F
Faatihah al Literally, the Opening. The opening chapter of the Qur'an.
Fadal (Riba) A type of interest. Taking something of superior quality in exchange for giving less of the same kind of thing of poorer quality. See Qur'an, Al-Baqarah (2:275-280), Ale-Imran (3:130).
Fahish One who talks evil. Boastful in lewdness.
Fahisha Lewdness. A major sin.
Fai War booty gained without fighting.
Fajarah (Plural of Fajir) Wicked evil doers.
Fajr "The Dawn". The time of the first obligatory prayer (Salah). It can be prayed at any time between the first light of dawn and just before sunrise. Also called Subh (morning). See Surah 89 of the Qur'an.
Falāḥ (Falaah) deliverence, salvation, well-being. Success. Real success lies in "enjoining what is right and forbidding what is evil..." (Surah Aali Imran 3/104). One of the sentences that is said during the Adhan and Iqama, "Haya 'alal Falaah" (Come to Success). Other derivations: Muflih = the person who is successful, the person whose deeds and actions have gained Allah Ta'ala's pleasure. See Qur'an, Surah Al-Baqara 2/1-5. See Aflaha: He has succeeded.
Falsafah "philosophy" The methods and content of Greek philosophy which were brought into Islam. A person who tries to interpret Islam though rationalist philosophy was called a faylasuf ("philosopher").
faylasuf ("philosopher") A person who tries to interpret Islam though rationalist philosophy.
Fanā' Sufi term meaning extinction - to die to this life while alive. Having no existence outside of God.
Faqeeh (plu: fuqahaa') Literally, one who has a deep understanding of Islam, its laws, and jurisprudence; a jurist. An Islamic scholar who can give a legal opinion or judgement.
Faqir A poor person. In Islam poverty may take two forms:
1. Wordly : A person who does not have the financial means to help himself.
2. In the Akhira (Hereafter): A person who has failed to gain the pleasure of Allah Ta'ala by way of disobedience, thus earning a place in the Nar (Hellfire).
Faraid Plur of Faridha See faridha.
Al-Faraj the return of the Shia Mahdi.
Farḍ (plur Fara’id) a religious duty, or an obligatory action on Muslims: praying 5 times a day is fard Neglecting a fard will result in a severe punishment in the hereafter. (See wajib) There are two categories:
1. Fard 'Ain: obligatory on every Muslim who is mature, healthy and sane.
2. Fard Kifaya: obligatory on at least one person in the Muslim community.
Fard 'Ain An action which is obligatory on every Muslim.
Fard bi al-Kifayah It signifies a collective duty of the Muslim community so that if some people carry it out no Muslim is considered blameworthy; but if no one carries it out all incur a collective guilt.
Faridha (Plur Fara'idh) A duty enjoined on all Muslims.
Farsakh League; about three miles.
Faruq This was the name given to Umar ibn Al-Khattab. It means 'One who distinguishes the truth from falsehood'
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.
Fasiq (plur fasiqun) transgressor, evil doer, disobedient. The one who commits fisq. Anyone who has violated Islamic law; usually refers to one whose character has been corrupted.
Far` (plur furoo`) Literally, branch, subdivision. A subsidiary law; a new case (in the context of qiyaas).
Fat'han Mubeena "Manifest Victory". The manifest victory that is referred to here is the peace treaty of Hudaibiyah. It was one of the greatest victories which the newly-born Islamic Ummah (nation) gained. On face value it seemed like a great setback for the Muslims, but in fact it was, by the will of Allah Ta'ala, one of the main means by which the Muslims consolidated and grew. See Qur'an, Surah Al-Fath.
Fatwa (Fatwaa) (plur fataawaa) Juridical verdict, legal opinion. A legal verdict given on a religious basis. The sources on which a fatwa is based are the Qur'an, and the Sunnah of the Prophet.
Fawahish applies to all those acts whose abominable character is self-evident. In the Qur'an all extra-marital sexual relationships, sodomy, nudity, false accusation of unchastity, and taking as one's wife a woman who had been married to one's father, are specifically reckoned as shameful deeds. In Hadith, theft, taking intoxicating drinks and begging have been characterized as fawahish as have many other brazenly evil and indecent acts.
Fauz Al-Adheem The supreme victory, achievement, attainment, happiness, etc. The Fauz al-Adheem is realised only when one has gained the pleasure of Allah Ta'ala and thus gained a place in the Jannah (Paradise). All worldly gains and victories count for nothing if they have not earned one a place in Paradise. Allah has repeatedly stated that the real victors are the inheritors of Paradise. See Qur'an, Al-Maida 5/122.
Festivities Other than the two general feasts, there are few festivities that Muslims do enjoy. These are related to different activities or functions. Some of these activities are:
1- 'Aqiqah: It is a dinner reception to be made after a child is born. Relatives, friends, and neighbors are invited for such an occasion.
2- Walimah: It is a dinner reception to be made after a marriage is consummated. It is offered by the parents and/or by the married couples. Friends, relatives, and neighbors are also invited.
Fi Amanullah May Allah protect you. Said when a person departs.
Fi sabil Allah (in the way of Allah) is a frequently used expression in the Qur'an which emphasizes that good acts should be done exclusively to please God. Generally the expression has been used in the Qur'an in connection with striving or spending for charitable purposes. For the sake of Allah; common Islamic expression for performing acts such as charity or Jihad and for 'qatlu' (fighting in mortal combat for the sake of Allah.
Fidya Compensation for missing or wrongly practicing necessary acts of worship. Fidya usually takes the form of donating money, foodstuffs, or sacrificing an animal. Contrast with Kaffara (making amends).
Fir'aun (Pharaoh) Tide of the Ancient Egyptian rulers, particularly the one who rejected the Prophet Musa (Moses), peace he on him, and tried to have him killed. They were famous for their cruelty and disbelief. See Qur'an, Al-Baqara 2/49, Ta Ha 20)/9-80, Al-Qasas 28/1-42, Al-Fajr 89/1O-14.
Firdaus The middle and the highest part of the Jannah (Paradise).
Fiqh Literally, understanding. Islamic jurisprudence built around the shariah by custom (al-urf). The legal science founded mainly on rules and principles developed by human reasoning (ijtihaad) and the body of knowledge so derived. Fiqh may therefore vary from one jurist or school of thought to another.
The term "fiqh" is sometimes used synonymously with Sharee`ah. However, while fiqh is to a large extent the product of human endeavor, the Sharee`ah is closely related to divine revelation and knowledge which is only obtained from the Qur'an and the Sunnah. 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. 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 Malik, Imam Ash-Shafi'i, Imam Abu Hanifah, and Imam Ahmad.
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 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 also puts another category between the Makruh and the Haram. It is called Karahah Tahrimiyyah which means hated almost to the level of Haram.
Fitnah Any affliction which may cause man to go astray and to lose his faith in spiritual values; test, trial, confusion, civil war, oppression. Fitnah has been used in the Quran in two meanings. It refers, firstly, to persecution, to a situation in which the believers are harassed and intimidated because of their religious convictions. Secondly, it refers to the state of affairs wherein the object of obedience is other than the One True God. Trial or tribulation; also refers to any period of disorder, such as a civil war, or the period of time before the end of the world or any civil strife.
