted scholars from all over the world, from many cultures and religions. Here, teachers and students worked together to translate Greek manuscripts, preserving them for all time. They studied the works of Aristotle, Plato, Hippocrates, Euclid, and Pythagoras. The House of Wisdom was home to, among others, the most famous mathematician of the time: Al-Khawarizmi, the "father" of algebra (which is named after his book "Kitab al-Jabr").
While Europe festered in the Dark Ages, Baghdad was thus at the heart of a vibrant and diverse civilization. It was known as the world's richest and most intellectual city of the time, and was second in size only to Constantinople.
Bai al-urbun
'Urbun refers to the deposit or earnest money that the buyer gives the seller, on the understanding that it will be part of the buying price once the sale is finalised. In the event that the sale falls through the seller keeps this initial amount. Amongst the four Sunni Imam's of Fiqh (jurisprudence), only the Hanbali'yah school of thought have validated al'urbun.
Bai Mu'ajjal (Bay Mu'ajjal )
Sale based on deferred payment, either in a lump sum or instalments.
*A sale in which the parties agree that the payment of price shall be deferred is called a Bai Mu'ajjal.
*Bai Mu'ajjal is valid if the date of payment is fixed in an unambiguous manner.
*The date of payment can be fixed either with reference to a particular date, or by specifying a period, like three months, but it cannot be fixed with reference to a future event where the exact date is unknown or uncertain. If the time of payment is unknown or uncertain, the sale is void.
*If a particular period is fixed for payment, like one month, it will be deemed to commence from the time of delivery, unless the parties have agreed otherwise.
*The deferred price may be more than the cash price, but it must be fixed at the time of sale.
*Once the price is fixed, it cannot be decreased if it was paid earlier, nor can it be increased in the case of default.
*In order to ensure the buyer pays the installments promptly, the buyer may be asked to promise that in the case of default, he will donate some specified amount for a charitable purpose. In such cases, the seller may receive such an amount from the buyer, not as part of his income, but to use it for charitable purposes on behalf of the buyer.
*If the commodity is sold on installment, the seller may put a condition on the buyer that if he fails to pay any installment on its due date, the remaining installments will become due immediately.
*In order to secure the payment, the seller may ask the buyer to furnish a security whether in the form of a mortgage, a lien or a charge on any of his existing assets.
The buyer can also be asked to sign a promissory note or a Bill of Exchange, but the note or the bill cannot be sold to a third party at a price different from its face value.
Bai Salam (Bay Salaam)
This term refers to the advance payment for goods which are delivered later. Normally, no sale can be effected unless the goods are in existence at the time of the bargain. But this type of sale is the exception to the general rule provided the goods are defined and the date of delivery is fixed. The objects of this type of sale are mainly tangible but exclude gold or silver as these are regarded as having monetary value. Barring these, bai al-salam covers almost all things which are capable of being definitely described as to quantity, quality and workmanship. One of the conditions of this type of contract is advance payment; the parties cannot reserve their option of rescinding it but the option of revoking it on account of a defect in the subject matter is allowed. It is also applied to a mode of financing adopted by Islamic banks. It is usually applied in the agricultural sector, where the bank advances money for various inputs to receive a share in the crop, which the bank sells in the market.
Bai'
Literally means sale. Commonly used as a prefix in referring to different types of sales: Muajjal, Murabahah, Tawliyah and Wadi'ah.
Baqi (Jannat al Baqi)
The cemetery where a good many of the Sahabah al kiram (ridwan'allah ta'ala alayhi m'ajmain) are buried, as well as thousands of pilgrims. It is in the south-east side of the blessed city of the Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) Madinah t'al Munnawarrah.
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Dhikr 'Allah
Remembrance of Allah Ta’ala. Refers to every deed or action, intended or carried out, that is aimed at gaining Allah Ta’ala’s pleasure. The five pillars of Islam are its foundation. Recitation of Qur’an is its heart, and invocation of single Name of Allah, it's end.
Dhul Hijjah (Zul Hijja)
The 12th month of the Islamic Calendar. See Hijri.
The 11th month of the Islamic Calendar. See Hijri
Dome of the Rock
Name of the famous masjid in Jerusalem built around 691 C.E. by the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik Rehmatullahi ’Alaih. The rock within the Masjid structure is the point from which the Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) was miraculously ascended to Heaven in 619 C.E. (al-Isra w'al Miraj)
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Eid (EED 'EID)
The word 'Eid is an Arabic name to mean a festivity, a celebration, a recurring happiness, and a feast. In Islam, there are three major 'Eids namely the feast of Ramadhan ('EId Al-Fitr), the Feast of Sacrifice ('Eid Al-Adhha), and the third Eid is known as Eid Milad an-Nabi.
The first 'Eid is celebrated by Muslims after fasting the month of Ramadhan as a matter of thanks and gratitude to Almighty Allah. It takes place on the first day of Shawwal, the tenth month of the lunar calendar.
The second 'Eid is the Feast of Sacrifice and it is to be celebrated for the memory of Prophet Ibrahim (alayhi asalam) trying to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael). This 'Eid lasts four days between the tenth and the thirteenth day of Zul-Hijjah, the twelfth month of the lunar calendar.
