Dictonary of Terms

Dictionary Of Terms
 

Name Meaning
AALI ‘IMRAN: "The family of ‘Imran". ‘Imran was the father of Mariam (Mary), the mother of the Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be upon them. Surah 3 of the Holy Qur’an.
ABAA WASS STAKBARA MA’ AL-TASDEEQ (KUFR AL): 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. Those Muslims who do not pray are committing this same sin. See Kufr.
ABADA: Forever. See Khalideen.
ABU AL-QASIM: It is the Kunya (see Kunya) of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. It is prohibited to have the Kunya of the Holy Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. See Sahi Bukhari, Hadith 205, Vol, 8. Sahi Muslim, Kitab-ul Adab.
ABU BAKR, MAY ALLAH BE PLEASED WITH HIM: Also spelled Abi Bakr. He was one of the greatest companions of Muhammad, May Allah bless him and grant him peace. His full name is Abu Bakr as-Siddiq. The Holy Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, called him as-Siddiq because he always believed in Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, without any reservation. He was the first of the four rightly guided Khalifaas (al-Khulafaa al-Rashideen) from 1113 AH. The other three, may Allah bless them, were:

1). Umar ibn al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him 13-23 AH.

2). Uthman ibn ‘Affan, may Allah be pleased with him, 24-36 AH.

3). Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, 36-40 AH. See Khalifaa.

ABU LAHAB: Fiercest enemy of Islam and paternal uncle of Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Surah 111 of the Holy Qur’an. Known as Suratul Masad.
ADAM, PEACE BE ON HIM: The first man and a Prophet. He was created neither in paradise nor on Earth, but in the realm of Allah’s mercy. From there he was sent to Jannah (Paradise), from where later he was sent down to Earth. He had many offsprings, the most famous ones are Habil (Abel ) and Qaabil (Cain). See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqarah (2):30-39, al-Maidah (5) 30-34.
ADHAN: Islamic way for calling Muslims to prayer. The Adhan that is announced today was formulated and formalized in 1AH. See Sahi Bukhari, Hadith 583, Vol.1.
ADHKHAR: A special type of good-scented grass found in the Hijaz area of Saudi Arabia. Also known as Idhkhir.
ADIAT (AL): "The coursers". "Coursers" refer to war horses when they charge, stamp their hooves, breathe heavily and snort in the course of the confusion of battle. Surah 100 of the Holy Qur’an.
AH: After Hijra. Hijra means emigration. The Islamic calendar starts from the day Holy Prophet Muhammad, May Allah bless him and grant him peace, emigrated from Makkah to Madinah, in 622 A.D.
AHAD: 1). One.

2). The Incomparable. When referring to Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala, this means: a. That He has no comparison in His Essence or in any of His Attributes. b. that there is no deity (worthy of worship) but Allah.

AHADEETH: Sayings and traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, Singular: Hadith.
AHKAM: Literally means "orders". 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 cumpulsory (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). Dissaproved of, but not forbidden (Makrouh), e.g. smoking tobacco.

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

AHLUL ABAIT: Literally means "the People of the House". A polite way of addressing the wife and the members of the household. Sometimes used to refer to the family of the Prophet Muhammad, may the blessings and peace of Allah be upon him and on his family and on all his companions. The blessings here are addressed to the entire household. See Holy Qur’an, Houd (11):73.
AHLUL KITAB WA SUNNAH: Literally means "The people of the Book (the Holy Qur’an) and the sayings and traditions, (the Sunnah of Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace)." This refers to the people who strive to follow exactly the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, without any deviations.
AHLUL KITAB: Literally means "the People of the Scripture". It refers to Yahoud (Jews), Nasara (Christian) and Saabe-een (Sabians). Those who believe in the trinity and that Jesus is God and or the Son of God are considered as Kuffar (unbelievers), even though they are Ahlul Kitab. See Maghdoub and Daaleen. See Holy Qur’an, Yusuf Ali, Al-Maida (5):19, 75-76. See Holy Qur’an, M. Pickhall, Al-Maida (5):17, 72-73.
AHMAD: Another name of Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be on him, prophesied his coming. See Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. See Holy Qur’an, As-Saff (61):6.
AHQAF (AL): Name of Village in Yemen. Home of the people of ‘Ad. See "Ad. Surah 46 of the Holy Qur’an.
AHZAB: "The Clans". A famous battle between the early Muslims and the rejectors, in which the Muslims, under the directions of Salman al-Farisi, dug a trench around the city of al-Madinah al-Munawarha to thwart the advance of the unbelievers in 5AH. The battle is also known as the Battle of the Khandaq(Battle of the Trench). See Holy Qur’an, An-Nur (24):55, Al-Ahzab (33):920.Surah 33 of the Holy Qur’an.
AISHA (MAY ALLAH BE PLEASED WITH HER): Daughter of Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (may Allah be pleased with him ) and wife of Muhammad, may Allah bless and grant him peace.
AJAL: 1). Yes.

2). Appointed time. In Islamic terminology it refers to the (appointed) time of death. Allah Ta’ala says in the Holy 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 if..." 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 and saying that the power over life and death is within human capability.

AJTANIBOU: "Leave it!" Gambling and intoxicants were prohibited by Allah in the strongest terms possible, "Ajtanibou!". It is the highest level of forbidding what is haram. Haram = not only haram, but also a direct prohibition ordered by Allah Ta’ala. "Ajtanibou!" = not only haram, but also a direct command not to approach or be near it for any reason whatsoever. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqarah (2):219, Al-Maida (5):93.
AJWAH: A kind of Dates.
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): 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.

AKHIRA: The Hereafter. Not the life in the Barzakh (the life of the grave), but the life in Jannah (Paradise) or the Nar (Hellfire).
AL-’ARSH: Throne of Allah al-Malik al-Qudus, al-Aziz al-Hakeem. See Surah Taha (20):5
AL-’UZZA: A famous goddess in the Hijaz used to be worshipped by the pagan Arabs in the pre-Islamic period of ignorance. See Holy Qur’an, An-Najm (53):19.
ALAIKA SALAAM: Peace be on him. This is said whenever the name of a malak (an Angel), a nabi (a Prophet) or a rasool (a Messenger) of Allah is mentioned, except for the name or title of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Sallahu ‘aliehe wa sallam). See Sallahu ‘alaihe wa sallam.
ALAM: World. Singular of ‘Alameen. See 'Alameen.
AL-AMANAH: The trust or the moral reponsibility or honesty, and all the duties which Allah has ordained.
ALAMEEN: Takes its root word from "Alam", meaning world. The Qur’anic meaning of ‘Alameen varies from verse to verse, depending on the context in which it is placed.

1). In Surah 1:2, it means "of all the worlds".

2). In Surah 3:42, it means "of all nations"

3). In Surah 3:97, it means "of all created beings". "Wa ma arsalna illa rahmatan lil ‘Alameen." (We have not sent you [O Muhammad] but as a mercy to all creation.) Surah Al-Anbiya 21:107.

AL-AQIQ: A valley 7km west of al-Madinah al-Munawarah.
AL-ARBA'AH: The four compilers of - Abu Da'ud, Nasa'i, Tirmidhi, Ibn Majah.
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. Read Bukhari, Hadith 138, Vol. 1.
AL-HAMD: 1). All praise (is to Allah).

2). Another name for Suratul-Fatiha. Surah 1 of the Holy Qur’an.

AL-HAMD: 1). All praise (is to Allah).

2). Another name for Suratul-Fatiha. Surah 1 of the Holy Qur’an.

AL-HAMDU LILLLAH: Praise be to Allah. Should be said on all occasions and especially after sneezing. Abu Huraira related that the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said: ‘When any one of you sneezes, then he should say "Al-Hamdulillah", and his brother or friend (who listens) should respond by saying "Yarhamuk Allah", (Allah have mercy upon you). and then the person sneezing should reciprocate by saying "Yahdikumullah wa yuslahu balakum" ( may Allah guide you and improve your condition). Sahi Bukhari.
ALI IBN ABI TALIB, MAY ALLAH BE PLEASED WITH HIM: One of the greatest companions of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. The last of the four rightly guided Khalifs (al-Khulafaa al-Rashideen), may Allah bless with him, he ruled from 36AH to 40AH. He was martyred while praying in the Masjid (mosque). See Khalifaa
ALIF LAM MIM: Abbreviated letters, called al-Muqtta’at, revealed at the start of certain Suwar of the Holy Qur’an.
AL-INFITAR: "The Cleaving". Surah 82 of the Holy Qur’an.
AL-JUHFA: Miqat of the people of Shaam. See Miqat.
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 2:225 is called Ayatul Kursi. See Surah al-Baqara (2):255 see ‘Arsh.
ALLAH AKBAR: Allah is the Greatest.
ALLAH HUMMA: "O Allah". This is said when invoking Allah Ta’ala. For example, "Allah humma atina fid dunya hasana wa fil akhirati hasana wa qin a ‘adhab an-nar". "O Allah, give us the good of this world and the good of the Hereafter and preserve us from the Hellfire."
ALLAH TA’ALA: Allah the Exalted. See Subhana wa Ta’ala.
ALLAH: The name of the Creator of the universe and all that it contains.It is derived from the word "Ilah" which means "the One deserving all worship", the One to whom all hearts submit in love, fear, reverence, desire, trust and sincerity, and to whom all limbs submit in all forms of worship such as prayers, supplications, sacrifices, invocations, etc. Allah has decreed that His Holy name is "Allah" and has ordained that all His creation call upon Him by the name of "Allah". In the original Bible and Taurat (in the Hebrew text), the name "Allah" is used. In Islam, the name God is not used for fear of misunderstanding. To the Christians, it will give them a mental image of a human being (the Prophet Jesus, son of Mary, Peace be on him), to some Hindus it creates a mental picture of an animal (a cow). To the Zoroastrians it creates a picture of a fire. Allah, there is none but He, King of universe, the Creator and Originator of all that there is, He has no beginning nor end. He was not begotten nor did He beget. He is not like anything.
AL-MAQAM AL-MAHMOOD: The highest station in Jannah (Paradise). This place will be granted to the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and to no-one else. Sahi Bukhari, Hadith 242, Vol. 6.
AL-YAS, PEACE BE ON HIM: Elisha. A Prophet of Islam. See Holy Qur’an, Al-An’aam (6):36 Saad (38):48.
AMIN: O Allah, accept our invocation.
AMIRUL MUMINEEN: Commander of the Faithful. Title of the leader in the Islamic nation after the death of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. The first four faithful commanders of the new Islamic nation were called Al-Khulafaa al-Rashideen, "the rightly-guided Khulafas" (see Khalifaa). They were given this title because they carried out their duties perfectly according to the Holy Qur’an and the practices and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.
AMMA BA'DU: An expression used for separating an introductory main topic in a speech; the introductory topic is usually concerned with Allah's Praises and glorification. Literally it means, "whatever comes after." It is generally translated as "then after" or "to proceed."
AMR BILL MA’ROOF: Enjoining the good. The full version is "Amr bill Ma’roof wa nahi ‘anil Munkar". (enjoining the good and forbidding the evil).
AN’AAM: The Cattle". Surah 6 of the Holy Qur’an.
ANBIYAA (AL): "The Prophets". Surah 21 of the Holy Qur’an.
ANFAAL (AL): "The Spoils of War." Surah 8 of the Holy Qur’an.
ANSAAB: Idols. See Holy Qur’an, Al-baqara (2):219.
ANSAR: Literally means "Helpers".

1). The Inhabitants of Madinah, the Aus and the Khazraj tribes, who embraced Islam and supported the Muslim emigrants against the pagan Quraish and other tribes who made war on the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. See Ansari.

2). Helpers of the Prophet Isa (the Prophet Jesus, son of Mary), peace be on him. See Holy Qur’an, As-Saff (61):14 Singular: Ansari

ANSARI: An inhabitant of Madina who embraced Islam and supported the Muslim emigrants who had fled from persecution in Makkah and other places during the time of greater repression against the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and his companions, may Allah be pleased with them all. See Holy Qur’an, Suwar Al-Hashr (59):9, Al-Munafiqun (63):7.
AQIQ (AL): A valley in Al-Madina about seven kilometers west of it
AQIQAH: It is the Sacrificing of one or two sheeps on the occasion of the birth of a child, as a token of gratitude to Allah. See Sahi Al-Bukhari, The Book of 'Aqiqah, Vol. 7, Page No. 272.
AQRA HALQA: It is just an exclamatory expression, the literal meaning of which is not meant always. It expresses disapproval.
ARAAK (AL): A tree from Siwak is made. See Siwak.
ARAF (AL): " The Heights". Surah 7 of the Holy Qur’an.
AREEM: May be translated as dams or embankment. The ‘Areme (dam) that is referred to in Surah 34:16 is the Maarib Dam whose traces still exist in Yemen.
ARKAN: Pillars. This refers to the indispensable pillars of Islam. There are five Arkan of Islam: 1. Shahadatain, bearing witness. All Muslims must believe in and utter the Shahadatain.

1). The first Shahada is: Ashhadu an la illaha illal ‘lah. (I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah.)

2). 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. 3. Seeam, 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 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 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).

ARKAN: Pillars. This refers to the indispensable pillars of Islam. There are five Arkan of Islam: 1. Shahadatain, bearing witness. All Muslims must believe in and utter the Shahadatain.

1). The first Shahada is: Ashhadu an la illaha illal ‘lah. (I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah.)

2). 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. 3. Seeam, 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 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 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).

AS: See ‘Alaihe as-Salam.
ASABAH: All male relatives of a deceased person from the father's side.
ASBAB AN-NAZUL: The specific reason and circumstances for the revelation of various verses of the Holy Qur’an. For example: Surat at-Tauba, Ayat 79-80 (the story of Abu ‘Aqeel). In 9AH Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, asked for contributions to finance his Tabuk expedition. Being very poor, but still yearning to contribute, Abu ‘Aqeel decided to offer his services, which lasted from dusk till dawn. He received only two handfuls of barley in payment. He took the entire payment and presented it to Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. A group of Munafiqeen (Hyprocrites) saw this and started to deride Abu ‘Aqeel by saying. "Look at Abu ‘Aqeel, does he think that Allah is in need of such a pathetic donation?" Allah Ta’ala become so angry with them that He immediately sent down the Holy Spirit Jibreel (The Angel Gabriel), peace be on him, to reveal Surah 9:79:80 to Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.
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 honour of Muhammad 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-MAIMANA: Literally means "companions of the Right", the righteous people. On the Day of Resurrection, Allah Ta’ala will sort out the good and evil. They will be divided into three groups: Muqarraboon - the exalted class, those who are nearest to Allah Ta’ala. Ashab al-Maimana - the righteous people, those who are destined to enter Jannah (Paradise). Ashab al-Ma-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 be the companions of the Nar (Hellfire) on the Day of Resurrection. For full explanation: See Ashab al-Maimana. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Waqi’a (56):41-56.
ASHAB AS-SUNNA: The Compilers of the Prophetic Ahadith on Islamic Jurisprudence.
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.
ASHARAFUL MURSALEEN: The Most Honoured of all the Prophets. One of the titles of the Holy Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.
ASH-SHAJARA: A famous place between Madinah and Makkah.
ASIYA: The wife of Fir’aun (Pharoah). 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). Khadija, may Allah be pleased with her, the first wife of Muhammad, may Allah bless and grant him peace.

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

ASLAHA: Reformed, mended, corrected, improved ways of behavior. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Anbiyaa 921):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 Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, named or qualified Him.

2). None can be named or qualified with 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 Ahadeth (sahih) regarding the attributes of Allah without altering their meaning in any way whatsoever.For full list of the attributes of Allah Ta’ala: See Tawheed.

ASMAUL HUSNA (AL): The Ninety-nine Beautiful Names (Attributes) of Allah Ta’ala. It is haram to add or to delete from the list of Attributes of Allah. It is also haram to give such attributes to anyone else. For the full list of Al-Asmaul Husna:See appendix 1
ASSALAMU ‘ALAYKUM: "Peace be on you". Greeting of the Muslims. The response to this greetings is "Wa ‘Alaikum Assalam wa Rahmatul-lahi wa Barakatuh", And on you be the Peace and Mercy of Allah and His Blessing.
AS-SIDDIQ: "The Truthful". This title was given to Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, by the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. When Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, related his experience of Al-Isra (his night journey to Masjidil Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem) Wal Mi’raj (and his ascension through the seven heavens) to Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, he immediately and without any reservation replied "Sadaqt": "You have spoken the truth". From that on Abu Bakr, may Allah be pleased with him, came to be known as Abu Bakr as-Siddiq.
ASTAGHFIRUL’LLAH: I seek forgiveness from Allah:
ATHAR: Sayings of the Sahabah, the companions of the Prophet Muhammad, may the peace and blessing of Allah be on him and them.
AWLIYAA: Protectors, friends, supporters, helpers. Comes from the same root word as Maula. Singular: Walee.
AYAH: A verse of the Holy Qur’an. Literally means "a sign". Plural: Ayat.
AYAT AL-KURSI Allah! There is no god but He, the Living, the Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him nor sleep. His are all things In the heavens and on earth. Who is there that can intercede in his presence except As He permitteth? He knoweth What (appeareth to His Creatures As) before or after Or behind them. Nor shall they compass Aught of His knowledge Except as He willeth. His Throne doth extend Over the heavens And the earth, and He feeleth No fatigue in guarding And preserving them For He is the Most High, The supreme (in Glory). Al-Baqara (2):255 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AYAT AL-KURSI: The 255th verse of Surah al-baqarah (2) in the Holy Qur’an. See the beginning of Section (A) of this book.
AYAT: Literally means signs (of Allah Ta’ala).

1). Verses of the Holy Qur’an are called Ayat because each one is a sign from Allah Ta’ala for those who understand.

2). Within the Ayat (verse) themselves Allah gives us numerous Ayat (signs), amongst which are: a) His power b) His creation (earth, heavens, universe, etc..) c) What is in store for those who reject Allah and His messengers and what is in store for the righteous who accepted Allah and His messengers.

AYOUB, PEACE BE ON HIM: Job. A Prophet of Islam. He was renowned for his patience, hence the idiom "Sabr Ayoub" (the patience of Job), which means complete patience and constancy.
AYYAM AT-TASRIQ: It is a term used for eleventh, twelfth and thirteen of Dhul-Hijjah.
AYYIM: A woman who already has had a sexual experience, who maybe widowed or divorced.
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

Name Meaning
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.
BAATIL: Evil, False.
BAATIN (AL): "Al-Baatin". 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 Hearing. One of Ninety-nine Attributes of Allah Ta’ala.
BAATIN: Baatin has no exact translation, but the closest translation is "what is inwardly hidden, unseen; the thing or feeling that is being hidden away from human vision or knowledge." No created being has the ‘Ilm 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 Shirk (associating a created being with Allah Ta’ala in his Attributes). Antonym Dhahir.
BAB AL-RAIYAN: The name of one of the eight gates of Jannah (Paradise) through which the people who often observes fasting will enter on the Day of Judgment. See Jannah.
BABU AL-ASFAR: The Byzantines.
BADANA: A she-camel offered as a sacrifice. Plural: Budn.
BADR: Site of the first battle between early Muslims and the pagans of the Quraish in 2AH. Badr is located about 150km South of al-Madinah al-Munawara. The Muslim army consisted of 313 men and the Quraish had a total of 1000 soldiers, archers and horsemen, See Holy Qur’an, Al-Anfal (8):5-19, 42-48, Aali Imran (3):13.
BAGHIA: Prostitute. This is the accusation that the Jews levelled 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 whoever 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, Aale ‘Imran (3):19.
BAHIRAH (AL): A milking she-camel, whose milk used to be spared for idols and other false deities.
BAI'AH: A pledge given by the citizens etc. to their Imam (Muslim Ruler) to be obedient to him according to the Islamic religion.
BAI'AT UR-RIDWAN: The oath and pledge taken by the Sahabah at Al-Hudaibiyah in the year of 6H to fight Quraish in case they harmed 'Uthman (may Allah be pleased with him) who had gone to negotiate with them and reported to have been taken captive.
BAITUL HAMD: House of praise to Allah in the Akhira (Hereafter).
BAITUL MA’MUR (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 center.
BAITUL MAL: An Islamic treasury intended for the benefit of the Masaken (needy Muslims) and not for the leaders or the wealthy.
BAITUL MAQDIS (MASJID AL-AQSA): The famous Masjid (mosque) in Al-Quds (Jerusalem). It was the 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’ba) at Makkah al-Mukarramah. Baitul Maqdis is the third greatest Masjid in t he Islamic world, the first being the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and the second being Masjid al-Rasool, may Allah bless 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 Holy Qur’an, Al-Isra (17):1.
BAIT-UL-MIDRAS: A place in Madinah (and it was a Jewish center).
BAKKA: Another name for Makkah. See Holy Qur’an, Ale ‘Imran (3):96.
BALAD (AL): "The City’ of Makkah. Surah 90 of the Holy Qur’an.
BALAM: Means an Ox.
BANI AL-ASFAR: The Byzantines.
BANI ISRAEL: "Tribe of Israel" The descendants of the twelve sons of Yacoub, who was also called Israel, the son of Ishaq, who was, the son of the Prophet Ibrahim, peace be on them all.

Another name for Suratul al-Isra. Surah 17 of the Holy Qur’an.

