Dictionary
Abu Darda, may Allah be pleased with him said: ”I heard Prophet (ﷺ) saying: "Whoever follows a path in the pursuit of knowledge, Allah will make easy for him a path to Paradise.
The number of Prophets that Allah has sent to mankind.
The portion of ones wealth that must be paid in zakat.
The period in which the revelation was sent down to the Prophet (pbuh). This started when he was 40 years old and ended when he passed away at 63.
The Prophet (pbuh) became a Prophet at the age of 40. This is when he received the first revelation in the cave of Hira.
The Prophet (pbuh) said that Islami is built upon 5 pillars 1. To bear witness that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah 2. To pray 3. To fast Ramadan 4. To give Zakat 5. To perform Hajj
The Prophet (pbuh) was born in the Year of the Elephant which corresponds to 571CE.
The 6 pillars of faith (iman) are 1. to believe in Allah 2. His Angels 3. His Books 4. His Prophets 5. The Afterlife 6. Divine Decree: the good and the evil
The Qur‘ān is made up of 60 of these units. 2 hizbs make up one of the 30 portions (juzz) of the Qur‘ān.
The length of time that the Prophet Nuh (as) called his people to submit to Allah
A type of clothes for females that covers the full body and is loose fitting.
Abbas ibn Firnas was an Andalusian polymath: an inventor, physician, chemist, engineer and Arabic-language poet.
The grandfather of the Prophet SAW. He refound the ZamZam well and was present when Abraha came to attack the kabah. He was a very well respected man.
A close companion of the Prophet (pbuh). One of the early Muslims and one of the 10 companions whom the Prophet (pbuh) gave glad tidings of Janna.
A notable contemporary reciter of Qur‘ān.
the 34th Sultan of the Ottoman Empire and the last Sultan to exert control over the fracturing Islamic state.
Abdallah ibn Abd al-Muttalib was the father of the Prophet (pbuh) but he passes away before the birth of the Prophet (pbuh). He was married to Aamina bint Wahb (the mother of the Prophet (pbuh).
Abdullah ibn Abbaas (r.a.) was a cousin of the Prophet and one of the early scholars of Islam.
Abdullah ibn masud was a great companion of the Prophet and a profound scholar of Hadith.
Abdullah ibn Umar (ra) was the son of the second caliph Umar ibn Khattab (ra) and a brother-in-law and companion of the Messenger of Allah (pbuh).
Also knows as wudhu in Arabic is the washing of certain parts of the body prior to performing salah and reciting Qur‘ān.
Allah is above His throne, which is above the seven heavens.
Abu Darda was a companion of the Prophet (pbuh) and lived a very simple life.
Abu Dawud was one to the great Islamic scholar of Hadith. He complied many ahadeeth of the Prophet (pbuh).
Abu Jahl was one of the biggest enemies of the Prophet (pbuh) and the Muslims. He died at the battle of Badr.
A famous companion of the Prophet (pbuh). He is well known for narrating the most amount of Hadith from the Prophet (pbuh).
Abu Lahb was the uncle of the Prophet (pbuh) but refused to believe in his message. He is cursed in the Qur‘ān for insulting the Prophet in Surah al-Masad.
He was the uncle of the Prophet (pbuh) and a father-figure in his life. Despite being kind to the Prophet he did not accept Islam.
Abu Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah was one of the closest Companions of the Prophet (pbuh) and is also one of the ten persons who were given glad tidings of Paradise. Abu Ubayda ibn al-Jarrah is the tenth convert to Islam at the hands of Abu Bakr (ra).
The closest companion of the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) and the first Caliph after the Prophets death. He famously accompanied the Prophet on the hijrah journey from Makkah to Madina and was mentioned in the Qur‘ān.
The One Who causes trouble to whom He wills. He can cause difficult situations and problems for His creatures and has the power to do so. This could be test us or to punish us.
In Islamic terminology, this refers to the prescribed Islamic etiquettes and good manners.
Adam (as) is the first human being created by Allah. He is the father of humanity and a Prophet of Allah.
A pharse mentioned in the Qur‘ān which can also be translated as ‘a nearby land‘. It is a reference to the Dead Sea area where a battle between the Persians and Byzintine armies reportedly took place. That is the lowest point on earth.
The sin of having a relationship with another person whilst being married.
To publicly promote something. It can also mean to share the message of Islam with the world
People of the book. This usually refers to the Jews and Christians.
A contemporary scholar on comparative religion who dedicated his life to preaching Islam to non-Muslims
Ahmed ibn Hanbal, also known as Imam Ahmad (Baghdad, 780 - there, 855), was one of the foremost Imams of Islam. He was a lawyer, imam, theologian and the founder of the Hanbali school of thought. He was also the author of the book Al-Musnad.
A well known mosque situated in Sanaa in Yemen.
A certain type of Date that grows in Madina.
Akhi in Arabic means "my brother". It is often used in many cultures to show the closeness of one Muslim to another.
This refers to the everlasting life after death.
Good manners. The Prophet (pbuh) said that the heaviest thing on the scales on the Day of Judgement will be good manners.
Before the Prophet (phuh) migrated to Madinah the city was known as Yathrib and those who decided to help the Prophet and his companions became known as the Anṣār, meaning The Helpers. The Prophet (pbuh) loved them dearly and lived in their city until he passed away.
Kafan is a sheet of white cloth used to wrap and cover the body of the person who has passed away.
It means the two chapters that provide refuge in Allah from evil: Surah al-Falaq and Surah al-Nas. Sometime Sural al-Ikhlas is included in this.
The beautiful name of Allah al-‘Adl means The One who always acts justly. The One who delivers absolute justice.
The beautiful name of Allah al-‘Aleem means Allah has complete and perfect knowledge about all matters, whether they are known or hidden.
The One Who is Almighty and cannot be overcome by anyone or anything, the One Who is mighty in revenge when He punishes His enemies, the Almighty Who overcomes everyone and before Whose Power everyone submits and Who needs no one.
The Magnificent, The Supreme. Allah is great in all His attributes and in all His deeds. He is great in every way. His greatness and majesty is beyond comprehension. We do not have the ability with our brains to grasp what the greatness of Al Adheem really means.