The third major Eid recognised and commemorated by the vast majority of muslims worldwide is the 'Eid Milad an-Nabi' or 'Mawlid', and is a celebration of the birth and life of Allahs Most Beloved Final Prophet (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam). Hadrat Muhammad Mustufa (Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa Sallam) was born on the 12th of Rabbi Awwal, and Muslims mark the occasion of praising the Beloved Prophet (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) by visiting the Mosque, listening to lectures and Na'at Shareef held throughout the month of Rabbi al-Awwal.
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Fa'idah
Benefit. In investment context it means return on investment.
Fadl (Riba)
A type of interest. Taking something of superior quality in exchange for the same kind of thing of poorer quality. Allah (Subhana wa Ta'ala) has strictly prohibited any kind of Riba and has warned of severe punishment for those who have any association with it. See the Noble Qur' an, Surah Al-Baqara (2):275-280
Fajr (Fajar)
The obligatory salah, prayer, before sunrise.
Falas
Bankrupt
Faqeeh
An Islamic scholar who can give an authoritative legal opinion or judgement.
Faqih
A person who is an expert on Islamic jurisprudence (law), fiqh.
Faqir (fakir)
A poor person. Fakr means poverty.
Fard (furd or farz)
A term designating that which is an obligatory (required) belief or practice in Islam. For example, under normal circumstances, performing wudhu (ritual washing) before offering formal worship is fard for Muslims.
Fard 'Ain
An action which is obligatory on every Muslim.
Fard al-Kifayah
Collective duty. A duty on the whole community. However, if the duty has been fulfilled by a part of that community then the rest are not obliged to fulfill it.
Faruq (Farooq Farouk Farook)
This was the name given to Caliph Hadrat Umar ibn Al-Khattab (Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu) . It means 'One who distinguishes the truth from falsehood'.
Fasad (fah-saad)
Fasad, literally 'corruption', in Qur'anic terminology, means creating disorder and corruption on earth by following a path other than God's. Islam maintains that true peace and happiness emanate only through the observance of God's commands and through making a conscious effort to see that His laws alone are implemented in every sphere of life. Fasad occurs when man violates God's laws and disobeys Him. Fasad may therefore be partial as well as total; partial when one disregards God's law in one aspect of life while acknowledging His sovereignty in other spheres. If a society is based on the denial of God, that society is bound to be a corrupt and exploitative society - hence full of fasad.
Fasting
See Sawm.
Fatah (fat-ah)
Means conquest or struggle to victory
Fatwa
A legal verdict given on a religious basis. The sources on which a fatwa is based are the Noble Qur'an, and all authenticated Ahadith. Plural: Fatawa.
Fidyah
Compensation for missing or wrongly practising necessary acts of worship. Fidyah usually takes the form of donating money or foodstuff, or sacrificing an animal.
Fiqh ( FIQAH FIQHA)
The meaning of the word fiqh is understanding, comprehension, knowledge, and jurisprudence in Islam. A jurist is called a Faqih who is an expert in matters of Islamic legal matters. Literally "understanding," this term refers to the body of knowledge and legal opinions developed by Muslim jurists and scholars from the primary sources in Islam, the Qur'an al kareem and the Sunnah of the Most Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam). Fiqh is essentially the interpretation and application of Shari'ah to specific circumstances or issues.
A Faqih is to pass verdicts within the rules of the Islamic Law namely Shariah.
The most famous scholars of Fiqh in the history Muslims are the founders of the four schools of thought in Islam: Imam Abu Hanifah Imam Malik, Imam Ash-Shafi'i, and Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal (May Allah be pleased with them).
Anything or action in Islam falls within the following five categories of Fiqh:
1] Fardh (Must): This category is a must for the Muslim to do such as the five daily prayers. Doing the Fardh counts as a good deed, and not doing it is considered a bad deed or a sin.
It is also called Wajib except for Imam Abu Hanifah Rehmatullahi ’Alaih who makes Wajib a separate category between the Fardh and the Mubah.
2] Mandub (Recommended): This category is recommended for the Muslim to do such as extra prayers after Zuhr and Maghrib. Doing the Mandub counts as a good deed and not doing it does not count as a bad deed or a sin.
3] Mubah (Allowed): This category is left undecided and left for the person, such as eating apples or oranges. Doing or not doing the Mubah does not count as a good or bad deed.
Intention of the person can change Mubah to Fard, Mandub, Makruh, or Haram.
Other things could also change the status of the Mubah. For example, any Mubah becomes Haram if it is proven harmful, and any necessary thing to fulfill a Fardh is a Fardh too.
4] Makruh (Hated): This category is a detested and hated such as growing fingernails or sleeping on the stomach. Not doing the Makruh counts as a good deed and doing it does not count as a bad deed.
5] Haram (Prohibited): This category is prohibited for the Muslim to do such as stealing and lying. Doing the haram counts as a bad deed and not doing it counts as a good deed.
Imam Abu Hanifah Rehmatullahi ’Alaih also puts another category between the Makruh and the Haram. It is called Karahah Tahrimiyyah which means hated almost to the level of Haram.
Fisq (Fisq)
Fisq is transgression. It consists of disobedience to the command of God.