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 after 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 Holy Qur’an, Al-Hashr (45):26
BANI QURAIDHA: A Jewish tribe from Madinah. Along with the Quraish tribe of Makkah, they plotted to destroy the Prophet Mohammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, by attacking Muslims from within Madinah at the Battle of the Ditch, but when they lost they ask to have their fate judged by Sa’d ibn Muaz (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 Holy Qur’an, Al-Ahzab (33):26-27.
BAQARA (AL): "The Heifer" Surah 2 of the Holy Qur’an.
BAQI: A cemetery at Madinah. Many of the Shabiyeen (companions) of the Prophet Mohammad are buried there, may the blessing and peace of Allah be on him and his family and his companions and all those who follow him and them.
BARAAT (AL): "The Immunity". Another name for Suratul Taubah. Surah 9 of the Holy Qur’an.
BARRAH: Means pious, innocent, clean, inwardly pure.
BARZAKH: Literally means partition or barrier. In Islamic terminology it usually means the life in the grave, because the life in the grave is the interface between the life on earth and the life in the hereafter. Life in the Barzakh is real, but very different from life as we know it. Its exact nature is known only to Allah Ta’ala. It is during our life in the Barzakh that we will be asked about Allah, our faith and the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. We will also be shown the Jannah and the Nar (Paradise and Hellfire) after which we would know which of these two places we will occupy after having been judged.
BAYAN: Intelligent speech, as opposed to sounds which have no power of expression or meaning.
BAYINA (AL): "The Clear Proof". Surah 98 of the Holy Qur’an.
BID’A: Any innovated practices introduced in the religion of Allah. The Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said that every Bid’a is a deviation from the true path and that every deviation leads to Hellfire.
BIDH’A: A small amount. Normally the amount is between three to nine, e.g. Bidh’a Tamarat (few dates), Bidh’a Sanawat (a few years).
BINT LABUN: Two year-old she camel.
BINT MAKHAD: One year-old she camel.
BIRR WA TAQWA: Righteousness and awe of the Creator which inspires a person to be on guard against wrong action and eager for doing things which are pleasing to Allah.
BISMILLAH: "In the Name of Allah". (1). This statement is usually made by every Muslim who is about to embark on anything that is Halal (lawful), however trival that act or deed may seem. (2). First verse Suratul Fatiha.(3). To be recited before the beginning of every Surah except for Suratul Taubah (Surah 9 of the Holy Qur’an).
BU’ATH: Two miles from Madinah. Also the site of a battle between the al-Aus tribe (who later became the Ansar) and the al-Khazraj in the-pre Islamic era
BUDN: Plural of Badana.See Badana.
BUKHIL: Spendthrift. Allah Ta’ala has forbidden mankind to be either misers or over-generous to a fault. See Holy Qur’an, Suwar Al-Isra (17):26-29, Al-Furqan (25):67.
BURAIHAA: One of the Abu Talha’s gardens (opposite the Masjid al-Rasool) when Rasoolullah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, used to go to rest and drink its fresh water.
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.
BURD, BURDA: A black ,square, narrow dress.
BURNUS: A hooded cloak.
BURUD: Plural of Barid. One Barid is equal to 4 Farsakh = 12 miles = 19.31 Kilometers.
BURUJ (AL): "The Zodiacal Signs". Surah 85 of the Holy Qur’an. This refers to the constellations in the heavens themselves, not to the astrologers' ‘Stars signs’.
BUTHAN: A valley in Al-Madinah.

C

Name Meaning
DA’WA: Propagation of Islam through words and actions, calling people to follow the commandments of Allah Ta’ala.
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-Naml (27):82-83.
DABOUR (AD): A great westerly windstorm. Type of storm that destroyed the people of ‘Ad.
DAGHABIS: Snake cumbers. It is a plural of Daghabus.
DAHR (AD): "The Time". Another name of Suratul Insan. Suratul 76 of the Holy Qur’an. Ad-Dhar indicates the space/time continuum.
DAJJAL (AD): Anti-Christ. Also known as Maseeh ad-Dajjal. See Ahadeeth regarding "the Final Hour" in both Sahi books. Sahi Bukhari, Hadith 649, 650, Vol. IV. Sahi Muslim, kitab al-Fafitan wa Isharat as-Say’ah.
DANIQ: A coin equal to one-sixth of a Dirham.
DAR-AL-QADA: Justice House (court).
DAWOOD, PEACE BE ON HIM: David. A prophet of Islam. The prophet to whom the Zabour was revealed, and who fought Jaluth (Goliath) and killed him. See Holy Qur’an, Saad (38):17-26.
DAYYAN: Allah; it literally means the One Who judges people from their deeds after calling them to account.
DEEN: (1). 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 (submission 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 upon them all, but mankind, through ignorance or intentional misguidance by others has altered that religion of Allah again and again. Allah Ta’ala sent the Holy Qur’an as the final revelation and guidance for mankind and the Jinn who will be judged on the Day of Resurrection. (2). Also indicates the Judgment itself, i.e. "Yaum al-Deen". (Judgment Day).
DHAALEEN: "Those that have gone astray" (Surah 1:7). Refers to the Nasara (Christian), 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.
DHAHIR (AD): "Ad-Dhahir", 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. Antonyms: Baatin. See Baatin.
DHAREYAT (AL): "The wind that scatters". Surah 51 of the Holy Qur’an.
DHAT-IRQ: Miqat for the pilgrims coming from Iraq.
DHAT-UN-NITAQAIN: Asma', the daughter of Abu Bakr (ra). It literally means a woman with two belts. She was named so by the Prophet (Peace be upon him).
DHAWI-AL-ARHAAM: Blood relative, especially parents, brother and sisters, uncles, sons and daughters, and grandparents.
DHI’L-KHALASA: Also known as ka’aba al-Yamaniyah. A place where a pagan idol called Daus used to be worshipped in Yemen in the pre-Islamic period of ignorance.
DHIHAR: A type of divorce which was common in pre-Islamic Arabia, but was made Haram (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 not have 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.
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 Islam are its foundation. Recitation of Qur’an is its heart, and invocation of single Name of Allah, it's end.
DHIMMI: A Non-Muslim living under the protection of Islamic rule.
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.
DHU’L-HIJJA: The 11th month of the Islamic Calendar. See Hijri.
DHU’L-KIFEL, PEACE BE ON HIM: Ezekiel. A prophet of Islam. See Holy Qur’an: Al-Anbiyaa (21):85, Sad (38):48.
DHU’L-NOON, PEACE BE UPON HIM: The Companion of the Fish. This is a title of the Prophet Yunus (Jonah), peace be upon him. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Qalam (68):48 See Yunus.
DHUL-FARA'ID: Those person whose share of inheritance described in the Qur'an are called Dhul-Faraid, and the rest are Asabah.
DHUL-KHLASAH: Al-Kahbah Al-Yamaniyah. (A house in Yemen where idols used to be worshipped. It belonged to the tribe of Khat'am and Bujailah).
DHULM: 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 be physical or mental. Its opposite id Nur, Light.
DHUL-MAHRAM: A man, whom a woman can never marry because of close relationship (e.g. a bother, a father, an uncle); or her own husband.
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 injsutice in whatever form is an evil darkness.
DHU-TUWA: It is one of the valleys (district) of Makkah and there is a well-known well in it. In the lifetime of the Prophet (peace be upon him), Makkah was a small city and this well was outside its precincts. Nowadays MAkkah is a Larger city and the well is within its boundary.
DIBAJ: Pure silk cloth.
DINAR: An ancient gold coin.
DIRHAM: A silver weighing 50 grains of barley with cut ends. It is equal to 1/12 of one Uqiyyah of Gold in Value.
DIYA: Blood money, paid as compensation for killing, wounding, etc. Plural: Diyat.
DU’A (SHIRK AL): Invoking or supplicating to a false deity other than Allah Ta’ala, is a major Shirk. See Shirk.
DU’A: Supplication: Invoking Allah for whatever one desires.
DUHA (AD): "Forenoon": The mid-morning hours. Surah 93 of the Holy Qur’an.
DUHR: Noon. the Second obligatory Salat (Prayer) of the day. It can be prayed at any time between noon and mid-afternoon.
DUKHAN (AD): "The Smoke". Surah:44 of the Holy Qur’an. One of the signs of the proximity of the Last Day.
DUNK: Raising of the kafir in the state of blindness on the Yaum al-Qiama (Day of Resurrection).
DUNYA: "World". It refers to this existing world. In English it may imply both worlds, i.e. "this 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 Subhana wa Ta’ala.

E

Name Meaning
EID AL-FITR: Three-day festival marking the end of Ramadan. It takes place on the 1st of Shawal, the 10 month of the Islamic calendar.
EID-AL-ADHA: A four-day festival that completes the rites of pilgrimage and takes place on the 10th-13th of Dhul Hijja (the 10th is the day of Nahr and 11th -13th are the days of Tashriq). Literally means "the feast of the sacrifice". 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 Holy Qur’an, As-Saffat (37):100-103.

F

Name Meaning
FADAK: A town near Al-Madina.
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. Allah Subahana wa Ta’ala has strictly prohibited any kind of Riba and has warned of severe punishment for those who have any association with it. See Holy Qur’an, Sura Al-baqara (2):275-280, Aali ‘Imran (3):130. See Riba
FAI: War body gained without fighting.
FAJR (AL): "The Dawn". The time of the first obligatory Salat (Prayer). It can be prayed at any time between the first light of dawn and just before sunrise. Also called Subh (morning). Surah 89 of the Holy Qur’an.
FALAAH: "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 ‘ala 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 Holy Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah (2):1-5. See Aflaha: He has succeeded.
FALAQ (AL): "The daybreak". Surah 113 of the Holy Qur’an.
FANISH: One who talks evil. Boastful in loudness.
FAQEEH: An Islamic scholar who can give an authoritative legal opinion or judgment.
FAQIR: A poor person. In Islam, poverty may take two forms. (1). Worldly. 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: Plural of Farida. See Farida.
FARD: Obligatory. An act which is obligatory upon Muslims. Severe punishment awaits those who fail to carry out these acts. There are two categories: (1). Far ‘Ain: Obligatory on every Muslim who is mature, healthy and sane. (2). Fard Kifaya: Obligatory on at least one person in the Muslim community.
FARIDHA: A duty enjoined on all Muslims. Plural: Fara’idh.
FARSAKH: League; about three miles.
FASIQ: A person who engages in evil talk and deeds.
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 infact it was, by the will of Allah Ta’ala, one of the main means by which the Muslims consolidated and grew. See Holy Qur’an, Surah Al-Fath (48).
FATAT: A Female slave or young lady.
FATH (AL): "The Victory". Surah 48 of the Holy Qur’an.
FATIHA: "The opening Chapter". Another name for Suratul-Hamd. Surah 1 of the Holy Qur’an.
FATIMA, MAY ALLAH BE PLEASED WITH HER: Daughter of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. She is one of the four greatest women ever created by Allah Ta’ala. The other three are: (1). Mariam (Mary), Mother of Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be on him. (2). Asiya, the wife of Fir’aun (Pharaoh). (3). Khadija, may Allah be pleased with her, the first wife of Muhammad, may the blessing of Allah be on him and his wives and family.
FATIR (AL): "The Creator". Also another name for al-Malaika. Surah 35 of the Holy Qur’an.
FATWA: A legal verdict given on a religious basis. The sources upon which a fatwa is based are the Holy Qur’an, Sahi Bukhari and Muslim, and all other authenticated Ahadeeth.
FAUZ AL-ADHEEM: The supreme victory, achievement, attainment, happiness, etc. The Fauz al-Adheem is realized 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 place in Paradise. Allah has repeatedly stated that the real victors are the inheritors of Paradise. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Maidah (5):122.
FEEL (AL): "The Elephant". Surah 105 of the Holy Qur’an.
FIDYA: Compensation for missing or wrongly practicing necessary acts of worship. Fidya usually takes the form of donating money or foodstuff or sacrificing an animal. Contrast with Kaffara (making amends). See Kaffara.
FIQH: Islamic Law.
FIR’AUN: "Pharoah". Title of the Ancient Egyptian rulers, particularly one who rejected the Prophet Musa (Moses), peace be on him, and tried to have him killed. They were famous for their cruelty and disbelief. See Holy Qur’an, Al-BAqara (2):49, Taha (20):9-80, Al-Qasas (28):1-42, Al-Fajr (89):10-14.
FIRDAUS: The middle and the highest part of Jannah (Paradise).
FITNA: This has meanings, depending on its context in the sentence: (1). Oppression or tumult, as in Surah Al-Baqara (2):193. 2 . Trial or punishment, as in Surah Al-Maidah (5):74. (3). Trial or temptation, as in Surah Al-Anfal (8):28. It can also mean causing discord between Muslims, or sedition.
FURQAAN (AL): "The Criterion". Another name of the Holy Qur’an. Surah 25 of the Holy Qur’an.
FUSSILAT: "They are expounded." Another name for Ha Min and As-Sajda. Surah 41 of the Holy Qur’an.

G

Name Meaning
GHUSL Washing of the body to be pure

H

Name Meaning
HA MIM: "Ha Mim". Another name for Ha Mim Sahda or al-Fussilat. Surah 41 of the Holy Qur’an.
HABAL-UL-HABALAH: There were two forms of this trade called Habal-ul-Habalah. The example of the first form is to buy an offspring of an animal which is yet to be born by making the payment in advance. Second form is to sell an animal on a condition of retaining the offspring of the sold animal. Both forms of this kind of transaction are prohibited.
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 Gushul.
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.
HADER: Fast recitation of the Holy Qur’an.
HADI (AL): A Cow, sheep or a goat that is offered as a sacrifice by a pilgrim during the Hajj.
HADITH QUDSI: A saying of Allah Ta’ala narrated by the Holy prophet Muhammad , may Allah bless him and grant him peace, that is not part of the Holy Qur’an .
HADITH: A saying or tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Plural: Ahadeeth.
HAFADA: (1). Obedient service or work . (2). Descendant - son, daughter, grandchild, great grandchild, etc.
HAFADAT: Combined plural indicating all descendants - sons, daughters, grandchildren , great grandchildren , etc. Singular : Hafada . See Holy 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.
HAIS: A dish made of cooking-butter, dates and cheese.
HAJAR AL-ASWAD (AL): The ‘Black Stone’, a stone some say fell from heaven, set into one corner of the Ka’bah in Makka by the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be upon him, which the pilgrim, 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 (AL): "The Pilgrimage", which commences on the 8th of Dhul’l-Hijjah. There are three types of Hajj:

Hajjat-Tamata’a (interrrupted). Umra followed by Hajj, but taking off the Ihram in between these two stages. Hajj al-Qiran (combined). Umra then Hajj without taking off the Ihram. Hajj al-Ifrad (single). Hajj without Umra. A pilgrimage to Makkah in the twelfh month of the Islamic calendar is known also as Hajj al-Ifrad. The performance of Hajj consists of ten steps: (i) 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 Ka’bah upon arrival in Makkah. See Talbiyah. (ii). Go to Mina (on the 8th of the month). Pray the Duhr, ‘Asr, magreb, Isha and Fajr prayers at their proper time, but shortening the four Rak’at to two, as if doing travelling prayers. (iii). When sun rises (on the 9th of the month), go to ‘Arafat and combine the Dhur and ‘Asr Salat. (iv). After the sun sets, go to Al-Muzdalifa, reciting the Talbiyah. Combine the Magreb 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. (v). In Muzdalifah (or Minah), pick up small stones (eighter 49 or 70) to throw at the Jamra (stone pillars) of ‘Aqaba. (vi) Go to Mina (on the 10th of the month): a). Throw seven stones, one stone at a time, at the largest of three Jamras (the stone pillars that represent Shaitan). b). 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.) c). 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. (vii). Go to Makkah and to Tawaf al-Ifada. Go to the hills of Safa and Marwa and do Sa’i. Now the rules of Ihram are completely lifted. (viii). 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.) (ix). Each day, stone each of the three Jamras (the stone pillars) with seven pebbles. (x). If you wish to return home, you must do the Tawaf al-Wida’. No-one is excused, except for the menstruating women or women in the period of discharge after childbirth. See Tawaf al-Wida.’ See Surah 22 pf the Holy 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 and what they are able, with sincerity, until the Last Day.
HAJJ MABRUR: Hajj accepted by Allah for being perfectly performed according to the Prophet's Sunnah and with legally earned money.
HAJJ-AL-AKBAR: The day of Nahr (i.e. the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah).
HAJJ-AL-ASGHAR: 'Umbrah.
HAJJAM: One Whose profession is cupping (Hejjam).
HALAL: Lawful as defined by Allah the Almighty. See Ahkam.
HAMAM: Minister of Fir’aun (Pharoah) 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: Hamaa, he carried; Yahmilou, they carried.
HAMU: Brother-in-Law to wife, i.e. her husband’s brother.
HANAFIA: A school of Islamic jurisprudence named after Imam Abu Hanifa.
HANIF: Pure Islamic Monotheism (worshipping Allah alone and nothing else).
HANIF: 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 the blasphemy.
HANTAH: An expression used when you don't want to call somebody by her name. (It is used for calling a female).
HANUT: A kind of scent used for embalming the dead.
HAQQA (AL): "The reality". Another name for the Last Day. Surah 69 of the Holy Qur’an.
HARAM AL-SHAREEF (AL): See Masjid al-Haram (Al).
HARAM: Any act or deed which is prohibited by Allah and which will incur His wrath and punishment. See Ahkan. Sanctuary or boundary of any Masjid (mosque), but usually used with regard to the sanctuaries of the masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid al-Rasool, may Allah give him light and peace in his grave, in Madinah. This is why they are referred to as "Al-Haramain al-Shariffain", the two Holy Sanctuaries.
HARAMAIN AL-SHARIFFAIN (AL): "The two Holy Sanctuaries". The Santuary of the Ka’ba at Makkah and the sanctuary of al-Masjid al-Rasool, may Allah bless and grant him peace, in Madinah.
HARBAH: A short spear.
HARJ: Killing.
HAROON, PEACE BE ON HIM: Aaron. A prophet of Islam. He was the brother of the Prophet Musa (Moses), peace be on them. See Holy Qur’an, Ta Ha (20):29-36, 90-94.
HARRA: Land covered with black stones in Madinah.
HARRAH: A well-known rocky place in Al-Madinah covered with black stone.
HARUT AND MARUT: Two angels who, by the permission of Allah Ta’ala, taught magic to the people of Babylon. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):102.
HASAD: Jealousy. Hasad is forbidden in Islam, except for two specific reasons: Being jealous of a person for memorizing Qur’an by Heart. Being jealous of a wealthy person for expending his wealth in the path of Allah Ta’ala.
HASANAAT: 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 Janna. Singular: Hasana.
HASBA (AL): A place outside Makkah where pilgrims go after finishing all the ceremonies of Hajj.
HASBA: A place just outside Makkah where the Hujjaj go after completing the Hajj.
HASHIR (AL): "The Exile". Surah 59 of the Holy Qur’an. Another name for the Day of Judgment, Yaumal al-Hashr, "Day of the Gathering".
HAWALA: Transfer of debt from one person to another by the agreement of both parties.
HAWAZIN: A Quraish 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 Jahannam.
HAWWA: Eve, wife of Adam, peace be on them. She bore many children. Everytime she gave birth, they were twins, one male and one female. Each twin married the twin of the other. The two most famous ones of her offsprings were Habil (Abel) and Qaabil (Cain).
HAYA: This has a wide range of meanings which falls 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, Vol. 8.
HIBAH: It means to present something to someone as a gift for Allah's sake.
HIDANAH (AL): The nursing and care- taking of children.
HIJAB: Any kind of veil - it could be a curtain, a facial veil, etc. 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 creators from the creation. If you find the veil awe-inspiring, how much more awe-inspiring is the One behind the veil?
HIJAZ: The region along the western seaboard of Arabia, in which Makka, Medina, Jeddah and Ta’if are situated.
HIJR (AL): "Al-Hijr". Name of a rocky place and its people. Surah 15 of the Holy Qur’an.
HIJRA: Migration in the path of Allah.
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 622 AC. The months of the Islamic calendar are:

(1).Muharram, (2).Safar, (3).Rabi’il al-Awal, (4).Rabi’il 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.

HILAB: A kind of scent.
HINNA: A kind of plant used for dying hair etc.
HIQQAH: A three-year-old she-camel.
HIRA: A famous cave in the jabal an-Nur in Makkah where Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, first received the divine message through the Holy Spirit, the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel), peace be on him.
HIZB: Party. Allah Ta’ala divides all the parties into two groups; "Hizb Allah"(the Party of Allah) and "Hizbal-Shaitan" (the Party of Satan). It is irrelevant to Allah how one labels one’s party, whether it be "Democratic Party", "Labour Party", "Communist Party" or whatever. What matters is whether or not it follows the path of Allah Ta’ala.
HOORIAH: 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 Akhira (Hereafter). Her beauty is insurpassable and unimaginable. She has intensely black irises and the whites of her eyes are pure whites . Also spelled as Houriah. Plural: Hooriyat.
HOORIYAT: Plural of Hooriah. See Hooriah.
HOUD, PEACE BE UPON HIM: A prophet sent to the tribe of 'Ad. 'Ad Surah 11 of the Holy Qur'an.
HUBAL: The name of an idol in the Ka'bah in the Pre-Islamic Period of Ignorance.
HUBLA: A kind of desert tree.
HUDA: Chanting of camel-drivers keeping time of camel's walk.
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 Holy Qur’an) commemorates this victorious event. Allah Ta’ala called it "Fathan Mubeena" ( Manifest Victory). See Holy Qur’an, Al-Fath (48):1-4.
HUDOOD: The Boundary limits between what is Halal (Lawful) and what is Haram (Unlawful), set by Allah Ta’ala. Whoever transgresses these limits may be punished or forgiven by Allah.
HUJJAJ: Pilgrims. Persons who have been on pilgrimage to Makkah during the Hajj season in the month of Dhul Hijjah. Singular: Hajj = a male pilgrim, Hajah = a female pilgrim.
HUJRAH: Courtyard or a room.
HUKM: The closest equivalent in the English is "Verdict". It usually applies to a judgement on legal issues, especially with regard to religious matters.
HUMAZA (AL): "The Scandalmonger". Surah 104 of the Holy Qur’an.
HUMS: The Quraish tribe, together with their offsprings 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 other.
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, 000-12,000 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 Holy Qur’an. At-Taubah (9):24-25.
HURURIYAH (AL): A special unorthodox religious sect.
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.

