A

`Aadah Custom, practice. A local custom which is not in conflict with the Qur'an or the Sunnah (qv.) is admissible as part of Islamic law.

‘Abd servant, worshipper, slave. Muslims consider themselves servants and slaves of Allah. Common Muslim names such as Abdullah (Servant of Allah), Abdul-Malik (Slave of the King), Abdur-Rahmān (Slave of the most Beneficent), Abdus-Salām (Slave of Peace), all refer to names of Allah.

Abaa wass stakbara ma' al-tasdeeq (al-Kufr) A major disbelief. Refusing to bow to Allah due to pride, even though acknowledging the Divine Truth. It is the type of Kufr that Iblis committed.

Abada For ever.

Abu Al-Qasim It is the Kunya of the Prophet Muhammad (saw). It is prohibited to have the Kunya of the Prophet (saw) at the same time having his name (i.e Abu Al-Qasim Muhammad) See Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 205,book 73, Vol.8 Sahih Muslim, Kitab-ul Adab.

A.H. (Anno Hegirae -In the year of the Hijra) means After Hijrah. It is the reference used in the Islamic calendar, instead of A.D. which is used in the Christian calendar. The Islamic calendar starts from the year Prophet Muhammad (saw) emigrated from the city of Makkah to Madinah, in July 16th 622 C.E.

'Ad An ancient tribe that lived after the Prophet Nooh (Noah)(as) in the village of Ahqaf in the Yemen. It was a very prosperous tribe, but was rebellious against Allah Subhana wa Ta'ala and their Prophet Houd (as). So Allah Ta'ala destroyed it with a fatal westerly windstorm (Ad-Dabour). See Holy Qur'an, Houd (11):50-60.

Adab Traditionally describes good manners, as in etiquette. For example, being courteous is good adab. However, the term can be used very broadly, and the proper translation would be "the proper way to go about something," as in the example, Aadaab al Qitaal, or, "The Proper Way of Fighting in War," (Qitaal in Arabic means mortal combat) in which the word "etiquette" does not befit the context.

Adhan The call for the daily prayers are called Adhan. The person who calls the Adhan is called a Mu'adhin. A Mu'adhin calls the Adhan five times a day before Muslims are to perform their daily Salah (Prayer). The Adhan is composed of specific words and phrases to be recited loudly in the Arabic language so that the neighbors can recognize the time schedule for the prayers. Sometimes alternatively spelled and pronounced Azaan and Adhaan.

'Adhaab Punishment, especially the punishment for failing to obey Allah Ta'ala. See Qur'an, Aali 'Imran (3):106.

Adhkhar A special type of good scented grass found in the Hijaz area of the Arabian Peninsula. Also known as Idhkhir.

‘Adl Justice, equilibrium especially distributive justice: social, economic, political, environmental.

'Afareet Evil jinns who are large, powerful and very crafty. (sing ifreet) See Qur'an, An-Naml (27):39.

Afwu (Al-'Afuwwo) The Forgiver or Pardoner, in the sense of obliterating the memory of wrongdoings from one's mind. One of the ninety-nine attributes of Allah Ta' ala. See Maghfirah.

Aḥad literally "one." Islamically, ahad means One Alone, unique, none like Allah. Al-Wahid is one of the names of Allah.

Ahaadeeth (sing hadeeth) The verbalized form of a tradition of the Prophet, peace be on him, constitutive of his Sunnah. A hadeeth narrative is divided into two parts: the isnaad (chain of transmission) and the matn (content of the narrative).

Aḥkām rulings and orders of the Qu'ran and Sunnah. In Islam, orders are subdivided into six distinct categories:

1.   Compulsory, (Fard) = severe punishment if disobeyed. This takes two forms:
(a) Fard 'ain = compulsory on every person, e.g. Salat.
(b) Fard kifaya = compulsory on at least one person in the community, e.g. Salat al-Janaza.

2. Necessary but not compulsory (Wajib), e.g. Salat al-Juma'.

3. Recommended but not compulsory (Mustahab), e.g. Sunnah prayers, Sadaqa.

4. Legal and allowed (Halal), e.g. eating good food, marriage.

5. Disapproved of, but not forbidden (Makrouh)

6. Forbidden (Muharram, Haram), e.g. Zina (fornication and adultery).

Ahl al-Bait literally means 'the people of the house', a polite form of addressing the members of the family, including husband and wife. Members of Muhammad's Household.The words occur in the Qur’an when angels came to give glad tidings to Prophet Abraham (as) of a son at an old age. See Surah Houd (11:73).

Ahl al-Dimmah (Dhimmis) are the non-Muslim subjects of an Islamic state who have been guaranteed protection of their rights- life, property and practice of their religion, etc.

Ahl al Dhikr Literally, people of remembrance. Refers to true scholars whose knowledge springs from and is steeped in the remembrance of God.

Ahl al-Hadith Refers to the group of scholars in Islam who pay relatively greater importance to 'traditions' authenticated sayings of the Prophet than to other sources of Islamic doctrine such as qiyas, and tend to interpret the traditions more literally and rigorously. and who are wary of using independent reasoning (ra'ee) in making juristic judgments. Used in contradistinction to ahl al ra'ee (ra'i). The term has also come to be used lately for a group of Muslims who are close to the Hanbali school in theology, and claim to follow no single school on legal matters.

Ahl al Sunnah Literally, people of the Sunnah. Refers to the vast majority of Muslims who follow the Sunnah of the Prophet and the precedents of his rightly-guided successors. Used in contradistinction to the Shee`ah who believed that `Alee, the Prophet's cousin and son-in-law, should have been his immediate successor. Ahl al Sunnah wa al Jamaa`ah - the community united behind the Sunnah of the Prophet. The saved sect.

Ahlul-Fatrah people who live in ignorance of the teachings of a revealed religion, but according to the "Fitra", the "Natural Religion" innate to human nature as created by Allah.