Furqan (Foor-kan)
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Hadith (Hadis Hadeeth)
Reports on the sayings and the traditions of the Most Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) or what he witnessed and approved are called Hadith. These are the real explanation, interpretation, and the living example of the Beloved Prophet (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) for teachings of the Qur'an al karim. His sayings are found in books called the Hadith books.
Some famous collectors of Hadith are Imam Al-Bukhari, Imam Muslim, Imam An-Nasa'i, Imam Abu Dawood, Imam At-Tirmidhi, and Imam Majah (May Allah be pleased with them). There are many others.
Hadith qudsi
The Hadith Qudsi are hadith's in which the Beloved Prophet (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) says that Allah says so and so. The meaning of the these hadith was revealed to the Prophet (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) but he put them in his own words, unlike the Qur'an al karim which is the word of Almighty Allah and the Beloved Prophet (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) conveyed it exactly as it was revealed to him.
Hafiz (haa-fiz)
One who has memorized the entirety of the Qur'an al karim. Thousands of Muslim men and women throughout the world dedicate their time and energy to this tradition, which serves to maintain the Qur'anic scripture as it was revealed to the Most Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam), over 1,400 years ago.
Hajar (haa-jer)
One of Abraham's wives who, along with her infant son Isma'il, was settled in Arabia by Abraham. She may be considered the founder of the city of Makkah, since it was a desolate valley prior to her arrival and discovery of the sacred well known as ZamZam.
Hajar Al-aswad (Al)
The 'Black Stone', a stone which is said to have fallen from heaven, set into one corner of the Ka'abah in Mekkah by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) (Alayhi asalam), which pilgrims, in imitation of Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam), kiss while performing the Hajj or Umrah.
Hajj (HAJ)
The pilgrimage (journey) to Makkah (in modern-day Saudi Arabia) undertaken by Muslims in commemoration of the Abrahamic roots of Islam. The Hajj rites symbolically reenact the trials and sacrifices of Prophet Abraham (alayhi asalam), his wife Hajar, and their son Isma'il over 4,000 years ago.
Hajj is an Arabic word which means the performance of pilgrimage to Makkah in Arabia. It is one of the five pillars of Islam. A Muslim is to perform Hajj at least once in his/her life, if means and health allow.
There are rules and regulations and specific dress to be followed. It is to take place during the last month of the lunar calendar called the month of Dhul-Hijjah. The Hajj is performed annually by over 3,000,000 pilgrims from all corners of the globe.
There are three types of Hajj:
*Hajj at-Tamattu' (interrupted). Umrah followed by Hajj, but taking off the Ihram in between these two stages.
*Hajj al-Qiran (combined). Umrah then Hajj without taking off the Ihram
*Hajj al-Ifrad (single). Hajj without Umrah.Hanafi
Halal
An act or product that is lawful and permitted in Islam, based on the two authoritative sources, the Qur'an al kareem and the Sunnah of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam).
Halif
A person who enjoys the protection of a tribe but does not belong to it by blood.
Halqah
A group of students involved in the study of Islam.
Hamzah (hum-zah)
Uncle of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa Sallam) and one of his Sahabah. He is fondly remembered by Muslims for his support of the Beloved Prophet (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) at a time when most other relatives turned away from him because he called on people to worship God alone.
Hanafi
Islamic school of law founded by Imam Abu Hanifa Radi Allahu anhu. One of the four main schools of thought of the Ahl as-Sunnah w'al Jama'at. Followers of this school are known as the Hanafis.
Hanif (HANEEF)
People who during the time of Jahiliyyah (ignorance) rejected the idolatry in their society. These people were in search for the true religion of Prophet Ibraham (ABRAHAM) (alayhi asalam). Means ; Upright and true to faith in the Unity of Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala.
Haq (Haqq)
The truth. Legal right.
Haraam (Ha-raam, haram)
Arabic term designating that which is deemed unlawful or forbidden in Islam, based on the two authoritative sources, the Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Most Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa Sallam). Muslims must refrain from all things or actions designated haram. Something which is unlawful or prohibited in Islam.
Hawwa
Eve, the wife of Prophet Adam (alayhi asalam). The Qur'an al kareem indicates that Hawwa was created as an equal mate for Adam, and that both Adam and Hawwa sinned equally when they disobeyed God by eating fruit from the forbidden tree in their garden abode. Upon turning to God in repentence, both were likewise equally forgiven.
Hegira
See Hijrah.
Hifz
The Arabic root of this word is Hafiza which means to memorize. In the religious sense, Muslims try to memorize the whole Qur'an al karim. Any person who achieves this task is called Hafiz.
A Hafiz is recognized by his community and is given certain privileges. There are millions of Muslims who make 'Hifz' of the entire Qur'an al kareem.
Hijab (hee-jaab)
Commonly, the term hijab is used to denote the scarf or other type of head-covering worn by Muslim women throughout the world. However, the broader definition of the term refers to a state of modesty and covering that encompasses a woman's entire body, excluding hands and face.
Hijrah
Means migration. The Hijrah refers to the Beloved Prophet's (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) migration from Makkah to Madinah. This journey took place in the twelfth year of his mission (622 C.E.). This is the beginning of the Muslim calendar. The word hijrah means to leave a place to seek sanctuary or freedom from persecution or freedom of religion or any other purpose. Hijrah can also mean to leave a bad way of life for a good or more righteous way.