The beautiful name of Allah that means He deletes and erases the sins of people who turn back to Him.
The Unique, The Only One. A name of Allah. Al Ahad is the One Who is unique in His essence, His attributes and in His actions.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Aakhir means Allah is the Last and so nothing is after Him. He is eternal.
Al-Ali has the highest status and prestige. No one is as high and as exalted as Allah.
This can mean ‘the earth‘ or ‘the land‘.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Awwal means The First. The means Allah is eternal and nothing can before Him.
One of the oldest universities in the world and a world respected place of Islamic learning based in cairo.
The beautiful name of Allah, al-Bāṭin, means The Hidden One, however it can also mean The Closest One. Allah is both hidden to us in this world, even though His signs are all around us. Allah is also closer to us through His knowledge than anyone else.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Badee‘ means the One who originates, commences, invents and creates all that exists, without any model or material.
The Everlasting. Allah is independent of time, space, food, energy, death, and so on. He made everything and is not dependent on His creation. There‘s nothing can overpower Him.
The One Who makes His creatures according to the circumstances and environment in which they live.
The One Who treats creation in an excellent and kind manner, Who does not interrupt His fine treatment of them, and Who improves their affairs for them. (See Ayah 52:28.)
The world of the souls after we have died and before the Day of Judgement begins.
The One whose insight sees all things clearly, both the apparent and the hidden. The One who sees and understands all that has been, and all that will be.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Basit means The One who makes ample and plentiful all that is needed. The One who expands and amplifies all abundance.
Buraaq is an animal on which the Prophet (pbuh) made the miraculous night journey. The Prophet (pbuh) descibed it as "a white animal which was smaller than a mule and bigger than a donkey" and with just one stride it reached as far as the horizon.
The meaning of the name Al Burhan is "the proof".
The Majestic. A name of Allah.
Is unique and unmatched in His Majesty. His commands and commandments should not be ignored. All the beauty and appeal of the world is a representation of the beauty of Allah and His attributes. All the beauty of the universe is a reflection of the manifestation of His attributes.
Everything in the universe consists of collections of atoms, cells, molecules, and so on. They were all created by Allah and collected in a wonderful way into many different forms. The universe in this regard is like a great gathering box from Allah: And among His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the living entities which He has scattered therein. And He has power to gather them whenever He will. (42:29)
Al-Fattaah is the Opener. He opens all kinds of doors for His creatures. He opens the light of Islam in the hearts of the people. He opens the way to happiness and bliss. He solves problems and gives people peace and happiness.
25th surah of the Qur‘ān. Its name means the criterion and is a reference to the Qur‘ān being the criteria by which people are differentiated.
The Great Forgiver. One of the names of Allah. All the sin we commit is against the will of Allah and an injustice against Him. Yet when we sincerely repent, He forgives us. This is because Allah is the Forgiver and He is Merciful.
The Forgiver. Allah is the Forgiver and He is Merciful. His mercy exceeds His anger: Abu Huraira narrated that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said: "When Allah commanded the creation, He made a solemn promise by writing in His book that is with Him, My grace will prevail over my wrath." (Muslim)
The Self-Sufficient, The Wealthy. Ghani is the Richest and the One Who owns everything. He doesn‘t depend on anyone to get anything. Its sources of wealth are inexhaustible. He is Needless! He has no need for food, rest, oxygen, worship, children, and the like.
The guide, one of the names of Allah. He is the only one who can guide people to his path.
The black stone is a stone in the southeast corner of the Kaba in Al-Masjid al-Haram Mosque in Mecca
The beautiful name of Allah al-Hafiz means the One whose power preserves the heavens and the earth. The One who is the guardian and preserver of all the worlds.
Is the One Whose are irrevocable. He decides what is good and what is bad. The judgment is in His hands. He is the judge of the judges. His judgment is divine and always right. It‘s full of wisdom and never wrong.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Ḥakīm means The One who has perfect wisdom. The One whose wisdom turns mankind back from wrongdoing. The One who is qualified to judge the worth of all things.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Haleem means The One who is kind, gracious and serene in all situations.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Hamid means He is the One who is most worthy of praise and thanks.
Arabic word for the absolute truth. An example of the use of this phrase in the Qur‘ān is when Allah says that his promise is al-Haqq. So whatever he has promised us is the absolute truth.
Called Ḥasan of Basra, or reverently as Imam Ḥasan al-Baṣrī, was an early Muslim preacher, ascetic, theologian, exegete, scholar and judge.
al-Hasan was the older of two grandsons of the Prophet (pbuh).
The reckoner. One of the names of Allah. Al Haseeb is the best Calculator. There is no math teacher or math professor who can stand up to Him. He has calculated the total creation according to His plan and put everything in balance.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Hay means Allah is eternal and never dies. His life is perfect in every way.
The Compeller, The Restorer. A name of Allah. Everything in the universe obeys the law of Allah. The universe in which we live is an ordered whole. Law and order prevail. Everything functions perfectly and has its own place in the universe.
This is the Arabic name for paradise.
The Awesome One Who is greater than everything (greater than the whole universe), everything else is insignificant to Him, He is greater than anything creation can imagine.
It is recommended to visit graves for men to be reminded of the hereafter.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Karīm means the Most Generous. Allah‘s generosity is all around us. He continues to bless us and sends us gifts everyday. He is more generous to us than our own parents.
The Creator. One of the names of Allah. There is no one else but Allah who can create, even if all mankind with all their potency came together, we could not even make the wing of a fly. No one but Allah can create, the universe is proof of this.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Khabir means Allah is aware of everything, even the most subtle and smallest things.
The One who gives honor to one man and humiliation to another. Those who are humiliated owe it to themselves.
Al-kidhr was a righteous and knowledgeable man in the time of Musa(as). His story is related in surah al Kahf, the 18th surah of the Qur‘ān.
This is the Arabic word for book.
The Subtle One, The Most Gentle. One of the names of Allah.
The preserved tablet contains the decrees of all things that will happen. It is guarded and protected from corruption and interference.