I

Name Meaning
IBADAH: 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 limbs. Ibadah is to worship Allah as He wishes to be worshipped. See Arkan.
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 Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):130, 135. Surah 19 of the Holy Qur’an.
IDHIKHIR: A special type of pleasant- scented grass found in the Hijaz area of Saudi Arabia. Also known as Adhkar.
IFRAD (HAJJ AL): "Single Hajj". Performance of Hajj without doing Umra. See Hajj.
IFREET: Usually spelled as ‘Ifreet. An evil Jinn. He is large, powerful and very crafty. Plural: ‘Afreet. See Holy 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: (1). The state in which one is prohibited from doing certain things which are lawful at other times. Umra and Hajj are performed in such a state. (2). When one assumes such a state one must declare mentally and orally that he or she is assuming such a state for the purpose of Umra or Hajj. Then one must recite the Talbiyah. See Talbiyah. (3). Dress: 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. b). 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, colorful, etc.). (4). Behavior: 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.
IIDDAT: Also spelled as ‘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 Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):231-235, At-Talaq (6 5):4-7.
IIDRIS, PEACE BE ON HIM: Enoch, A prophet of Islam and a man of truth and wisdom. See Holy Qur’an, Maryan (19):56-57, Al-Anbiyah (21):85.
IKHLAS (AL): "The Complete Faith". Surah 112 of the Holy Qur’an. 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.
ILAA: The path 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. Derived from Ilhahd which means deviation. It includes: Comparing Allah to anything, or any of His Attributes to those of His Creation. Denying any of Allah’s Attributes or altering their true meanings. Using Allah’s Names to describe anything in His Creation. To label Him with a name with which He has not named Himself. e.g. "Father". To attribute any deficiencies to Him. The person who practices Ilhad is called Mulhid. See Mulhid.
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 Holy Qur’an, Al-Mutafifeen (83):18-21.
ILM ‘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.
ILM: Usually spelled as ‘Ilm. Knowledge.
ILYAS, PEACE BE ON HIM: Elias. A prophet of Islam. See Holy Qur’an, Al-An’am (6):85, ‘As-Saffat (37):123-132.
IMAM: A person who leads the prayer. A Muslim Khalifah. A famous Muslim scholar in Fiqh.
IMAMUL MURSALEEN: The leader of all the messengers. One of the titles of the Holy prophet Muhammad, may the blessing and peace of Allah be on him and them.
IMAN: Trust, faith and acceptance. Having faith and believing in: Allah Ta’ala. To affirm with the tongue, believe in the heart and confirm through action the following: a). His Existence b). his Lordship c). His Worship d). His names and Attributes.

Belief in His angels. Belief in His revealed Books. Belief in His messengers, without making any distinction between them. Belief in the last Hour and the judgment and the Fire and the Garden. Belief in the Divine decrees of Allah Ta’ala, both the good and the evil. See Holy Qur’an, al-Baqara (2):285.

IMLAS: 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.
INGEEL: This is mistakenly understood, by some, to be The New Testament that the Nasara (Christian) have today. The Ingeel that is referred to in the Holy 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, Mark, Luke, John, Paul, and others.
INS WAL JINN: Mankind and Jinn. See Jinn.
INSAN (AL): "Human". Another name for Ad-Dhar. Surah 76 of the Holy Qur’an.
INSHA-ALLAH: "If Allah wills". It is forbidden to say "I will do such and such tomorrow," without saying afterwards, "Insha-Allah".
INSHIQAQ (AL): "Reading Asunder". Surah 84 of the Holy Qur’an.
INSHIRAH (AL): "The Expanding". Surah 94 of the Holy Qur’an.
IQAMA: The call which announces to the congregation that the obligatory prayer is just about to begin. The statements are the same as the Adhan, but in a shortened form, such that if a statement is repeated four times during the Adhan, then it is repeated twice during the Iqama.
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. Sahi Bukhari, Hadith 737, Vol. 1. 2). Establishing the prayer. Every person in a Muslim society who is seven years or more must pray - women in their house and men in the Masjid (mosques). Every head, be he head of the family or chief of the town, will be held responsible for the missed prayers of those under him, as well as his own.
IQRAA: "Read". Another name for Suratul Al-’Alaq. Surah 96 of the Holy Qur’an.
IRAAD (KUFR AL): 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 statues of him. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Fajr (89):6-8.
ISA, PEACE BE UPON HIM: One of the greatest prophets and messengers of Islam. He is also known as Isa ibn Mariam (Jesus, Son of Mary) ad isa al-Maseeh (Jesus the Messiah, Jesus Christ). The Jews and the Christian have both blasphemed against the Prophet Isa, peace be on him. The jews reject him completely, while the Christians have elevated him to the level of Allah and or Son of Allah. The concept of such divinity is rejected in the Bible by the Prophet Isa himself (in parts of the Bible which have not yet been altered)

1). According to 1 Timothy 2:5, There is One God, and one mediator between God and men, the ‘MAN’ Christ Jesus." Notice the words "man" and "mediator". Are the Christians trying to say that Allah is the mediator and that the Bible is wrong? Do they not realize that Allah is so supreme in glory that He does not mediate? Ask the Christian how else they can explain this verse. Warn them that Allah’s wrath will be on those who knowingly hide or void the Divine Truth. 2). According to Matthew 24:36, Jesus, peace be on him, has no knowledge of the time of the Hour. Are the Christians trying to say that Allah lacks knowledge. 3).According to Matthew 14:23, Jesus, peace be on him, went into hills to pray. Are the Christians trying to say that Allah needs to pray, and if so, then to whom? 4). "But in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." Matthew 15:9. Isa himself confirmed the prophecy of Isaiah that the people would worship him in vain and believe in doctrines made by men. The truth is that Jesus, peace be on him, spoke the truth, but it is the Christian who, in his name, have invented lies against him. Allah is one. He did not beget nor was He begotten.

ISHA: Night. The fifth and last Fard Salat (Prayer). It's time starts about one and a half hours after sunset, when the redness has disappeared from the night sky and the stars have appeared, and ends a little before dawn.
ISHAQ, PEACE BE UPON HIM: Isaac. A prophet of Islam. He was the second son of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be on him. He was thirteen years younger than his brother, Prophet Ismael (Ishmael), peace be on him. Mary, mother of Jesus, peace be on them, was a descendant from Ishaq. See Holy Qur’an, al-An’am (6):84, As-Saffat (37):112-113.
ISHTIMAAL AS-SAMMA’: Wearing of clothes in two ways: 1). covering one shoulder and leaving the other bare. 2). Wrapping oneself (white sitting) in such a way that one’s garment do not entirely hide the private parts.
ISLAM: Literally means "Submission to the will of Allah." It is for this reason that Allah Himself names His life transaction "al-Islam" and described all the followers of this way of life, in every age, as "Muslim". 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 Shahadatain. First Shahada: Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa l’lah. (I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah.) Second Shahadah: Ash-hadu anna Muhammad 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 practiced by the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. 3). Seeam. 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 payment is due. 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 Holy Qur’an, Al-Maidah (5):3.

ISMAEL, PEACE BE ON HIM: Ishmael. A prophet of Islam. The first son of Ibrahim (Abraham), peace on him, thirteen years older than his brother, the Prophet Ishaq (Isaac), peace be on him. It was through the lineage of Ismael that the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, was born. He helped his father Ibrahim to raise the foundations of the Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):125-129, Maryam (19):54-55.
ISRA (AL): "The night Journey". Another name for Bani Israel. Surah 17 of the Holy Qur’an.
ISTIGHFAR: Seeking Allah Ta’ala's forgiveness for one’s own misdeeds, and his protection from the misdeeds of others.
ISTIKHARA: Asking Allah the Almighty to guide one to the right decision and action regarding a particular problem. The Istikhara Salat consist of two Rak’as. A special invocation See Sahi Bukhari, Hadith 263, Vol.2.
ISTINJA: Cleaning the privates parts after urinating or passing stool, preferably using water.
ISTISQA: Invoking Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala for rain at the time of a drought. The Istisqa Salat consist of two Rak’as. See Bukhari, Hadith 119, Vol. 2.
ITABAA (TAWHEED AL): 1). Unity in following the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. To believe in and a recite the words "Ashadu anna Muhammadar Rasoolullah" (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah) and to follow the way of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, as much as one is able, in life and worship. 2). Full belief in any matter proven to be authentic about the Holy Prophet Muhammad. 3). Obedience and following. 4). To give priority to the Sunnah above any other way of life. See Tawheed.
IZAR: A cloth worn by men (below the waist).

J

Name Meaning
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 among the believers."
JAHANNAM: Most commonly understood to mean Hell. In fact, it is one of the levels of Hell. The 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). Jahannam - a deeper level where the idol-worshippers are to be sent on the Day of Judgment. 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 Judgment. 5). Ladha - will be the home of 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 (Hyprocrites), 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 Jahannam.
JAHILIYAH: "Ignorance". This involves relying on what is other than the truth. This is why the age or period 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.
JAHRI: Loud recitation of the Holy Qur’an during Salaat.
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 young boy then, killed Jalut, thus causing a major defeat to the enemies of Allah. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):249-252.
JAM’: Al-Muzdalifa.
JAMA'AH Congregation.
JAMAHA: To be uncontrollable.
JAME’: Joining two Fard (compulsory) prayers, by praying one immediately after the other, in one space of time. Under certain circumtances (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 Magreb 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 traveling 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: Praying the Duhr and ‘Asr prayers during the time of Duhr. In this case, the Duhr Salat is performed first, then the ‘Asr Salat. Praying the Magreb and Isha prayers during the time of Magreb. In this case, the Magreb Salat is performed first, then the Isha Salat. 2). Jame’ Takheer - Delayed combination: Praying the Duhr and ‘Asr prayers during the time of ‘Asr. The Duhr Salat is performed first, then the ‘Asr Salat. Praying the Magreb and Isha prayers during the time of Isha. The Magreb Salat is performed first, then the Isha Salat.

JAMRA: White hot coal. The term used to describe the three pillars built of stone at Mina. Plural: Jimar.
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). Plural:Jimar.
JANABA: The state of a person after sexual discharge, whether intentional or otherwise. A person may not perform Salat or not recite or touch the Holy Qur’an until he performs Ghusl or Tayammum. See Ghusl.
JANNAH: Also spelled as Janna. Paradise. A created abode in the Hereafter for those who believe in unity of Allah and in all His Prophet and Messengers, and follow their way of life. Jannah has eight gates around it and each of these eight gates has eleven doors. The names of 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-at-Salat. Jannah has not been guaranteed to any human being or Jinn with the exception of the messenger of Allah before their deaths, other than the following ten men.

1). Abu Bakr as-Siddiq. 2). Umar ibn al-Khattab. 3). Uthman ibn ‘Affan. 4). Ali ibn 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’id ibn Zaid. May Allah be pleased with all of them.

JATHIYAH (AL): "The Crouching". Surah 45 of the Holy Qur’an.
JAZAK ALLAH KHAIRUN May Allah reward you.
JEWJ WA MAJEWJ: "Gog and Magog". The two evil empires. They are mentioned in the Holy Qur’an and Ahadeth (Bukhari and Muslim) when mentioning some of the scenes just before the final hour. See Sahi Muslim, Kitab al-Fitan wa Isharat as-Say’ah. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Ambiyaa (21):96.
JIBREEL, PEACE BE ON HIM: The Angel Gibriel. Also 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-Shuraa (26):193). The Al-Amin is Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. See Holy Qur’an , Al-Baqara (2)97-98, At-Takwir (81):19-21.
JIHAD: 1). One of the eight gates of Jannah (Paradise). See Jannah. 2). A Holy war in the cause of Allah and His command. Jihad takes many forms, amongst which are: a). Jihad an-Nafs - Fighting against one’s own evil traits and trying one’s utmost to be a better person in the sight of Allah. b). Jihad Akbar - Physically fighting against the enemies of Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala.
JIMAR: Plural of Jamara. See Jamra and Jamrat al-’Aqaba.
JINN (AL): "The Jinn". 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 Kufar amongst them. 3). They eat food, but their food consists mainly of bones and stool.

They differ from us in many ways too: 1). Their lifespan is much longer than ours. 2). They can see us and sometimes are able to dwell within us. 3). they need no form of transport. 4). 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 eat food with us) is to remember Allah constantly and to read the Holy Qur’an as much as possible. Surah 72 of the Holy Qur’an.

JIZYA: A Tax imposed on non-Muslims who are under Muslim rule.
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 Botham which is situated near the frontiers of turkey, Syria and Iraq. See holy 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 Hajj. See Miqat.
JUM’A (AL): "Friday". The Muslims’ day of gathering together, when all Muslim males must go to the Masjid to hear the Friday Khutba (sermon) and to do Jum’a Salat (prayer), which is prayed instead of Dhur. Surah 62 of the Holy Qur’an.
JUMADA AL-AKHIRA: The Sixth month of Islamic calendar. Abu Bakr as-Siddiq may Allah be pleased with him, died on Tuesday, 22nd Jumada al-Akhira, 13AH. See Hijri.
JUNUB: A person in the state of Janaba. See Janaba.
JUZ: A part. the Holy Qur’an is divided into thirty parts. A thirtieth part of the Holy Qur’an. Plural: Ajza.

K

Name Meaning
KA’ABA AL-YAMANIYAH: Also known as Dhi al-Khalasa. A place where pagan idols used to be worshipped in Yemen in the pre-Islamic time of ignorance.
KA’ABA: The cube-shaped stone building whose foundations were built by the angels and completed by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son, the Prophet Ismael, peace be on them, in Makkah.It was rebuilt with the help of Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.It is the focal point towards which all Muslims face when praying.
KAAMIL: Perfectly complete. There is nothing perfectly complete except Allah Ta’ala.
KABAIR (AL): Major sins. Such sins as Shirk (see Shirk), Qatl (Murder), Zinah (fornication and adultery), the taking of Riba (usury), Sirq (theft), etc.
KAFFARA: An expiatory gift. The prescribed way of making amends for wrong actions, particularly missed obligatory actions. For example, if a person swears to do something in the name of Allah, but later finds out that he is not in a position to keep that pledge, then he must pray a Kaffara. Kaffara is paid in various ways, usually by freeing a salve, feeding the hungry, or fasting for a specified number of days. Contrast with Fidya (compensation). See Fidya.
KAFIR: Unbeliever. Someone who covers up the truth and rejects Allah and His messengers, may Allah bless them and grant them peace. There are many different ways in which a person becomes a disbeliever in Allah. For full explanation see Kufr. Plural: Kuffar.
KAFIRRON (AL): "The Unbelievers". Surah 109 of the Holy Qur’an.
KAFURA: Literally means camphor. It is a special heavenly perfume that will be mixed with non-intoxicating, pure wine and be given to the righteous in the Akhira (Hereafter). See Holy Qur’an, Al-Insan (76):5.
KAHF (AL): "The Cave". Surah 18 of the Holy Qur’an.
KALIMATU’LLAH: Statements of Allah Ta’ala. Words of Allah. See Roohu’llah.
KALIMATUL TAYIBAH: "The Pure Word", i.e. the assertion that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah. "La illaha illa’llah."
KARRAM ALLAH WAJHU: "May Allah be graceful to him". This. is most commonly used when referring to Ali ibn Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, because he was the first man to embrace Islam, and after Khadija, may Allah be pleased with her, the second of the earliest Muslims, never having had any connection with other religions.
KASABA: Literally means to earn. This does not only mean the earning of a livelihood, but rather the spiritual reaping of the consequences of one’s deeds, whether they be good or evil. See Holy Qur’an, Luqman (31):34.
KASAFA: Means "Eclipsed" in regard to the sun.
KATHEB: Lie. Particularly one invoking denial of Allah and His messengers, may Allah bless them and grant them peace.
KAW: See Karram Allah Wajhu.
KAWTHAR (AL): 1). "The fount of Kawthar". A Sacred fount in Jannah (Paradise). It is the source of all the four rivers of Paradise, and feeds the Hawd of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. See Surah 108 of the Holy Qur’an. 2). The Hawd, which is filled by Al-Kawthar is at the end of the Siratul Mustaqeem. It is a gift from Allah to the Holy Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. It is to quench the thirst of the true believers.
KHADAQ: "The ditch". A famous battle between the early Muslims and the pagans in which the Muslims built a Khanda (trench) on the protected side of the city of Al-Madinah al-Munawara to prevent the advance of the Makkan unbelievers in 5AH. The enemy were halted by this unexpected tactic, and then driven away awful weather, mutual distrust and low morale, without any major engagement having taken place. It was also called Ghazwat ul-Ahzab (Battle of Clans), because the Makkan idol-worshippers were assisted by the Jewish Tribes of Banu Nadhir, Banu Ghaffan and Banu Asad. See Holy Qur’an, An-Nur (24):55, Al-Ahzab (33):9-20.
KHADIJAH, MAY ALLAH BE PLEASED WITH HER: First wife of the Holy Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and one of the four greatest females created, the other three being: 1). Mariam (Mary), Mother of the Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be on them. 2). Asiya, the wife of Fir’aun (Pharaoh). 3). Fatima, daughter of Muhammad, may Allah bless them and grant them peace.
KHAFY (SHIRK, AL): The Hidden Shirk. Being dissatisfied with what Allah has ordained for a particular person. Hidden Shirk is to inwardly worship anything or anyone other than Allah, or to inwardly associate something or someone as a partner with Him, especially one’s self. See Shirk.
KHAIBAR: A famous town north of Madinah. It was the place where a great battle took place between the Muslims and the Jews in 10AH. The Muslim victory at Khaibar destroyed Jewish influence in the Arabian peninsula for many centuries, until the introduction of the modern Jewish banking system throughout the world. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Ahzab (33):27.
KHAIF: Name of a Masjid (mosque) in Madinah.
KHAIRUL UMMAM: The best nation amongst all nations in the sight of Allah Ta’ala, i.e. Al-Ummal Islamiah (the Muslim nation).
KHALEEL: Highest form of frienship. The love that is mixed with one’s own soul. The Prophet Muhammad and the Prophet Ibrahim, may Allah bless them and grant them peace, were ‘Khaleelu’allah’, the intimate friends of Allah. They loved people for Allah, but their greatest love was only Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala Himself.
KHALIDEEN: To abide for ever. The good will abide in the Jannah (Paradise) and the evil will abide in the Nar (Hellfire) forever. "Khalideena Feeha Abda". (They will abide in there forever.) The word "Abada" also means "Forever". Allah Ta’ala uses "Abada" to emphasize "forever", reminding us that eternity is endless.
KHALIFAH: Derives its name from the word Khalafa, Yakhufu ---- meaning, one that comes after. Khulafa ------ the ones who succeed others, in the sense of standing in as a representative for someone else. Thus Khalifa = viceregent, the representative of Allah. Khalifa has two main meanings: General : It refers to mankind, particularly the believers. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):30. Every Muslim is a Khalifa and should carry the banner of Islam high and strive to establish the Deen of Islam until Allah’s Word reign supreme in the world. Specific: A Muslim ruler. There were four Al-Khulafaa ar-Rashideen, "the rightly-guided Khulafaa": They are:

i). Abu Bakr as-Siddiq - 11-13 AH ii). Umar ibn Khattab - 13-23 AH. iii). Uthman ibn ‘Affan -24-36 iv). Ali ibn Abi talib - 36-40. May Allah be pleased with them. Plural: Khulafaa.

KHALIQ (AL), "AL-KHALIQ": The Creator. One of the ninety-nine Attributes of Allah Ta’ala. Some useful words regarding creation. 1). Khalaqa - "He Created". 2). Khalq - "Creation". 3). Makhlooq - "Created". 4). Khalaaq - "Creator" in the sense of "Originator".
KHAMR: Intoxicant. Anything that is fermented and causes a state of drunkenness when consumed. Khamr is prohibited by Allah Ta’ala in the strongest term possible: "Ajtanibou" - "Leave it!" It is a higher level of prohibition than forbidding it because it is Haram. Haram---- a direct prohibition ordered by Allah Ta’ala. Ajtanibou ---- a degree more serious than Haram. It is not only Haram, but also a direct command not to approach or be near it for any reason whatsoever. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):219, Al-Maidah (5):93.
KHARAJ: Tax imposed on the revenue out of land taken from non-Muslims to ensure their rights under Islamic Law.
KHARIJ: Singular of Khawarij. See Khawarij.
KHASAFA: Means "eclipsed" with regard to the moon.
KHATAM ANBIYA: The seal of the Prophets. This is the title of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless and grant him peace. Allah Ta’ala sent many prophets, from Adam to Isa (Jesus), may the blessing and peace of Allah be on all of them, and then sent Muhammad as the last messenger to the Ins wal Jinn (mankind and the Jinn) with the final and complete revelation, the Holy Qur’an. This is one of the reasons why Allah Ta’ala Himself decreed that it is He who will preserve and be the Guidance of the Holy Qur’an. It is the only Holy Book today that has not been altered (not even a single letter has been altered!). Allah Ta’ala’s promise is true. Has not the time come for those who reject to see the truth? Allah Ta’ala has sent an unlimited number of proofs to prove that the divine truth lies in the Holy Qur’an and with the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. It is clear for those who wish to see them. And those who choose to reject them will have only themselves to blame. For another proof see Umm-me. Allah humma inni ballght; Allah humma inni ballaght; Allah humma inni ballaght: O Allah, surely the message has been delivered; O Allah surely the message has been delivered; O Allah, surely the message has been delivered.
KHAUF: Fear. Only fear of Allah is acceptable to Allah Ta’ala. Khauf is a general fear, e.g.: 1 . Fearing the unknown. 2 . Fear of failing. 3 . Fear of losing wealth. etc.