Hijri
Name of the Islamic lunar calendar. It took its name from the early Muslims who migrated from Makkah to Madinah, and commences from the date of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad's (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) Hijra, which he made with Hadrat Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu), in 622AC. Often abbreviated to A.H. (After Hijra). The months of the Islamic calendar are:
1)Muharram.
2)Safar.
3)Rabi'i al-Awal.
4)Rabi'i al-Akhira.
5)Jumada al-Awal.
6)Jumada al-Akhira.
7)Rajab.
8)Sha'ban.
9)Ramadan.
10)Shawal.
11)Dhul Qu'dah.
12)Dhul Hijjah
Hikmah (hick-ma)
Arabic word meaning wisdom.
Hira (hee-ra)
The cave on the outskirts of Makkah where the Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam), at the age of forty, received the first revelations of the Qur'an al kareem, beginning with the word "Iqra" which means "read." The cave was a favourite place of retreat for Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam). Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) prior to his call to Prophethood, where he could contemplate alone and seek God free from the distractions of the city below.
Hudud
The limits ordained by Allah. The boundary between what is Halal (lawful) and what is Haram (unlawful), set by Allah. Whoever transgresses these limits may be punished or forgiven by Allah. This includes the punishment for crimes.
Hujjaj
Pilgrims. Persons who have been on the pilgrimage to Mekkah during the Hajj season in the month of Dhul Hijjah. Singular: Haj = a male pilgrim, Hajah = a female pilgrim.
Hukum
The closest equivalent in the English language is "verdict". It usually applies to a judgement on legal issues, especially with regard to religious matters.
Huquq
Plural of haq'
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Mabrur (Mub-roor)
A Hajj that is accepted by Allah because of its perfection in both inward intention and outward observation of the traditions of the Most Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam).
Madhab (madh-hub)
An Arabic term used in reference to a particular "school of thought" in Islam. As Islam spread to new regions outside the Arabian penisula and new social, economic and religious issues arose, many scholars studied the sources of Islam to find permissible and practical solutions that believers could employ to address these issues.
Over time, the teachings and thoughts of four respected scholars gained prominence, and all Muslims adhere to the "school of thought" of one or another of these scholars. Each school's opinions, are considered equally valid as a source of practical guidance for the "lay" Muslim. The four schools are the Hanafi, Shafi'i, Maliki and Hanbali (May Allah be pleased with them) all named after the respected scholars.
Madhjub (Maj-zoob)
Majdhub "attracted" spontaneously, but also "crazed",
by powerful religious visions (God Intoxicated)
Madinah (Ma-dee-nah)
The second most sacred city in Saudia Arabia, many say the first. Formerly named Yathrib, Madinah became the centre of the first Islamic community and political state after the Most Beloved Prophet Muhammad (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) migrated there from Makkah in 622 C.E. The people of Madinah welcomed the persecuted Muslims of Makkah with open arms, establishing a sense of brotherhood and sisterhood viewed as a tangible ideal for Muslims today.
The blessed city is also called Madinah al-Munawarra - the Illuminated, or the Enlightened City - where the revelation of the Qur'an al kareem was completed, and where Allah's Most Beloved Prophet Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) shrine (rawda Mubarak) is located - near to Masjid-al Nabwi (the Prophets Mosque).
Maghazi
The military campaigns of the Beloved Prophet (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam).
Maghrib
The obligatory salaah, prayer, that is performed right after the sun sets over the horizon.
Mahr
A dowry given by the man to the woman he is about to marry. It is part of the Muslim marriage contract. It can never be demanded back under any circumstances.
Mahram (MAHRIM)
A mahram refers to the group of people who are unlawful for a woman to marry due to marital or blood relationships. These people include:
Her permanant Mahrams due to blood relationship, and those seven are: her father, her son (who passed puberty), her brother, her uncle from her father's side, her brother's son, her sister's son, and her uncle from her mother's side.
Her Radha' Mahrams due to sharing the nursing milk when she was an infant, and their status is similar to the permanent seven Mahrams (i.e. nothing can change their status).
Her (in law) Mahrams because of marriage and they are: her husband's father (father in law), her husband's son (step son), her mother's husband (step father), and her daughter's husband.
These categories of people, along with the woman's husband, form the group of allowable escorts for a Muslim woman when she travels.
Maiser
Gambling. Literally means getting something too easily.
Mujahid (mu-jah-hid)
Someone who is active and fights for Islam. A Muslim fighter. The opposite of qaideen.
Mumutma'inn (Moot-ma-een)
Mutma'inn means at peace
Murid (Moor-eed)
A murid is a disciple, one who has taken bayt (oath of allegiance) to follow a Shaykh or Pir (Spiritual teacher of tasawwuf)
Mushaf (mus-shaf))
A copy of the Qur'an al kareem
Musharakah (mush-ara-kah)
A temporary equity participation agreement between a bank and a client for effecting a certain operation within an agreed period of time. Both parties contribute to the capital of the operation in varying degree and agree to divide the net profits or losses in proportions agreed upon in advance.
Mustahab (mustahab)
Recommended, but not obligatory.
Mutasawwif (Muta-saw-weef)
A "novice" (murid) or one who "wills" to follow a spiritual teacher; also called Faqir "poor one" or world renouncing.