One of the 99 names of Allah. It means the one who has the attribute of glory, grandeur and magnificence. He is more exalted and mangificent then anything. He is glorified and exalted by the ones who love him.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Majeed means the Most Glorious. Nothing is more honourable and glorious than Allah the Almighty
Mahdi, or Imam al-Mahdi, is righteous man from among the descendants of the Prophet (pbuh), who will appear at the end of time, through whom Allaah will set mankind’s affairs straight, and will fill the earth with fairness and justice just as it was filled with wrongdoing and oppression.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Malik means The King. This means He is The One who is king of all beings. The One who is the owner and ruler of this world. The One who has supreme authority, and who is relied upon by everyone.
The Withholder. A name of Allah. It is in his infinite wisdom to deny us things that we want and sometimes prevent us from harm which we are not even aware of.
The Prophet (pbuh) allowed us to wipe over leather socks (or normal socks as soon as they cover the ankles) when re-doing wudu for a maximum for one full day, or three days when travelling.
Masjid al Aqsa is located in Jerusalem, Palestine. It is the third holiest site in Islam after the Ka‘bah in Makkah and the Prophet‘s Mosque in Madinah. The Prophet (pbuh) led prayers towards this site until Allah directed him to turn towards the Kaaba. Prophet Muhammad was transported from the Ka‘bah to Masjid al Aqsa during the Night Journey.
The honorable or holy mosque. And is the great mosque in Mecca where the Ka‘bah is located.
The Steadfast One. A name of Allah. The One Who is impressively strong, the Mighty One Whose Power does not end and Who in His Deeds does not experience any difficulty, nor does He experience any weariness.
The Delayer, one of the names of Allah. The attribute Al-Mu‘akhir is the One who procrastinates. For example, He waits a long time before punishing a people. His patience is great and the time He postpones is also great. He only intervenes when He finds it necessary.
The beautiful name of Allah which means The One who gives invincible strength and honor. The One who grants honor and power. The One who strengthens and glorifies.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Mu‘min means The One who illuminates the heart with faith, and the One who is most trustworthy.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Mubdi means the Originator or the Initiator. The One who is the originator of all creation. The One who is the founder of creation. Allah is the One who brought this world into existence from nothing. He is also the One who brought us into existence.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Mudhillis not specifically used in the Qur‘ān. Its meaning is the opposite of The One who honors people. It means that Allah, out of His wisdom, humiliates and disgraces some people.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Mujeeb means The One who answers prayers. The One who responds to needs.
The Protector. The one who provides the ultimate protection. If he chooses to protect someone, than none can harm him.
The All-Enumerating/Counter, Allah has recorded everything.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Muhyi means He is the One who takes life.
The inflicter of death. One of the names of Allah. Al-Mumeet is the One Who established death for everyone. Everything will come to an end, everyone will die anyway: And the swoon of death will indeed come. "This is what you wanted to flee." (50:19) Death or destruction is not just for humans and animals. We learn from the Qur‘ān that everything will one day die: Verily, what you have been promised must happen. So when the stars will be dark. And when the heavens will be opened. And when the mountains are scattered. 77: 7-10
Literally means the enlightened. Was used as an honorific for Yathrib once the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) migrated there from Makka. Yathrib was from then on referred to as the enlightened city. Al-Madina Al-munawara.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Muntaqim means The One who hates wrongdoing and has the right to exact vengeance against those who perpetrate crimes.
The Promoter. One of the names of Allah. He chooses who He wants and promotes him in character or prestige and leads him to Islam. There are many rulers whose deaths people have celebrated. There are many poor who have done heroic deeds and left many good memories. It doesn‘t matter how or what you are, it is your attitude towards Allah.
The Sustainer. He is the one who provides everything we need. Not only in material things but also immaterial things. He balances our mind and gives us what we need.
The Just One. He is the One Who makes no distinction between His creatures, He gives to everyone what they deserve.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Muqtadir means The Powerful. The One whose supreme power determines the measure of all things. The One whose decisions always prevail. The One who has power and ability to ordain all things.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Musawwir means The One who shapes and fashions the creation as He wishes
The beautiful name of Allah al-Muta‘āli means The One who is exalted above all of creation.
The Majestic. Greatness only suits Allah. There is no one who can appropriate this quality. Many people have tried this in the past, but in the end they all perished.
The Withholder. A name of Allah. Allah gives abundant food, wealth and provision to whom He wills and limits it to whom He wills. Every person tries to work towards a better position, but unfortunately often only in material relation. People do not trust that we are totally dependent on Allah in this area as well. Everything is in His hand, He gives what He wants and limits it to whom He wills.
The Omnipotent one.
The divine decree of Allah. Whatever He decrees will come to pass and whatever He does not decree will never happen
A beautiful name of Allah that means He is The All-Prevailing One who dominates all.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Qawwi means The One whose strength is supreme and unlimited.
The one who provides for everything. He is the one who has no needs and has been ever present and ever lasting.
The 75th chapter of the Qur‘ān. Its name refers to the day of Judgement when everyone will be standing.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Quddūs means The One who is pure, spotless, without blemish or fault.
A scholar who wrote a famous book of tafseer (explanation) of the Qur‘ān.
The Provider, a name of Allah, Wherever we are and in whatever circumstances we find ourselves, our life support always ends up with us. Thus we creatures have been provided for our livelihood for millions of years by al-Razzaq
Al-Waajid is the One Who finds everything when He wants it. It does not depend on time and circumstances. He encompasses and controls everything.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Wāḥid means The One. It tells us that Allah is One, unique, and no one else deserves to be worshipped, loved and fear like He does.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Wali means The Protector or Friend. In the Qur‘ān Allah the Almighty says He "is the friend (Wali) of those who believe".
One of the 99 names of Allah. It means the most loving. The One who loves his Prophets and Messengers and those who follow them and they in tunr love Him.
The Supreme Bestower. Al-Wahhaab gives food to the hungry, the barren children, healing the sick, the ignorant knowledge, fleeing the people in need. Everything in the universe is His, there is no other Giver or Healer but He.