Ahl al-Kitab literally 'People of the Book,' refers to the followers of Divine Revelation before the advent of the Prophet Muhammad (saw). Jews and Christians.

Ahlul Kitab wa sunnah Literally means "the People of the Book (the Holy Qur'an) and the sayings and traditions, (the Sunnah of Muhammad saw)". This refers to the people who strive to follow exactly the teachings of the Qur'an and Muhammad (saw) without any deviations.

Ahwat is a precaution. This can be obligatory or optional as ruled by the Mujtahid.

Al-Akhirah (After-Life, Hereafter, Next World). The term embraces the following ideas.
That man is answerable to God.
That the present order of existence will some day come to an end.
That when that happens, Allah will bring another order into being in which He will resurrect all human beings, gather them together and examine their conduct, and reward them with justice and mercy.
That those who are reckoned good will be sent to Paradise whereas the evil-doers will be consigned to Hell.
That the real measure of success or failure of a person is not the extent of his prosperity in the present life, but his success in the Next.

Ajal Appointed time. In Islamic terminology it refers to the (appointed) time of death. Allah Ta'ala says in the Qur'an that He will not, (and therefore no-one else can), alter the time of someone's death. Muslims reject such statements as "the doctor saved his life", or "he would have lived longer in..". Such statements are made by those who do not believe in Allah or do not have the understanding of the necessity to believe in Allah, thus exposing themselves to Shirk (associating partners with Allah), by believing and saying that the power over life and death is within human capability.

Ajza Parts. The Holy Qur'an is divided into thirty parts. Singular: Juz.

Akala Literally means "ate". In Islamic theology, it usually means:
1.   Devouring what is forbidden, whether it be mental, moral, social, physical or spiritual. See Holy Qur' an, Al-Maida (5):69.
2.   Spiritual "eating" of the good things in the Hereafter in Jannah (Paradise). See Holy Qur' an, Ar-Ra'd (13)35.

Akbar (Shirk Al Akbar) Major Shirk. This is divided into four categories:
1.   Shirk Ad-Du'a.

2.   Shirk al-Niyyah wal Iraada wal Qasd.

3.   Shirk al-Ta'a.

4.   Shirk al-Muhabbah.

For full explanation see Shirk .

Akhlāq The practice of virtue. Morals.

al`Aamm The `general' as opposed to the `particular' (al khaass). Terms used by jurists in the complex matter of extracting laws from statements composed as codal propositions. Islamic scholarship called `general' (al `aamm) the term which comprehends a plurality, and distinguished two varieties of it - generality in the term itself and generality in the meanings to which the term may refer.

‘Ālamīn Literally "worlds", humankind, jinn, angels and all that exists.
 
Al-arsh The Throne of Allah al-Malik al-Qudus al-Aziz al-Hakeem. See Surah Ta-Ha (20)5. The 'Arsh is the immense starless heaven that encompasses the visible Universe, which is referred to as the Kursi. 'Ali (ra) said that the relationship of the Kursi to the 'Arsh is like that of a small ring lying in the middle of a vast desert. This is why 'Arsh is correctly translated as 'Throne' and Kursi as 'Seat or 'Foot-stool', although sometimes those who are unaware of the existence and nature of the Arsh translate Kursi as 'Throne'.

al-Aqsa Masjid-ul-Aqsa (The Farthest Mosque) in Jerusalem, often known as the Dome of the Rock.

Alayhis Salam (as) "Peace be upon him" This expression normally follows after naming a prophet (other than Muhammad –saw-), or one of the noble Angels (i.e. Jibreel [Gabriel], Mikaeel [Michael], etc.)

Al-ghurru al-muhajjalun A name that will be given to those Muslims who, on the Day of Resurrection, will have parts of their bodies shining due to their perfect ablution practices. See Sahih Bukhari 138, book 4, Vol.1.

Alif lam mim Abbreviated letters, called al-Muqatta' at, revealed at the start of certain Surah of the Qur'an.

Al-Juhfa Miqat (a measure of weight for weighing gold in this world and deeds on the Day of Judgment in the next world) of the people of Shaam.

al-Khulafa-ur-Rashidun The rightly guided Khalifahs. The first four successors to the leadership role of the Prophet Muhammad (saw). They were Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman and Ali. (May Allah be pleased with them).

Al-kursi The Seat of Allah, al-Hayyu al-Qayoum. The size of His Seat extends over all the heavens and earth. Even though it is such a huge creation, it is still much smaller than the 'Arsh (the Throne) of Allah Ta'ala. Surah 2 ayah 255 is called Ayatul Kursi. See also 'Arsh.

al-Madinah Madinatu'n-Nabi (The city of the Prophet). The name given to Yathrib after the Prophet Muhammad (saw) migrated there in 622 CE and founded the first Islamic state.

Ahl ar-ra'y means people of opinion. It is refers to people that are consulted on Islamic matters. These people are highly learned in Islam.

Ahmad is another name of Muhammad (saw). See Qur’an, As-Saff (61:6). See Muhammad for more details.

Ahzab means parties. Ahzab is used to describe the different tribes that fought the Muslims in the Battle of the Ditch in 627 C.E., 5 A.H..

Al-asharatu mubashshirun (bil-Jannah) the ten people that were given the glad tidings of assurance of entering Paradise. They were Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, Ali, Abdur Rahman ibn Awf, Abu Ubaydah ibn al-Jarrah, Talhah ibn Ubaydullah, az-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam, Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas, Sa'id ibn Zayd.

Al-hamdu lillahi rabbil 'alamin This is a verse from the Qur'an that Muslims recite and say many times per day. Other than being recited daily during prayers, a Muslim reads this expression in every activity of his daily life. The meaning of it is: "Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds." A Muslim invokes the praises of Allah before he does his daily work; and when he finishes, he thanks Allah for His favors. A Muslim is grateful to Allah for all His blessings. It is a statement of thanks, appreciation, and gratitude from the creature to his Creator.