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Nabi (NABBI NABEE)
The meaning of the word Nabi is a Prophet. To be a Prophet he should receive a revelation from Allah that does not necessarily mean a revealed book. When a Prophet is instructed to deliver his Message to a certain group of people, he is a Messenger. It is stated in the Qur'an al kareem that there are no more Prophets and Messengers after the Most Beloved Prophet Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam).
Nifaas (nee-fus)
Means the flowing of blood after childbirth.
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Ottoman (otto-man)
The Ottoman Empire (Ottoman Turkish: دولتِ عَليه عُثمانيه, Devlet-i Aliye-i Osmaniye, literally "Ottoman Sublime State") was an imperial power, centered around the borders of the Mediterranean Sea, that existed from 1299 to 1922. At the height of its power in the 16th century, it included Anatolia, the Middle East, parts of North Africa, and much of south-eastern Europe to Caucasus. It comprised an area of about 19.9 million km², though much of it was under indirect control of the central government. The Empire was situated in the middle East and West, and interacted throughout its six-century history with both the East and the West.
It was established by a tribe of Oghuz Turks in western Anatolia and was ruled by the Osmanlı dynasty, the descendants of those Turks. The Empire was founded by Osman I (in Arabic Uthmān, عُثمَان , hence the name Ottoman Empire). In 1453, after the Ottomans captured Constantinople (modern İstanbul) (the last remnant of the Byzantine Empire), it became the Ottomans' third capital. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the Ottoman Empire was among the world's most powerful political entities, and the countries of Europe felt threatened by its steady advance through the Balkans and the southern part of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.
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Qiran (Hajj Al) (kee-ran)
'Combined Hajj'. Performing the Umrah, followed by the Hajj, without taking off the Ihram.
Qurbani (Kur-bani)
Qurbaani: Literally means "sacrifice". In Islam it refers to the sacrificing of animals solely for the pleasure of Allah Ta'ala on the day of Eid ul-Ad'haa and the two days following it.
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Ra'kat (Rakat)
An individual unit of salaah. See Rak'ah.
Rabb al-ard (Rub)
Owner of the land in Musaqah or Musaqat and Muzara'ah contracts.
S.A.A.S. / S.A.W.S.
These letters are abbreviations for the words (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam), which means : May the blessing and the peace of Allah Ta'ala be upon him.
When the name of the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah Almighty Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) is mentioned, a Muslim is to respect him and invoke this statement of 'peace upon him'. It is considered more respectful to use the full phrase (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) rather than the abbreviation S.A.W.S.
S.W.T
These letters are abbreviations for the words of "Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala". When the name of Almighty Allah is pronounced, a Muslim is to show his respect to Him by reciting this. The meaning of this statement is that Allah is purified of having partners or a son. It is considered more respectful to use the full phrase (Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala) rather than the abbreviation S.W.T.
Sa'i (Sa'ee)
The act of going back and forth seven times between Safa and Marwa which is done during the Hajj or the Umrah. It is done to symbolize Hajar's search for water for her son Ismael (alayhi asalam).
Sabirin (sabir-een)
People who are patient and steadfast.
Sabr (Sabar)
Patience, steadfastness.
Sadaq (Sad-aq)
Same meaning as mahr.
Sadaqah (Sad-daq-qah)
Anything given away in charity in the name of Allah Almighty. Literally, "righteousness." This terms refers to the voluntary giving of alms (charity). Sadaqah is distinct from zakah, which is a mandatory contribution paid yearly and calculated based on one's wealth or assets. Sadaqah can consist of any item of value, and can be provided to any needy person. The Qur'an al kareem states that God loves those who are charitable and promises great reward and forgiveness for those who give regularly to others in need.
Safa and Marwa (sa-faa / mar-waa)
Two small hills in Makkah, in Al-Haram as-Shareef (The Grand Masjid) to the east. It is an essential part of an Umrah and the Hajj to walk seven times between the two places, quickening one's step briefly between the two hills. This is called Sa'i. See Qur'an al kareem, Surah al-Baqarah (2)
Sahabah (sa-haa-bah)
A term meaning "companions," commonly used in reference to those followers of the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah Almighty Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) who were closest to him in his lifetime, kept frequent company with him, and strove to emulate his sayings and doings. The Sahabah's piety, knowledge and love for the Prophet were important factors in the perpetuation of his teachings and the painstakingly careful recording of the his hadith in the years following his death.
Sahib al-Mal (sa-hib-al-mal)
The financier in the mudharabah form of partnership agreement. Plural of Ashab al-mal. The sahib al-mal (also, rabb al-mal) provides the finance while the mudarib provides the entrepreneurship and management. There can be many ashab al-mal and mudaribs in a given muddrabah agreement.
Sahifah (Sahee-fah)
A page or manuscript.
Sahur (sa-hoor)
A light meal taken by Muslims before dawn prior to beginning the daily fast of Ramadan. Arising for this meal is an emulation of the Most Beloved of Allah Almighty Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa Sallam), since it was his practice to do so, and thus is part of his Sunnah. Commonly known as 'sehri'.