The beautilful name of Allah that means The One who can be entrusted with the management and resolution of all affairs. The One who is the supreme trustee, guardian and administrator of all things.
The Protective Friend. He helps in good times as well as bad. He guides them and makes the way to Paradise easy. He gives them light and thus opens their eyes to Islam.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Wārith means The One to whom all possessions return when the possessor is gone. The One who inherits all that we have done.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Wāsi‘ means The One who is vast without limit. The One of limitless capacity and abundance.
A Prophet of Allah mentioned in the Qur‘an from the Isralites
Alhamdulillah in the Arabic language literally means "praise be to Allah".
The cousin of the Prophet Muhammed Pbuh. He lived in the household of the Prophet for a number of years and was one of the first to accept his message.
The first letter of the most alphabet.
Are known as huroof e muqatta‘at (the disjointed letters). These appear at beginning of a few Surah in the Qur‘ān such as sura al-Baqarah.
Something that is entrusted to someone. This could be anything from a small portion of money to a secret. This could also refer to a responsbility that someone has.
Ameen means "Oh Allah accept" and it is said to conclude a Du‘aa.
Ameer is an Arabic word that means leader.
The mother of the Prophet Muhammed (pubh)
Ammar was a close companion of the Prophet (pbuh), a fearless warrior and a devoted Muslim until his death.
Amr ibn al-aas was a companion of the Prophet. He was the commander who conquered Egypt.
The king of Abssynia who welcomed the Muslim delegation and protected them from the Quraysh who came to reclaim them. He became a Muslim but hid his Islam.
The One who brings benefit into the world, The Benefactor. The one who in His hand can benefit whom he wants innumerably.
This was a scholar whos specialised in the science of Hadith. He has a famous book of recorded Hadith
One of the youngest Companions of the Prophet (pbuh). He was still a child when the Prophet passed away.
The sacrifice offered when a baby is born. Two sheep for a baby boy and one sheep for a girl.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Ra‘ūf means the Most Kind or the Most Compassionate. It teaches us that Allah cares about us and is kinder to His slaves than their own parents.
The Exalter, The Elevator. The name Ar-Rafi is the opposite of Al-Ghafid. Ar Raafi exalts whoever He wants through His favors, gifts and blessings.
The Merciful one. Abu Huraira related that the Messenger of Allah said: "When Allah commanded creation, He made a solemn promise by writing in His book that is with Him: My grace will prevail over My vengeance." (Muslim, Bukharie) The Merciful One protects us from many dangers. His grace is very great! When we make a rough calculation of our sins, we arrive at numbers in the trillions. If so much injustice were done against us, we would surely erupt into violence. But Allah‘s patience is great, He forgives us again and again.
The beautiful name of Allah al-Rahman is one of the most commonly found in the Qur‘an. It means Allah is the Most Mercifiul, Loving and Caring.
The Watchful one, one of the names of Allah. Al Raqib is always alert, nothing escapes Him. He is always vigilant, there is not a moment of inattention for Him.
One of the corners of the Ka’bah is called the Rukan Yamani because it is situated on the side of the Ka’bah which faces the land of Yemen. The Prophet (pbuh) touched the Rukan Yamani by hand during ṭawāf, this practise is now a sunnah.
An area close to Makkah with a mountain called Jabal Rahma. Standing on Arafah is an essential part of the Hajj. Pilgrims travel here from Mina on the second day of Hajj
When two or more people disagree or dispute on something and want to get their point across.
The ship that Nuh (as) was commanded to build by Allah in preparation for the floods that Allah punished the disbelievers with.
The beautiful name of Allah as-Sabur means The One who is not moved by haste to carry out any action before it‘s proper time.
Two mountains that are present near the Kabah. The Prophet Ibrahim (as) took his second wife Hajar to Arabia upon which he was commanded to leave his wife and young son, Ismail (as). His wife Hajar accepted the command of Allah knowing the truth of her husbands message. In her pursuit of water for her young son she ran between these two mountains in panic until finally Allah caused water to gush from the ground beneath the feet of her son. This water became the Zam Zam well and Muslims replicate her actions every time they perform pligrimage to the kabah.
The beautiful name of Allah as-Salaam means The One from whom peace originates. This means that Allah is peace and He grants peace and safety to whoever He wishes
The Eternal, Satisfier of Needs. A name of Allah. As Samad is the One Dependent on nothing and no one.
The All hearing. A name of Allah.
Allah hears everything, both by day and by night. There is not a single moment and no place in the universe that He could not hear.
A geographical area that makes up modern day Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon and Syria.
The All observing witnessing. Nothing happens that escapes Allah. He sees and hears everything, He is a witness to everything.
The great shirk. Shirk is attributing partners to Allah (swt), that is to say that you attribute divine attributes to something or someone other than Allah (swt). This makes Shirk the most hated sin in Islam.
The trumpet that Isrâfiel (as) will blow by order of Allah (swt) and will usher in the day of judgement.
The lesser form of polytheism (shirk) is called ash-Shirk al-Asghar. The Prophet (pbuh) told us that showing off when doing good deeds is a form of lesser polytheism.
The people of the ditches. These were a people who were thrown into ditches of fire upon accepting the message of Islam from a young boy when he opposed a tyrant king.
Ashura is the 10th day of Muharram and it is a special day. It is the day on which Allah saved Musa (as) from pharaoh.
Asiyah is the wife of the Pharaoh (Firawn). She was the adoptive mother of Musa (as) and she is one of the 4 best women who ever lived.
Allah the Almighty has many beautiful names. In Arabic we call them al-Asmaa al-Husnaa
The greeting of the Muslims to each other.
A recommended phrase to say often that means "I seek forgiveness from Allah"
Imam at-Tabari was an Islamic scholar of history, Qur‘ān and other sciences. He got his name from the Iranian province in which he was born: Tabaristan from the Caspian Sea. His book of Tafsir is one of the most comprehensive every to be written. He died 311H.
This is the 65th Surah of the Qur‘ān and as the name indicates, this Surah speaks about the subject of divorce between a husband and wife.
The beautiful name of Allah at-Tawwaab means The One who accepts repentence. This means that when people seek Allah‘s forgiveness He is ready to forgive no matter how bad the sin is.