Taqwa is the fear of something specific and its consequences:

a). Fear of Allah and of His wrath. This is the mark of a true believer. This is a blessed Taqwa that will lead to Paradise. b). Fearing Shaitan or man for the evil they can do, without taking into consideration that Allah has power over them. This is a cursed Taqwa that will lead to the Hellfire. The opposite of Khauf is Rija (hope), hope for generosity and blessing from Allah Ta’ala.

KHAWARIJ: The people who dissented from Islam and created a false belief which was not part of the Holy Qur’an or the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Singular: Kharj.
KHAWLA BINT THA’LAB: She is the woman who is referred to in the Surat al-Mujadalah (Surah 58:1-6).
KHAZAIN: 1). Store houses or places where things are stored. 2). Treasures or where treasures are kept. Singular Makhzan.
KHIMAR: A type of Hijab (Veil) which covers the face, but leaves the eyes exposed, as opposed to the Niqab, which covers the entire face, including the eyes.
KHOSOOF: Lunar eclipse. There is a special Eclipse Salat (prayer) which lasts as long as the eclipse itself.
KHUL: A form of divorce. When a wife leaves her husband after giving him a certain compensation, usually part or all of her dowry.
KHULAFAA AR-RASHIDEEN (AL): The rightly-Guided Khalifaas. They were the first four rulers of the Muslim Ummah (nation) after the death of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. They were called "The Rightly-Guided Khalifaas" because they ruled exactly as was ordained by Allah Ta’ala and the Prophet Muhammad. They were:

1). Abu Bakr as-Siddiq - 11-13AH 2). Umar ibn Al-Khattab -13-23AH 3). Uthman ibn ‘Affan - 23-36AH. 4). Ali ibn Abi Talib - 36-40AH. May Allah be please with them.

KHUMRA: A small prayer mat, just large enough for hands and forehand.
KHUMS: One-Fifth war booty given Allah’s cause. See Holy Qur’an. Al-Anfaal (8):41.
KHUTBA: Sermon. The greatest sermon in the history of mankind was called Al-Khutbatul Wida’ (the farewell sermon), given by the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, during his last Hajj in 10AH. There are various types of sermons, e.g.

1). Khutbatul Jum’a - the Friday sermon. This is given immediately before the Jum'a Salat (prayer). 2). Khutbatul Eid - the Eid sermon. This is given immediately after the Salat (prayer) of the two Eids. 3). Khutbatul Nikah - the marriage sermon. This is during the marriage ceremony.

KHUTBATUL NIKAH: A speech given at the time of concluding a marriage contract.
KITAB: Book. There are three types of Kutub (books):

1). The Book of record or deeds. On the Day of Judgment, everyone from both man and Jinn will receive their book, in their right or left hand, according to the preponderance of their good or bad deeds and thus will either enter Paradise or be cast into Hellfire. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Qamar (54):52-53. 2). Al-Kitab. The Book (or Revelation). Refers especially to the Holy Qur’an, but also refers to the original revelations revealed to the earlier messengers of Allah, may the blessing and peace of Allah be on them. See Qur’an. 3). Ordinary books. i.e.books written by people, all of which are subject to human error and cannot be compared to the Qur’an. The Qur’an is the uncreated word of Allah Ta’ala.

KOHL: A powder, made from finely ground antimony and used both as a make-up and as medicine for the eyes.
KUFEE: A style of angular writing often used for early hand-written copies of the Holy Qur'an.
KUFFAR: Unbelievers. Those who reject Allah and His messengers, may Allah bless them and grant them peace. There are different ways of not believing in Allah. For full explanation, see Kufr.Singular: Kafir.
KUFR: Disbelief in Allah’s Commands, including refusal to accept whatever the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, taught. There are two levels of Kufr: 1). Kufr Al-Akbar (major disbelief). Major Kufr is subdivided into five categories: a). Kufr al-Taktheeb. Denying the divine truth. b). Kufr al-Abaa wa Stakbara ma’al-Tasdeeq. Refusing to bow to Allah due to pride, even though acknowledging the divine truth. c). Kufr ash-Shakk wa Dhann. Doubting any or all of the six articles of faith (see ‘Aqaaid), even if not completely denying them. d). Kufr al-Iraad. Knowingly turning away from the divine truth. e). Kufr al-Nifaq. Disbelief through hypocrisy. 2). Kufr al-Asghar (minor disbelief). Being unappreciative of what Allah Ta’ala has provided.
KUNYA: A respectful and affectionate way of calling as "Abu" or "Umm" (Abu----father of - mother of) followed by the name of the eldest son; if there is no male offspring then the "Abu" or "Umm" is followed by the name of the eldest daughter. It is prohibited to have the same Kunya as the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, e.g. It is not permitted to call someone "Abul Qasim". Sahi Bukhari, Hadith 205, Vol. 8. Sahi Muslim, Kitab ul-Adab.
KUSUF: Solar eclipse. There is a special Eclipse Salat (prayer) which lasts as long as the eclipse itself.

L

Name Meaning
La hawla wa la quwwata illa billah : The meaning of this expression is: " There is no power and no strength save in Allah." This expression is read by a Muslim when he is struck by a calamity, or is taken over by a situation beyond his control. A Muslim puts his trust in the hands of Allah, and submits himself to Allah.
La ilaha illallah : This expression is the most important one in Islam. It is the creed that every person has to say to be considered a Muslim. It is part of the first pillar of Islam. The meaning of which is: " There is no lord worthy of worship except Allah." The second part of this first pillar is to say: "Muhammadun Rasul Allah," which means:"Muhammad is the messenger of Allah."
Laat : a chief goddess in the religion of the pre-Islamic Arabs during the days of Jahiliyyah.
Labbayk Allaahumma Labbayk : literally means "O Allaah! I respond to Your Call".
Laghw : Dirty, false, evil vain talk
Laylatul-Qadar : one of the odd last ten nights of the month of Ramadhaan for which Allaah has prescribed the reward for acts of worship being better/equivalent to 1,000 months (83 years and 4 months).
Lunar calendar : In their religious duties, Muslims depend on solar and lunar calendars. The latter is shorter than the solar by twelve days. Fasting the month of Ramadhan, celebrating the two major feasts ('Eid Al-Fitr and 'Eid Al-Adhha), performing the pilgrimage to Makkah, and other religious activities depend upon the lunar months. The names of the lunar months are: Muharram, Safar, Rabi' Al-Awwal, Rabi' Al-Thani, Jumada Al-Ula, Jumada Al-Akhirah, Rajab, Sha'ban, Ramadhan, Shawwal, Dhul-Qi'dah, and Dhul-Hijjah. The timing of the daily prayers depend on the solar system.

M

Name Meaning
MA’ARIJ (AL): "The Ways of Ascent". Surah 70 of the Holy Qur’an.
MA’RIFA: A Spiritual realization of Allah Ta’ala. Gnosis.It is to directly witness the Light of the Names of Attributes of Allah manifested in the heart.
MA’SHAR: Assemblies. Whether they be assemblies of mankind or of the Jinn or both.
MA’UN (AL): "Small Kindnesses". Surah 107 of the Holy Qur’an.
MABRUR: A Hajj that is accepted by Allah because of its perfection in both inward intention and outward observance of the traditions of Rasoolu’llah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.
MADYAN: People of the Prophet Shu’aib, peace be on him. They were destroyed by an earthquake for rejecting Shu’aib and the warnings from Allah he had brought with him. See Holy Qur’an, Al-A’raf (7):8593, Houd (11):84-95.
MAGHAZI (AL): Plural of Ghazwa. See Ghazwa.
MAGHDOUB: "Cursed" by Allah Ta’ala. Surah Al-Fatiha (1):7, "...Maghdoubee ‘alaihim.." (those that have been cursed) refers to the Jews. Allah Ta’ala has cursed them for continually breaking their covenants. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):83-86, 100, Al-maidah (5):13-14, 73.
MAGHFEER: A foul-smelling gum.
MAGHFIRA: "Forgiveness". In the Holy Qur’an Allah Ta’ala uses three different words to mean "forgive".

1). ‘Afa. Forgave, in the sense of obliterating the memory of wrongdoing from one’s mind. 2). Safaha. Forgave, in the sense of overlooking, ignoring or turning away from misdeeds. 3). Maghfira. Comes from one of the ninety-nine Attributes of Allah Ta’ala. "Al-Ghafur", which means to forgive again and again.

MAGHREBEE: A combination of Kufee (angular) and Naskh (curved) Scripts often used for hand-written copies of the Holy Qur’an written in north-west Africa.
MAGHRIB: Sunset. The fourth compulsory Salat (Prayer) of the day. It consists of three Raq’as. It can be prayed at any time between just after sunset and before the stars appear in the sky.
MAHR: Dowry given by a husband to his bride on marriage.
MAHRAM: A Man whom a woman can never marry because of closeness of relationship (e.g. father, brother, uncle, son, etc.) Her husband is also her Mahram.
MAIDA (AL): "The Table Spread". Surah 5 of the Holy Qur’an.
MAISER: Gambling. Literally means getting something too easily. Maiser has been prohibited by Allah Ta’ala in the strongest terms possible : "Ajtibou" - "Leave it!". It is a higher level of prohibition than forbidding it because it is Haram. Haram = a direct prohibition ordered by Allah Ta’ala. Ajtanibou = a degree more serious than Haram. It is not only Haram, but also a direct command not to approach or be near it for nay reason whatsoever. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):219, Al-Maidah (5):93.
MAJEED (AL): "Al-Majeed". The Most Gracious. One of the ninety nine attributes of Allah. For a full list of the Asmaul Husna of Allah ta’ala.
MAJOOS: Fire worshippers. These people lived mainly in Persia and the Eastern Arabian Peninsula in the pre-Islamic period of ignorance. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Hajj (22):17.
MAKR: Has two meanings: 1). Plotting or planning with evil intent 2). Planning for a good purpose. "Wa Makaru wa Makara Allah wa’llahu Khairul Makereen" (Surah Aali ‘Imran (3):54). "They planned and Allah planned and Allah is the best of planners." Makaru = they plotted. Makara = planned. Makara = plotted. makareen = plotters. See Holy Qur’an, Aali ‘Imran (3):54,
MAKROUH: Disapproved of, but not prohibited by Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala. See Ahkam.
MALAIKAH: 1). "Angels". Another name for Suratul Fatir. Surah 35 of the Holy Qur’an. 2). A race of created beings that are made out of light. Their sole purpose in creation is to worship and glorify Allah and to perform their duties exactly as described. They are incapable of disobedience. They do not eat, or sleep, or procreate. Their exact number is unknown. Amongst the well-known ones are the following: i). The angel Jibreel (Gabriel) - the angel whose duty is to communicate between Allah Ta’ala and the Prophets and to whomever Allah wills; i.e. he was commanded to communicate with Mariam (Mary, mother of Prophet Jesus), Jesus and Muhammad, may Allah bless them and grant them peace. ii). The angel Mikaeel (Micheal) - the angel of provisions. iii). The angel of Death - takes the souls of people when they die. Many Muslims mistakenly call him Izrael. The name "Izrael" is neither mentioned in the Holy Book of Allah, the Holy Qur’an, nor by Muhammad, may Allah bless and grant him peace, in any of the Ahadeeth. The name "Izrael" is mentioned in the Taurat and therefore has been ‘borrowed’ from the Jews. Beware of such innovations. Copying the Jews or any other unbelievers, and then saying "This is from Allah", is Kuffur. iv). The angel Israfeel - the angel who will blow the horn to bring the universe to its end. v). The angel Ridwan - Keeper of Jannah (Paradise). vi). The angel Maalik - Keeper of Nar (Hellfire). vii). The angels Munkar and Nakeer - the two angels who are assigned to question the souls of the dead in their graves about their faith. Peace be on all of them. Singular: Malak.
MALAK: Singular of Malaikah (angels). See Malaikah.
MAMNU’A: What is prohibited in acts of worship in the Shari’a. For example, doing voluntary Salat (prayers) between the Fajr Salat and sunrise, or between the Asr Salat and sunset; fasting on either of the two ‘Eid days.
MANAAT: A famous goddess in Hijaz who used to be worshipped by the pagan Arabs in the pre-Islamic period of ignorance. See Holy Qur’an, an-Najm (53):20.
MANASI (AL): A huge plateau on the outskirt of Madinah.
MANASIK: General sacrifice in the path of Allah Ta’ala. All deeds and actions during Hajj are regarded as Manasik, for they are indeed regarded as sacrifices in the path of Allah.
MANSOOKH: Abrogated. The abrogation of certain commands usually came with increased belief or change in situation. Only Allah Ta’ala has the power to abrogate verses of the Holy Qur’an. An example of an abrogated statement is:"...wa in toobdu ma fee anfooseekum aw tookhfoohu youhasibkum bihi Allah.." (Al Baqara (2):284), "...whether you show what is in your mind or conceal it, Allah will call you to account for it...". when the Muslims heard this Ayah they went to Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and said: "O Rasoolullah, we cannot control ourselves, but how can we control the outburst in our hearts? (i.e. sudden thoughts that shaitan puts within us). The Prophet Muhammad said: "Do you intend to say, ‘Same’na wa ‘asaina (We hear and we disobeyed), as did both the people of the Book (i.e. the Jews and the Christians)? say, ‘Same’na wa ata’na! So they said, ‘Same’na wa ata’na’ (We hear and we obey). On hearing their reply Allah Ta’ala abrogated this verse, by revealing the 286th verse of Surah al-Baqara: "La youkalifu’llau nafsan illa wus’aha.." The aim of the 284th verse of Surah al-Baqara was to test the followers of Muhammad, may the blessings of Allah be on him and them, as to whether or not they would say the same as the Jews and the Christians who used to say, "Same’na wa ‘asaina" (We hear and we disobey).
MAQAM IBRAHIM: The station of Ibrahim. The place where the Prophet Ibrahim, peace be on him, stood in prayer, and which marks the place of prayer following Tawaf of the Ka’bah. This place today is marked by a stone in which there are two large sunken footprints, said to have been made by the Prophet Ibrahim when he stood on the stone while he and his son Ismael were building the Ka’aba.
MARIAM, PEACE BE ON HER: "Mary". The Virgin Mary. Daughter of ‘Imran and Hannah and mother of Prophet Isa (Jesus) peace be on him. She is the first of the four greatest females created, the other three being:

1). Asiya, the wife of Fir’aun (Pharaoh). 2). Khadija, the first wife of Muhammad. 3). Fatima, Daughter of Muhammad, May the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and all his wives and family. Surah 19 of the Holy Qur’an.

MARUT: One of the two angels that were sent by Allah as a trial to mankind by way of allowing Harut and Marut to teach them magic. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):102.
MARWA: A small hill in Makkah close to the holiest Masjid in Islam, Al-Masjid al-Haram. See Sa’i, Safa and Marwa.
MASAD (AL): "Palm Fibre". Another name for Surah Abi Lahab. This surah condemned Abi Lahab and his wife to Hellfire (many years before their deaths) for their Kufr, especially their violent opposition to the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Surah 111 of the Holy Qur’an.
MASAJID: "Mosque". Place of worship for the Muslims. Singular: Masjid. The whole earth is a Masjid for the Muslims, the dome of the heaven its roof.
MASAKEEN: People who are very poor and in need; not only those who are visibly in need, but also those who seem in no need of help, but who in reality are very poor. Singular: Miskeen.
MASEEH: "Massiah". A title which means "Annointed" or "Christ". There are two Messiahs:

1 . Maseeh Isa ibn Mariam - Christ Jesus, Son of Mary. The title of Maseh (Christ) was given to the great Prophet Isa (Jesus), Son of Mary , peace be on them. Masee ad-Dajjal - Christ the Liar. This title is given to the false Christ (the Antichrist as termed by the Christians), who will appear before the Day of Resurrection, falsely claiming to be prophet Jesus, Son of Mary. One of the major signs of the coming of the Day of Judgment will be when the Maseeh ad-Dajjal appears. He will then be shortly followed by the Prophet Isa (Jesus), the Son of Mary, peace be on them. The Prophet Jesus will then slay the Dajjal (Antichrist) and the Dijjal’s followers by a miracle. The Prophecy of the second coming of the -------------------- ------------------------- ???????????????????????????

MAWAQEET: Plural of Miqat. See Miqat.
MI’RAJ: The Night Journey of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, from Makka to Jerusalem and then through the realms of the seven Heavens, beyond the limit of forms, the Sidrat al-Muntah, to within a bow-span’s length or nearer to the Presence of Allah. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Isara (17):1. See Bukhari, Hadith 345, Vol. 1, Vol. 1, 227, Vol. 5.
MIHIRAAB: Prayer niche of a Masjid (mosque), in front of which the Imam stands when leading the congregational prayers.
MIMBAR: Steps on which the Imam stands to deliver the Khutba on the day of the Jum’a.
MINA: A Place five miles from Makkah and approximately ten miles from ‘Arafat. An essential place to visit during the Hajj. For full information on the importance of Mina during the Hajj. See Hajj.
MIQAT: Certain places specified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, for people to assume Ihram on their way to doing the Hajj or an Umra. Plural: Mawaqeet.

The Mawaqeet are: Following are people or nationalities of different places and their specified locations of Miqat: 1.) (From Makkah itself)---- Tan’im Makkah 2.) Madinah (from the north)---- Dhu’l-Hulayfa (Abar Ali) 3.) Najd, Arabia (from the east) ---- Qar al-Manazil 4.) Yemen (from the South) Yalamlam 5.) Shaam (from the west and north-west)---- Al-Juhfa 6.)Iraq (from the north-east)---- Dhir 'Irq.