Salaat (Salaat Salaah)
Salah is an Arabic word to mean a spiritual relationship and communication between the creature and his Creator. Salah is one of the five pillars of Islam. A special communication (Salah) is to take place five times a day for a Muslim: Fajr (Dawn), Zuhr (Noon), 'Asr (Afternoon), Magrib (Sunset), and 'Ishha' (Late Night).
Salah is to be performed with mental concentration, verbal communication, vocal recitation, and physical movement to attain the spiritual uplift, peace, harmony, and concord. There is a congregational prayer on Friday noon (Salatul Jum'ah) with a sermon (Khutbah) to be delivered by a religious leader (Imam) called Khatib.
To perform Salah, a Muslim has to have ablution (Wudhu'). He/she should make sure that cleanliness of body, clothing, and place are attained before performing Salah.
Salah is not to be confused with prayer; the latter could be interpreted as supplication (Du'a).
Salafi
The word salafi or "early Muslim" in traditional Islamic scholarship means someone who died within the first four hundred years after the Beloved Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), including scholars such as Abu Hanifa, Malik, Shafi'i, and Ahmad ibn Hanbal. Anyone who died after this is one of the khalaf or "latter-day Muslims".
The term "Salafi" today has been hijacked as a guise by the modern day wahabi movement ! "Salafis" are essentially Westernized modernists striving to distance themselves from their own authentic but "messy" Islamic past in favour of an inauthentic but "hygienic" past which they identify, in youthful, revisionist fashion, with the pious Salaf.
Like similar movements that have historically appeared in Islam, its basic claim was that the religion had not been properly understood by anyone since the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) and the early Muslims--and themselves.
Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam
This is an expression that Muslims use whenever the name of the Most Beloved of Allah Almighty Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) is mentioned or written. The meaning of it is: May the blessings and the peace of Allah be upon him (Muhammad).
Another expression that is alternatively used is: Alaihis-salatu Wa'salam. This expression means: On Him (Muhammad) are the blessings and the peace of Allah.
Allah (Almighty is He) has ordered Muslims, in the Qur'an al kareem, to say such an expression. Muslims are informed that if they proclaim such a statement once, Allah will reward them ten times.
Sama (Sa maa)
Sama, "audition/hearing".. recitations (mystical poetry, Qur'an,) which leads to 'wajd' - "trance"
Saqifah (sakeefah)
A shelter with a roof. The companions of the the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah, Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) met in a Saqifah in Madinah to pledge their loyalty to Hadrat Sayyadina Abu Bakr Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu after the passing away of the Beloved of Allah (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) .
Sawm (so-um)
Sawm refers to the daily fast Muslims undertake during the month of Ramadan, and is one of the "five pillars" of Islam. For Muslims, fasting means total abstinence from all food, drink, and marital sexual relations from dawn to sunset. Muslims fast for many reasons, including to build a sense of will-power against temptation, to feel compassion for less fortunate persons, and to re-evaluate their lives in spiritual terms.
Sayyad (syed, sayed, sayyid)
Literal meaning : leader or chief. Sayyad refers to someone from the noble family, lineage, descendancy of the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah Almighty, Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam)
Shahadah (sha-haa-duh)
An Arabic word meaning "witnessing," Shahadah refers to the declaration of faith ("La-Ilaha-Illa-Lah Muhammadur-Rasul-Allah") which all Muslims take as their creed - namely, that there is no deity but God and that Muhammad is the Messenger of God. The Shahadah constitutes the first of the "five pillars" of Islam.
Shaheed (shahid)
Means a *martyr or witness. &Someone who dies in the way of Allah.
Shaikh (SHEIKH)
The word Shaikh is a title for an elderly religious scholar or spiritual guide. See Shaykh.
Shaitan (SHAITAAN)
Shaitan (Satan) is the source of evil in the world. The plural name is Shayatin. He always tries to misguide and mislead people. The Qur'an al kareem states that Satan is not an angel but a member of the Jinn. His other name is Iblis.
When Allah (Exalted is He) created Adam (alayhi asalam), He ordered the angels as well as Iblis to prostrate for Adam (alayhi asalam). They all obeyed the order of Allah (alayhi asalam) except Iblis. His argument was that Allah created Adam (alayhi asalam) from clay and Iblis from the flame of fire. Accordingly, Iblis thought that he was better than Adam (alayhi asalam). Hence, Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) told him that he will dwell in Hell. Iblis asked Allah for a postponement until the hereafter. Allah Almighty granted his request. Iblis swore that he would mislead and misguide all the people except those sincere and devoted worshipers of Allah. Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) told him that only the misguided ones would follow him and that He would fill Hell with him and his followers.
Shari'ah (sha-ree-ah)
The root of this word is Shara'a; and some other names of it are Shar', Shir'ah and Tashri'. The Shari'ah is the revealed and the canonical laws of the religion of Islam. Literally "the path," this term refers to guidance from God to be used by Muslims to regulate their societal and personal affairs. The Shari'ah is based upon the Qur'an al kareem and the Sunnah of the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah Almighty Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam), and is interpreted by scholars in deliberating and deciding upon questions and issues of a legal nature.
Sharikah (sha-rik-ah)
The term is used for joint-stock companies and corporations as well, but is qualified with an adjective to indicate its nature. Thus, sharikah musahamah for a public limited company or a corporation whose capital has been subscribed to by the general public.