Imam Tirmidhi is a famous scholar of hadith who passed away 892 CE. He wrote al-Jami` as-Sahih (also known as Jami` at-Tirmidhi), one of the six famous hadith collections.
The part of the body that is to be covered and not revealed to other people. (except one's spouse)
This refers to the parts of the body that should always be covered up around others. (except one's spouse)
Ayat al Kursi is one of the most honorable verses in the Qur‘ān and is also called the Throne Verse.
The Prophet Ayyub (as) is one of the earliest Prophets sent to mankind. He was tested by Allah with severe illness but he remained patient and faithful to Allah. After a very long time Allah the Almighty cured him.
Azar was the father of Ibrahim (as) but he was a non believer and rejected his son‘s belief in Allah.
When the Prophet (pbuh) was 12 years old he accompanied his uncle Abu Talib on a trade journey to Syria. On their trade journey they met a Christian monk by the name of Bahira, who lived a simple life in a monastery. When Bahira saw the face of the Prophet (pbuh) he was delighted for he was aware from the scriptures of the arrival of a mighty Prophet and he could see the signs on the young boy.
Bakkah is another name for Makkah
Banu Quraydhah was a Jewish tribe that lived in Madina at the time of the Prophet.
The Qur‘ān speaks of two seas, one with fresh water, and the other salty, and between them there is a ‘barrier‘ placed by Allah preventing them from mixing.
Basra is an ancient city founded at the beginning of the Islamic era in 636 CE by Umar (ra). It is located in modern day Iraq.
The Battle of Ain Jalut took place on September 3, 1260 between the Mamluks led by Baibars and the Mongols in Palestine, on the Jezreel Valley in Galilee, just north of Samaria, near Jenin
A battle in which the Jews and the Mushrikin (idolaters) made a treaty. Despite their nefarious plan to unite against the Muslims, they were stopped by a ditch dug by the Muslims and Allah prevented them from maintaining their siege, so the Muslims were victorious.
The first battle fought by the Muslims against the Kufaar. It was fought shortly after the Hijrah of the Prophet (pbuh). The Muslims were victorious despite being outnumbered. Allah provided the Muslims with support from the heavens. Those companions who fought at badr were highly esteemed as it was such a critical point in Muslim history.
About the year 733, the Frankish mayor Charles defeated an Arab force in a battle that has gone down in history as the Battle of Poitiers.
One of the battles that the Prophet (pbuh) led against the Byzintines empire
Member of a nomad community typically residing in the desert.
The first pillar of Eman.
The Restorer, The Reinstater. A name of Allah.
It is an important part of imaan (faith) to believe in the books revealed by Allah including the holy Qur‘ān.
One of the pillars of eman. It is to believe in the day of Judgement. On that day, Allah, as a judge, will call all people to account.
One of the 6 pillars of faith (iman) is to believe in all the Prophets and Messengers of Allah.
One of the pillars of Eman. It is to believe in the divine decree of Allah.
The word bid‘ah means to introduce something new into the religion which is not a part of it .
Known as Mesopotamia in English, Bilad al-Rafidayn is a historical region of Western Asia situated within the Tigris–Euphrates river system, in the northern part of the Fertile Crescent, in modern days roughly corresponding to most of Iraq, Kuwait, the eastern parts of Syria, Southeastern Turkey, and regions along the Turkish–Syrian and Iran–Iraq borders.
Bilal ibn Rabah al-Habashi was a loyal Companion of the Prophet (pbuh) and one of the first converts to the newly emerging religion of Islam. He was also the first mu‘azzin (prayer caller) in the Muslim faith.
Binyamin was the younger full brother of Prophet Yusuf (as).
In the name of Allah. Something that Muslims say before beginning any virtuous activity.
An Islamic item of clothing for women that usually drapes down from the head to the feet.
The eastern part of the Roman empire. Eventually defeated by the Muslims.
The capital of Egypt. It was conquered by Muslims during the time of the Companions.
Those who followed Musa (as) and their descendents
The state of purity that a person must be in order to perform acts of worship.
The Anti-Christ. A figure that will appear closer to the day of judgement and will claim to be God. Muslims will recognise him through the word ‘disbeliever‘ written on his forehead. He will eventually be defeated by the return of Prophet Isa (as).
Damascus is the capital city of Syria.
The house of Al-Arqam was a house owned by one of the companions of the Prophet by that name. It was used a place where Muslims would secretly gather to share knowledge during the Makkan period.
Dawah means to invite a person to learn about Islam. This may lead to someone accepting Islam.
Dawud pbuh was a messenger from Allah and is mentioned in the Qur‘ān. He defeated Jalut in battle and became a king. Allah bestowed upon him wisdom.
Almighty Allah declared: So they routed them by Allah‘s Leave and David killed Goliath, and Allah gave him (David) the kingdom (after the death of Saul and Samuel) and wisdom, and taught him of that which He willed. And if Allah did not check one set of people by means of another, the earth would indeed be full of mischief. But Allah is full of Bounty to the Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exist). (Ch 2:251 Qur‘ān).
The day when all of humanity will be resurrected and will await the judgement of Allah.
The actions that people carry out. Some are good and some are bad. Allah will forgive people of the day of Judgement based on their deeds.
Literally means remembrance. It refers to the remembrance of Allah which is to engage in any activity that reminds a person of Allah. For example, the recitation of Qur‘ān, glorifying Allah, making dua or praying salah.
The lord of Glory and honour. A statement of praise only given to Allah.
A month in the Islamic calendar whereby the first 10 days have special status.The Prophet (pbuh) said of the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah: "There are no days when the good deeds are more loved by Allah than these ten days" Further it is the month where the Hajj takes place.
The story of Dhul Qarnayn is mentioned in the Qur‘an. He was a just king who was blessed with a huge kingdom. One of his great acheivements was building a solid wall to hold off Ya‘juj and Ma‘juj
Dhulkifl is a Prophet (pbuh) whose name appears in the Qur‘ān.
Dirham was the silver coins used as money in the time of the Prophet (pbuh)
A dua that means "May Allah reward you with goodness"
A well known Muslim Speaker that is popular around the world.