Alim (pl. Ulamah) a learned person in Islam, scholar; An Islamic religious scholar. One who knows. A scholar (in any field of knowledge); a scientist (who knows science) or a theologian (who knows religion).

Allah The true name for the creator of the Universe is Allah. It is an Arabic word of rich and varied meaning, denoting the one who is adored in worship, who creates all that exists, who has priority over all creation, who is lofty and hidden, who confounds all human understanding.

It is exactly the same word as, in Hebrew, the Jews use for God (Eloh), the word which Jesus Christ used in Aramaic when he prayed to God. God has an identical name in Judaism, Christianity and Islam; Allah is the same God worshipped by Muslims, Christians and Jews. "He is God, the One God, Independent and Sought by all; He begets not, nor is He begotton, and there is none like unto Him."

(The Holy Qur'an, Surah Al-Ikhlas) Islam teaches that all faiths have, in essence, one common message: the existence of a Supreme Being, the one and only God, whose sovereignty is to be acknowledged in worship and in the pledge to obey His teaching and commandments, conveyed through His messengers and prophets who were sent at various times and in many places throughout history. He is the Merciful, the Beneficent, the Knowledgeable, the Protector, the Mighty, the God, the Provider, the Exalted, the Lord, the All-Knowing, the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing, the Magnificent, the Wise, the Loving, the First, the Last, and the Eternal.

The Qur'an mentions around 100 beautiful names for Allah through which Muslims may understand and recognize Him, and His responsibilities for the whole Universe.

Allahu akbar This statement is said by Muslims numerous times. During the call for prayer, during prayer, when they are happy, and wish to express their approval of what they hear, when they slaughter an animal, and when they want to praise a speaker,

Muslims do say this expression of Allahu Akbar. Actually it is most said expression in the world. Its meaning: "Allah is the Greatest." Muslims praise Allah in every aspect of life; and as such they say Allahu Akbar.

Allahumma "O Allah."

Allah ta'ala Allah the Exalted. See Subhana hu wa Ta'ala.

Amānah the trust. Of all creation, only human beings carry the "trust", which is free will.

Amin (Aamin, Aameen, Amen) a supplication meaning, "O God, accept our invocation!" And also means custodian or guardian. Someone who is loyal or faithful.

Amir means leader or commander.

Amir al-mumineen means commander of the believers. This title was given to the Khalifah. Title of the leader of the Islamic dominion after the death of Prophet Muhammad (saw).

Al Amr Bi'l Maruf Islamic doctrine of enjoining right. The full version is "Amr bill Ma'roofwa nahi 'anil Munkar", (enjoining the good and forbidding the evil.

Anbiyaa (Al) "The Prophets". Surah 21 of the Qur' an.

Ansaab Idols. See Qur'an, Al-Baqara 2/219.

Ansar means helpers. These were the people of Madinah who responded to the Prophet's call to Islam and offered Islam a city-state power and Muslims of Madina who helped the Muhajirin (immigrants) of Makka in the process of the latter's settling down in the new environment.

Aqabah a place just outside of Mecca, in Mina where the first Muslims from Yathrib Madinah pledged allegiance to the Prophet in the year 621 C.E.. A similar meeting took place the next year when more Muslims from Yathrib pledged their allegiance to the Prophet.

'Aqeeda (‘Aqīdah pl ‘aqaaid) literally means The Islamic creed; belief. In Islamic terms, it means the following six articles of faith:

1.   Belief in Allah.
(a) He is the Lord and Creator of all that there is.
(b) He is the True God and all other deities are false.
(c) He is One, and has no associates (sons or otherwise).
4.   He alone has the knowledge of the Unseen and of the Hour.
5.   In His Names and Attributes.
6.   He never came down to earth in any shape or form.
7.   He is Everlasting, He did not beget nor was He begotten, and He is not like anything.
2.   His Mala'ikah (angels).
1.   They are His honored servants.
2.   They act only by His command.
3.   They are made out of light ( Nur ).
4.   They obey all of Allah's commands.
5.   All angels are good and incapable of wrong doing. (We do not believe in the notion of a "fallen angel".)
6.   They may be seen by some men only by Allah's consent.
3.   His Revealed Books.
1.   He has sent down books with every messenger.
2.   The original books of Allah that were sent to the Prophets Abraham, Moses, David and Jesus no longer exist in their original form. We believe only in the original Taurat (Torah), Zaboor (Psalms) and Ingeel (Gospel).
3.   The Holy Qur'an that was revealed to the Seal of the Prophets, Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, is the only perfect book of Allah that is free from corruption and is a true source of light for all mankind.
4.   His Rusull (Messengers).
1.   The Messengers of Allah Ta'ala include Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, Abraham, Noah, Jesus, Moses, peace be on them all.
2.   All messengers are human beings.
3.   Muhammad's message encompasses and abrogates all the messages of all the other messengers, since Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, is the last Messenger and the Holy Qur'an is the Last Message from Allah before the end of the world.
5.   Belief in the Day of Judgment.
1.   In the Final Day, which is the Day of Judgment.
2.   There will be no intercessors except by Allah's leave.
3.   Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, will be given permission to intercede on behalf of all those who believed in Allah and the Last Day and who submitted their will to Him, that is, those who are "Muslims" (Muslim = One who submits his or her will to Almighty Allah).
4.   Heaven is for the believers and Hell is for the rejecters.
5.   Our book of deeds will be given to us in our right or left hand (to the believers and unbelievers respectively).
6.   Belief in Fate and the Divine Decree.
1.   In fate, whether good or bad, which Allah has measured and ordained for all His creatures.
2.   His decree cannot be changed except by His leave.
3.   Allah has granted man the free will to choose between good and evil. Thus, there is no excuse for wrong action in the sight of Allah Ta'ala.
4.   All that is to happen until the Day of Judgement is already written down on the Lauh al-Mahfudh.