Sharikat 'ammah
A partnership in which each partner is a general attorney for the other partner; a partnership that permits trading in all types of goods.
Sharikat al- 'inan
A basic contract of partnership based on agency in which participation may either be on the basis of wealth or labor or credit-worthiness, and in which, equality of contribution or legal capacity is not necessary.
Sharikat al-abdan
Another name for sharikat al-a'mal.
Sharikat al-amwal
A partnership in which participation is based on the contribution of wealth by all partners, but the partnership has to be of the type 'indn or mufdwadah.
Sharikat al-jabr
Mandatory co-ownership created by an act of law, like inheritance.
Sharikat al-mafalis
A partnership between persons, whose assets have been reduced to copper coins and who have to buy on the basis of credit-worthiness; see sharikat al-wujuh.
Sharikat al-Wujuh
Partnership based on credit-worthiness of the partners in which the ratio of profit and loss is based on the liability borne, but the partnership has to be of the type 'inan or mufawadah.
Sharikat al-zimam
It is a term used by the Malikis to indicate a situation, where two or more persons are buying goods on credit. It is different from the Hanafi sharikat al-wujuh insofar as it requires the physical presence of all the partners at the time of purchase.
Sharikat khassah
Partnership for a single venture or for trading in a particular item; partnership in which each partner is a special attorney of the other partner.
Shaykh
Shaykh (Pir in Persian). A spiritual guide of an order. Each order takes name from a "master," "teacher" or "healer" part of *silsala*, or "chain" of traditional teacher-student realtionships. Also now commonly associated with a religious scholar in a community.
Shi'a (shee-ah)
Literally, "party" or "partisans," this term designates those Muslims who believe that the rightful successor to the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah Almighty Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) should have been Hadrat Ali ibn Abi Talib Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu, rather than the first caliph Hadrat Abu Bakr as-SadiqRadi Allahu ta'ala anhu. Shi'a Muslims may be found mainly in Iran, Iraq but also in some areas of Afghanistan, Lebanon, Syria, and some Gulf States. The largest group in Shi'ism believes that Hadrat Ali Radi Allahu ta'ala anhu was the first of twelve Imams, and that the last one continues to exist, albeit miraculously and in a state of occultation (concealment from human view).There are numerous other sub-sects of shi'a Muslims from mildy moderate to very extreme compared to mainstream traditional Sunni Islam.
Shirikat al- 'aqd
A partnership created through contract as opposed to co-ownership that may be the result of a joint purchase or agreement or it may result from inheritance or from some other legal situation.
Shirk (sherk)
Literally, "association," this term is commonly used to mean association of something other than God with God. For Muslims, God is Absolute, Complete, and Self-Sufficient. To set anything alongside or in place of God as Reality is to commit the sin of association, which is the only sin that God does not forgive, according to the Qur'an al kareem. Thus, paganism, or even atheism, are viewed as expressions of shirk.
Shirkah (shirk-ah)
Partnership between two or more persons, whereby unlike mudarabah, all of them have a share in finance as well as entrepreneurship and management, though not necessarily equally.
Shukuk (shookuk)
Check, certificate of debt, certificates of investment; plural of Shak.
Shura (shoora)
Consultation.
Shurut (shoo-rut)
Terms and conditions in Islamic law.
Sin al-bulugh
This is the age of maturity and puberty. It is the age at which the Muslims are considered an adult and becomes accountable for his/her duties in Islam. There is no fixed age for that in terms of years and it is decided by three signs: having a menstruation, period or pregnancy for girls, and being physically mature or having a wet dream for boys, growing pubic hair, or reaching the age of fifteen, whichever comes first.
Sin at-tamyiz
This is the age of distinguishing. This age is used in Fiqh to decide the age before which the mother has the right to keep the child after divorce. It varies from one person to another. The age is reached when the child can take care of himself or herself and no longer needs an adult to help him eat, get dressed, and clean himself or herself. In the school of thought of Imam al-A'zam Abu Hanifah Rehmatullahi ta'ala ’Alaih, it is seven years for the boy and nine years for the girl. The girl is given longer time so that she can learn more of the habits of women.
Sirah (SEERAH)
The writings of the companions of the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah Almighty Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) about him, his personality, his life story. and his ways of handling different situations is called Sirah. The famous collections of the Sirah are At-Tabari, Ibn Ishaq, and Ibn Hisham.
The Sirah is a source of reference that Muslims rely on in their daily life situations and problems.
Sirwal (SARWAL)
Long under garment worn by Arabs and many Asians.
Siwak (see-wak)
A piece of a branch or root of a tree that is used as a toothbrush. Also called a miswak.
Subha (soob-ha)
Tasbih (subha) "rosary" used as prayer beads used to count repetitions (33 or 99 for Names)... Three types of repetition, daily after at least two of the five required prayers, a) 33 repetitions of Subhan Allah (Glory to God), b) al-hamdu l'illah (Praise be to God), and c) Allahu akbar (God is great)..."said from the heart"
Subhan-Allah (SOOB-HAN-ALLAH)
Subhan-Allah means Glory to God
Subhanahu wa Ta'ala (soobh-anahu-wa-ta'ala)
This is an expression that Muslims use whenever the name of Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) is pronounced or written. The meaning of this expression is: Allah is pure of having partners and He is Exalted from having a son.