This has various meanings, depending on its context in the sentence:
1. Oppression or tumult, as in Surah Al-Baqara 2/93.
2. Trial or punishment, as in Surah Al-Maida 5/74.
3. Trial or temptation, as in Surah Al-Anfal 8/28.
4. It can also mean causing discord between Muslims, or sedition.
Fiṭrah innate disposition towards virtue, knowledge, and beauty. Muslims believe every child is born with fitrah.
Fisq is transgression. It consists of disobedience to the command of God.
Fuqah Plural form of faqeeh.
Furqan signifies that which enables one to distinguish between true and false; between real and fake. The criterion (of right and wrong, true and false); for example, the Qur'an as furqan.
G
Ghafara (verb in past tense) to forgive, to cover up (sins). A characteristic of Allah.
Ghaflah heedlessness, forgetfulness of Allah, indifference
Ghafir (AL) "The Forgiver". Another name for al-Mumin Surah 40 of the Holy Qur'an.
Ghaib (Al) The Unseen. That which is beyond the reach of human perception.
1. 'Ilmul Ghaib : Knowledge of the Unseen. No human has 'Ilmul Ghaib. Only Allah Ta' ala has total command of that knowledge.
2. BiI Ghaib : In the unseen. All Muslims believe in the Unseen, i.e. all that is revealed to us by Allah Ta'ala in the Qur'an and by the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, about the Malaika (angels) and the life in the Akhira (Hereafter) in all its aspects, even though they are invisible to our eyes. See Qur'an, Al-Baqara 2/3.
Ghair Muakkadah (Salat) Unascertained prayers. These types of optional Salat (prayers) were much, but not always, practised by the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. See Nafilah.
Gharar Selling something which has not yet been obtained. For example, selling eggs which have not yet been hatched.
Ghasbi possessed unlawfully
Ghayy Deception. Name of a pit in Hellfire.
Ghazawat Plural of Ghazwa. Also called al-Maghazi. See Ghazwa
Ghazi Muslim soldier, warrior. A person who has taken part in a Ghazwa.
Ghazwah (al-Maghazi or Ghazawat) military expedition. A holy battle for the cause of Allah the Almighty in which the Prophet Muhammad himself, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, took part.
Gheeba Talking evil about someone in his or her absence. Backbiting. See Qur'an, Al-Hujurat 49/12.
Gheera This has a wide range of meanings. The closest description that may be found in the English language is justifiable jealousy. It signifies a feeling of great anger when something one loves is encroached upon.
Of all mankind, it was Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, who had the greatest sense of Gheera, for he was the man upon whom Allah chose to bestow such a great honour as has never been bestowed by Him upon any being before or since. The mightiest rank of jelousy is the jealousy for Islam which manifests when one hears someone treat Allah's religion as a jest.
Ghulool Stealing from the war booty before its distribution.
Ghusl Greater ablution. A bath performed in a prescribed manner and which is necessary to ensure purification after certain actions, for example, sexual intercourse, seminal emissions, menstruation. Formal washing of the whole body prior to worship. The full ritual washing of the body with water alone to be pure for the prayer. Ghusl jenobat is the mandatory shower after having sexual discharge.
To do Ghusl:
1. Wash your private parts.
2. Do Wudu. See Wudu.
3. Wash your entire body from top to bottom and from fight to left, without touching your private parts again.
It is necessary to have a Ghusl on embracing Islam, after sexual intercourse or seminal emission, at the end of menstruation, after childbirth and before being buried (when your body is washed for you). It is also customary to have a Ghusl before the Jumua and Eid prayers. It is necessary to be in Ghusl and in Wudu (or alternatively to do Tayyamum under certain circumstances) before doing the Salat or touching the Qur'an. see Hadath, Tayammum, Wudu.
Gog and Magog Two evil empires. They are mentioned in the Qur'an and Ahadeeth (Bukhari and Muslim) when mentioning some of the scenes just before the final hour. See Quran, Al-Anbiyaa (21/96), Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Fitan wa Isharat as-Say'ah
H
Hadath This consists of two parts:
1. Minor - passing wind, stool or urine. Impurity. Requires Istinja and Wudu.
2. Major - sexual discharge, menstruation and childbirth. Requires Ghusl.
Hadath asghar minor ritual impurity
Hadath akbar major ritual impurity which requires Niyyat for cleaning
Hadd Singular of Hudood. Boundary limit between the Halal (lawful) and Haram (unlawful), set by Allah Ta'ala.
Hadeed (Al) "The Iron". Surah 57 of the Holy Qur'an.
Hadeeth see ahaadeeth above.
Hadeeth Da`eef Weak hadeeth. One of the three main categories of hadeeth in contradistinction to saheeh (authentic) and hasan (good) hadeeth. A hadeeth is weak owing to a weakness that exists in its chain of narrators or in its textual content. There are several varieties of weak hadeeth.
Hadeeth Marfoo`Literally, an `elevated' hadeeth. Refers to a hadeeth mursal which is consistent with the precedent of the Companions and which is `elevated' and attributed to the Prophet.
Hadeeth Mashhoor A `well-known' hadeeth; a hadeeth which is originally reported by one, two, or more Companions from the Prophet or from another Companion, but has later become well-known and transmitted by an indefinite number of people during the first and second generation of Muslims.
Hadeeth Munqati A hadeeth with part of its isnaad missing. Also referred to as hadeeth mursal.
Hadeeth Mursal A hadeeth which a person from the second generation of Muslims (Taabi`oon) has directly attributed to the Prophet without mentioning the last link, namely the Companion, who might have narrated it from the Prophet. More generally, a hadeeth with part of its isnaad missing.
Hadeeth Mutawaatir Literally `continuously recurrent' hadeeth. A hadeeth is classified as mutawaatir only when it is reported by a very large number of people of proven reliability in such a way as to preclude any possibility of them all agreeing to perpetuate a falsehood. According to the majority of scholars, the authority of a mutawaatir hadeeth is equivalent to that of the Qur'an.
Hadeeth Saheeh Authentic hadeeth. A hadeeth is classified as saheeh when its narrators are all reliable and trustworthy, when its isnaad is continuous and goes right back to the Prophet, and when the narration is free from any obvious or subtle defects.
Hader Fast recitation of the Qur'an.
Hadi (Al) (hadiy) A cow, sheep or a goat that is offered as a sacrifice by a pilgrim during the Hajj.
Hādī a guide, one who guides; A Muslim name for Allah is The Guide, or Al-Hadi.
Hadith (Hadis, Hadeeth plur Ahadeeth) Reports on the sayings and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.) or what he witnessed and approved are called Hadith. These are the real explanation, interpretation, and the living example of the Prophet (s.a.w.) for teachings of the Qur'an. His sayings are found in books called the Hadith books.