Aqiqah  Islamic practice of shaving the head of the new born male and contributing the weight in silver for charity as well as 2 lambs for a baby boy. One lamb is slaughtered for a baby girl.

‘Aql Intelligence, intellect, mind, understanding.

Arkan singular rukn The five rukn "pillars" of Islam. 
1.   Shahadatain, bearing witness. All Muslims must believe in and utter the Shahadatain.
o   The First Shahada is: Ashhadu an la illaha illal'lah. (I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah.)
o   The Second Shahada: Ashhadu anna Muhammadar Rasoolullah. (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.) Singular: Shahada = bearing witness. Dual: Shahadatain = bearing witness.
2.   Salat, prayers. To perform all the five compulsory daily Salat (prayers) regularly in the exact manner as was practised by the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.
3.   Seeaam, fasting. Also spelled as Saum. To fast in the month of Ramadan.
4.   Zakat, wealth dues. To pay 2.5% of one's yearly savings o the poor and needy Muslims. The Zakat is compulsory on all Muslims who have saved (at least) the equivalent of 85g of 24 carat gold at the fime when the annual Zakat payment is due. Zakat is also due on other things such as silver, animals, crops, etc. For full explanation on Zakat refer to the relevant books written on the subject.
5.   Hajj, pilgrimage. To perform the pilgrimage to the Holy City of Makkah at least once in one's lifetime (if one is able to afford it)

Araak (Al) A tree from which Siwak is made. See Siwak.

Al-A`rab signifies the bedouin -whether of the desert or the countryside- in the vicinity of Madina. For a long time they had followed a policy of opportunism with regard to the conflict between Islam and unbelief. However, as Islam established its sway over the greater part of Hijaz and Najd and the power of the tribes hostile to Islam began to weaken, they saw their interests lay in entering the fold of Islam. For details see Surah 9.

Al-Baqi' A cemetry in Madinah. Many of the Sahabiyeen (companions) and family members of the Prophet (S.A.W.) are buried here.

Al-Uzza  has been identified with Venus, but it was worshipped under the form of an acacia tree, and was the deity of the Ghatfan tribe.

Arafat a plain about 25 kilometers east of Makkah al-Mukaramah. It is on this plain that humanity will be raised on the Day of Judgment for questioning and judgment. During the Hajj on the ninth day of the month of Zhu-l-Hijjah, Muslim pilgrims gather on this plain for one day; staying there from mid-day to sunset is the essence of the Hajj.

'Areem May be translated as dams or embankments. The 'Areme (dam) that is referred to in Surah 34/16 is the Maarib Dam whose traces still exist in Yemen.

Asabiyyah means tribal loyalty, nationalism.

Asbaab al Nuzool The causes or the circumstances and events surrounding a particular revelation of the Qur'an. It is the specific reason and circumstances for the revelation of various verses of the Qur'an. Knowledge of the asbaab al nuzool helps provide an understanding of the original context and intent of a particular revelation. This knowledge is necessary for determining the ratio legist of a ruling and whether, for example, the meaning of the revelation is of a specific or of general application.

Asghar (Kufr Al) A minor disbelief. Being unappreciative of what Allah Ta'ala has provided. See Kufr.

Asghar (Shirk Al) A minor Shirk:

1.   Shirk ar-Rea'. It is carrying out a religious act for worldly gains and not for the pleasure of Allah. For example, giving Zakat (charity) for the sake of fame or praise.

2.   Shirk At-Tasmee':

(a) Swearing by other than Allah.
(b) To say: "I depend on Allah and you."
(c) To depend on any man.
(d) To say: "Oh Allah, by the honor of Muhammad (or other than him) do such and such for me."
(e) Any belief, saying or action that might lead to al-Shirk al-Akbar (major Shirk). See Shirk.

Ashab al-A`raf (Heights) will be the people who are neither righteous enough to enter Paradise nor wicked enough to be cast into Hell. They will, therefore, dwell at a place situated between the two.

Ashab Al-Maimana Literally means "companions of the Right", the righteous people. On the Day of Resurrection, Allah Ta'ala will sort out the good and the evil. They will be divided into three groups:

1.   Muqarraboon - the exalted class, those who are nearest to Allah Ta'ala.

2.   Ashab al-Maimana - the righteous people, those who are destined to enter Jannah (Paradise).

3.   Ashab al-Mash'ama - literally means "companions of the Left"; these people will be the inheritors of the Nar (Hellfire).
For full explanations of: Muqarraboon, see Surah Al-Waqi'ah (56):11-26; Ashab al-Maimana, see Surah 56:27-40. Ashab al-Mash 'ama, see Surah Al-Waqi'ah (56):41-56.

Ashab Al-Mash'ama Literally means "Companions of the Left", the evil-doers. These people will he the companions of the Nar (Hellfire) on the Day of Resurrection. For full explanation: See Ashab al-Maimana . See Holy Qur'an, Al-Wa qi'a 56/41-56.

Ashabul Aika Dwellers of the wood. Another name for the Midianites. See Madyan . See Holy Qur'an, Al-Hijr (15):78, Al-Shu'ara (26):176-191.

Ashraful Mursaleen The most honored of all the prophets. One of the titles of the Prophet Muhammad (saw).

Ashab al-Suffah consisted of about three or four hundred Companions who spent most of their time in the company of the Prophet (saw). They acquired knowledge and had dedicated themselves completely to serving Islam.

Asiya The wife of Fir'aun (Pharaoh). She is one of the four greatest created females, the other three being:

1.   Mariam (Mary), may Allah be pleased with her, the mother of the Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be on him.

2.   Khadijah ,may Allah be pleased with her, the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.

3.   Fatima, may Allah be please with her, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.

Aslaha Reformed, mended, corrected, improved ways of behaviour. See Holy Qur' an, Al-Anbiyaa (21):90.