MISKEEN: A very poor and needy person. Plural:Maskeen.
MITHQAAL: A measure of weight for weighing gold in this world and deeds on the Day of Judgment in the next world.
MU’JEZZAT: Miracles.
MU’SIR: A Mu’sir who intends to do Hajj and Umra, but is unable to do so due to some obstacles.
MU’TAKIF: A person who is in the state of ‘Itikaf. See ‘Itikaf.
MUADHEEN: The man who calls the Adhan loudly before each obligatory Salat (Prayer), calling the people to prayer.
MUAKKAD (SALAT): Voluntary prayers regularly done. This type of optional prayer was virtually always done by Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. See Nafilah.
MUAWUDTHATAIN: The two Surahs of seeking protection, Surah Al-Falaq (113) and Surat An-Nas (114). These Suwar were revealed for mankind and the Jinns to protect themselves from evil and black magic. It is Kufr (unbelief) to delve into the black arts, since this is a denial of the truth that there is no strength and no power except from Allah.
MUBARAK: Blessed. Having received the blessing of Allah.
MUBASHIRAT: Glad tidings. Good dreams.
MUBIQAAT: major, Destructive sins.
MUDDATHIR (AL): "The Cloaked One". Surah 74 of the Holy Qur’an.
MUFFASAL: The last, shorter Surahs of the Holy Qur’an. All the Suwar from Surah Qaf (50) to Surah an-Nas (114).
MUFFASSALAT: Same as Mufassal.
MUFRID: A Muslim who remembers Allah Ta’ala constantly.
MUHABBAH (SHIRK AL): A Major Shirk. Loving a created being or an object more than Allah Ta'ala. See Shirk.
MUHADITH: A scholar of Ahadeeth (sayings and traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace). plural: Muhaditeen.
MUHADITHEEN: Scholars of Ahadeeth (Sayings and traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace). Singular: Muhadith.
MUHAJIR: A Muslim who emigrated from Makkah to Madinah during the time of the great repression of the Muslim by the pagan Quraish up until the conquest of Makkah 8AH by the prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Plural: Muhajireen.
MUHAJIREEN: Plural of Muhajir. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Hashr (59):8-9, Al-Munafiqun (63):7. See Muhajir.
MUHAMMAD, MAY ALLAH BLESS HIM AND GRANT HIM PEACE: The Final Messenger of Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala to Ins wal Jinn (mankind and the Jinn). Born in Makkah in 570AC. At the age 40 he was called upon to become the mightiest of all messengers. He died in Madinah at the age of 63 after gloriously completing his transmission of the divine Message. He was the bringer of the greatest miracle of all time, the Holy Qur’an. It is through him that Allah Ta’ala has enlightened mankind and the Jinn until the Day of Judgment. He is the Best Creation, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and his family and his companions and all who follow him and them in what they are able,with sincerity, until the Last Day. To those Jews and Christians who rejected the holy Prophet Muhammad, let it be known that Muhammad is actually mentioned by name in the Old Testament in the original Hebrew Song of Solomon, Ch., 5 V. 16. But for some misguided reasons they have chosen to adulterate it by changing it from "Muhammadim" (in the Hebrew) to "altogether lovely" in the English. (Muhammad + im is a term of respect in Hebrew.) Similarly, Muhammad is actually mentioned by name in the New Testament in John 14:16-26, 15:26 and 16:13. The greek word "Periqleitos" (Paraclete), which is the equivalent of the Aramaic word "Mhamda", means precisely what "Ahmad" means in Arabic, "the most praiseworthy", and "Ahmad" is one of the Prophet Muhammad’s name, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. But for some misguided reasons they have chosen to adulterate it by changing it from "Mhamda" (in the Aramaic) to "Comforter" or "Counsellor" in the English. Many other references to Muhammad which existed in the original Torah and Ingeel have been removed altogether.Allah Taala's wrath awaits those who knowingly alter or hide His words.Allah Ta’ala has given Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, the following names: Muhammad: The one who praises and is praised. Ahmad: the Most praiseworthy. Al-Mahi: The effacer (of Kufr). Al-’Aqib: The last . Mustafa: The chosen. Al-Amin: The trusworthy. Surah 47 of the Holy Qur’an. For the chronological list of the main events in the Prophet Muhammad’s life, may Allah bless him and grant him peace:
MUHARRAM: The first month of Islamic calendar. Strictly forbidden by Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala.
MUHEET: 1). Encompassing, in the sense of being all around them, thus giving the sense that there will be no escape for the evildoers from Allah and His punishment, and that the believers will find Allah’s blessings and mercy wherever they turn. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):19, Houd (11):84. 2). The ocean (because it encompasses the land mass).
MUHKAM: Qur’anic verse which have a clear-cut meaning.
MUHRIM: One who assumes Ihram. See Ihram.
MUHRIMA: A female who assumes Ihram. See Ihram.
MUHSIN: One who is in a state of Ihsan and accordingly does right and does good deeds. Plural: Muhsineen. See Ihsan.
MUHSINEEN: People who do righteous deeds in a perfect manner. Singular: Muhsin.
MUJADALAH: "She who disputes". The Woman referred to is Khawla bint Tha’lab. Surah 58 of the Holy Qur’an.
MUJAHID: One who takes active part in a Jihad. Pural: Mujahideen. See Jihad.
MUJAHIDEEN: Muslims who take part in a Jihad. Singular: Mujahid. See Jihad.
MULAA’ANA: The act of carrying out Li’aan. See Li’aan.
MULAMMAS: "Touched", as a synonym of Lamas. See Lamas.
MULHID: Atheist. A complete disbeliever in Allah Ta’ala and the Last Day. Comes from Ilhad (atheism). Ilhad literally means deviation. For a full explanation: See Ilhad. Plural: Mulhidoon or Mulhideen.
MULK (AL): "The Sovereignty", of Allah Ta’ala. Surah 67 of the Holy Qur’an.
MULTAZAM: The area between the Black Stone and the door of the Ka’aba where it is recommended to make Du’a.
MUMIN (AL): "The Believer". Someone who trusts in Allah and accepts and follows His Messengers, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Another name for Al-Ghafir. Surah 40 of the Holy Qur’an.
MUMINOON (AL): "The Believers". Surah 23 of the Holy Qur’an.
MUMTAHANA: "She that is to be Examined". Surah 60 of the Holy Qur’an.
MUNABADHA: "Thrown", as synonym of Nibadh. See Nibadh.
MUNAFIQEEN: "Hypocrites". They are the worst of created beings, for they pretend to, but do not believe in Allah and the Last Day. Allah has cursed them (At-Tawbah (9):67-69) and on the Day of Judgment they will occupy the lowest of the Nar (Hellfire), called "Hutama". Also as Munafiqoon. Singular: Munafiq.
MUNAFIQOON: "The Hyprocrites". Surah 63 of the Holy Qur’an.
MUNKAR WA NAKIR, PEACE BE ON THEM: The two angels who will question the souls of the dead in their graves shortly after burial about faith, asking, "Who is your Lord? Who is your Prophet? What is your Book? What was your Deen? See Malaikah.
MUNKAR: 1). Name of one of the two angels who will question us in our graves. See Munkar wa Nakir. 2). Something that is disapproved of in Islam. 3). Something that is denied when it is said or pointed out. 4).Something that is refused when offered.
MUQARRABOON: Literally means "those who have been brought near". These are the most exalted, the most loved by Allah Ta’ala. On the Day of Resurrection, Allah Ta’ala will sort out the good and the evil into three groups: 1). Muqarraboon - the exalted class, those who are the nearest to Allah Ta’ala. Also described as the Sabiqoon, meaning ‘those who outstrip the rest’. 2) . Ashab al-Maimana - literally means "the Companions of the Right". These are the righteous people, those who are destined to enter the Jannah (Paradise). 3). Ashab al-Mashama - literally means "the Companions of the Left". These people will be the inheritors of the Nar (Hellfire). For full explanation on: Muqarraboon - see Al-Waqi’ah (56):11-26. Ashab al-Maimana - see Al-Waqi’ah (56):27-40. Ashab al-Mashama - see Al-Waqi’ah (56):41-56.
MUQATTA’AT: See Alif Lam Mim.
MURSALAAT (AL): "The Emissaries". Surah 77 of the Holy Qur’an.
MURSALEEN: Literally means "those who are sent". It refers to the prophets and messengers sent by Allah Ta’ala. Allah sent many prophets and messengers to preach the message of Tawheed to Ins wal Jinn (mankind and the Jinn). Their exact number is not mentioned in either Holy Qur’an or in any of the authentic Ahadeeth. Here is a complete list of the Prophets and messengers of Allah who are mentioned in the Book of Allah Ta’ala, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on all of them.Each prophet as listed below,is respectively identified according to his a) Age b)Period of existence and c)Remarks or identification,as follows:

1). Adam a)950--- 1000b) ???c)The First Human - 2). Idris a)83 b) ??? c)Enoch - 3). Nooh (M) a)950 b)3900-2900 BC c) Noah and the list goes on with the same set-up 'till the last in prophet Muhammmad (PBUH) - 4). Houd a)150 b)2500-2500 BC c)Preached to ‘Ad - 5). Saleh a)58 b)2000-1900 BC c)Preached to Thamud - 6). Ibrahim (M) a) 175 b)1861-1786 BC c)Abraham - 7). Loot a)175 b)1861-1786 BC c)Lot - 8). Ismael a)120 or 143 b)1781-1638 BC c)Ishmael - 9). Ishaq a)178 or 180 b)1761-1681 BC c)Isaac - 10). Yacoub a)147 b)1700 1653 BC c)Jacob - 11). Yusuf a)110 b)1610-1500 BC c)Joseph - 12). Shuaib ? b)1600 1500 BC c)Preached to Madyan - 13). Ayoub a)92 b)1600-1500 BC c)Job - 14). Dhu’l-Kifel a)75 b)1600-1500 BC c)Ezekiel - 15). Musa (M) a)120 b)1436-1316 BC c)Moses - 16). Haroon a)122 b)1436 1317 BC c)Aaron - 17). Dawood (M) a)70 b)1439-937 BC c)David - 18). Sulaiman a)53 b)985-932 BC c)Solomon - 19). Ilyas ? b)9 BC ca. c)Elijah - 20). Al-Yas’ ? b)9 BC ca. c)Elisha - 21). Yunus ? 8 b)BC ca. c)Jonas - 22). Zakaria a)120 b)100 BC 20 AC a)Father of Yahyah. - 23). Yahay a)30 b)1 30 AC c)John the Baptist - 24). Isa (M) a)33 b)1 33 AC c)Jesus - 25). Muhammad (M) a)63 b)571-632 AC c)The Final Messenger (M) - a messenger as well as a prophet of Allah Ta’ala; i.e. one who came with a new message, revelation that confirmed the earlier revelations, but which contained new elements appropriate for its time. (M) - Messenger

MURTAD: "Apostate". Plural: Murtadeen.
MURTADEEN: People who become apostate, i.e. people who become unbelievers after having believed.
MUSA, PEACE BE UPON HIM: Moses. One of the greatest prophets and messengers of Islam.
MUSALLAH: A place for praying that is not a Masjid.
MUSHRIK: A person who commits Shirk. See Shirk.
MUSLIM: Literally means "Submission of will". i.e. to the will of Allah the Almighty. A Muslim is someone who follows the way of Islam, not abandoning what is Fard, keeping within the Hudood of Allah, and following the Sunnah, in what he or she is able. A Muslim is by definition one who is safe and sound, at peace in this world, and promised the Garden in the next world.
MUSTAFA: One of the names of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, meaning "the chosen one’. See Muhammad.
MUSTAHAB: "Recommended". but not obligatory’. See Ahkam.
MUSTD’AF: One who is considered weak, and therefore is treated in a disrespectful manner. See Holy Qur’an, An-Nisaa (4):75.
MUT’A: A temporary marriage. This was permitted in the early period of Islamic history, when the first Muslims were away from their homes for extensive periods of time; but was abrogated by the Holy Prophet Muhammad himself, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, at Khaibar as is related by Ali ibn Abi Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, Sahi Muslim and Sahi Bukhari.
MUTABBAR: Smashed into pieces. Destroyed. See Holy Qur’an. Al-A'raf (7):139.
MUTAFIFEEN: "The people who deal in Fraud". Surah 83 of the Holy Qur’an
MUTHEERA: The fragrant air Jannah (Paradise).
MUZDALLIFA: A site between ‘Arafat and Mina where the Hujjaj (pilgrims) spend the night of the 9th of Dhu’l Hijjah (after coming down from ‘Arafat). See Hajj.
MUZZAMMIL (AL): "The Enshrouded One". Surah 73 of the Holy Qur’an.

N

Name Meaning
NABAA (AL): "The Tidings". Surah 78 of the Holy Qur’an.
NABI: Prophet. There have been many prophets since the world was first created. Their exact number is not mentioned either in the Holy Qur’an or in any of the authentic Ahadith (sayings and traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace ). Only twenty-five of them are actually named in the Holy Qur’an, may the blessing and peace of Allah be on all of them.
NAFAR: A small group of people, usually between three and ten in number.
NAFILAH: Optional Salat. They are of two types: (1.) Sunnah - the optional Salat that one does before and after the Fard Salat. These voluntary Salat fall into two categories: (a.) Muakkad - confirmed. These types of Salat were always regularly done by Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. (b.) Ghair-Muakkad - not confirmed. Those types of Salat were often, but not always, practiced by the Prophet Muhammad. (2.) Others - any other Salat that one may wish to perform; for example, doing two Rak’at before making a Du’a. With the exceptions of the Witr prayer, Nafilah prayers always consist of two Rak’at at a time. See Witr. Plural: Nawafil.
NAFL: A gift. From the same root as Anfal, meaning booty taken in war. It means a voluntary act of Ibadah. See Nafilah.
NAFRA: (1.) The 12th or 13th of Dhul’l Hijjah when the Hujjaj (pilgrims) leave Mina. (2.) To go forth and be ready to strive and suffer in the way of Allah Ta’ala. See Holy Qur’an, At-Taubah (9):39.
NAHD: Sharing traveling expenses by putting the money or food into kitty and distributing them equally among the travelers.
NAHI’ANIL MUNKAR: Forbidding the evil. The full phrase is "Amr bil Ma’roof was Nahi ‘Anil Munakr" (enjoining the good and forbidding the evil).
NAHL (AL): "The Bee". Surah 16 of the Holy Qur’an.
NAHNU: "We". The plurality of respect and honour. Allah Ta’ala uses "We" to express His honour and greatness. It is not the plurality of numbers, for Allah is One and Unique. There is nothing like Him and there is none comparable to Him. Allah did not beget nor was He begotten.
NAHR: Slaughtering camels. The Day of Nahr takes place on the 10th of Dhu’l-Hijjah, when Hujjaj sacrifice camels, goats, sheep, etc., as one of the rites of the Hajj. See Eid al-Adha, Hajj.
NAJWA: 1) A private talk between Allah the Almigthy and one of His slaves on the Day of Ressurection. See Saheeh Bukhari.

2) A secretive talk among the Kuffar plotting against the Holy prophet Muhammad and his followers,may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and them.. See Surah al-Mujadalah(58):8

NAKIR: One of the two angels who will question us in our graves. See Munkar wa Nakir.
NAML (AL): "The Ants". Surah 27 of the Holy Qur’an.
NAQIB: (1). leader of a small group of men going on a expedition. (2). Tribal chief.
NAR: Literally means fire, but usually means the Fire of the next world, including all seven levels of Hellfire as a whole.
NAS (AN): "Mankind". Surah 114 of the Holy Qur’an. There are three different levels of mankind: Mutaqoon - people who fear Allah Ta’ala and do not commit Kabair (major sins). Mukhalatoon - people who commit Kabair (major sins), in spite of their belief in Allah. Kuffar - unbelievers, who do not believe in Allah. Not only do they commit Kabair, but also they commit the greatest wrong action of all, Shirk.
NASARA: Christian.
NASI’A (RIBA AL): A type of interest on loaned money. This is completely Haram. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):275-280, Aali’Imran (3):130.
NASKH: A type of curved writing often used for early hand-written copies of the Holy Qur’an.
NASR (AN): "Help" . Surah 110 of the Holy Qur’an.
NAWAFIL: Plural of Nafilah. See Nafilah.
NAZI’AT: "Those who tear out". Surah 79 of the Holy Qur’an.
NIBADH: A sale whereby a deal is finalized by the seller throwing the sold object towards the buyer, thus giving him no opportunity of seeing, touching or checking it before the sale is concluded.
NIFAQ (KUFR AL): A Major Kufr. Disbelief through hyprocrisity. See Kufr.
NIFAQ: Hypocrisy. One of the greatest sins in the sight of Allah Ta’ala. The Punishment for Nifaq is the lowest pit of an-Nar (hellfire), the Hutama.
NIKAH: Marriage according to the law of Allah Ta’ala. The courtesies and requirements regarding Nikah are extensive and cannot be fully explained in this book. For more information of Nikah please see Kitabul Nikah (Book of Nikah) in Sahi Albukhari an Sahi Muslim. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):221, An-Nisa (4):3 20-25, 35, 128-129, Al-Ma’idah (5):6, An-Nur (24):3, 32:33, Al-Ahzab (33):28-29, 49-52.
NIQAB: A type of Hijab (veil) that covers the entire face, as opposed to the Khimar, which leaves the eyes exposed.
NISAA (AN): "Women". Surah 4 of the Holy Qur’an.
NIYYAH WAL IRAADA WAL QASD (SHIRK AL): A Major Shirk. Having the intention and determination to deliberately do any type of act of worship to a deity other than Allah Ta’ala. See Shirk.
NIYYAH: The intention of the heart. It is by their Niyyah that Allah Ta’ala judges the actions of Ins wal’l-Jinn (mankind and the Jinn).
NOOH, PEACE BE ON HIM: "Noah". A Messenger as well as a prophet. Surah 71 of the Holy Qur’an.
NOON: Fish. See Dhul’l-Noon.
NUR (AN): "An-Nur". The Light. One of the ninety-nine Attributes of Allah. This is such a complex attribute that it is impossible to explain it in one volume. Its spiritual meaning is only understood by Allah Ta’ala Himself, for "Allah is of the heavens and the earth". See Ayat an-Nur at the start of "R" (an-Nur (24):35-36). Surah 24 of the Holy Qur’an.
NUSK: An Act of worship. Singular of Nusuk. See Nusuk.
NUSUK: A general sacrifice in the path of Allah. All the deeds and actions of Hajj are regarded as Nusuk, for they are indeed regarded as sacrifices in the path of Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala. Plural: Manasik.
NUZOOL: The revelation of the Holy Qur’an.The Revelation of the Holy Quran was in three stages: It was written on the Lauh al-Mahfudha, i.e. on the Guarded tablet in the Seven Heaven. On the Lailatul Qadar Allah Ta’ala sent the entire Qur’an down to the Baitul "Izza in the first Heaven. During the month of Ramadan Allah Ta’ala ordered the Holy Spirit, the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel), peace be on him, to start to reveal the Qur’an to the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, but not all at once. The entire revelation of the Holy Qur’an took twenty-three years.

Q

Name Meaning
QABR: "Grave". Life in the Qabr (the grave) is known as the "Barzakh", the interspace, because it comes between life in this world and life in the next world. The Qabr is know by six names: (1.) Bait-al-Ghurba (House of the Stranger) (2.) Bait-al-Wahda(House of Solitude) (3.) Bait al-Turab (House of Dust). (4.) Bait ad-Dood (House of worms). (5.) Bait al-Fitna (House of Trial). (6.) Bait al-Dhulma (House of Darkness) The grave is experienced as a place of peace and light and space by the Ruh of the Mumin who sees his or her place in the Garden in the Morning and in the evening; and is experienced as a place of torment and darkness and no space by the Ruh of the Kafr who sees his or her place in the Fire in the morning and in the evening. After death there is period of waiting in the grave for the Ruh until the Last Day arrives, when everyone who has ever lived will be brought back to life and gathered together. Their actions will be weighed in the Mizan (the Balance), and everyone will either go to the Garden or the Fire, forever.
QADA WA QADAR: Decree and Destiny. Qada means what Allah has ordained for all the worlds. Qada cannot be changed, for the decree of Allah is final. Qadar is the individual fate or destiny of each one of all His creatures. It also cannot be changed, but may be altered by Allah under circumtances, for "Allah has power over all things". Holy Qur’an, Al-Maidah (5):19.
QADR (AL): "The Power". The night of (Allah’s) power. Surah 97 of the Holy Qur’an.
QADR (LAILATUL): One of the last ten nights of Ramadan. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Qadar (97). See Lailatul-Qadr.
QAF: "Qaf". Surah 50 of the Holy Qur’an.
QAITIM: Straight and clear. Something which has no corners , bends or ambiguity. Something which is straightforward and clear and leads to the Right Path. It refers to the Holy Qur’an. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Kahf (18):2.
QALAM (AL): "The Pen". Surah 68 of the Holy Qur’an.
QALB: The heart, where true knowledge resides. Plural:Qulub.
QAMAR (AL): "The Moon". Surah 54 of the Holy Qur’an.
QARDAN HASANA: "A beautiful loan" (to Allah Ta’ala). Spending in the cause of Allah Ta’ala is described by Allah Ta’ala Himself as "a beautiful loan" because it entails self-denial for the sake of Allah Ta’ala. It is for this reason that Allah has promised a rich reward for those who expand their wealth in His Path. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):245, Al-Hadid (57):11,18.
QAREEN: (1.) One who performs Hajj al-Qiran. See Hajj. (2.) An independent soul that resides inside a person. It is normally a friendly companion who helps the individual, but sometimes gets jealous and cause problems. A male Qareen resides in a male person and a female Qareen in a female. (3.) Companion.
QARI: One who memorizes the Holy Qur’an by heart and constantly recites it. Early religious scholar or teacher. Plural:Qurra.
QARI’A (AL): "The Day of Clamour". Another name for the Day of Resurrection. Surah 101 of the Holy Qur’an.
QARN AL-MANAZIL: The Miqat of the pilgrims travelling through Najd, in Arabia (from the east). See Miqat.
QAROON: Korah. A wealthy Kafir who led a rebellion (of 250 men) against Prophets Musa (Moses) and Haroon (Aaron), peace be on them. As a punishment Allah caused the earth to open and swallow them up along with all that they possessed. See Holy Qur’an. Al-Qasas (28):76-82, Al-Ankabut (29):39.
QASAB: Pipes made of gold, pearls and other precious metals.
QASAMA (AL): The oath taken by fifty men of a tribe or a locality of a person who is being accused of murder, to refute accusations of complicity in unclear cases of homicide.
QASSAS (AL): "The Story". Surah 28 of the Holy Qur’an.
QASWA (AL): The name of the prophet Muhammad’s she-camel, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.
QEEL WA QALL: Idle talk.
QIAM: The standing position during Salat.
QIAMA (AL): "The Ressurection". Surah 75 of the Hoily Qur’an.
QIAMUL-LAIL: Standing in prayer during the night.
QIBLAH: Direction in which all Muslims face when praying . Initially the Qiblah was towards al-Qudus (Jerusalem), then Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala ordered the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, to face al-Ka’ba in Makka al-Mukarramah. Everyone has a direction in life, but only the Muslims have this Qiblah. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):142-145, 149-150.
QIRADA: Apes. Allah Ta’ala uses this word with regard to some Jews who transgressed the Sabbath and who were transformed apes as a punishment. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):65.
QIRAN (HAJJ AL): "Combined Hajj." Umara, then Hajj, without taking off Ihram. See Hajj. QISSAS: Law of equal retaliation when punishing a person for injuries intentionally inflicted on someone else. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):178-179.
QIYAAS: A type of judgement reached by making analogy. When a judgement cannot be found in the Holy Qur’an or in the Sunnah of Rasoolu’lla, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, or from the ‘Ijma (universal agreement) of the ‘Ulamaa (the people of knowledge from amongst the Muslims), then a Qiyaas is made by comparing the matter being considered to a similar case judged by the Holy Prophet, and thereby arriving at a similar decision, which does not contradict the Qur’an or the Sunnah in any way.
QU’UD: Sitting position during Salat.
QUBAA: A Famous site of the outskirt of Al-madinah al-Munawwara. The Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, established the first Masjid of Islam there. It was named Al-Masjid at-Taqwa (The Masjid of Awe) or Al-Masjid Quwatul-Islam (The Masjid of the Power of Islam). According to one Hadith, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said visiting this Masjid on Saturday before noon and offering a two-Rak’a Salat there is equal (in reward) to doing an Umra. See Holy Qur’an, At-Taubah (9):107-108.
QULUB: Hearts. Only the remembrance of Allah makes the hearts calm and peaceful.Singular: Qalb.
QUNUT: Supplication in the Salat, particularly in the standing position after Ruku in the Fajr (Dawn) prayer.
QUR’AN: The "Recitation". The Holy Qur’an also called Al-Furqaan, "The discrimination (Between truth and falsehood)". The Final Revelation of Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala Himself (mankind and the Jinn). Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala Himself decreed that it is He who will preserve the Holy Qur’an from any deletion or addition or alteration until the Day of Resurrection. It is generally understood that it is a book meant for the Muslims alone. In fact, it is a book for all mankind and Jinns to follow up to the Day of Judgement, but it has been accepted only by those who have submitted their will (the Muslims) to Allah the Almighty. The people whom the Qur’an is intended to benefit are described in Suratul-Baqara (2):1-5. They are the successful ones, The Holy Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, through the Angel Jibreel (the Angel Gabriel), peace be upon him, during a period of twenty-three years. The Holy Qur’an is the greatest of the Last Messenger’s miracle, since he could neither read nor write and had never received any formal education. The Holy Qur’an is the uncreated word of Allah. The Holy Qur’an contains 114 Suwar, composed of 6,616 Ayat, 77, 934 words and 323, 671 letters.
QURRA: One who memorizes the Holy Qur’an by heart and recites it constantly. Early religious scholars teachers. Singular: Qari