In the Islamic context it has come to denote the record of what the Prophet (S.A.W.) said, did, or tacitly approved. According to some scholars, the word hadith also covers reports about the sayings and deeds, etc. of the Companions of the Prophet in addition to the Prophet himself. The whole body of Traditions is termed Hadith and its science 'Ilm al-Hadith. Some famous collectors of Hadith are Imam Al-Bukhari, Imam Muslim, Imam An-Nasa'i, Imam Abu Dawood, Imam At-Tirmizi, and Imam Majah. There are many others.
Hadith qudsi are hadith's in which the Prophet says that Allah says so and so. The meaning of the these hadith was revealed to the Prophet but he put them in his own words, unlike the Quran; that is not part of the Holy Qur'an which is the word of Almighty Allah and the Prophet conveyed it exactly as it was revealed to him.
Hafadah
1. Obedient service or work.
2. Descendant - son, daughter, grandchild, great grandchild, etc.
Hafadat (Sing Hafada) Combined plural indicating all descendants - sons, daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildren, etc. See Qur'an, An-Nahl 16/72.
Hafsa , May Allah be pleased with her Daughter of Umar ibn al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, and wife of Muhammad, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and his family and his companions.
Hafiz (Hafidh) Someone who knows the whole Qur'an by heart.
Haid menstruation
Hajar (Hagar) Wife of the Prophet Ibrahim, and mother of the prophet Isma'il. (Peace be upon them).
Hajar Al-aswad (Al) The 'Black Stone', a stone which some say fell from heaven, set into one corner of the Ka'aba in Makka by the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be upon him, which the pilgrims, in imitation of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, kiss, so unifying all the Muslims throughout the ages in one place.
Hajj (Haj) Major Pilgrimage. 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 (the wealth) 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 Zul-Hijjah. A Muslim male who has completed Hajj is called Hajji, and a female Hajjah. The Pilgrimage", which commences on the 8th of Dhu'l-Hijjah.
There are three types of Hajj:
1. Hajjat-Tamata'a (interrupted). Umra followed by Hajj, but taking off the Ihram in between these two stages.
2. Hajj al-Qiran (combined). Umra then Hajj without taking off the Ihram.
3. Hajj al-Ifrad (single). Hajj without Umra. A pilgrimage to Makkah in the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar is also known as Hajj al-Ifrad.
The performance of Hajj consists of ten steps:
1. Put on the Ihram at the appointed station, then recite the Talbiyah. Recitation is done aloud by men and quietly by women. Depending on what type of Hajj you are doing, perform the necessary rites at the Ka'aba on arrival in Makkah. SeeTalbiya.
2. Go to Mina (on the 8th of the month). Pray the Duhr, 'Asr, Maghreb, Isha and Fajr prayers at their proper times, but shortening the four Rak'at to two, as if doing travelling prayers.
3. When the sun rises (on the 9th of the month), go to 'Arafat and
combine the Duhr and 'Asr Salat.
4. After the sun sets, go to al-Muzdallifa, reciting the Talbiyah. Combine the Maghreb and the 'Isha Salat. After the Fajr prayer, raise your hands and do Du'a. (After midnight, women and the weak may proceed to Mina if they wish.)
5. In Muzdallifa (or Mina), pick up small stones (either 49 or 70) to throw at the Jamra (stone pillars) of 'Aqaba.
6. Go to Mina (on the 10th of the month);
Throw seven stones, one stone at a§ time, at the largest of the three Jamras (the stone pillars that represent Shaitan).
Sacrifice your animal. You must eat some of its meat, but give§ the bulk of it to the poor and hungry. (Do this step only if it is required of you. It is not required for Hajj al-Ifrad. If you are doing either of the other two types of Hajj, but cannot afford an animal, then fast three days after you first put on Ihram and seven days after you have returned home.)
Shave§ your head. Women only need to cut off a lock of hair. The rules of Ihram are now lifted, except for sexual intercourse with one's spouse.
7. Go to Makkah and do Tawaf al-Ifada. Go to the hills of Safa and Marwa and do Sa'i. Now the rules of Ihram are completely lifted.
8. Return to Mina and stay there for the remainder of the 10th and on the 11th, 12th and the 13th. (You may, if you wish, leave Mina after Asr on the 12th or after Asr on the 13th. You must leave Mina before the sun sets.)
9. Each day, stone each of the three Jamras (the stone pillars) with seven pebbles.
10. If you wish to return home, you must do the Tawaf al-Wida'. No-one is excused, except for menstruating women or women in the period of discharge after childbirth. See Tawaf al-Wida. See Surah 22 of the Qur'an. Performing the Hajj if you are able is one of the Arkan of Islam. See Arkan.
Hajj-al-asghar Another name for Umra. See Umra.
Hajj-al-wida' The last farewell Hajj of Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, before his death. During that Hajj, Muhammad gave an immortal Khutba called "Khutbatul Wida". This sermon is still remembered word for word, for it confirmed that the Deen of Islam had been completed, transmitted and established by the Messenger of Allah, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and his family and his companions and all who follow him in what they are able, with sincerity, until the Last Day.
Hajj al Tamattu performing `Umrah during the Hajj season, and on the Day of Tarwiah a pilgrim gets into the state of Ihram for Hajj. Before making 'Umrah, approach the Miqat and declare the intention. End by sacrificing an animal.
Hajj al Qiran At Miqat, declare intention to perform both Hajj and `Umrah together. After throwing the Jamrah of Al-`Aqabah, and getting hair shaved or cut that take off his Ihram garments and sacrifice animal.
Hajj al Ifrad At Miqat, declare intention for Hajj only. Maintain Ihram garments up to the Day of Sacrifice. No offering is required from him.
Hajjam (hejjam) One whose profession is cupping.
Ḥākim a ruler's or gubernatorial title
Hakimiyya sovereignty
Halal something that is lawful and permitted, good, beneficial, praiseworthy, honourable in Islam. (See mustahabb, mandub, Ahkam).
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.
Haman Minister of Fir'aun (Pharaoh) who tried to have all the newborn babies killed at the time when the Prophet Musa (Moses), peace be on him, was born.<
Haml To carry. Words from the same root: Hamala, he carried;Yahmilou, they carried.
Hamu Brother-in-law to a wife, i.e. her husband's brother.
Hanafi A school of Islamic jurisprudence named after Imam Abu Hanifa.
Hanif (Haneef Plur ḥunafā') people who during the time of Jahiliyyah rejected the idolatry in their society. These people were in search for the true religion of Prophet Abraham. Upright and true to faith in the Unity of Allah Subhana wa Ta'ala. Worshipping Allah Ta'ala alone, without associating anything or anyone with Him
Hannah May Allah be pleased with her Grandmother of the Prophet Isa (Jesus, Son of Mary), peace be on them, and wife of 'Imran, may Allah be pleased with him. Since the Prophet isa had maternal grandparents, how can the Christians claim him to be Allah? Since Allah is the Creator of all that there is, and was not created, do the Christians claim that Allah has a family tree? (Since they acknowledge the immaculate conception and the virgin birth, why do they trace the lineage of Jesus through Joseph the carpenter?