Asma wa Sifaat (Tawheed Al) Unity of Names and Attributes of Allah Ta'ala. To believe that:

1.   None can qualify or name Allah except as He or the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, named or qualified Him.
2.   None can be named or qualified with the Names of the Attributes that belong only to Allah Subhana wa Ta'ala. For example, none may be called 'Al-Muhyee" (the Giver of Life) except for Allah Subhana wa Ta'ala Himself.

3.   We must believe in all the Ayat and Ahadeeth (Sahih) regarding the Attributes of Allah without altering their meaning in any way whatsoever.
See Tawheed .

Al-Asma al-Husna literally meaning the 'most excellent names' used of God, express His greatness and paramountcy, holiness, purity, and the perfection and absoluteness of all His attributes.

Assalamu alaikum This is an expression Muslims say whenever they meet one another. It is a statement of greeting with peace. The meaning of it is: "Peace be upon you." Muslims try to establish peace on earth even through the friendly relation of greeting and meeting one another. The other forms are: "Assalamu 'Alalikum Wa Rahmatullah," which means: "May the peace and the Mercy of Allah be upon you," and "Assalamu Alalikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh," which means: "May the peace, the mercy, and the blessings of Allah be upon you."

Asl (pl. usool)   Root, origin, source; principle.

Aslim Taslam "Submit to Islam"

Asr the late afternoon obligatory Salah, the third compulsory Prayer of the day. It can be prayed between mid-afternoons and a little before sunset. It is also the name of Surah 103 of the Holy Qur’an and also means "era".

As-Siddiq "The Truthful". This title was given to Abu Bakr (ra) by the Prophet Muhammad (saw). When the Prophet Muhammad (saw) related his experience of al-Isra (his night journey to the Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem) wal Mi'raj (and his ascension through the seven heavens) to Abu Bakr (ra) he immediately and without any reservation replied "Sadaqt": "You have spoken the truth". From that time on, Abu Bakr (ra) came to be known as Abu Bakr as-Siddiq.

Aṣ-Ṣirāṭ   The bridge on which judgement of where a person's Akhira (afterlife) will lie is passed.

‘Āshūrā’ Tenth day of the month of Muharram. It is the day Allah saved Moses and the children of Israel from the Pharaoh. The grandson of the prophet Muhammad, Imam Hussayn sacrificed his life along with 72 of his companions on the sand dunes of Karbala. Scholars recommended to fast during this day.
Astaghfirullah This is an expression used by a Muslim when he wants to ask Allah forgiveness. The meaning of it is: "I ask Allah forgiveness." A Muslim says this phrase many times, even when he is talking to another person. When a Muslim abstains from doing wrong, or even when he wants to prove that he is innocent of an incident he uses this expression. After every Salah (payer), a Muslim says this statement three times.

Athar Sayings of the Sahabah, the companions of the Prophet (saw).

A'uzu billahi minashaitanir rajim (Audhu billah; ’A‘ūdhu billāh) This is an expression and a statement that Muslims have to recite before reading to Qur'an, before speaking, before doing any work, before making a supplication, before taking ablution, before entering the wash room, and before doing many other daily activities.

The meaning of this phrase is: "I seek refuge from Allah from the outcast Satan." Allah is the Arabic name of God. This is a paraphrase on the beginnings of the two last suras in the Qur'an. Satan is the source of evil and he always tries to misguide and mislead people. The Qur'an states that Satan is not an angel but a member of the Jinn, which are spiritual beings created by Allah. So the belief that Satan is a fallen angel is rejected in Islam.

Awliyaa Protectors, friends, supporters, helpers. Comes from the same root word as Maula. Singular: Walee.

Awqiyyah means weight, like the ones used to weigh items.

Awrah (aurah) parts of the body that are not supposed to be exposed to others (The part of a person's body that must be covered before everybody but a spouse.). For men this is from the navel to the knee. For the women it is all of her body except the hands, feet, and face. It may also be used to refer to what must be concealed of a woman before non-related men.

Ayah The Arabic meaning of Ayah is a miracle and a sign (or 'token') which directs one to something important. The Qur'an is considered to be a miracle itself. Each verse or sentence is called an Ayah or a miracle. The plural of Ayah is called Ayat, which means miracles. In the Quran the word has been used in four different senses: (1) sign or indication; (2) the phenomena of the universe (called ayat of God for the reality to which the phenomena point is hidden behind the veil of appearances); (3) miracles performed by the Prophets; and (4) individual units (i.e. verses) of the Book of God.

Ayat it is the plural form of Ayah.

Ayat ul-Kursi Surah Baqara, Ayah 256 of the Quran. It is called the throne of the Qur’an.

'Aziz
1.   "Al-'Aziz". The Almighty. One of the ninety-nine attributes of Allah Ta'ala. See Holy Qur'an, Al-Hajj' (22):40. See Asmaul Husna
2.   Title of Egyptian noblemen during the time of the Pharaohs. Zulaikha was the wife of the 'Aziz who tried, but failed, to tempt the Prophet Yusuf (Joseph), peace be on him, into seduction. See Holy Qur' an, Yusuf(12):23 - 24.

Azlaam Literally means "arrows". It was used in divination to seek good fortune in any decision taken by the pre-Islamic pagan Arabs. See Holy Qur' an, al-Maida (5):90.

Azwaja Pairs, as in husband and wife.

B

Ba'ath In Islamic terminology this means the resurrection of the Muslims and the Kuffar (unbelievers). The Ba'ath of the Kuffar (unbelievers) and the subsequent stages leading to the Nar (Hellfire) is in five stages:

1.   The Kuffar will be raised with all their senses being active, i.e. they will be able to feel, see, hear, smell and taste.