Muslims believe that Allah is the only God, the Creator of the Universe. He does not have partners or children. Sometimes Muslims use other expressions when the name of Allah is written or pronounced. Some of which are:'Azza Wa Jall: He is the Mighty and the Majestic; Jalla Jalaluh: He is the exalted Majestic.
Suffah (SOOF-FAH)
A raised platform that was used by the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah Almighty Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) as a welcomming point for newcomers or destitute people. It was part of his masjid.
Sufi (soo-fee)
"SUFI"... a follower of the mystical path, those who seek experience of the tawhid ... the term applies only to the most advanced practitioners. One who endeavors to achieve direct inward knowledge of God through adherence to various spiritual doctrines and methods. These may include dhikr, na'at shareef, reciting other religious expressions, living an austere lifestyle, and participating in various spiritual gatherings usually formed around a spiritual master with the title of Shaykh. Historically, Sufis have been grouped into organizations known as tariqahs. The four main tariqahs of the Ahl as-Sunnah w'al Jama'ah are Qadiriyah, Chistiyah, Naqshbandiya and Suhrawardiya. There are other sub-tariqahs but those are the four main ones.
Sufi Orders
Sufi Orders - there many different orders, or "brotherhoods" (turuq, sg. ta'ifa "association or order").
Sufism (soof-ism)
The spiritual path and lifestyle inherited from the time of the Most Beloved Prophet Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam). Sufis adopted by some Muslims (known as sufis), rather than a distinct branch of Islam. Sufism holds that direct and intimate knowledge of God can be achieved through spiritual discipline, exertion, and austerity. Essentially, Sufism is seen as an "inward" path of communion with God, complementing the Shari'ah, or "outward" religious law.
Suhuf (suhoof)
Pages or manuscripts.
Sujud (SOOJUD)
The root of those word is Sajada which means that a person makes prostration to Allah in his daily prayers. While in the position of Sujud, a Muslim is to praise Almighty Allah and glorify him.
During the position of Sujud, a Muslim is to make sure that his/her forehead , nose, hands, knees, and toes, are all touching the floor.
Sunnah (soon-nah)
In general, the word Sunnah means habit, practice, customary procedure, or action, norm and usage sanctioned by tradition. In specific, any time the word Sunnah is mentioned, it is to refer to the Most Beloved Prophet Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam). Here it means his sayings, practices, living habits. The Hadith are reports on the Sunnah. The two major legal sources of jurisprudence in Islam are the Qur'an al kareem and the Sunnah.
The Sunnah may confirm what is mentioned in Qur'an al kareem, interpret and explain it, specify what is meant by some general verses, limit and restrict the meaning of some verse in it, or may explain something that has been revealed in Qur'an al kareem.
The Sunnah has a high authority in Islam; and Allah Almighty in many places in the Qur'an al kareem orders the Muslims to obey follow the teachings of the Most Beloved Prophet Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam).
Sunni (soon-nee)
Sunni is short for one who is with or follows the Ahl as-Sunnah w'al Jama'at. The Ahl as-Sunnat Wal Jama'at is the largest group of Muslims in the world today and the only group whose beliefs and teachings are truly in accordance with the Noble Qur'an and Sunnah of the Most Beloved Prophet of Allah Almighty Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala alayhi wa aalihi wa Sallam).
The Sunni's also strongly believe in the love and reverence of all the Ahl al-Bayt (Family of the Prophet), of the Sahaba-e-kiram or Noble Companions of the Most Beloved Prophet (Salla Allahu alaihi wa Sallam) and the Salf-e-Saliheen (our great pious predecessors). The Sunni's believe in the four rightly guided Caliphs, the (Madhabs) four main Schools of thought, and the utmost respect for the Awliya-Allah (Freinds of Allah), of all the saints and walis.
Today Sunnis comprise the majority of Muslims, numbering approximately about 85-90% of the total worldwide Muslim population.
Sukr
Sukr - "Intoxication" of Fana' school, new life in God is one of ecstatic union, joy and wonder.
Surah (soo-rah)
A distinct chapter of the Qur'an al kareem, designated by a title. An individual verse within a surah is called an ayah. The Qur'an al kareem is comprised of 114 surahs of varying lengths.
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Tafsir (tuf-seer)
Any kind of explanation, but especially a commentary on the Qur'an al kareem. Translations of the Qur'an al kareem from Arabic into other languages such as Spanish, Urdu, or English are considered tafsirs of the Qur'an, since only the original Arabic text actually constitutes the content of the Qur'an al kareem.
Tariqah (TAR-EE-QAH)
... in Islam, the "spiritual path"
Tayammum (tay-am-mum)
Dry ablution. Literally tayammum means "aim, purpose." In Islamic law, it refers to "aiming for or seeking soil to wipe one's face and hands with the intention of preparing oneself to pray, and so on." .
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Yathrib (yuth-rib)
The former name of Madinah, the city in northern Arabia to which Allah's Most Beloved Prophet, Hadrat Muhammad Mustafa (Salla Allahu ta'ala 'alayhi wa Sallam) migrated from Makkah in 622 CE.
Yawm ad-Deen (yowm-ad-deen)
Literally "Day of Faith," one of several Arabic terms for Judgement Day. See Day of Judgement.
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