See Matthew 1:6-16, Luke 3:23-31,) Glory be to Allah, the Most High. Cursed are those who ascribe partners to Him. The punishment of Hellfire awaits those who do not desist from this blasphemy.
Haqq the Truth.
Haraam something which is unlawful or prohibited in Islam. (See mazur, makrouh)
Haram is a sanctuary, a sacred territory. Mecca has been considered a Haram since the time of Abraham. All things within the limit of the Haram are protected and considered inviolable Madinah was also declared a Haram by the Prophet.
Haram Sharif The grand mosque in Makkah, which encompasses the Ka'bah, the hills of Safa and Marwah and the well of Zamzam.
Al-Haramain al-Shariffain the two Holy Sanctuaries the Masjid al-Ha ram in Makkah and Masjid al-Rasool, may Allah give him light and peace in his grave, in Madinah.
Harra Land covered with black stones in Madinah.
Harut and marut Two angels who, by the permission of Allah Ta'ala, taught magic to the people of Babylon. See Qur' an, Al-Baqara 2/102.
Hasad Jealousy. Hasad is forbidden in Islam, except for two specific reasons:
1. Being jealous of a person for memorizing the Holy Qur'an by heart.
2. Being jealous of a wealthy person for expending his wealth in the path of Allah Ta'ala.
Ḥasan Good, beautiful, admirable. Also a categorization of a hadith's authenticity as "acceptable". (other categorizations include authenic and fabricated).
Hasanaat (Sing Hasana) Good deeds committed in the path of Allah Ta'ala. These are the deeds by which Allah Ta'ala will judge man and Jinn when deciding whether or not they will enter Jannah.
Hasba A place just outside Makkah where the Hujjaj go after completing the Hajj.
Hawaa (plur ahwaa') Vain or egotistical desire; individual passion; impulsiveness. Following one's own desires is described in the Qur'an as taking these desires as your `god' or object of worship. Following hawaa leads to arrogance and destruction and is contrasted with following the Sharee`ah which is designed to discipline and lead man to fulfillment and happiness.
Hawalah Transference of debt from one person to another by the agreement of both parties.
Hawazin A Quraishi tribe. An Arabian tribe that always gave trouble to the new-born Islamic nation before their conversion to Islam.
Hawd The watering-place of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, whose pure drink will refresh those who have crossed the Siraat before entering the Garden on the Last Day.
Hawiyah The sixth level of Nar (Hellfire). This will be the home of the Christians. See Jahanam.
Hawwa Eve, wife of Adam, peace be on them. She bore many children. Every time she gave birth, they were twins, one male and one female. Each twin married the twin of the other. The two most famous of her offspring were Habil (Abel) and Qaabil (Cain).
Haya This has a wide range of meanings which fall into two categories:
1. Good. i.e. bashfulness, self-respect, good standard of ethics, modesty, etc. In other words, being ashamed to do anything of which Allah the Almighty disapproves or forbids.
2. Bad. Person having the opposite traits to the above. See Bukhari, Hadith 139, Book 73, Vol.8.
Heelah Legal stratagem.
Hidāyah guidance from Allah.
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. Any person who achieves this task is called Hafiz. A Hafiz is recognized by his community and is given certain privileges.
Hijab Veil. Often used to describe the head scarf or modest dress worn by women, who are required to cover everything (except face and hands) in the sight of anyone other than the immediate family. Any kind of veil - it could be a curtain, a facial veil, etc. It describes the self-covering of the body for the purposes of modesty and dignity; broadly, a prescribed system of attitudes and behaviour regarding modesty and dignity.
The facial Hijab is divided into two types:
1. Niqab = full facial covering.
2. Khimar = partial facial covering, i.e. it covers the face, but leaves the eyes exposed. It is said that the Universe is what veils the
Creator from the creation. If you find the veil awe-inspiring, how much more awe-ins piring is the One behind the veil! (See abayah, al-amira, burnuk, burqa, chador, jilbab, khimar, milfeh, niqab, purdah, shayla)
Hijaz The region along the western seaboard of Arabia, in which Makka, Medina, Jeddah and Ta'if are situated.
Hijrah means Departure, exit, emigration. Migration in the path of Allah. The Hijrah refers to the Prophet's migration from Mecca 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 sancturary 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.
Hijree Pertaining to the hijrah.
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 Prophet Muhammad's Hijra, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, which he made with Abu Bakr as-Siddiq, may Allah be pleased with him, in 622AC.
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 Qi'da.
12. Dhul Hijjah
Hikmah Literally this means "wisdom" and refers to the highest possible level of understanding attainable by a Muslim. In particular, it refers to the illuminative, mystical sort of wisdom which a Gnostic or Sufi might accomplish.
Ḥimā wilderness reserve, protected forest, grazing commons, important to khalifa
Hira The name of a place near Makkah, where the Prophet Muhammad pbuh went for solitude and worship. It was there that he received the first revelation of the Qur'an.
Hizb Party. Allah Ta'ala divides all the parties into two groups:
1- "Hizb Allah" (the Party of Allah ) and
2- "Hizbal-Shaitan" (the Party of Satan).
Ḥizb one half of a juz', or roughly 1/60th of the Qur'an
Hooriyat Plural of Hooriah. See Hooriyah.
Hooriyah (Houri/ Houriah. Plur Hooriyat) A female virgin created by Allah Ta'ala, but not a descendant of Adam, peace be on him. She is created in Jannah (Paradise)and is the perfect companion of man in the Akhira (Hereafter). Her beauty is insurpassable and unimaginable. She has intensely black irises and the whites of her eyes are pure white.
Hubal the chief of the minor deities, was an image of a man, and was aid to have been originally brought to Arabia from Syria. It was one of the so many false gods of Arabs housed in the Kabah.
Hudā guidance
Hudaibiya (Al) A famous plain ten miles from Makkah on the way to Jeddah. Site of the peace pact between the Muslims and the pagan Quraish in the year 6AH. This treaty paved the way for the spread of Islam. Surat al-Fath (Surah 48 of the Qur'an) cmmemorates this victorious event. Allah Ta'ala called it "Fathan Mubeena" (a Manifest Victory). See Qur’an, AI-Fath 48/1-4.
Hudna Truce. Cease-fire (often temporary)
Hudud (Hudood sing hadd) the limits ordained by Allah. This includes the punishment for crimes. Literally, limits; the specific punishments assigned by the Qur'an and the Sunnah for particular crimes - intoxication, theft, rebellion, adultery and fornication, false accusation of adultery, and apostasy. These crimes involve transgressing the limits of acceptable behavior.
Hujjaj Pilgrims. Persons who have been on pilgrimage to Makkah during the Hajj season in the month of Dhul Hijjah. Singular: Haj = a male pilgrim, Hajah = a female pilgrim.
Hujjeeyah Producing the necessary proof or authority to validate a rule or concept.