2.   On their way to the place of judgment they will still have their senses active.

3.   They will be judged with all their senses intact.

4.   On their way to Nar (Hellfire) they will lose all their senses.

5.   When put into the Nar (Hellfire), they will regain all their senses so as to feel Allah Ta'ala's wrath.

Baatin (Antonym: Dhahir) has no exact translation, but the closest translation is "what is inwardly hidden, unseen; the thing or feeling that is hidden away from human vision or knowledge." No created being has the 'Jim al-Baatin (the knowledge of the unseen), except with the permission of Allah Ta' ala. The knowledge of the unseen belongs to Allah Ta'ala only. Anyone who claims to have or claims that someone else has the knowledge of the unknown is in fact committing Shirk (associating a created being with Allah Ta'ala in His Attributes).

Baatin (Al) Has no literal meaning, but indicates "the Inwardly Hidden". It also means the One Who is close to His Creation by His Knowledge, Sight and Listening. One of the ninety-nine Attributes of Allah Ta'ala.

Baab al Raiyan The name of one of the eight gates of jannah (Paradise) through which the people who often observe fasting will enter on the Day of Judgement.

Badana (Plu: Budn) A she-camel offered as a sacrifice.

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 Mecca in the second year of Hijrah (624 C.E.). Eventhough the Muslims were outnumbered, the final result was to their favor. Badr is located about 150km south of al-Madinah al-Munawarah. The Muslim army consisted of 313 men and the Quraish had a total of 1,000 soldiers, archers and horsemen. See Qur'an, Al-Anfal 8/5-19,42-48, Aali lmran 3/13.

Baghawat insurgency against a legitimate government

Baghia Prostitute. This is the accusation that the Jews leveled against the Virgin Mary (Mother of Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be upon them, when she conceived the Prophet Isa, peace be on him, without a father. May Allah curse those who even harbor such an accusation.

Bagyan Rejecting or disobeying, not through conviction, but through personal greed, jealousy, the desire to be different or just for show. See Holy Qur'an, Aali 'Imran (3):19.

Bahimah (plur baha'im) signifies every quadruped animal (of which the beasts of prey are excluded). Bahimah thus refers to goats, sheep, and cows.

Bai'a  pledge

Baitullah (baytullāh) A mosque, literally "house of God".

Baitul Hamd House of praise to Allah in the Akhira; hereafter.

Baitul Ma'amur (Al) House of Allah over the Seventh Heaven where the Malaikah (angels) pray.

Baitul Madaris A place in al-Madinah that used to be a Jewish centre.

Baitul Maqdis (Masjid Al-Aqsa) The famous Masjid (mosque) in al-Quds (Jerusalem). It wasthe first Qiblah of Islam. Then Allah Ta'ala ordered Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, to face the first House of Allah (the Ka' aba) at Makkah al-Mukaramah. Baitul Maqdis is the third greatest Masjid in the Islamic world,the first being the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and the second being the Masjid al-Ra sool, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, at al-Madinah. It is from the surroundings of Baitul Maqdis that Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, ascended to heaven. See Qur'an, Al-Isra(17):].

Bakka Another name for Makkah. See Qur'an, Aali 'Imran 3/96.

Bakka'in means weepers. These were the people that could not accompany the Prophet on his campaign to Tabuk because they lacked the resources to do so. They started to weep when they could not go.

Bani al Asfar The Byzantines.

Bani Israeel "Tribe of Israel". The descendants of the twelve sons of Yacoub, who was also called Israeel, the son of Ishaq, who was, the son of the Prophet Ibrahim, peace be on them all. Another name for Suratul al-Isra. Surah 1 7of the Holy Qur' an.

Bani Jadilah Name of Mu'awiya's palace in Madinah.

Bani Nadheer A Jewish tribe who lived about three miles south of Madinah during the time of Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Four months afier their treachery at the time of the Battle of Uhud, when they planned to betray the Muslims and kill the Messenger of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, expelled most of them to Syria and the rest to Khaibar. See  Qur'an, Al-Hashr 45/26.

Bani Quraiadha A Jewish tribe from Madinah. Along with the Quraish tribe of Makkah, they plotted to destroy the Prophet Muharnmad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, by attacking the Mu4ims from within Madinah at the Battle of the Ditch, but when they lost they asked to have their fate judged by Sa'd ibn Mu' az (the chief of the Aus 'the Ansar' tribe) because he used to be their ally. Sa'd judged them according to their own law, the Taurat (Torah), and ordered that every male be killed, all their women be sold as captives and all their belongings be divided amongst the Muhajirs (Deut. 20:13-14,16). See Qur' an, Al-Ahzab 33/26-27.

Baqi the cemetery where a good many of the Sahabah are buried. It is in the south-east side of Madinah.

Baraat (Al) "The Immunity". Another name for Suratul Taubah. Surah 9 of the Qur'an.

Barrah Means pious, innocent, clean, inwardly pure.

Barakallah This is an expression which means: "May the blessings of Allah (be upon you)." When a Muslim wants to thank to another person, he uses different statements to express his thanks, appreciation, and gratitude. One of them is to say "Baraka Allah."

BarakAllahu Feekum may Allah bless you; response to expression of thanks.

Barakah means blessing or Divine Grace.

Barzakh Partition or Barrier the divide between the life on earth and the life after. This barrier cannot be crossed except by death and judgement.

Basher Human(s). Literally means 'face' but generally it refers to a person (man/woman).

Batil (baatil) means false of falsehood.

Baṣīrah Insight, discernment, perceptivity, deep knowledge.

Batineeyah (From baatin meaning hidden or esoteric). A sect of Sufis who sought alleged esoteric meanings behind the words of the Qur'an through allegorical interpretation. They also searched for a living infallible leader and had recourse to Greek Pythagorean theories.

Batul means ascetic. It is ascribed to Fatimah (the Prophets daughter) and the Virgin Mary.

Bawadi plural form of Badiyyah

Bayan (bayaan) Intelligent speech, as opposed to sounds which have no power of expression or meaning. Exposition, explanation, clarification.