R

Name Meaning
RA: See Radia’llahu ‘Anhu.
RA’D (AR): "The thunder". Surah 13 of the Holy Qur’an.
RAAB: Lord, Master, Owner. Allah Ta’ala is the "Rabbil ‘Alameen", the Lord of the Worlds.
RABBAK: Your Lord. Your Master. See Rabb.
RABBIL-’ALAMEEN: Title of Allah Ta’ala. Lord of all creation. Literally means "Lord of the Worlds", both in the Seen and in the Unseen.
RABI’ AL-AWAL: The third month of the Islamic Calendar. See Hijri.
RADIA’LLAH ‘ANHU/‘ANHA: May Allah be pleased with him or her. This term is most commonly used whenever the name of a Sahabi (a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, amy Allah bless him and grant him peace) is mentioned, Radia’llahu Anhum, may Allah be pleased with them.
RAFI’AH KHAFIDA: That which will raise the lowly, and humble the proud, on the Day of Judgement.
RAHEEM (AR): "Ar-Raheem". Most Merciful. One of the ninety-nine Attributes of Allah Ta’ala. It is said that the Attributes of Ar-Raheem consists of the mercy of Allah that is only experienced by the Muslims, whereas the Attributes of Ar-Rahman consist of the mercy of Allah that is experienced by the whole creation. For example, all creatures are fed until they die, but only the Muslims experience the reward of breaking the fast at the end of each day of Ramadan, and the reward of meeting the Lord in the next world. See Rahman (ar).
RAHIB: A man who lives in a monastery, a Christian monk.
RAHIM: Blood relations. It is extremely important for Muslims to keep in contact with their blood relatives. In a Hadith Qudsi Allah Ta’ala vowed by His Might and sublimity that He would cut off the person who cuts off his blood relative.
RAHMAN (AR): "Ar-Rahman". Most Gracious, Merciful. One of the ninety-nine Attributes of Allah Ta’ala. Surah 55 of the Holy Qur’an. This is Surah is referred to as "The Bride of the Holy Qur’an".
RAHMAT ALLAH: The Mercy of Allah. It comes from one of the Attributes of Allah Ta’ala - Ar-Rahman, The Merciful. See Raheem (ar).
RAIHAN: A sweet-smelling flower.
RAJAB: The seventh month of the Islamic calendar. See Hijri
RAJFA: Violent earthquake. See Holy Qur’an, Al-A’raf (7):155.
RAJM (AR): Stoning. In Islamic law the Hadd punishment for whoever is married and commits adultery is to be stoned to death.
RAK’AH: A unit of the Salat (Prayer), a complete series of standing, bowing, two prostatrations and sittings. Plural: Rak’at.
RAMADAN: The ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is very important month in the Islamic world. (1.) It is month of fasting, during which all adults Muslims who are in good helath fast from the first light of dawn until sunset each day. During the first third of the fast you taste Allah’s mercy; during the second third you taste Allah’s forgiveness; and during the last third you taste freedom from the Fire. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):185. (2.) It is the month in which the revelation of the Holy Qur’an to our Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, commenced. (3.) The Lailatul Qadr (see Qadr, Lailatul) occurs in this month. (4.) The famous Battle of Badr was fought and won in this month. (5.) The Conquest of Makka by Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, took place in this month.
RAMAL: Hastening, walking brisky and moving the shoulders brisky; usually done by men (only) in the first three circuits of the Tawaf, but not in the remaining four.
RAMI: The act of throwing seven pebbles at each of the three Jamras, representing Iblis (Satan), at Mina. See Jamrat al-’Aqaba.
RASOOL: Messnger. A prophet of Allah Ta’ala who came with a pure revelation from Allah to mankind and the Jinn. For a complete list of the messengers and prophets referred to in the Qur’an: See Rusull.
RAWI: A narrator of Ahadeeth.
REA’ (SHIRK AL): A minor Shirk. Carrying out a religious act of worldly gains and not for the pleasure of Allah, e.g. giving Zakat for the sake of fame or praise. See Shirk.
RIBA: Usury. Usury is of two kinds. (1.) Riba Nasi’a - taking interest on loaned money. (2.) Riba Fadal - taking something of superior quality in exchange for giving less of the same kind of thing of poorer quality. Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala has strictly forbidden any kind of Riba and has warned of severe punishment to those who have any association with it. This is because all Riba involves getting something for nothing at someone else’s expense, and is destructive. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):275-280, Aali ‘Imran (3):130.
RIDA: A cloth that is worn on the upper part of the body.
RIDWAN, PEACE BE ON HIM: Name of the angel who is keeper of the Gate of Jannah (Paradise). Literally means "Allah’s Good Pleasure".
RISALLAH: Letter. Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, sent many messengers with letters to various leaders of the world inviting them to Islam. For example of such letters:
RIWAYAAT: Narrations of Ahadeeth.
RIZQ: Provision. Sustenance. Is derived from the word "Al-Razaq". The Provider or Sustainer, one of the ninety-nine Attributes of Allah Ta’ala.
ROOH AL-QUDUS: The Holy Spirit. Another name for the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel), peace be on him. His duty was to communicate between Allah and His prophets. Allah Ta’ala strengthened the Prophet Isa (Jesus), peace be on him, with Holy Spirit (Al-Baqara (2):87, 253). This is one of the reasons why the Nasara (Chirstians) believe that the Prophet Jesus was divine. If Jesus was Allah, then why did he need strengthening? They also believed that the Holy Spirit was divine. If the Holy Spirit was Allah, then how was He sent and by whom? Who has the power to command Allah to go anywhere? Glory be to Allah, the Most high. Surely they disbelieve who say that Allah has associate.
ROOH: Spirit. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Hijr (15):29, Al-Isra (17):85-86, Al-Mujadilah (58):22, Al-Ma’arif (70):4. An-Naba’ (78):38, Al-Qadr (97):4.
ROOHU’LLAH: According to the Ulamaa min as-Sahaba (the people of knowledge from among the companions of t he Prophet, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and them, and their students), the Roohu’llah can be considered in two distinct and different ways: The Created - what belongs to Allah: i.e. Allah’s slave, Allah’s House, Allah’s soul (i.e. soul created by Allah). Consider the creation of Adam and the Prophet Isa (Jesus, Son Mary), peace be on them. Allah said "Be" and they were created. The Creator - Who is neither a person nor a thing : e.g. Allah’s statements (Kalimatu’llah), Allah’s knowledge (‘Ilmu’llah). Allah says in the Qur’an: "Say: ‘The spirit is by command of my Lord, and you have only been given a little knowledge." Holy Qur’an, Al-sara (17):85.)
ROOM (AL): "The Romans". Surah 30 of the Holy Qur’an.
RUBUBIYAH (TAWHEED AL): Unity of Lordship, To believe that there is only one Lord, the Master and Creator of the Universe, Who oversees and orders it in every moment, and that He is Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala. See Tawheed.
RUKN: Pillar. Singular of Arkan. See Arkan.
RUKU: The Bowing position during the Salat (Prayer).
RUQBA: A gift of a house given to somebody to live for as long as they live, after which it is returned.
RUQYA: Divine words, usually from the Holy Qur’an, used as a recitation to cure an illness or a disease.
RUSHD: Right conduct and correct behavior.
RUSULL: Messengers. All messengers are prophets, but not all prophets are messengers. The Holy Qur’an mentions twenty-five Prophets, amongst whom are six messengers: (1.) Nooh (Noah). (2.) Ibrahim (Abraham). (3.) Dawood (David). (4.) Isa ibn Mariam (Jesus, son of Mary). (5.) Muhammad May the blessings and peace of Allah be on all the Prophets and messengers, on those who are known and those who are not known, and on all their sincere followers in every age. Singular: Rasool.

S

Name Meaning
SA’D IBN MU’AZ: Chief of the Aus tribe, who later came to be known as the Ansar. He died a Shaheed (martyr) as a result of a wound he received in the Battle of Khandaq (also known as the Battle of Al-Ahzab).
SA’ID: Blessed in the sight of Allah, as opposed to Shaqi, which means wretched. See Holy Qur’an, Houd (11):105.
SA’IR: The third level of Hellfire. It is reserved for the worshippers of fire. See Jahannam.
SAABIA: Worshippers of the stars, moons and other heavenly bodies. Originally the people of Sabaa, the Queen of Sheeba.
SAAD: "Saad". Surah 38 of the Holy Qur’an.
SAB’A AL-MATHANI: Another name for Surat al-Fatiha. Literally means "The Seven Often Recited Verse". Every Muslim recites Surat al-Fatiha at least seventeen times every day, and some a good deal more.
SAB’A TUWAAL: The first seven long Suwar of the Holy Qur’an.
SAB’AA (AS): An easterly wind.
SABAA: "Sabaa". City of Sheeba in Yemen. A city of the king and Prophet Sulaiman, peace be on him, and the Queen of Sheeba, Bilqis. Surah 34 of the Holy Qur’an. See Qur’an, An-Naml (27):15-44.
SABEEL: (1). Road, path, way, a means to an end. (2). "Fee Sabeeli’llah". In the path of Allah or in the cause of Allah.
SABIQOON: ‘Those who outstrip the rest, in the race to draw near to the mercy and blessings and love of Allah. See Muqarraboon. SABR: Patience and perseverance. Allah Ta’ala has promised "Falaah" (success) in this world and in the Hereafter to those Muslims who have Sabr, especially during times of hardship. See Holy Qur’an, Aali ‘Imran (3):200.
SADAQA: (1). Anything given away in charity for the pleasure of Allah. (2). One of the eight gates of Jannah. See Jannah.
SAFA AND MARWA: Two small hills in Makkah, in Al-Haram as-Shareef (the Grand Masjid) to the east. It is an essential part of an Umra and the Hajj to walk seven times between the two places, quickening one’s step briefly between them . This is called Sa’i. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):158.
SAFA: A small hill in Makka to the east Al-Masjid al-Haram. The Hujjaj must walk seven times between the two small hills of Safa and Marwa. This is called Sa’i.
SAFAHA: "He forgave". Forgiving in the sense of overlooking, ignoring or turning away from misdeeds. See Maghfira.
SAFF (AS): "The Battle Ranks". Surah 61 of the Holy Qur’an.
SAFFAAT (AS): "Those Ranged in Ranks". Surah 37 of the Holy Qur’an.
SAFFAH: A raised platform. A verandah attached to the Prophet’s Mosque in Madina where poor Muslims, including some of his most exalted companions, used to sleep, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and them.
SAGHIR (AL): Minor sins committed by Ins wal-Jinn (mankind and Jinn) against Allah Ta’ala.
SAHABI: Companion, particularly any companion of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. Plural: Sahabiyeen.
SAHABIYEEN: The companions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him, his family and his companions. Singular: Sahabi.
SAHIH BUKHARI: A book of authentic Ahadeeth compiled by Imam Bukhari.
SAHIH MUSLIM: A book of authentic Ahadeeth compiled by Imam Muslims.
SAHIH: Healthy and sound with not defects. Authentic, as regards Ahadeeth, such as Sahi Bukhari and Sahi Muslim.
SAHU: Literally means forgetting. If one adds to or substracts from what is required during the Salat (Prayer), out of forgetfulness or lack of attention, then one must perform two extra prostrations at the end of the Salat. This is called Sajda Sahu.
SA'I: Going seven times between the small hills of Safa and Marwa;one of the essential rights of both the hajj and Umra.See Safa and Marwa.
SAIYID: Master. It is a title given to the descendants of the Prophet Muhammad, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and his family.
SAIYIDINA: Our master. This usually refers to Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, but may also be used when mentioning the name of any prophet of Allah Ta’ala.
SAIYIDUL ANBIYAA WAL MURSALEEN: "The Master of all Prophets and Apostle". This is the title of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. He is also called: 1). Imamul Mursaleen - the leader of all Prophets. 2). Ashraful Mursaleen - the Most Honoured amongst all the Prophets.
SAJDA (AS): 1). Prostration. The act of making prostration, particularly in the Salat (prayer). 2). "The Prostration". Surah 32 of the Holy Qur’an. It is so called because it contains a verse (verse 15) whereby, if one hears it being recited, one must prostrate. There are fifteen such Ayat (verse) in the Holy Qur’an. One should be in Ghusl and in Wudu when in Sajda. Plural: Sujud.
SAJDA SAHU: See Sahu.
SAKARAT AL-MAUT: The ‘drunkenness’ of death. There are three signs which indicate that the person who is suffering the pangs of death is a believer: 1. Sweating on the forehead. 2. Tears appear in the eyes. 3. The nostrils dilate. Likewise, the three signs of a disbeliever next to death are: 1. Irregular breathing. 2. Changing Colour. 3. Frothing at the mouth.
SAKINA: Calm, peaceful tranquility, perfect calmness, serenity, due to the Presence of Allah being made clear and apparent. See Holy Qur’an, At-Taubah (9):26, 40, Al-Fath (48):4, 18, 26.
SALAAM: 1. Synonym of Salaf. See Salaf. 2. Peace, peace of the body and soul in all aspects. See Holy Qur’an, Mariam (19):62.
SALAF: A price paid for goods to be delivered later.
SALAFI: Literally, "the early years". Salafi is used generally to describe the early generations of the Muslims, particularly the companions of the messengers of Allah and those who followed them, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and them. In the present age the term is sometimes used to describe a Muslim who closely follows the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet Muhammad and As-Salafiyeen as-Saliheen, the righteous companions of Muhammad.
SALAFIYEEN AS-SALIHEEN (AS): All the righteous companions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad who followed the Holy Prophet in all that he did and said, without any deviation or misinterpretation, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and them.
SALAH: Righteous and goodly person, someone who is in the right place at the right time. It may also mean healthy and sound body and soul.
SALAM Peace, peace of the body and soul in all aspects.
SALAT: 1. Prayers. There are five daily obligatory prayers in Islam, consisting of fixed sets of standings, bowings, prostrations and sitting in worship to Allah. These are called Rak’at. The number of Rak’at in each prayer and their timings are: i. Fajr - dawn - two Rak’at. ii. Duhr - Noon - four Rak’at. iii. ‘Asr - Afternoon - four Rak’at. iv- Maghreb - sunset - three Rak’at. v. Isha - late evening - four Rak’at. These five Salat are one of the Arkan of Islam. See Arkan. It is necessary to be in Ghusl and in Wudu when doing the Salat. For voluntary Salat: See Nafilah. 2. One of the eight gates of Jannah (Paradise). See Jannah.
SALATUD-DUHA: A Nafl Salat that is prayed after sunrise and before noon.
SALATUL-JANAZA: Funeral Prayer. It is permitted to do salatul Janaza only over the dead bodies of Muslims. This prayer is done in the standing position only, and usually immediately before the burial. It contains four Takbirs: 1. After the first Takbir - read Suratul Fatiha. After the second Takbir - recite any Dua’a for the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, but it is preferred to do the Tashahud (see Tashahhud) and the Salat al-Ibrahimiya: "Allahumma Alle ‘ala Muhammad wa ‘ala alee Muhammad kama Salaita Ibrahim wa ‘ala Ibrahim; fill ‘alameen innaka hameedun majeed. Allahumma barak ‘ala Muhammad wa’ala alee Muhammad kama barak ta ibrahim wa’ala alee Ibrahim; fill ‘alameen innaka hamidun majeed." (O" Allah, bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad, as You blessed Ibrahim and the Family of Ibrahim. In all the worlds surely You are Praiseworthy, Glorious. O Allah, give Muhammad blessing and the family of Ibrahim. In all the worlds surely You are Praiseworthy, Glorious.") 3. After the third Takbir - pray for the deceased person, his or her relatives and the Muslim people in general. 4. After the fourth Takbir - this marks the end of salat. Face your right shoulder and say "Assalamu Alaykum warahmatullah" ("Peace be on you and the Mercy of Allah").
SALATUL-SHURUQ: A Nafl Salat of four Rak’at that is prayed a short while after sunrise.
SALATUL-TASBIH: A special Nafl Salat of four Rak’at. This Salat involves praising Allah Ta’ala by including "Subhanallah, wal hamdu lillah, wa la ilaha illalah, wallahu akbar" ("Glory to Allah, and praise to Allah, and there is no God except Allah and Allah is Greatest") seventy-five times in each Rak’a.
SALB: The belongings of person killed in battle; e.g. his weapons, horse, motorbike, etc.
SALEH, PEACE BE ON HIM: A prophet of Islam. He was sent to the people of Thumud who lived in the north-western part of the Arabian Peninsula. They were destroyed for rejecting him. The remains of their stone dwellings still exist today. See Holy Qur’an, Al-’Araf (7):73-79, At-Tawbah (11):61-68, Ash-Shu’ara (26):141-159, An-Naml.
SALLAHU ‘ALAIHE WA SALLAM(SAW): May the peace and blessing of Allah be upon him. This is said whenever the name or title of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, is mentioned or read.
SALMAN AL-FARISI: A famous Persian Muslim who helped to defend Madina from the pagan Quraish tribe in the months of Shawal and Dhu’l-Qa’da in 5AH by suggesting that the Muslims dig a trench around the unprotected parts. This battle came to be known as the Battle of Khandaq (Trench), or the Battle of Al-Ahzab (the Clans), See Holy Qur’an, Al-Ahzab (33):9-22. Prior to his accepting Islam, Salman al-Farisi had first embraced Judaism and then Christianity. He spent his life in search for knowledge and found it with the Prophet whose coming he had learned about from the Jews and the Christians of that time, Muhammad, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him.
SALSABIL: A Fountain in Jannahy. Literally means "Seek the way". See Holy Qur’an, Al-Insan (76):18.
SALSAEEL, PEACE BE ON HIM: Name of the special angel who takes the souls of the Mu’minoon (the believers) wrapped in silk through the Seven heavens and presents them to Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala before returning them to their bodies and prior to putting them in their graves.
SAMAA: Heaven. In the sense of ‘Sky’. "Sab’a Samawat" - Seven Heavens. Plural: Samawat.
SAMAD (AS): Does not have an exact meaning in English. The closest word or words that indicate the meaning are: 1. Absolute" and "Eternal" and "Everlasting". 2. The One toWhom all created beings turn to for all their needs, and Who is not depending on anything or anyone for any need. 3. The Most Perfect in His Attributes. One of the ninety-nine Attributes of Allah Ta’ala. For a complete list:
SAMAWAT: Heavens. "Sab’a Samawat" - Seven Heavens, Singular: Sama.
SAQAR: The fourth Level of the Nar (Hellfire). This is where the atheists will be sent on the Day of Judgement. See Jahannam.
SARIYA: A small army sent by Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peae, for a Jihad in which he did not personally take part.
SAW: See Sallallahu ‘Alaihe wa Sallam.
SAYDD: Hunting for game. In Islam it is permitted to hunt game, provided that the hunting and killing of the game is done within the Shari’ah law. Saydd is prohibitted within the sacred precincts of the Haramiain. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Maidah (5):97-99:
SEEAAM: Fasting, from food and drink - and from sexual intercourse if you are married - during daylight, from the first light of dawn until sunset. Also spelled as Saum. Fasting in themonth of Ramadan is one of the Arkan (five pillars) of Islam. Allah Ta’ala has made it obligatory on every Muslim whether man or Woman, with the exception of: 1.A person who is ill. 2. A person on a journey of 16 Farsakhs (48 Miles) or more. 3. A Woman who is menstruating or who has just given brith. Once these situations no longer apply, the missed days must be compensated. The very young are exempted. The aged should fast, but if they find it difficult then they too are exempted and may feed poor people instead. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):184-185, 187.
SHA’BAN: the eighth month of the Islamic calendar. See Hijri.
SHAAM: Territory north of Arabia which is now divided into Syria, Palestine, Lebanon and Jordan.
SHAFAA’A: Intercession. On the Day of Judgement Allah Ta’ala, through His Grace and Mercy, will permit the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, to intercede on behalf of the Muslim Ummah. Three other groups may also be given leave to intercede: 1. The Anbiyaa - the prophets. 2. The Ulama - the people of knowledge from amongst the Muslims. 3. The Shuhadaa - the martyrs who died in the cause of Allah Ta’ala.
SHAHADA: 1. To witness, in this world. See Shahadatain. 2. To bear witness, on the Day of Judgement. There will be four witness on Yaum al-Hisab (the Day of Reckoning): i. The Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and the Muslim Ummah against all the other Ummahs (communities and nations). ii. The earth and the day and the night will be given the power to speak and bear witness. iii. Everyone’s limbs will bear witness for or againts their owners. iv. One’s deeds. Singular of Shahadatain.
SHAHADATAIN: Bearing witness. In order to become a Muslim one must utter and believe in two Shahadas (Shahadatain): First Shahada: Ashhadu an la illa ill’allah. ( I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah.) Second Shahada: Ashhadu anna Muhammadar rasoolullah. (I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.) The Shahadatain is the gateway to Islam and the gateway to the Garden. It is easy to say, but to act on it is a vast undertaking which has far-reaching consequenccs, in both inward awareness and outward action, in this world and in the next world. Continual affirmation of the Shahadatain is one of the Arkan of Islam. See Arkan.
SHAHAWAT: Desires and passion.
SHAHEED: Martyr in the cause of Allah Ta’ala. There have been many Shuhadaa in Islamic history, amongst whom are the following: Hamza, martyred at the Battle of Uhud in 4AH. Umar, Stabbed in Madinah on 27/12/23 AH. Uthman, axed at his home on 17/12/35 AH. Ali, stabbed while in Sajda on 17/9/40 AH. Hussein, martyred at the Battle of Karbulah (Iraq) om 9/1/61AH. Whoever is killed in the way of Allah goes straight to the Garden, may Allah be pleased with all of them. See Holy Qur’an, An-Nisaa (4):117-120. Plural: Shuhadaa.
SHAITAN: Satan. An evil Jinn who prompts mankind and Jinn to rebel againts Allah. We seek refuge in Allah from the evil that He has created. Plural: Shayateen. See Iblis. See Holy Qur’an, An-Nisa (4):117-120.
SHAJARA (ASH): A famous place near Madinah on the way to Makkah.
SHAKK WA ZANN (KUFR ASH): A major disbelief. Doubting any or all of the six artcles of faith (see ‘Aqaid). See Kufr.
SHAMS (ASH): "The Sun". Surah 91 of the Holy Qur’an.
SHAQI: Wretched in the sight of Allah, as opposed to Sai’d, which means blessed in the sight of Allah. See Holy Qur’an, Houd (11):105.
SHARI’A: Islamic Law as ordained by Allah Ta’ala. Literally it means ‘a road’. The Sharia is the legal and social modality of people based on the revelation of their propeht. The last Shari’a in History is that of Islam. It abrogates all previous Shari’as. It is, being the last, therefore the easiest to follow, for it is applicable to the whole human race wherever they are.
SHAWAL: Tenth month of the Islamic Calendar. See Hijri.
SHAYATEEN: Devils. Plural of Shaitan.
SHIGHAR: A type of marriage which is forbidden where persons exchange daughters or sisters in marriage without giving Mahr (dowry).
SHIRK: Opposite of Tawheed. To associate anyone or anything with Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala. Shirk is idol-worship. Idol-worship means attributing form to Allah, encasing Him in an object, a concept, a ritual or a myth - when Allah has no form, is not like anything and cannot be conceived of or preceived. Allah the Most Merciful is prepared to forgive any sin a man or Jinn may commit, except for dying in a state of Shirk. There are threed types of Shirk: 1. Shirk al-Akbar (major Shirk). This is divided into four categories: a. Shirk ad-Du’a - invoking or supplicating to a false deity besides Allah Ta’ala, i.e. invocation or supplication by either invoking other than Allah or invoking Him through a created being or thing, such as a prophet, an angel, a saint, or even a bank manager. b. Shirk al-Niyyah wa Iraada wal Qasd - having the intention and determination to deliberately do any type of act of worship to a deity other than Allah Ta’ala. c. Shirk at-Ta’a - Obeying any created being or an object more than Allah Ta’ala. 2. Shirk al-Asghar (Minor Shirk). a. Shir a-Rea’ - Carrying out a religious act for worldly gains and not for the pleasure of Allah, e.g. giving Zakat for the sake of fame or praises. b. Shirk at-Tasmee’ swearing by other than Allah, and according relaying on other than Allah, or attaching more impotance to other than Allah. 3. Shirk al-Khafy (hidden Shirk) - being dissatisfied with what Allah has ordained for a particular person. Hidden Shirk is to inwardly associate something or someone as partner with Him, especially one’s self.
SHU’AIB, PEACE BE UPON HIM: A prophet of Islam. He was sent to the people of Madyan (Midian), but they rejected him, so Allah Ta’ala destroyed them with an earthquake. See Mursaleen. See Holy Qur’an, Al-A’raf (7);85-93, Houd 911):84-95.
SHUHADAA: Persons who die Fee Sabeeli’llah (in the path of Allah).. Allah has designated eight things for the Shuhadaa alone: They are the first to be forgiven. They are the first to see their place in Jannah They are exempted from ‘Adhabul-Qabr (trials and tribulations in the grave). They will be exempted from fear on the Day of Ressurection. They will crowned with the "Tajal-Waqar" (literally means "the crown of respect") on that Day. They will each be married to seventy-two "Houri’een" (see Hooriah). They will each be given permission to intercede on behalf of seventy-two of their relatives. The sweetness of Iman will physically glow from within them. Singular: Shaheed. See Shaheed.
SHURA (ASH): "The Consultation". Surah 42 of the Holy Qur’an.
SIDDIQ AND SADDIQEEN: The sincere and thruthful. The first and foremost followers of the prophets of Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala, may the blessing and peace of Alllah be on them. See Holy Qur’an, An-Nisaa (4):69.
SIDR: Lotus tree.
SIDRAT AL-MUNTAHA: "The lote-tree of the furthest limit." A tree over the Seventh Heaven near Paradise, the place where form ends and beyond which no cretaed being may pass. See Holy Qur’an, An-Najm (53):14-18.
SIFFIN: A place in Syria where in 36 AH, a famous battle between the followers of Ali, the Khalifa, and the followers supporting the claims of Mu’awiyah Ibn Abi Sufyan took place byh the River Euphrates, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on whoever follows right guidance. A place near Al-Madinah al-Munawwarah.
SIJJIN: Comes from the root word ‘Sijjin, which means ‘prison’. Its exact nature is known to Allah Ta’ala alone. All that is revealed to us is that it is where the record of the evil doer is recorded; in contrast, the record of the righteous is kept in Illyou. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Mutafifeen (83): 7-9.
SIRAAT (AS): Literally means "road". It is the bridge over the Nar (Hellfire) which must be crossed to enter the Garden on the Day of Judgement. It is described in Ahadeeth as being narrower than the blade of asword, thinner than a hair and as having hooks over it to snatch wrongdoers and throw them into Jahannam. Some will cross the Siraat into the Garden like lightning or like the wind, some with ease, some with difficulty, some with great difficulty and some will fall into the waiting Fire below. See Holy Qur’an, Mariam (19):71.
SIRATUL-MUSTAQEEM: Literally means "the straight path". The path that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, demonstrated to mankind and the Jinn by way of the Holy Qur’an and Ahadeeth. The path that leads to the Garden.
SIRQ: Theft. One of the Kabair (major sins) in Islam. Allah Ta’ala has ordained that the hand that steals be severed, under certain circumtances.
SIRRI: Quiet recitation of the Holy Qur’an and during Salat, as in Duhr and ‘Asr Salat (prayers).
SIWAK: A piece of branch or root of a tree called al-Arak used as a tootbrush.
SOHT: Ill-gotten property or money. Forcing someone to part with their good or money through theft, coercion, embezzlement, usury or by any other means that will incur the wrath of Allah.
SUBH: "Morning". Another name for the first obligatory Salat (Prayer) which is performed at dawn. See Fajr.
SUBHAN ALLAH: Glory be to Allah. Far removed is He from anything imperfect associated with Him and far removed is He from anything unsuitable ascribed to Him!
SUBHANA RABBI AL-’ADHEEM: "Glory be to my Lord, the Greatest." This is said three times when one is in Ruku’ during Salat (prayers). See Rak’a.
SUBHANA RABBI AL-’ALA: "Glory be to my Lord, the Most high." This is said three times when one is in Sujud during Salat (prayers). See Sajda.
SUBHANA WA TA’ALA (SWT): "May He be Glorified and Exalted." One of the many ways of glorifying Allah the Almighty. It means "Glory be to Allah on High. Far removed is He from any imperfection". The shortened from of this glorification is "Allah Ta’ala".
SUFFA (AS): A shaded place in Masjid al-Rasool, may Allah bless him and grant him in peace, in Madinah where poor people used to take shelter.
SUHUR: A meal taken before fajr in the month of Ramadan
SUJUD: See Sajda.
SULIMAN, PEACE BE ON HIM: Solomon. A prophet of Islam and a wise king. He was the son of the Prophet (and king) Dawood (David), peace be on both of them. He ruled the north-western Arabian Peninsula for about forty years. Allah Ta’ala gifted him with many powers, which included having power over the winds, being able to converse with the birds and ants and other animals, and having power over the evil Jinn. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Anbiya (21):79-82, An-Naml 927):15-44, Saba (34):12-14, Saad (38):30-40.
SUNNAH: All traditions and practices of Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, that are recorded not only in such books as Sahi Bukhari and Sahi Muslims, but also in living people to whom these traditions and practices have been transmitted, from person to person, from then until now. Although the Sunnah has come to refer almost exclusively to the pratice of the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peae, it also comprises the customs of the first generation of Muslims in Madina. They learned their Islam directly from the Prophet, not from books, and transmitted what they had learned to the next generation. Thus they have become models who all Muslims should follow. The Sunnah is a complete behaviourial science that has been systematically kept outside the learning framework of this society. It cannot be learned from books, although books can be helpful. It can only be learned from real Muslims who are true teachers. Plural Sunnan.
SUNNAN: Plural of Sunnah. See Sunnah.
SURAH: A chapter of the Holy Qur’an. Literally means "a form". There are 114 Suwar in the Holy Qur’an. Plural; Suwar.
SUTRA: An object like a pillar, wall, stick or anything that is placed in front of a praying person so that people will pass beyond it and not ‘break’ his or her Qiblah and concentration.
SUWAR: Chapters. There are 114 Suwar in the Holy Qur’an. Singular: Surah.