Hukm The closest equivalent in the English language is "verdict". It usually applies to a judgement on legal issues,especially with regard to religious matters. Literally judgement, decision, 6/57 sometimes gives the meaning of wisdom, discretion, knowledge and the power to see things in their true perspective 26/83.
Hums The Quraish tribe, together with their offspring and allies, were called "Hums". The word was meant to be taken as meaning "strictness and enthusiasm", because they thought themselves to be Allah's people, thus regarding themselves as being superior to others.
Hunain Valley on the road from Makkah to Taif. Site of a famous battle that took place immediately after the conquest of Makkah in 8AH, between the Muslim army consisting of about 10,000-2,000 men and the combined forces of the Hawazin and Thaqeef which amounted to 4,000 men. After a surprise attack and a near defeat, the Muslims managed to completely crush the enemy. See Qur' an, At-Taubah 9/24-25.
Hutama The seventh and deepest level of the Nar (Hellfire). This is where the religious hypocrites will spend eternity. The worst of Allah's creation are the Munafiqeen (hypocrites), whether they be mankind or Jinn, because they 'accept' Allah and His Messenger with their tongues, but deny this 'acceptance' by their actions. See Jahanam.
Ibadah (Ibadaah) All acts of worship. Any permissible action performed with the intention to obey Allah. Acts of worship and adoration in utmost submission and obedience and with utmost love to Allah Ta'ala. In other words, a term that indicates all that pleases Allah, including sayings and actions of the heart or limbs. Love, fear, reverence, desire (hope), trust and sincerity are some forms of worship from within the heart. Prayers, attending to someone's needs, invocation, supplication and sacrifices are some forms of worship of the limbs. Ibadah is to worship Allah as He wishes to be worshipped. See Arkan .
`Ibaarat al Nass Explicit meaning of a given text which is borne out by its words
Iblis The Jinn who disobeyed Allah Ta'ala and was expelled from His mercy. It was Iblis who tempted Adam and his wife Hawwa (Eve), peace be on them, to approach the forbidden tree. He is also known as Shaitan (Satan). See Shaitan. See Qur' an, Al-Baqara 2/30-39.
Id (eid) Recurring happiness. A religious holiday; a feast for thanking Allah and celebrating a happy occasion.
Id Mubarak (eid mubarak, eid mubaraak) Id blessings ! Greeting exchanged during Islamic celebrations.
Id-ul-Adha Celebration of the sacrifice, commemorating the Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ishma'il for Allah (peace be upon them). Also known as Id-ul-Kabir - the Greater Id - and Qurban Bayram (Turkish) - feast of sacrifice.
Id-ul-Fitr Celebration of breaking the fast on the day after Ramadan ends, which is also the first day of Shawal, the tenth Islamic month. Also known as Id-ul-Saghir - the Lesser Id - and Sheker Bayram (Turkish) - sugar feast.
I'dad Al-'oda "preparation for battle" according to Qur'an
Iddat ('Iddat) A limited period of waiting after divorce and before re-marriage prescribed by Islamic law, so as to avoid any confusion regarding the paternity of any child born after the new marriage. See Qur'an, Al-Baqara 2/231-235, At-Talaq 65/4-7.
Idkhir (Adhkhar) A special type of pleasantly scented grass found in the Hijaz area of Arabia.
Ifrad (Hajj al) "Single Hajj". Performing Hajj without doing Umra. See Hajj
Ifreet ('Ifreet plur 'Afareet) An evil Jinn. He is large, powerful and very crafty. See Qur' an, An-Naml 27/39.
Iftar Breaking of the fast immediately after sunset. Iftar takes place at Maghreb as soon as the Adhan is called.
Ihram The state or condition entered into to perform either Hajj or Umrah. During this period, many normally permitted actions are placed out of bounds to Muslims. Also, the name of the two plain white unsewn cloths worn by male pilgrims to indicate the brotherhood, equality and purity of the pilgrim. For, woman, the dress of Ihram consists of their normal modest clothing.
1. When one assumes such a state one must state mentally and orally that he or she is assuming such a state for the purpose of Umra or Hajj. Then one must recite the Talbiya. See Talbiya
2. Dress:
o Men. It consists of two pieces of unstitched cloth:
(i) Rida - worn around the upper part of the body.
(ii) Izar - worn below the waist.
o Women. Any full length dress which covers the entire body except for the hands and face, and is inconspicuous, i.e. it does not attract attention in any way whatsoever (tight, colourful, etc.).
3. Behaviour: Both men and women are not permitted to trim their hair or nails, wear perfume, harm or kill any living thing, including insects, or damage any plant or tree. They should avoid argument and loss of temper. Sexual intercourse between spouses is also not permitted.
Ihsan Highest level of obedience in worship, i.e. to be aware of and sincere to Allah Ta'ala and to be eager to do all good deeds. It is to worship Allah as if you see Him, knowing that, although you do not see Him, Allah sees you.
Ijaz miracle, the character of the Qur'an in both form and content.
Ijazah a certificate authorizing one to transmit a subject or text of Islamic knowledge
Ijma General consensus of scholars, expressed or tacit, on matters of law and practice.
Ijtihad (Ijtehad,Ijtihaad,Ijtehaad) Exerting the sum total of one's ability attempting to uncover Allah's rulings on issues from their sources (Qur'an, Sunnah, Ijma', etc.). Sometimes divided into complete ijtihad (the ability of one to independently arrive at Allah's rulings in all areas of fiqh) and partial ijtihad (the ability of one to do so only in certain areas of fiqh in which they have exerted such efforts). See Qiyaas .
Ikraam honor, hospitality, generosity - Dhul jalaali wal ikraam is one of the 99 names of Allah.
Ikhlas
1. "The Complete Faith". Surah 112 of the Qur' an.
2. Sincerity of the heart in worship and purity of intention. For any worship to be accepted by Allah it must be entirely for His sake, and not for other-than-Him.
Ikhtilaaf Difference of opinion; disagreement; dispute; controversy.
Ilāh deity, a god; including fake gods worshiped by polytheists.
Ilaa The oath taken by a husband that he will not have sexual relations with his wife for a certain period of time. If this continues for longer than four months, then it is considered a divorce.
Ilhad Atheism. Derives from Ilhah. Ilhad means deviation. It includes:
1. Comparing Allah to anything, or any of His Attributes to those of His Creation.
2. Denying any of Allah's Attributes or altering their true meaning.
3. Using Allah's Names to describe anything in His Creation.
4. To name Him with a name with which He has not named Himself. E.g. "Father".
5. To attribute any deficiencies to Him. The person who practises Ilhad is called Mulhid. See Mulhid .
`Illah: (plur`ilal) Effective cause or ratio legis of a particular ruling.
Illyoun A place in Jannah (Paradise). Literally means "high places", but its exact nature is known only to Allah Ta'ala. All we know about it is that it is where the record of the righteous is kept. In contrast, the record of the evil-doers is kept in Sijjin. See Qur'an, Al-Mutafifeen 83/18-21.
Ilm ('Ilm) Knowledge.