Bay'ah it is an oath of allegiance. To make a pledge to a leader, traditionally the Caliph or Imam.

Bayt al-mal (Baitul Mal) the State Treasury in an Islamic State. An Islamic treasury intended for the benefit of the Masakeen (needy Muslims) and not for the leaders or the wealthy.

Bid'a (Bid’ah) Any innovated practices introduced in the religion of Allah. In contradistinction to the Sunnah. Refers to any action or belief which has no precedent in or has no continuity with the Sunnah. The Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said that every Bid' a is a deviation from the true path and every deviation leads to Hellfire.

Bidh'a A small amount. Normally the amount is between three to nine, e.g. Bidh' a Tamarat (a few dates), Bidh'a Sanawat (a few years).

Bint daughter

Birr wa Taqwa Righteousness and awe of the Creator which ~nspire a person to be on guard against wrong action and eager for ac don which are pleasing to Allah.

Bismillah In the name of Allah,

Bismillahir rahmanir rahim This is a phrase from the Qur'an that is recited before reading the Qur'an. It is to be read immediately after one reads the phrase: "A'uzu Billahi Minashaitanir Rajim." This phrase is also recited before doing any daily activity. The meaning of it is: "In the name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful."

Bi'thah the beginning of the Prophet's mission, his call to Prophethood in 610 C.E..

Buhtan A false accusation, calumny, slander. 

Buraq An animal larger than a donkey and smaller than a horse on which the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, went on the Mi' raj. See Mi'raj .

Burda not an Arabic term; means "curtain" in Persian. Means covering or to cover.

Busr means partially ripe dates.

C

C.E. stands for Christian Era. It is used instead of A.D. in Islamic text referring to the dates before the Hijrah.

Covenant a solemn agreement between two or more persons or groups, a compact between God and man. The Old Testament tells of the covenant the Jews made with Allah.

Caliph (khalīfah) literally successor; refers to the successor of the Prophet Muhammad, the ruler of an Islamic theocratic monarchy

D

Dabaah

1. The Beast. The beast that will come out of the earth and will speak to man. His appearance will be one of the major signs of the coming of the Last Day.

2. In general, every living creature that moves on this earth. See Holy Qur'an, an-Nami (27):82-83.

Dabour (Ad) A great westerly windstorm. Type of storm that destroyed the people of 'Ad.

Daff tambourine used in Arabia.

Dahr (Ad) "The Time". Another name for Suratul Insan. Surah 76 of the Holy Qur'an. Ad-Dahr indicates the space/time continuum.

Dahri atheist - from the root ad dahr meaning time. In Islam, atheists are seen as those who think that time only destroys, hence the term ad dahriyyah for the concept of atheism.

Da'iy Muslim missionary involved in Da'wah. It can also have a general meaning reffering to someone who calls others to a certain belief.

Dajjal an Islamic figure similar to the Antichrist; means "liar" or "deceiver". Also known as Maseeh ad-Dajjal. See Ahadeeth regarding "the Final Hour" in both Sahih books. Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 649, 650, Vol. IV. Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Fitan wa Isharat as-Say'ah.

Daleel (plu adillah) Proof, indication, evidence. Every ruling or judgment needs to be substantiated by the appropriate daleel in the first instance from the Qur'an and the Sunnah.

Dallal going astray.

Dar al'Ahd the Ottoman Empire's relationship with its Christian tributary states.

Dar al-Amn means house of safety; refers to status of a Muslim living in some of the Western world.

Dar ad-Dawa a region where Islam has recently been introduced.

Dar al-Harb means house of war; refers to areas outside Muslim rule at war with Muslim states. The Domain of War refers to the territory under the hegemony of unbelievers, which is on terms of active or potential belligerency with the Domain of Islam, and presumably hostile to the Muslims living in its domain.

Dar al-Islam the abode, or land, of Islam, lands ruled by Islamic Shari'ah.

Dar al-Kufr means domain of disbelief refers to the territory under the hegemony of the unbelievers; the term originally refers to the Quraish-dominated society of Mecca between Prophet Mohammed's flight to Medina (the Hijra) and the city's conquest.

Dar ash-Shahada See Dar al-Amn

Darūd blessing

Da`wah the call to Islam. (See aslim taslam) Propagation of Islam through word and action, calling the people to follow the commandments of Allah and His Messenger Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.). Invitation; call. Refers to the duty of Muslims to invite or call others to return to the straight and natural path of Islam or submission to Allah. This, according to the Qur'an, has to be done with wisdom and beautiful advice. The `most excellent speech' is that of a person who calls others to Allah. Da`wah is addressed to both Muslims and non-Muslims.

Darwīš an initiate of the Sufi Path, one who practices Sufism

Dhahir (Ad) The Outwardly Manifest. One of the ninety-nine Attributes of Allah Ta'ala. It means the One Who is above everything and nothing is above Him.

Dhahir The seen or the visible. The thing or feeling that is made known or visible. Antonym: Baatin. See Baatin.

Dhaleen "Those that have gone astray" (Surah 1:7). Refers to the Nasara (Christians), because they have forgotten much of Allah Ta'ala's message and started to worship a human (the Prophet Isa 'Jesus,Son of Mary'), peace be on him, mistaking him for a divine being, and thus placing themselves in the same category as those who worship created objects, such as stars, fire, idols, various animals, etc. See Holy Qur'an, al-Maida (5):15.

Dhawi al-Arhaam Blood relative, especially parents, brothers and sisters, uncles,sons and daughters, and grandparents.

Dhihar is a type of divorce which was common in pre-Islamic Arabia, but was made unlawful by Islam. It was a way when the husband wanted to divorce his wife he would selfishly say to her, "You are like my mother." This way she would have not conjugal rights, but at the same time she would still be bound to him like a slave. See Holy Qur'an, Al-Ahzab (33:4), Mujadilah (58:1-5).