Dua is supplication that of asking Allah for something. E.g. making dua to Allah to be cured of an illness.
Dunya refers to the life of this world which short and temporary.
Eid ul Fitr is a celebration after the month of Ramadan. It takes place on the 1st of Shawwal. Muslims pray, eat and drink and thank Allah for the joyous day.
The pond that exists in the Afterlife which the Prophet (pbuh) will use to quench the thirst of the believers after their accounting.
Literally means to relocate from one place to another. Typically it refers to the migration of the Prophet (pbuh) from Makkah to Madina.
Eve (Hawaa in Arabic) was the wife of Adam (as).
A form of jealousy. It‘s when you look at a someone‘s blessing with an evil intention.
Something that is mandatory. For example, the fard salah, are the obligatory prayers.
An act of worship that is required to be completed by a community. If a single person is unable to enage then that is not a problem, but it is an act of worship that must take place within the community.
Fasting is one of the 5 pillars of Islam. Fasting is observed in the month of Ramadan. Voluntary fasting is also recommended such as the fasting of Mondays and Thursdays as was the practice of the Prophet (pbuh).
A form of Arabic Punctuation that changes the sounding of a letter.
A legal ruling on a religious matter.
To do something fi sabilillah means to do a good a deed for the sake of Allah and His pleasure. It can also refer to striving in the cause of Allah to defend or promote Islam.
The ruler of the ancient Egyptians. During the life of the Prophet Musa AS, the Pharaoh of that time was extremely hostile to Musa and his people, the banu Israel. He even went as far as killing their sons in an attempt to prevent the coming of the one who he would perish against. Such was hostility and arrogance that when Allah parted the sea for Musa and his people to escape the army of the Pharaoh, he followed them into the sea whereupon Alllah caused the sea destroy him and his army. The term Pharaoh is now synonymous with evil and arrogance.
Every person is born pure. They are aware of certain truths like the existence of a God, honesty being good and lying being bad.
Gambling is like a game but involving money. The reason it is haram (forbidden) is because it‘s based on chance and not skill. Unfortunately, most people who gamble lose lots of money and fall into debt as a result.
The act of taking a bath to bring one back into a state of purity for worship.
Goliath, known as Jālūt in Arabic, was a giant warrior who was killed by Dawud (as) slingshot.
Gossip is when a person spreads news about another person that may be backbiting or even a slander. islam tells us to stay away from this evil act as it is mean and unkind.
The exessive want of things beyond typical desire.
A type of luxurious garment people will wear in Paradise. The Qur‘ān says "There they will be adorned with bracelets of gold, and wear green garments of fine silk and rich brocade" [18:31]
A dua seeking the forgiveness of Allah. It is said when a person leaves the toilet.
Sons of Adam. Qabil murdered his brother Habil out of jealousy.
The recorded sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh). The recording and study of hadith is a vast science. Along with the Qur‘ān, hadith is essential for Muslims in learning the basic aspects of Islam.
A notable hadith that refers to a time when Jibreel visited the Prophet (pbuh) and asked him questions and thus clearly defined for us the pillars of Islam, Eman, Ihsan and some of the signs of the day of Judgement.
A hadith qudsi contains the words of Allah narrated to us by the Prophet (pbuh). These words are not part of the Qur‘ān.
Hafidh is a title given to one who has memorised the entire Qur‘ān.
The daugher of the notable companion Umar Ibn al-Khattab. She was also the wife of the Prophet (pbuh)
Hajj is a pilgrimage made to the Kaʿba and is one of the 5 pillars of Islam. Hajj has to be performed by every Muslim at least once in their lifetime as long as they are healthy and can afford it.Hajj is performed in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah
The farewell pilgrimage undertaken by the Prophet (pbuh) where he addressed the Muslims with some important messages. He returned to his Lord not soon after this.
Halal is an Islamic term which means permissible. For example, halal meat would imply that the meat is permissible to be consumed by Muslims.
The school of Islamic thought that stemmed from the teachings of Imam Abu Hanifa. Whilst the main aspects of Islam are clear and obvious, teachers and scholars are needed to teach us how to understand Qur‘ān and Sunnah and apply it to our lives.
One of the four main schools of thought. It was founded by Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal (241H)
A person‘s right is called haqq. An example given by the Prophet (pbuh) is that when a Muslim dies it is his right that some people offer the funeral prayer for him. Allah also has rights that people must respect, such as His right to be worshipped without partner.
Harun (as) was the brother of Musa (as). He was also a Prophet like Musa (as).
These were two angles whom Allah sent down to earth. They taught people black magic but would first worn anyone wishing to learn from them that what they were teaching that they were a test and they should not commit kufr.
The grandson of the Prophet (pbuh) from his daughter Fatima who married Ali Ibn Abi Talib.
Literally means "come to success" and is part of the Athan and the Iqama calls to prayer.
A type of adornment where a red dye is used to draw patterns on the skin of people.
To migrate and move home for the sake of Allah is a great deed. The Prophet (pbuh) and his Companions had to migrate from Makkah to Madinah.
Literally means barrier. However it is commonly used in reference to the veil that Muslim women wear as commanded by Allah.
The Hijaz is an area in western Saudi Arabia. The largest city in the area is Jeddah, but the most famous cities are Mecca and Medina, holy cities for Islam. The Prophet (pbuh) grew up in this area.
Wisdom the quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgement; the quality of being wise. The Prophet (pbuh) said that wisdom is the lost property of the Believer.
The new moon which resembles a cresecent. Muslims rely on the the lunar calendar. At key moments, Muslims will look for the new moon to find out whether the next day will bring Ramadhan or the month of Hajj.
This is like fighting for a just cause
These are wide eyed beautiful women of paradise. Allah mentions them in the Qur‘ān
The Prophet who was sent to the people of ‘Aad
Hussain was the grandson of the Prophet (pbuh). His parents were Ali in Abi Talib and Fatima bint Muhammad. His younger brother was Hussain.
Worship. Only Ibadah this is presribed by the Qur‘ān and the Sunnah is acceptable.