T

Name Meaning
TA HA: "Ta Ha". Surah 20 of the Holy Qur’an.
TA’A (SHIRK AL): A major Shirk. Obeying any created being against the command of Allah. Beware of such Shirk! It is very easy to commit. See Shirk.
TA’A: Obedience to Allah and performing good deeds.
TA’AAM: Feeding the poor and the hungry.
TAB’E: Follower. A muslim who has seen or met a Sahabi (a companion of the Prophet Muhammad, may the blessings and the peace of Allah be on him and his family and his companions and all who follow him and them in what they are able, with sincerity, until the Last Day). Plural; Tabi’een.
TABAA: Another name for Madinah.
TABI’EEN: Plural of Tab’e. See Tab’e.
TABUK: A famous town 400 miles north of Madinah al-Munawarah close to Shamm. In 9Ah the Messenger of Allah, may Allah belss him and grant him peace, hearing that the Byzanitines were gathering a large army to march against the Muslims, led a large expedition to Tabuk, on what was to be his last campaign, only to find that the Byzantine army had withdrawn back into its own territory.
TAFKIR: Charging someone with Kufr (disbelief in Allah). It is very dangerous for one Muslim to level the charge of Tafkir against another Muslim. If such an accusation is made, then one of them is a Kafir. If the accuser is correct in his accusation, then the accused is Kafir, but if the accusation is unfounded, then the accuser is a Kafir.
TAFSIR: A commentary. There are several reliable Tafsir on the meanings of the Ayaat of the Qur’an, including those of Ibn Kathir, Jalalayn and Al-Cortubi.
TAGHABUN (AT): "Mutual Loss". Another name for the Final Hour. Surah 64 of the Holy Qur’an.
TAHAJJUD NAFL: Voluntary Salat (prayer) that is done any time at night between Salat al-Isha and Salat al-Fajr.
TAHARA: Purification. Tahara is accomplished in a variety of ways, e.g. (1). Souls--- in order for the soul to be pure one must submit one’s whole self to Alllah Ta’ala, i.e.e become a Muslim. (2). Bodies--- They are purified through Tayammum, Wudu or Ghusl, depending on the circumstances. For a full explanation: See Tayammum, Wudu and Ghusl. (3). Clothing. Three things indicate that clothes may be impure and need washing; a.) If they smell. b.) If they are wet and c) the cause of the wetness is either unknown or known to be impure or dirty if they are stained.
TAHIR: Pure, unsoiled. See Tahara.
TAHMEED: Reciting the words of praise to Allah Ta’ala, i.e. saying "Al-Hamdu lilahe Rabbil ‘Alameen" (Praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds").
TAHQIQ: Recitation of the Holy Qur’an in a very slow manner. This method is used only when learning or teaching Tajweed.
TAIF: A city fifty miles east of Mekkah, where the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, went to preach after being rejected, beaten and nearly killed by the pagan Quraish of Makkah in the second year before Hijra. There too ,he suffered beatings and humiliation. On his return journey to Makkah, Allah Ta’ala revealed to him that although the people of Taif reject him, the Jinn had accepted him. It was then that Suratul Jinn (Surah 72) was revelaed to him.
TAJWEED: Recitation of the Holy Qur’an with precise articulation and exact intonation.
TAKATUR (AL): "The Race for Wordly Gains". Surah 102 of the Holy Qur’an.
TAKBIR: Saying "Allahu Akbar" ("Allah is the Greatest"). This is said when beginning the Salat and when changing from one one position to another during Salat (prayers).
TAKTHEEB (KUFR AL): A major disbelief. It is defying the Divine Truth. See Kufr.
TAKWEER (AT): "The Overthrowing". Surah 81 of the Holy Qur’an.
TALAQ: "The Divorce". Surah 65 of the Holy Qur’an.
TALBIYAH: The call that the pilgrims make to their Lord of the Hajj, saying: "Labbaik, labbaik, Allahumma labbaik." ("I am totally at Your service,I am totally at your service,O Allah, i am totally at your service .") "la Shareeka laka labbaik." ("You have no partner, I am totally at Your service.") "Innal hamda wa n’imata laka wal mulk." ("Truly, the praise and the blessing are Yours, and the dominion.") "La Shareeka lak." ("You have no partners.")
TALUT: King saul. he led his army against the army of jalut (Goliath). See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):247-249.
TAM’: Avarice, greed.
TAMATA’A (HAJJ AL): "Interrupted Hajj". Umra, followed by Hajj, but taking off the Ihram in between these two stages. See Hajj.
TAN’IM: The place where Makkans put on their Ihram to perform an Umra or Hajj. It is a place just on the northern outskirts of Makkah. See Miqat
TAQLID: Garlanding sacrificial animals, especially during the Hajj. In reference to Fiqh, it means the following of previous authorities and the avoidance of Ijtihad.
TAQWA: Fear of Allah, being careful, knowing your place in the cosmos. Its proof is the experience of awe, of Allah, which inspires a person to be on guard against wrong action and eager for actions pleasing to Allah. Fearing Allah as He should be feared is one of the signs of being faithful Muslims. Piety and restarint (through Taqwa) in times of hardship are signs of having achieved the essence and spirit of Islam, and thus Allah’s blessing. See Holy Qur’an, Aali ‘Imran (3):102-103, Al-Hashr (59):18-19.
TAQWIM: Mould, Shape, form, etc. Allah Ta’ala created man in the best of forms, but then abased him to the lowest of the low. See Holy Qur’an, At-Teen (95):4-5.
TARAWEEH: Nafl Salat (prayers) that are done after Isha Salat during the month of Ramadan, in order to recite the Qur’an as fully as possible, or completely. They are usually done in congregation, but may also be done individually.
TARIQ (AL): "The Night Visitant". Surah 86 of the Holy Qur’an.
TARTEEL: Measured recitation of the Holy Qur’an taking extreme care with regard to the rules of slow reading, pausing and stopping at every point.
TARWIYA: Start of the Hajj. The 8th of Dhu’l Hijjah when the Hujjaj leave Makka and Set out to Mina.
TASBIHAT: Reciting the following: "Subhanallah" ("Glory be to Allah") 33 times, "Allahamdu Lillah" ("Praise be to Allah") - 33 times, and "Allahu Akbar" ("Allah is gratest") - 33 times followed by the Shahadatain once, after the end of each obligatory prayer.
TASDEEQ: Affirmation.
TASHAHHUD: Recitation the following silently while one is in Qu’ud (i.e. the sitting during Salat: "Attahiyatu lillahe was salawatu tayibat. Assalamu ‘alaika ya aiuhan wa rahmatullahe wa barakatuh. Wa assalamu ‘alaika ya aiuhan nabiu wa rahmatullahe wa barakatu. Wa assalamu ‘alaina wa ‘ala ‘ibadillahe saleheen. Ashadu an la illaha illal lah. Wa ashadu anna Muhammadar rasoolu’llah." ("Greetings are for Allah and all prayers and all good. peace be on you o Prophet and the Mercy of Allah and His blessing. Peace be on us and the right-acting slaves of Allah. I bear witness that there is no god except Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.") See Bukhari, Hadith 794, Vol. 1. During the final sitting in every Salat, recitation of the Tashahhud is followed by recitation of Salat al-Ibrahimiya. See Salatul-Janaza.
TASLEEM: The Muslims’ greeting. The action of turning one’s face to the right saying "Assalamu ‘Alaikum wa rahmatullah" ("Peace be on you and the Mercy of Allah") and turning one’s face to the left and repeating the same words, ends every Salat (prayer).
TASNEEM: Name of a fountain in Jannahh (Paradise) whose drink is superior to the purest of wines. Its nectar will only be drunk by those nearest to Allah Ta’ala. Literally means "rich and elevated". See Holy Qur’an, Al-Al-Mutafifeen (83):27-28:
TAUBAH: (1). Returning to correct action after error, turning away from wrong action to Allah and asking His forgiveness, turning to face Allah whereas before one turned one’s back. (2). Name of one of the eight gates of Jannah (Paradise). See Jannah. (3). "Repentance". Another name for Al-Baqaarah. Surah 9 of the Holy Qur’an.
TAWAF AL-IFADA: The Tawaf of the Ka’aba by the Hujjaj (pilgrims) after they come from Mina to Makka on the 10th of Dhu’l-Hijjah. This Tawaf is one of the Rukn (essential rites of both the Hajj and an Umra.
TAWAF AL-QUDUM: The ‘Tawaf on Arrival’, Tawaf of the Ka’aba that the pilgrim must do on first entering the Haram in Makka. It is one of the essential rites of both the Hajj and Umra.
TAWAF AL-WIDAA: The "Tawaf of Farewell’. The Tawaf of the Holy Ka’aba that every visitor to Makka should do before leaving Makkah. It should be connected directly to the trip of departure, and whoever is delayed and stays on afterwards should do it again. See Tawaf.
TAWAF: The circling of the Holy Ka’ba. Tawaf is done in sets of seven circuits, after each of which it is necessary to pray two Rak’at, preferably at or near the Maqaam al-Ibrahim. See Tawaf al-Ifada.
TAWAKUL ‘ALA’LLAH: Putting one’s complete faith in and reliance on Allah Ta’ala and no-one else. Depending on Allah Ta’ala every aspect of one’s life is the mark of true believer.
TAWEEL: Interpretation. Especially interpretation of the Holy Qur’an.
TAWHEED (AL): The Divine Unity, unity in its most profound sense. Allah is One in His Essence and His Attibutes and His Acts. The whole universe and what it contains is One unified event which in itself has no lasting reality. Allah is the Real, Al-Haqq. Although Allah is indivivisible and beyond conception, Tawheed can be viewed from four distinct perspectives: I. Tawheed Al-Rububiyah - Unity of Lordship. To percieve that there is only one Lord, the Master and Creator of the Universe, Who oversees and orders it in every moment, and that He is Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala. II. Tawheed al-uluhiyah - Unity of Worship. To realize that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah "Wahdahu la Shareeka’lah ("Alone without partner"). III. Tawheed al-Asma wa Sifaat - Unity of names and Attributes of Allah Ta’ala. To comprehend that: None can qualify or name Allah except as He or Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, have named or qualified Him. None can be named or qualified with the Names or the Attributes that belong only to Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala. For example, none may be called "Al-Muhyee" ("the Giver of Life") except Allah subhana wa Taa’ala Himself. We Must accept all the Ayat and Ahadeeth (Sahi) regarding the Attributes of Allah without altering their meaning in any way whatsoever. For a full list of the Attributes of Allah Ta’ala: IV. Tawheed all-Itabaa- 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. It is only by following the way of Islam tha the true nature of Tawhid becomes apparent. Another name for Suratul Ikhlas.
TAYAMMUM (DRY PURIFICATION): Purification for prayer using clean dust, earth or stone, when water for Ghusl or Wudu is either unavailable or would be detrimental to helath. Strike the hand lightly on some clean earth, or rub the stone with the palms of the hands and forearms. Tayammum is broken by the same things that break Wudu. See Wudu.
TEEN: "The Fig". Surah 95 of the Holy Qur’an.
THAMUD: Successors to the people of ‘Ad. They lived in north-western Arabia between what is now known as Madinah and Syria. Their prophet was Saleh (peace be on him). Allah Ta’ala destroyed them with an earquake. See Holy Qur’an, Al-A’raf (7):73-79, Hud (11):61-68, Ash’Shu’araa (26):141-159, An-Naml (27):45-53, Az-Zariyat (51):43-45, Al-Qamar (54):23-31.
THANIK: Chewing a date then putting the juice into the mouth of a child. Sahi Bukhari, Book of Aqiqa, p. 272, Vol. 7.
THAUR: A famous cave three miles from Makka where Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, and Abu Bakr, may Alllah be pleased with him, hid for three nights whilst the Quraish searched for them in vain. See Holy Qur’an, At-Taubah (9):40.
THAWAB: Spiritual reward given by Allah Ta’ala to good deeds performed by man and Jinn.
THUMMA: "Then", in the sense of "What happens next". There are four words that indicate the proximity of what follows next: Wa- and. Indicates that what is to follow will be most immediately afterwards. Fa - Then. Indicates that what is to follow will be relatively soon afterwards. E.g. "Idha ja anasrullahi wa’l-fath. Wa ra-aita nasa yadkhulouna fi deeni’lahi afwaja. Fasabbih bi hamdi rabbika was stagfirh; innahu kana tawwaba." (An-Nasr (110): ("When the help of Allah and victory come, and you see people entering deen of Allah in large numbers, then celebrate the praise of your Lord and Seek His forgiveness; surely He is always ready to show mercy." Where "and" is used, the events or actions linked by "wa" are virtually simultaneous. Where "then" is used, there is a little space of time between what happens before and after "fa", i.e only after you see people embrace the religion of Allah THEN celebrate the praise of your Lord AND seek forgiveness... Here praise is to be immediately followed by seeking forgiveness. Thumma - then. Indicates that what is to follow will come later. E.g. "Thummastawa ‘ala’l arsh..." (Yunus (10):3): Then He established Himself on the Throne..." After creating the heavens and the earth in six days’ (and a ‘day’ with Allah can be at least fifty thousand years of ‘our’ time), He then established Himself firmly on throne. Here the time lapse is six periods of time. See ‘Arsh. Saufa - not until then. Indicates that what is to follow will only occur after certain future events have occured. E.g. "Kalla saufa ta’lamoon" (At-Takatur (102): 3) ("Certainly then you shall know"). It is only when you die that you really find out. It will not be until then that you will come to know. "Then". used to emphasize a point. E.g. "Thumma Kalla saufa ta’lamoon.’ (At-Takathur (102):4) ("Certainly THEN you will know.") This is only a meagre explanation of a single word. The Holy Qur’an had 77, 934 words and every word has a depht which even an ocean cannot reach. What a miracle, and yet the unbelievers say that this book is not from Allah! How they delude themselves!
TILAWAT (OF THE HOLY QUR’AN): This word has variety of meanings, depending on the context: (1). Studying the Qur’an in order to understand it in the way should be undestood. See Al-Baqara (2):121. (2). Mediating and reflecting in the Qur’an’s meanings in order to enrich one’s life and knowledge. (3). Reading and reciting the Qur’an by oneself. (4). Reading and reciting and conveying its meaning to others. (5). Approaching and acting on the Qur’an in such a way that it becomes part of one’s inner self, thus helping one to attain perfect prayer and to avoid any form of evil or shameful deeds and to be an upright person in the sight of Allah Ta’ala. See Holy Qur’an, Al-’Ankaboott (29):45.
TOOR: "The Mount". Toori Sineen is the original name of Mount Sinai, on which the Prophet Musa (Moses) received the revelation of the Torah from Allah. Surah 52 of the Holy Qur’an.
TULAQAAH: The people who embraced Islam on the day of the conquest of Makkah by the Holy Prophet and his companions, may the blessings and peace of Allah be on him and them, in 8AH.