Ilmu-'llah Knowledge of Allah Ta 'ala. No created being has any knowledge except what Allah permits him to know. Therefore, all that man possesses is a gift from Allah, but most of mankind and the Jinn are unthankful. However much you know, you only know a little.
Imam (Imaam,Emaam,Emam plur A'immah) is a religious leader. Any person who leads a congregational prayer is called an Imam. A religious leader who also leads his community in the political affairs may be called an Imam, an Amir, or a Caliph. However, an Imam is not infallible. He is responsible for his mistakes to all the members of the community and above all he is responsible to Almighty Allah.
Imamah Office and function of an Imam.
Imamul mursaleen The leader of all the messengers. One of the titles of the Prophet Muhammad, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and them.
Iman (Imaan, Emaan) faith and trust in Allah. Having faith and believing in:
1. Allah Ta'ala. To affirm with the tongue, believe in the heart and confirm through action the following:
o His Existence.
o His Lordship.
o His Worship.
o His Names and Attributes.
2. Belief in His angels.
3. Belief in His revealed Books.
4. Belief in His messengers, without making any distinction between them.
5. Belief in the Hour and the Judgement and the Fire and the Garden.
6. Belief in the Divine decrees of Allah Ta'ala, both the good and the evil. See Qur'an, Al-Baqara 2/285. See Mursaleen.
Imlas An abortion caused by being beaten over the abdomen.
Imran See Aali 'imran .
Imsaak Start of the fasting time. Imsaak begins when the first light of dawn becomes visible, at Fajr when the Adhan is called.
Infāq the habitual inclination to give rather than take in life; the basis for charity.
Injil the revelations that were sent down during the time of Prophet Isa (Jesus). It is refered to as the New Testament. Gospel. This is mistakenly understood, by some, to be the New Testament that the Nasara (Christians) have today. The Ingeel that is referred to in the Qur'an is the original scripture that was revealed to the Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be on him, by Allah through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel), peace be on him, and not the New Testament which was written by Matthew.
Ins wal Jinn Mankind and Jinn. See jinn.
Insan "Human". Another name for Ad-Dahr. Surah 76 of the Qur'an.
Inna lillahi wa inna ilahi raji'un (Inna lillahi wa inna ilahi rajioon) When a Muslim is struck with a calamity, when he loses one of his loved ones, or when he has gone bankrupt, he should be patient and say this statement, the meaning of which is: "We are from Allah and to whom we are returning." Muslims believe that Allah is the One who gives and it is He takes away. He is testing us. Hence, a Muslim submits himself to Allah. He is grateful and thankful to Allah for whatever he gets. On the other hand, he is patient and says this expression in times of turmoil and calamity.
In sha' allah (Insha Allah, Inshaa Allah, Insha Alla, In sha' Alla) When a person wishes to plan for the future, when he promises, when he makes resolutions, and when he makes a pledge, he makes them with permission and the will of Allah. For this reason, a Muslim uses the Qur'anic instructions by saying "In Sha ' Allah." The meaning of this statement is: "If Allah wills." Muslims are to strive hard and to put their trusts with Allah. They leave the results in the hands of Allah.
Iqamah (Iqaamah) is an Arabic word that refers to the second call for the prayer which follows the first call (Adhan). Iqamah means that the prayer is ready to start. It is to be recited in Arabic before every obligatory prayer. It is composed of specific words and phrases very closely related to the Adhan.
Iqamat as-salat Performing the Salat in a perfect manner. This is understood by most Muslims as having only one meaning, but it has two:
1. Performing the prayer in exactly the same manner as the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, used to pray. see Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 737, boook 12, Vol.1.
2. Establishing the prayer every person in a Muslim society who is seven years old or more must pray - women in their houses and men in the Masajid (mosques). Every head, be he head of the family or chief of the town, will be held responsible for the missed Fard prayers of those under him, as well as his own.
Iqraa "Read". Another name for Suratul al-'Alaq. Surah 96 of the Qur'an.
Iraad A major act of Kufr. Knowingly turning away from and rejecting or covering up the Divine Truth. See kufr.
Iram Capital city of the ancient people of 'Ad in the Yemen. It was famous for its lofty pillars. Some scholars say Iram was a hero of the people of 'Ad who built a lofty statue of him. See Qur'an, AL-Fajr 89/6-8.
Irtidad apostasy (see murtadd.)
Isha (Ishaa Salat-ul-Isha) the obligatory salaah, prayer, after sunset later in the evening.
Ishtimaal as-samaa' Wearing of clothes in two ways:
1. Covering one shoulder and leaving the other bare.
2. Wrapping oneself (while sitting) in such a way that one's garments do not entirely hide the private pans.
Islam is an Arabic word the root of which is Silm and Salam. It means among others: peace, greeting, salutation, obedience, loyalty, allegiance, and submission to the will of the Creator of the Universe. Islam is the last and final religion to all mankind and to all generations irrespective of color, race, nationality, ethnic background, language, or social position. The religion of Islam is not to be confused with Mohammedanism. The latter is misnomer to Islam. Muslims do not accept this name as it gives wrong information about Islam and Muslims.
• Literally means "submission to the will of Allah". It is for this reason that Allah Himself names His life transaction "al-Islam" and describes all the followers of this way of life, in every age, as "Muslims".
• The life transaction of Allah has five pillars, all of which must be strictly adhered to in word, deed and sincere belief.
The five pillars of Islam are as follows:
1. Shahadatain. Bearing witness. All Muslims must believe in and utter the Shahadatain.
First Shahada : Ash-hadu an la illaha illa l'lah. (I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah.)
Second Shahada: Ash-hadu anna Muhammadar Rasoolullah. (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.)
2. Salat. Prayers. To do all the five compulsory daily prayers regularly in the exact manner as was practised by the 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 tax. To pay 2.5% of one's yearly savings above a certain amount to 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 time when the annual Zakat payment is due. Zakat is also due on other things such as silver, animals, crops, etc. For a 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). See Qur' an, Al-Maida 5/3.
Isnad Chain of transmission of each Hadith.
Isra (Al) "The Night Journey". Another name for Bani Israel. Surah 17 of the Qur'an.
Istighfar to seek Allah's forgiveness. It is something that must be done continuously in a Muslims life.
Istihada vaginal bleeding except Haid and Nifas
Istikhara Asking Allah the Almighty to guide one to the right decision and action regarding a particular problem. The Istikhara Salat consists of two Rak'as. A special invocation is said. See Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 263, Book 2, Vol.2.
Istihsaan Juristic preference - the abandonment of one legal ruling for another which is considered better or more appropriate to a given circumstance.
Istinbaat Inference. Deducing a somewhat hidden meaning from a given text. The process of extracting laws.
Istinja Cleaning the private parts after urinating or passing stool, preferably using water.
Istishaab Presumption of continuity, or presuming continuation of the status quo ante. For example, istishaab requires that once a contract of sale, or of marriage, is concluded it is presumed to remain in force until there is a change established by evidence.
Istislah public interest - a source of Islamic Law.
Istish'hād martyrdom.