Dhikr (zikr) remembrance of God; spiritual exercise; Muslims believe that the primary function of prophets is to remind people of God. A devotional practice whereby the name of God is repeated in a rhythmical manner

Dhikrul-llah 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 lslam are its foundation. Recitation of Qur'an is its heart, and invocation of single Name of Allah, is its end.

Dhi'l-Khalasa Also known as Ka'ba al-Yamaniyah. A place where a pagan idol called Daus used to be worshipped in Yemen in the pre-Islamic period of ignorance.

Dhimmi (Ahl al-Dhimmah) "Protected person"; Jews and Christians (and sometimes others, such as Buddhists, Sikhs, Hindus, and Zoroastrians), living in an Islamic state whose right to practice their religion is tolerated under Islamic law. a non-Muslim living under the protection of a Muslim state. He is exempt from duties of Islam like military and zakah but must instead pay a tax called jizyah.

Dirham A silver coin.

Dhuhr (duhr) the second (noon) obligatory daily prayer. It can be prayed at any time between noon and mid-afternoon.

Dhu'l Qa'da The 11th month of the Islamic calendar.

Dhu'l-Hijjah The 12th month of the Islamic calendar. The month in which the great pilgrimage to Makkah takes place.

Dīn (deen) the way of life based on Islamic revelation; the sum total of a Muslim's faith and practice. Dīn is often used to mean the faith and religion of Islam. The core meaning of din is obedience. As a Qur’anic technical term, din refers to the way of life and the system of conduct based on recognizing Allah as one's sovereign and committing oneself to obey Him. According to Islam, true din consists of living in total submission to Allah, and the way to do so is to accept as binding the guidance communicated through the Prophets. See the following verses of the Qur'an for reference: 3:83, 12:76, 16:52, and 51:6. Usually translated as 'religion', but in fact meaning 'life-transaction', the transaction being between Allah and each of his created beings. The life-transaction, or religion, of Allah Ta'ala is universal.

It is the way of Islam (submisson of will to Allah Ta'ala). He sent the same message to Nooh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), Isa (Jesus) and all the other prophets, peace be on all of them, but mankind, through ignorance or intentional misguidance by others, has altered the religion of Allah again and again. Allah Ta'ala sent the Qur'an as the final revelation and guidance for mankind and the Jinn who will all be judged on the Day of Resurrection. Also indicates the judgment itself, i.e. "Yaum al-Deen" (Judgement Day).

Din-ul-Fitrah A description of Islam as the natural way of life.

Dhu'l-Noon The Companion of the Fish. This is a title of the Prophet Yunus (Jonah),peace he on him. See Holy Qur'an, Al-Qalam (68):48-50. See Yunus.

Dhu-n nurayn (Zhu-n Nurayn) It means 'Possessor of the Two Lights'. It is used to refer to Uthman ibn Affan because he married two of the Prophet's daughters. Roqayyah and Ummukuluthoom, radiyallahu anhuma.

Dhu'l Qarnain One of the greatest rulers of ancient history. He was a true believer in Allah Ta'ala. See Holy Qur'an, Al-Kahf(18):83.

Dhulm (zulm) Usually wrongly spelled as Zulm. It means injustice, harm, wrongdoing or transgression either against oneself or someone else.

1. Against oneself. Doing deeds or saying words which will bring the displeasure of Allah Ta'ala. These deeds may be physical or spiritual that will ultimately harm the soul.

2. Against others. In any form whatsoever, whether they he physical or mental. See Qur'an, Al-Baqara (2)35. Its opposite is Nur, light. See Nur.

Dhulumaat Darkness. In the sense of lurking danger. See Holy Qur' an, Al- An'aam (6):63. This is where the word Dhulm (injustice) is derived, for injustice in whatever form is an evil darkness.

Diyya  (Deeyah / Diyah pl. Diyaat) Blood money, paid by the guilty as a compensation for killing, wounding, etc. fine for unintentional murder.

Dua (du’a) personal prayer, supplication; invoking Allah for whatever one desires; Varying forms of personal prayer and supplication.

Du'a (Shirk Al) Invoking or supplicating to a false deity other than Allah Ta'ala, is a major Shirk. See Shirk.

Du'at plural of da'iy.

Duha (Ad) "Forenoon": The mid-morning hours. Surah 93 of the Holy Qur'an.

Dunk Raising of the Kafir in the state of blindness on the Yaum al-Qiama (Day of Resurrection). 

Dunya The physical Universe, as opposed to the Hereafter. World. It refers to this existing world. In English it may imply both worlds, i.e. "this world" or "the next world", referring to the Hereafter. Islam preaches that the real success is not in the Dunya (this world), but in the Akhira (Hereafter). The true value of this world does not lie in worldly success, but in how much success one has achieved in gaining the pleasure of Allah Subhana wa Ta'ala.

E

Eid (id; 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 two major 'Eids namely the feast of Ramadhan ('EId Al-Fitr) and the Feast of Sacrifice ('Eid Al-Adhha). 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 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.

Eid Al-Adha A four-day festival that completes the rites of pilgrimage and takes place on the 10th-13th of DhuI Hijjah (the 10th is the day of Nahr and 11th-13th are the days of Tashriq). Literally means "the feast of the sacrifice".  It is celebrated from the tenth through the thirteenth days of Zul-Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Muslim calendar. This feast commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim's obedience to Allah by being prepared to sacrifice his only son Ismael, peace be on both of them. See Qur' an, As-Saffaat (37)~1OO-1O3. 
 
Eid Al-Fitr Three-day festival marking the end of Ramadan. It takes place on the 1st of Shawal, the 10th month of the Islamic calendar.

Ethiaat  (Ahwat) A Precaution, either obligatory or optional.

Ethiaat-Mustahabbi A preferred precation.

Ethiaat-Waajib An obligatory precation.