The shaytan. Damned to be punished in hell fire and is working actively to misguide humanity.
Yusuf ibn Abdallah ibn Muhammed ibn Abd al-Barr, Abu Umar al-Namari al-Andalusi al-Qurtubi al-Maliki, commonly known as Ibn Abd-al-Barr, was an eleventh-century Arab Maliki judge and scholar in Lisbon . He died in December 2, 1071.
Ibn Khaldun was a renowned social scientist and historian.
Imam Ibn Majah was a hadith scholar of Persian descent. He is mainly known for his compilation of the Hadith, which is called Sunnan Ibn Majah.
Ibrahim (Abraham) (as) was one of the greatest Prophets of Islam. His story is related in various parts of the Qur‘ān. Ibrahim (as) was blessed with a pious son called Ismaeel (as).
The son of the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) born to Maria Al-Qubtia. He died in his infancy.
Idol worship is when a person or group worship statues or images that they believe to be God like. Idol worshiping is totally forbidden in Islam as we should worship none other than Allah.
Idris (as) was a Prophet and one of the great-grandchildren of the Prophet Sheeth and is said to have lived in Babylonia or Egypt.
The celebration that marks the end of the Hajj period. Muslims sacrifice an animal as prescribed by Allah. This is following the footsteps of the Prophet Ibrahim (as) who Allah had commanded to sacrifice his son and when Ibrahim was on the point of fulfilling Allahs command, He replaced him with a goat and honoured Ibrahim (as).
There are two Eid days in the Islamic calender. The first is known as Eid al-Fitr and it takes place the day after Ramadan ends.
The meal that ends the fast.
Ihsaan in Arabic means doing something well, perfectly and sincerely. The Prophet (pbuh) said “It means worshipping Allaah as if you can see Him, and although you cannot see Him, He can see you.” This is the highest degree of Islam.
Purity in deeds. This is to perform an action for the sole pleasure of Allah (pbuh).
The son of Abu Jahl who eventually became Muslim and later fought valiantly in many battles until he was martyred at the battle of Yarmouk.
Ilm is an Islamic term for knowledge.
A pillar of eman. The Angels are commanded by Allah to fulfil his decree.
Internal faith. The strenght of ones Imaan can be built through the pursuit of Allah in worship and good deeds. Similarly it can diminish through negelect and bad deeds.
Abu Ishaq al-Shatibi was an Andalusian Sunni Islamic jurist who followed the Maliki madhab. He died in Granada in 1388. Imam Shatibi‘s full name was "Ibrahim bin Musa bin Muhammed al-Shatibi al-Gharnati". His family was descended from the Banu Lakhm.
Ibn Hazm was a great scholar who belonged to a school of thought called the ẓāhiris
A notable Muslim Scholar with many works.
The Injil is a book that is mentioned in a number of places in the Qur‘ān as one of the books Allah revealed to Isa (as).
The Iqama is the final call to prayer. It is called just before the the prayer is about to start.
The first word of the Qur‘an to be revealed to the Prophet (pbuh). It means ‘read‘, and is an instruction to read, learn and educate yourself.
Prophet sent by Allah. One of the 5 most prominent Prophets that include Nuh, Ibrahim, Musa and Muhammed. Isa (as) was born to Maryam. He was created with no father and miraculously spoke in his infancy. Allah permitted him to perform miracles to demonstrate Allahs power. His people conspired against him and Allah raised him to the heavens. He will return to the earth to lead the Muslims against the Dajjal as one of the final major signs of the coming of the day of Judgement.
Ishaq (as) was a Prophet, son of Prophet Ibrahim (as).
Islam literally means submission. This is because it teaches people how to submit their will and desires to their Maker and Creator: Allah.
The son of the Prophet Ibrahim (as). Also a Prophet and assisted Ibrahim (as) in building the Kabah.
Israafiel is an angel whose task is to blow the Trumpet to usher in the Hour.
Istinja is the washing of the private parts after answering the call of nature.
The biggest Masjid in Indonesia and the 6th largest in the world
Jabal in Arabic means mountain. The plural of jabal is jibaal.
The general Tariq led the Muslim conquest of Spain in May 711. He landed on Gibraltar with an army of 7,000 men near a mountain now called Jabal Tariq.
Jafar ibn abi Taalib was a cousin of the Prophet and the older brother of Ali ibn abi Taalib.
The hell fire.
The period before Islam. It literally means state of ignorance.
A part of the Hajj Pilgrimage. The pilgrims throw stones at certain pillars to be like Ibrahim (as) whom threw stones at the Shaytan when he tried to distract him from fulfilling Allas command in sacrificng his son.
Cemetary in Madina that contains many notable Companions.
jibreel (as) is the greatest of angels and was responsible for bringing down revelation from Allah to the Prophets.
Jihad linguistically means to strive or struggle. A person can struggle against their evil desires or against the enemies of Allah. It is a beautiful concept in Islam that is misunderstood by many.
The Jinn are a completely different species that live in a parallel world to humans that we can‘t see. Some of them are Muslim and some are non-Muslims just like humans. They are created from a smokless fire.
The place where Muslims congregate to worship Allah.
The day when all of humanity will be resurrected and will be judged by Allah.
The house of Allah that was built Adam (as) and raised by Ibrahim (as). It is situated in Makkah and is the direction of prayer for Muslims. It is also where Muslims go to make pilgrimage.
A person who rejects submitting to Allah.
This is an Moroccan long dress (the female jalaba)
A symbol that indicates an accent on an arabic letter.
Khalid ibn Walid was a great Companion and warrior. He embraced Islam late but became one of the greatest Muslim generals of all time.
A notable contemporary Muslim speaker
Meaning successor, but usually refers to the ones who succeeded the Prophet (pbuh) after his death.
The word used in the Qur‘ān for veil is khimār. It refers to the covering that women wear
Humility, devotion and concentration during prayer.
The sermon delivered on a Friday as part of the Salatul Jumu‘a (Friday prayer)
Pride, arrogance and vanity all fall under the meaning of Kibr. Allah hates this characteristic. The Prophet (pbuh) told us that Kibr is to reject the truth and look down on others.