Istisqa Invoking Allah Subhana wa Ta'ala for rain in the time of a drought. The Istisqa Salat consists of two Rak'as. See Bukhari, Hadith 119, Book 17, Vol.2
Itaqu The faithful who fear Allah.
Ithm (Ithim) denotes negligence, dereliction of duty and sin. Negative reward for bad deeds that is tallied on qiyamah (judgment day.) Opposite of thawab (reward).
Ittibaa (Tawheed Al)
1. Unity in following the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. To believe in and recite the words "Ashadu anna Muhammadar Rasoolullah" (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah) and to follow the way of the Prophet Muhammad, as much as one is able, in life and worship.
2. Full belief in any matter proven to be authentic about the Prophet Muhammad.
3. Obedience and following.
4. To give priority to the Sunnah above any other way of life. See Tawheed.
Ittihad "identity" or "union," the claim of experience of personal union with Allah as felt by a Sufi mystic which is kufr.
Itiqaf ('Itikaf) Being secluded in a Masjid while fasting for the sole purpose of worshipping Allah. The person who is in the state of 'Itikaf must not leave the Masjid unless it is absolutely necessary, e.g. answering the call of nature or to alleviate the problems and burdens of a fellow Muslim. There are two types of 'Itikaf:
• Fard. Compulsory when one promises Allah to do'Itikaf if Allah Subhana wa Ta'ala answers his invocation, e.g. "I promise to do 'Itikaf for seven days if my son is cured." If Allah Subhana wa Ta'ala answers his dua'a, then the 'Itikaf of seven days becomes a Fard.
• Sunnah. Voluntary practice. Following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and doing the 'Itikaf during the last ten days of Ramadan. See Bukhari, Hadith 242, Book 33, Vol.3.
Itmām al-hujjah clarification of truth in its ultimate form.
Izar A cloth worn (by men) below the waist.
J
Ja'ala "He made". Has a different meaning to "Khalaqa ,see Khaliq . Ja'ala implies "turn into", for example:
1. "Who has made the earth your couch..." (Surah Al-Baqara 2/22).
2. "Make me a good Muslim and at death count me amongst the believers."
Jadal Dialectics, wrangling, disputation.
Jamaa`ah Group, congregation, community.
Jaa'iz That which is allowed or permissible. As a rule, everything that is not prohibited is allowed.
Jahannam means Hell, the punishment for those who are judged to be evil. Most commonly understood to mean Hell. In fact, it is one of the levels of Hell.
There are seven levels of Hellfire:
1. Jaheem - the shallowest level of Hell. It is reserved for those who believed in Allah and His Messenger, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, but who ignored His commands.
2. Jahanam - a deeper level where the idol-worshippers are to be sent on the Day of Judgement.
3. Sa'ir - is reserved for the worshippers of fire.
4. Saqar - this is where those who did not believe in Allah will be sent on the Day of Judgement.
5. Ladha - will be the home of the Jews.
6. Hawiyah - will be the abode of the Christians.
7. Hutama - the deepest level of Hellfire. This is where the religious hypocrites will spend eternity. The worst of Allah's creation are the Munafiqeen (Hypocrites), whether they be mankind or Jinn, for they outwardly appear to accept, but inwardly reject, Allah and His Messenger.
Jaheem The shallowest level of the Nar. It is reserved for those who believed in Allah and His Messenger Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, but who ignored His commands. See Jahanam.
Jahiliyyah means ignorant. Jahiliyyah refers to the pre-Islamic era that existed in Arabia. It is a combination of views, ideas, and practices that totally defy and reject the guidance sent down by God through His Prophets. This involves relying on what is other than the truth. This is why the age prior to the advent of Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, is called Jahiliyah.
Many people believed, for example, in Allah, but tried to attain His pleasure through worshipping another medium such as a stone, fire, man, wood, animal, etc., rather than following His guidance which had been revealed to the earlier messengers. The age of Jahiliyah 'ended' when the Final Revelation, the Holy Qur'an, was revealed to mankind and the Jinn. However, it still exists wherever this Last Message from God has not reached. Any deviation from the True Path is no longer considered as Jahiliyah, but as Kufr, for the truth has been distinguished from falsehood. Ayyam al-Jahiliyah, or 'The Days of Ignorance' in the books of history, indicate the period before the Prophethood of Muhammad when the people in Arabia forgot the teachings of their Prophets and indulged in stupid practices.
Jahl ignorance, arrogance.
Jahri Loud recitation of the Holy Qur'an during Salaat.
Jalbab this is a long loose fitting garment worn by the Arabs.
Jalut Goliath. A giant and a commander who led a large army against a small, but very dedicated army under Talut (Saul). Dawood (David), peace be on him, still a young boy then, killed Jalut, thus causing a major defeat to the enemies of Allah. See Qur'an, Al-Baqara 2/249-252.
Jalsa sitting.
Jam Al-Muzdalifa
Jamaha To be uncontrollable.
Jame' Joining two Fard (compulsory) prayers, by praying one immediately after the other, in one space of time. Under certain circumstances (for example, when a person is travelling), it is permitted to join the Fard (compulsory) prayers together:
1. The Fajr prayer (the first compulsory prayer of the day) is not combined with any other prayer.
2. The Duhr and 'Asr prayers (the second and third compulsory prayers of the day) may, under certain circumstances, be combined.
3. The Maghreb and Isha prayers (the fourth and fifth compulsory prayers of the day) may also, under certain circumstances, be combined.
4. Call only one Adhan, but two Iqamat as-Salat (one for each Salat).
5. The Duhr, 'Asr and Isha prayers are reduced from four to two Rak' at each when doing travelling prayers during a journey which is longer than 48 miles. This reduction does not occur if the prayers are joined due to extremely bad weather.
Jame' comes in two forms:
1. Jame' Taqdeem - early combination:
o Praying the Duhr and 'Asr prayers during the time of Duhr. In this case, the Duhr Salat is performed first,then the 'Asr Salat.
o Praying the Maghreb and Isha prayers during the time of Maghreb. In this case, the Maghreb Salat is performed first, then the Isha Salat.
2. Jame' Takheer - delayed combination:
o Praying the Duhr and 'Asr prayers during the time of 'Asr. The Duhr Salat is performed first, then the 'Asr Salat.
o Praying the Maghreb and Isha prayers during the time of Isha. The Maghreb Salat is performed first, then the Isha Salat.
Jāmi‘ah "gathering"; i.e. a university, a mosque, or more generally, a community or association.
Jamra (plur Jimar) White hot coal. The term used to describe the three pillars built of stone at Mina.
Jamrat al 'aqaba One of the three stone pillars at Mina. One of the rites of Hajj is to throw pebbles at these stone pillars, which represent Shaitan (Satan).
Janaza funeral (prayer).
Jannah means Paradise, the reward for those who are judged to be good. A created abode in the Hereafter for those who believe in the Unity of Allah and in all His Prophets and Messengers, and who follow their way of life.
See Mursaleen.
Jannah has eight gates around it and each of these eight gates has eleven doors.