U

Name Meaning
UHUD: A mountain just outside Madina, much loved by the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, at the foot of which Muslims fought their second major battle against the pagan Qur’aish of Makka in 3AH. The Qur’aish army of 3,000 men, under the leadership of Abu sufyan, attacked the Muslim army about 700-1000 men. The battle went well at first, some fifty archers disobeyed the Prophet Muhammad and left their posts, leaving the Muslims open to an attack from their rear; and secondly, there was treachery on the part of some 300 Munafiqeen (hypocrites) led by ‘Abdallah ibn Ubai, who deserted the Muslims during the battle. Many great companions, and in particular the uncle of the Prophet, Hamza, ‘the lion of Allah’, were killed in this battle. See Bani Nadheer. See Holy Qur’an, Aali ‘Imran (3):121-128, 140-180.
ULAMAA: Also spelled as ‘Ulamaa. Plural of ‘Alim. The people of knowlegde from amongst the Muslims who act on what they know and do what they say.
ULIL ‘AMR: Muslims who are in charge or in authority, or who are leaders. The Muslims are ordered to obey all their commands as long they do not contradict the commandments of Allah Ta’ala and the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. See Holy Qur’an, An-Nisaa (4):59.
ULUHIYAH (TAWHEED AL): Unity of Worship. to believe that none has the right to be worshipped bu Allah "Wahdahu La Shareeka’Lah" ("Alone without partner"). See Tawheed.
UMAR IBN AL-KHATTAB, MAY ALLAH BE PLEASED WITH HIM: Umar ibn al-Khattab. The Second of the four "Al-Khulafaa ar-Rashideen", the Rightly Guided Khalifas, the other three being. 1). Abu Barkr as-Siddiq 3).Uthman ibn ‘Affan. 4). Ali Abi Talib. May Allah be pleased with all of them. Umar was renowned for his fairness and strength, and for his refusal to compromise the teachings of Islam in any way. He was the Khalifaa from 13AH to 23AH. he asked for martyrdom in the way of Allah in Madina, and his request was answered. Umar died after being stabbed in the stomach while doing the dawn prayer in the Mosque of the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.
UMMAH: Community or nation. The body of the Muslims as one distinct and integrated community. The Ummah of Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, refers to every Ins wal Jinn (mankind and Jinn) born after the final message was revealed through the Holy Prophet Muhammad who have embraced Islam. The Ummah of Muhammad, may the Blessings and peace of Allah be on him and all his community (those who have lived in the past, those who are alive now and those who will live in the future), can be subdivided into two groups: a). Ummat ad-Da’wa - the nation that was called upon to believe in Allah Ta’ala and the Last Day. b). Ummat al-Isteajaba - the nation that reponded to the call of Muhammad. Another name for this Ummah is "Al-Ummat al-Islamiah" ("the Islamic Nation"). Allah Subhana wa Ta’ala commanded the Ummat al-Isteajaba to hold together and not to disagree. Ufortunately, this decree has been ignored, and in fulfilment of the Last Messenger’s prophecy, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, there are now 73 different groups of Muslims, only one of whom possesses and protects the original teachings of Islam as brought and embodied by him.
UMMIYEEN: Unlettered persons. Singular: Umm-me. See Umm-me.
UMM-ME: An unlettered person. This term is used in the Qur’an to describe the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, who could neither read nor write and who never received any formal education. To the unbeliever here is food for thought: how could and illiterate man have brought such a completely perferct book (the Holy Qur’an), perfect in its meaning, message, grammar and overall content, if it were not with divine help? No other book exists on earth that has such perfect content and structure. A challenge to all unbeleivers! Mankind and Jinn? Assemble together and try to produce just one Surah (chapter) like it. You will never be able to do it, even if you were to try until the Day of Ressurrection you will not succeed! No created being has ever been or ever will be able to meeet this challenge, for the Holy Qur’an is truly the Book of Allah. Plural: Ummiyeen. See Khatam Anbiyaaa.
UMMUL MUMINEEN: Mother of the Faithful. A title to each wives of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, may the blessing and peace of Allah be on him and his family.
UMRA: A Pilgrimage to Makkah, but not during the Hajj period. It is also called "the Lesser Pilgrimage". Umra consists of four steps: Put on the Ihram at the pointed Miqat station. Then proceed to Makka reciting the Talbiyah (aloud for men and quitely for Women). See Ihram, Miqat, Talbiyah. (1). Do Tawaf of the Ka’ba seven times. Druing the Tawaf one may do any Du’a (and in any language) to Allah Ta’ala if one wishes. But remember to point the palm of the right hand and say "Allahu Akbar" at the start of each circuit. Each circuit starts and ends at the Hajar al-Aswad (the Black Stone). See Tawaf, Du’a. (2). Go to Safa and start the Sa’i to Marwa. The Sa’i consists of wlaking between Safa and Marwa seven times (each direction is considered as one time).Men must must Jog between two prescribed points. (3). Shave or trim the hair after the completion of the Sa’i. It is then permissible to change out of Ihram. (2). Synonym for Ruqba. See Ruqba.
URFUT: Also spelled as ‘Urfut’. The tree whose fruit is Maghafir, forgiveness.
USUL-FIQH: Principles of Islamic Law, drawn from the original fundamental primary sources.
UTHMAN IBN ‘AFFAN, MAY ALLAH BE PLEASED WITH HIM: One of the greatest companions of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. He was the third of the four Rightly guided Khalifaas (Al-Khulafaa ar-Rashideen). He ruled from 24AH to 36AH. He was martyred at his home by the supporters of Abdallah ibn Sabaa, the infamous Jew who pretended he had become a Muslim in order to cause discord between Uthman and the Muslim Ummah by creating a new and false sect within Islam. See Khalifaa.

W

Name Meaning
WA ‘ALAYKUM ASSALAM: "And you be peace." The reply to the Muslim greeting of "assalamu ‘alaikum" ("Peace be upon you").
WA’D: Promise. "Wa’d Allah Haqqa" ("the Promise of Allah is true").
WAHY: Revelation. Inspiration placed in the heart or mind of the Prophets by Allah Ta’ala. Auha, Uhiya and Wahyu are derived from the same root, ‘Wahy’.
WAILUN: (1). Literally means "Woe be upon you". (2). Name of a pit in Hellfire.
WAJH: Literally means "face", but may have other meanings according to its context in the sentence, e.g. (1). Wajhahu - "his whole self", as in Al-Baqara (2):112. (2). Wajhulah - "the Glory or Presence of Allah", as in Al-Baqara (2):115. 3. Li-Wajhi’llahi - "for the sake of Allah", as in Al-Insan (76):8.
WALEE: A guardian, a person who has responsibility for another person; used particularly for the person who ‘gives’ a woman in marriage. Also someone who is a ‘friend’ of Allah, one of the Sabiqoon and Muqarraboon. Singular of Awliyaa. See Awaliyaa.
WALIMA: A Marriage banquet.
WAQF: Endowment. A charitable trust in the name of Allah, usually in perpetuity, and usually for the purpose of establishing the Deen of Islam, teaching useful knowledgee, feeding the poor or treating the sick.
WAQI’A (AL): "The Inevitable Event". Another name for the Final Hour. Surah 56 of the Holy Qur’an. The Khalifah Uthman, may Allah be pleased with him, was in the midst of reciting this Surah when he was murdered.
WASAYA: Wills and testament. Bequests. Allah Ta’ala commands us to make a bequest of our goods to our parents and next of kin. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):180. The exact manner of distribution of one’s goods is complicated and therefore should be studied very carefully before writing out one’s will. Basically one can bequeath up to one-third of one’s property to whomever one wishes, but the remaining two-thirds must be divided between one’s surviving relatives in fixed shares, as delineated by the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Singular: Wasaya.
WASHM: Tattoo mark. It is forbidden for a Muslim to have a tattoo on his or her body. Wasm - Tattoo.
WASIL (AL): A person who is kind and considerate to his kith and kin.
WASILA (AL): The highest station with Allah on the Last Day, reserved for the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace.
WATHANI: A pagan. A person who worships idols, stones, graves, trees, persons, angels or any other deity other than Allah Ta’ala.
WISAAL: Fasting for more than one day continuously without taking Suhur or Iftar. Thi is forbidden in Islam.
WITR: A Salat which has an odd number of Rak’at: two Rak’at, followed by one Rak’a. This Salat is prayed last thing at night before one goes to sleep, or else delayed and prayed at the end of the Tahajjud Salat by those who rise in the night, seeking the pleasure and the face of Alllah Ta’ala.
WUDU: A ritual washing with water alone to be pure for the prayer. The way to do Wudu is: (1). Wash hands thrice. (2). Wash mouth thrice. (3).Wash nostril thrice. (4). Wash face thrice. (5). Wash right forearm thrice. (6). Wash left forearm thrice. (7). Wipe scalp and nape of neck and then ears once, (or twice or thrice). (8). Wash right foot thrice. (9). Wash left foot thrice. Once or twice is also allowed. See holy Qur’an, An-Nisa (4):43, Al-Ma’idah (5):7. You must already be in Ghusl for Wudu to be effective. You should ensure that your private parts and underclothes are clean before doing Wudu. Once you have done Wudu you remain in Wudu until it is broken by: Any of the conditions which make it necessary to have a Ghusl. See ghusl. Emission of impurities from the private parts: Urine, faeces, wind, prostatic fluid, or other discharge. Loss of consciousness by whatever means: usually by sleep or fainting. Physical contact between man and woman where sexual pleasure is either intended or experienced. Touching your penis with the inside of your hands or fingers. Leaving Islam. It is necessary to be in Ghusl and in Wudu (or alternatively to do Tayammum under certain circumtances) to do the Salat (prayer) and to hold a copy of the Qur’an. See Tayammum.
WUQUF: Stopping places, particularly the stopping places at Arafah and Muzdalifah during the Hajj. Singular: Mawqif.
WUSTA: Middle. Salatul Wusta refers to the middle prayer, which is the ‘Asr prayer (the third of the five compulsary prayers), for those whose day begins at dawn. However, some say it refers to the Fajr prayer. This is because the Muslims follow a lunar calendar: the first day of a new lunar month is only determined when the new moon is sighted shortly after sunset. Therefore the Muslim day begins at Maghreb, and the first prayer of the new day is Maghreb, which makes the third (middle) prayer Fajr.

Y

Name Meaning
YA SIN: "Ya Sin". Surah 36 of the Holy Qur’an.
YACOUB, PEACE BE UPON HIM: Jacob, A prophet of Islam. He was also known as Israel. His twelve sons each became head of their own tribe and these were known as the twelve tribes of Israel. Jacob was the son of Ishaaq, who was the son of Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be on them.
YAHOUD: The Jews. This term is correctly used to describe the three tribes of Israel - the tribes of Juda, Levi and Benjamin - who after the twelve tribes had escaped from Egypt with Moses, peace be on him, and settled in the Holy Land, seperated from the other tribes of Israel (who were known as the Israelites) and became known as the Judahites. The Term ‘Judahite’ was shortened to ‘Judean’, which was then eventually shortened to ‘Jew’. The judahite Jews re-wrote and altered the Torah several times and formulated the Talmud (incorporating the Mishnah, the Jerusalem Gemara ,the Babylonian Gemara and the Madrash), and their religion became known as Judaism. ‘Yahoud’ is the Arabic equivalent of ‘Judahite’. It is clear, therefore, that the term "yahoud’ can only really be correctly used to describe the Middle Eastern and Sephardhic Jews; and can only be loosely applied to the Ashkenazim Jews who are descendants from the Turkic Russian tribe of the Khazars who embraced Judaism in the seventh century, but who were not originally descendants from any of the twelve tribes of Israel. It is for this reason that some commentators identify the Ashkenazim Jews with ‘Jew wa Majewj’ , Gog and Magog, (since they are ‘Jews’, but not Judahite Jew), about whom it is prophesied in Ezekiel 38-39 that they will come from their place in the far north (Russia), helped by many nations, and attack the land of Israel, and that eventaully there will be a mighty battle in which they will all be destroyed.
YAHYA, PEACE BE UPON HIM: John the Baptist, A prophet of Islam. Son of the Prophet Zakaria and Al-Yasaabat (Elizabeth), and the maternal cousin of Mariam (mary), Mother of Isa (Jesus), peace be upon them. He was therefore a cousin of the Prophet Isa (Jesus), Son of Mariam (Mary). He was sent by Allah Ta’ala to prepare the way for the Prophet isa. The Prophet Yahya was imprisoned, then later beheaded by Herod in order to prove his infatuation for a dancing girl (his niece). It is unfortunate that Nasara (Christians) choose to call him John, because the name Yahya has a special place in history. He was the man ever to be called Yahya. See Holy Qur’an, Aali ‘Imran (3):39, Al-An’am (6):85, Maryam (19):12-15, Al-Anbiya (21):90-91.
YALAMLAM: The Miqat of the people of Yemen. See Miqat.
YAQEEN: Certainty. Faith in general is based on the Yaqeen of the believer. It has three stages: (1). Ilm al-Yaeen - Knowledge of certainty. (2). Ayn al-Yaqeen - Source of certainty. (3). Haqq al-Yaqeen - Truth of certainty. The Raja of Mahmudabad defined them thus in this metaphor.(1). You are told there is a fire in the forest. (2). You reach the fire in the forest and see it for yourself. (3). You are the fire in the forest. See holy Qur’an,Al-hijr (15):99.
YARHAMUKU’LLAH: "Allah Ta’ala’s mercy be on you." This is the usual response to a sneezer when he says "Alhamdu lillah" (Praise to Allah") after sneezing.
YARMUK: A place in Shaam. Site of a famous battle.
YASALOUNA: "They ask."
YATAMA: Orphans. Singular: Yateem . See Yateem.
YATEEM: Orphan. It is major sin to harm, abuse or cheat orphans in any way whatsoever. Allah Ta’ala will give a great reward to anyone who takes care of orphans. Plural: Yatama. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):220, An-Nisa (4):2,6, 10, 127, Al-Isra (17):34.
YATHRIB: One of the names of Al-Madinah before the coming of Islam.
YAUM AL-JAZA: Literally means the Day of Payment. Another name for the day of Judgement, when mankind and Jinn will be paid what is due to them, either by being sent to Jannah (Paradise) or to Nar (Hellfire).
YAUM AL-QIAMA: Literally means the Day of Standing. This is the Day when we will be raised from our graves and will stand while waiting to be judged by Allah Ta’ala. This day has many names, including: (1.) Al-Qari’a (Day of Clamour). (2.) Al-Taama al-Kubra (The Complete Covering). For a complete list of the names and description of the Yaum al-Qiama.
YUNUS, PEACE BE UPON HIM: "Jonah" or "Jonas". A Prophet of Islam. He was sent to the city of Nineveh (on the left bank of the Tigris, opposite the city of Mosul, in Iraq, to preach against their wickedness and call them to the worship of Allah. The people of Nineveh at first rejected him, but when he pronounced the curse of Allah upon them, repented their sins. However, he still left the city in anger, forgetting that Allah is full of mercy, as well as forgiveness. As a punishment, Allah Ta’ala caused a whale to swallow him up for a limited time. In the darkness of the whale's stomach, in the darkness of the ocean, in the darkness of the night, Yunus turned to his Lord and asked for His forgiveness. The whale spewed him up on the beach and, after recovering from his ordeal, Yunus returned to the city whose inhabitants all became his followers. He then came to be known as Dhu'l-Noon (man of the whale). See Holy Qur'an, As-Saffa (37):139-149. Surah 10 of the Holy Qur'an.
YUSUF, PEACE BE ON HIM: "Joseph". A Prophet of Islam. One of the sons of Yacoub (Yacob), peace be on them. Surah 12 of the Holy Qur'an.

Z

Name Meaning
ZA’AMA: Allegation.
ZABOOR: Holy Book revealed to the prophet Dawood (David), peace be on him.
ZAID: Zaid ibn Haritha was one of the first people to accpet Islam. He was a freeman of the Prophet Muhammad,may Allah bless him and grant him peace. For furfuher information See Zaid ibn Haritha. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Ahzab (33):28, 37-38, 50. See Zaid.
ZAKARIA, PEACE BE ON HIM: The Prophet Zachariah. A prophet of Islam. He looked after Maryam, the mother of Jesus, in the Temple of Solomon, when she was a child. He was the father of the Prophet Yahya, peace be on them all.
ZAKAT AL-FITR: A small obligatory head-tax imposed on every reponsible Muslim who has the means for himself and his dependents. It is paid once yearly at the end of Ramadan before Eid al-Fitr. See Sahi Bukhari, Kitabul Zakatul Fitr. See Sahi Muslim, Ahadeeth, 2159, 2160.
ZAKAT: The Muslim’ wealth tax: One must pay 2.5 % of one’s yearly savings above 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 annuaal 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. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Baqara (2):43, 110, 177, 277, An-Nisa (4):162, Al-Maida (5):58. See Bukhari, Book of Zakat. See Muslim, Book of Zakat. Zakat is one of the Arkan of Islam. See Arkan.
ZALLAH: A major error, e.g. unintentional backbiting. Generally speaking, a person seeks Allah’s forgiveness immediately after realizing that he or she has committed a Zallah.
ZALZALAH (AL): "The Earthquake". One of the names of the Yaum al-Qiama. Surah 99 of the Holy Qur’an.
ZAMZAM: The sacred well inside Al-Haram ash-Shareef in Makkah.
ZANAADIQA: Complete and utter unbelievers in Allah and the Last Day. Atheist.
ZANJABIL: A special mixture that will be in one of the drinks of the people of the Jannah (Paradise). See Holy Qur’an, Al-Insan (76):17.
ZAQQUM: An extremely bitter and thorny tree that grows at the bottom of Hellfire. See Holy Qur’an, Al-ISra (17):60, As-Saffat (37):62-66, Ad-Dukhan (44):43-46, Al-Waqi’ah (56):56
ZEENA: (1). Allurements of the worlds. See Holy Qur’an, Al-Kahf (18):46 (2). Beauty and ornaments of Woman. See Holy Qur’an, An-Nur (24):31.
ZINAH: Fornication and adultery, i.e. sexual intercourse between partners who are not married to each other. One of the Kabair (major sins) in Islam. Allah Ta’ala has prescribed flogging (100 lashes) and year’s exile for either a man or a woman who commits Zinah and is not married. Although it is not expressly stated in the Qur’an, the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, made it clear that a married man or woman who commits Zinah is to be stoned to death. Similarly, homosexuals and lesbians in a Muslim community are put to death. These measures protect the cohesion of the family, and accordingly of the community as whole. See Holy Qur’an An-Nur (24):2-10.
ZINDEEQ: Hypocrite or unbeliever. Anyone who does not believe in Allah and who rejects His Messengers, may Allah bless them and grant them peace.
ZOOR: Giving false evidence. The act of committing perjury.
ZUKKHRUFF (AL): "The gold Ornaments". Surah 43 of the Holy Qur’an.
ZUMMAR (AL): "The Troops". Surah 39 of the Holy Qur’an.