The names of the eight gates are:
1. Bab al-Iman.
2. Bab al-Jihad.
3. Bab al-Kadhemean al-Gaidh.
4. Bab ar-Raiyan.
5. Bab ar-Radiyeen.
6. Bab as-Sadaqa.
7. Bab at-Taubah.
8. Bab as-Salat.
Jannah has not been guaranteed to any human being or Jinn (with the exception of the messengers of Allah) before their deaths, other than the following ten men (and other sahaba who were mentioned in the ahadith):
1. Abu Bakr as-Siddiq.
2. Umar ibn al-Khattab.
3. Uthman ibn 'Affan.
4. Ali ibn Abi Talib.
5. Sa'ad ibn Abi Waqas.
6. Abu Ubaida 'Amer ibn al-Jarrah.
7. Al-Zubair ibn al-'Awam.
8. Talha ibn Ubaidu'llah.
9. Abdar-Rahman ibn 'Auf.
10. Sa'is ibn Zaid.
May Allah be pleased with all of them.
Janaba The state of a person after sexual discharge, whether intentional or otherwise. A person may not perform Salat or recite or touch the Holy Qur'an until he performs Ghusl or Tayammum. See Ghusl.
Jazakallahu khayran (Jazakallahu khaira; Jazakallah khair; Jazakalluhu khair) This is a statement of thanks and appreciation to be said to the person who does a favor. Instead of saying "thanks" (Shukran), the Islamic statement of thanks is to say this phrase. Its meaning is: " May Allah reward you for the good." It is understood that human beings can't repay one another enough. Hence, it is better to request Almighty Allah to reward the person who did a favor and to give him the best.
Jibril Gabriel. The angel who delivered Allah's messages to His Prophets. Alo called Rooh al-Qudus, "The Holy Spirit". His duty was to reveal the Word of Allah Ta'ala to His Anbiaa (Prophets). He is now sent to help the very religious against the temptations of Shaitan (Satan) at the time of death. His epithet is Roohul Amin (The Spirit of Truth) (Ash-Shu'ara 26/193). The AI-Amin is Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. See Qur'an, Al-Baqara 2/97-98, At-Takwir 81/19-21. See Mursaleen
Jibt signifies a thing devoid of any true basis and dereft of usefulness. In Islamic terminology the various forms of sorcery, divination and soothsaying, in short all superstitions, are called jibt.
Jihad (Jihaad) It is an Arabic word the root of which is Jahada, which means to strive for a better way of life. The nouns are Juhd, Mujahid, Jihad, and Ijtihad. The other meanings are: endeavor, strain, exertion, effort, diligence, fighting to defend one's life, land, and religion. Personal individual struggle against evil in the way of Allah. It can also be collective defense of the Muslim community. Jihad is not a defensive war only, but a war against any unjust regime. If such a regime exists, a war is to be waged against the leaders, but not against the people of that country. People should be freed from the unjust regimes and influences so that they can freely choose to believe in Allah.
1. One of the eight gates of Jannah (Paradise). See Jannah.
2. A holy war in the cause of Allah and His commands. Jihad takes many forms, amongst which are:
• Jihad an-Nafs - fighting against one's own evil waits and trying one's utmost to be a better person in the sight of Allah.
• Jihad al Akbar - physically fighting against the enemies of Allah Subhana wa Ta'ala.
Jihād al talab Offensive jihad.
Jihād al daf’a Defensive jihad.
Jilbāb (pl. jalabib) a long, flowing, baggy garment worn by some to fulfill the mandates of sartorial hijab. Jilbāb is incumbent upon Muslim women to wear this as a sign of modesty. (See abaya. burka, chador)
Jimar Plural of Jamra. See Jamra and Jamarat al 'aqaba.
Jinn (Jin; Ginn) These are spiritual beings that inhabit the world and are required to follow the orders of Allah and are accountable for their deeds. They can be good or bad, just like people. The word Jinn in Arabic means hidden, which indicates that they are invisible creatures. They were created by Allah from fire. A race of created beings that are made out of smokeless fire.
They are like the Ins (human race) in many ways:
1. They are born, have children and die. They also have friends and family.
2. There are Muslims and Kuffar amongst them.
3. They eat food, but their food consists mainly of bones and stool.
They differ from us in many ways too:
(a) Their lifespan is much longer than ours.
(b) They can see us and sometimes are able to dwell within us.
(c) They need no form of transport.
(d) They need no housing. The Muslims amongst them like to live in the Masajid and pray, but the unbelievers tend to live in the bathrooms of non-religious Ins (human beings). The best way to make sure that they do not intermix with us (i.e. enter our bodies or houses or eat food with us) is to remember Allah constantly and to read the Qur'an as much as possible. Surah 72 of the Qur'an.
Jizyah a tax paid by non-Muslims living in a Muslim State. Since the non-Muslims are exempt from military service and taxes imposed on Muslims, they must pay this tax to compensate. It guarentees them security and protection. If the State cannot protect those who paid jizyah, then the amount they paid is returned to them. Jizyah symbolizes the submission of the unbelievers to the suzerainty of Islam.
Judiye Place where the Ark of the Prophet Nooh (Noah), peace be on him, came to rest. Jabal (Mount) Judiye is in the Turkish district of Bothan, which is situated near the frontiers of Turkey, Syria and Iraq. See Qur'an, Houd 11/44.
Juhfa (Al) The place to the north-west of Makka where the people of Shaam put on their Ihram when intending to go on Hajj. See Miqat.
Juhud To deny. Jaahid (the denier). Disbelief out of rejection. When there comes to them that which they [should] have recognized, they refuse to believe in (kafaru) it. 2/89 Accordingly, juhud includes rejection (kufr at-taktheeb) and resistance (kufr al-‘inaad)
Jumu'ah (Salat-ul-Jumu'ah) The weekly communal salah, and attendance at the khutbah performed shortly after midday on Fridays which is prayed instead of Dhur. Surah 62 of the Qur'an.
Jumada al akhira The sixth month of the Islamic calendar. See Hijri
Junub A person in the state of Janaba means to be in a state of ceremonial impurity or defilement. A male becomes junub on having sexual intercourse or simply on the emission of semen in sleep or otherwise. A female also becomes junub as a result of sexual intercourse as well as when she is menstruating or having postnatal bleeding. These are the general causes of janaba, which is also referred to in the books of jurisprudence as hadath akbar. A full bath is required for a junub to receive purification or tahara, without which a man or woman is not allowed to touch or read the Qur'an, enter the mosque or offer the prayers. In the absence of water, however, one is allowed to resort to tayammum. Tayammum substitutes for both a full bath (ghusl) and ablution (wudu). See Janaba.
Juz (Plur Ajza) A part. The Qur'an is divided into thiny parts. A thirtieth part of the Qur'an.
Jwej wa Majwej Cog and Magog. Two evil empires. They are mentioned in the Holy Qur'an and Ahadeeth (Bukhari and Muslim) when mentioning some of the scenes just before the final hour. See Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Fitan wa Isha rat as-Say'ah. See Qur' an, Al-Anbiyaa 21/96.