Kiswah is the cloth that covers the Kaaba in Makkah. The cloth is made of 670 kg of silk. The embroidery contains 15 kg of gold threads. It is draped annually on the 9th day of the month of Dhu al-Hijjah
This phrase is knows as Tahkeel and it means "there is no God but Allah".
This phrase is called the Talbiya and is spoken by the pilgrims during the hajj. It translates as "Here I am, O Allah, here I am"
The night upon which the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) travelled to Jerusalem and then ascended to the heavens and was prescribed the 5 daily prayers by Allah (swt).
Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power in Islam is the night in which the first verses of the Qur‘ān were revealed to the Prophet (pbuh).
Luqman was a wise man known for his knowledge of the religion and having great wisdom. His story is related in Surah Luqman, 31st Surah of the Qur‘ān.
A Prophet of Allah. His people rejected his message and continued to engage in sodomy until Allah destroyed them.
A school of thought that has derived rulings based on a prescribed set of principals. There are 4 famous Madhabs.
Maghfirah in the Arabic language means "forgiveness" or "pardon". Allah (swt) is the most forgiving and loves those who forgive.
A famous contemporary reciter of Qur‘ān
An amount of wealth gifted to the wife by the husband upon marrying each other.
A male relation to a woman who she does not need to shield herelf from. This person is also not permitted to marry her. The mahram include, for example: the father, the brother, the nephew, etc.
Also known as ghusl involves the washing of the entire body.
In Islamic terminology, makruh is that which is disliked or disapproved of.
The Angel of death.
The angel of death has the job of taking people‘s soul at death by the will of Allah.
Malcolm X was an African American Muslim minister and human rights activist who was a popular figure during the civil rights movement.
Maalik refers to an angel in Hell. In fact he is said to be the cheif of all the angels who punish people in the Hellfire.
Master of the Kingdom, Owner of the Dominion. The universe is like a treasury from Allah, there is nothing in the universe that has another owner or of which another is king. Everything belongs to Allah and He is the King of all that exists.
One of the four main schools of thought. It was founded by Imam Malik ibn Anas (179H)
These are two small mountains in Makkah which the wife of Ibrahim ran between searching for help
The place at which Ibrahim (as) left an imprint of his footprint whilst building the Ka‘bah.
Masjid Mashar al-Haram is a mosque located in Muzdalifah that marks the area where the Prophet (pbuh) begged (performed supplications) during his farewell pilgrimage. It is located half way between Masjid al-Khayf in Mina and Masjid al-Namirah in Arafat.
Masjid al-Khayf is located in Makkah at the foot of a mountain in the south of Mina.It was at this spot that the Prophet (pbuh) and numerous other Prophets before him performed salah. It is also known as the ‘Mosque of the Prophets’.
A masjid in Madina where a salah was taking place and they changed the direction of prayer during the salah as revelation had been revealed instructing the Prophet (pbuh) to do so.
The Masjid of the Prophet (pbuh), initially built when the Prophet migrated from Makkah to Madina. This masjid has special status.
Masjid Quba is where the Prophet (pbuh), accompanied by Abu Bakr, first stayed in Madinah after emigrating from Makkah.
The Birthday of the Prophet. It is not permitted to celebrate this as it is not part of the sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh).
The mihrab is a niche in the wall of the mosque. This indicates the direction of the kaba in Mecca.
The Angel Mika‘iel has been placed in charge of the rain and vegetation
The pointed pillar that appears above a masjid.
The pulpit. The place where the Imam stands to lead the prayer or deliver a sermon.
The border of the holy area of Makkah. Muslims are required to enter a sacred state of ihram before crossing this boundary.
Miswaak (also known as Siwāk) is a teeth cleaning stick that comes from twigs of specific trees such as the mustard tree. In many cultures it is used instead of the toothbrush.The Prophet (pbuh) used to clean his teeth regularly with miswaak in particular before performing salah.
The days of the week that the Prophet (pbuh) recommended that we fast.
This refers to the first chapter of the Qur‘ān. Surah Al-Fatiha.
Mu‘adh ibn Jabal (ra) was one of the noted companions of the Prophet (pbuh). The Prophet (PBUH) chose a great task for Mu‘adh. Because of his knowledge, eloquence and reliability, the Prophet (pbuh) sent him to Yemen to invite its inhabitants to Islam.
The one who makes the call to prayer. The Prophet (pbuh) said they will have the longest necks on the Day of Judgement
A companion of the Prophet (pbuh). The Prophet (pbuh) said about Muadh: "The most learned among them (my Ummah) regarding the permissible and forbidden matters is Muadh ibnu Jjabal."
The title given to a scholar who can give verdicts on special cases
A well known Muslim scholar who is popular around the world.
Muhammad (pbuh) is the final Messenger of Allah sent to all of humanity as well as the Jinn. He passed away on the 12th Rabi‘ al-Awwal in the 11th Hijri year.
One of the angels who visit the dead in the grave in order to test his/her faith by asking the following 3 questions: 1. Who is your Lord? 2. What is your religion 3. Who is your Prophet?
Munkar and Nakīr are the two angels who visit the dead in the grave in order to test his/her faith by asking the following 3 questions: 1. Who is your Lord? 2. What is your religion 3. Who is your Prophet?
Someone who leaves the religion of Allah.
One of the 5 most noble Prophets mentioned in the Qur‘ān. Musa (as) was sent to the Bani Israeel. His story is related in various parts of the Qur‘ān.
A place dedicated to offering prayers even though it may not be used five times a day.
This was a man who claimed to be a Prophet and pretended to produce revelation that obviously fake. He was dubbed "the liar" by the Prophet Muhammed. Upon the death of the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh), he gathered a following of people who, amongst other things, refused to pay the zakat. The first Khalifa, Abu Bakr (ra) fought them and Musaylimah was killed.
People who believe you can worship things besides Allah.
A Prophet sent by Allah to deliver his message.
Nakir is the name of an angel who will interrogate people when they enter the grave, asking them: who is your Master, what is your religion, and who is your Prophet?
Ni‘mah means favour, kindness and blessings in Arabic. Allah uses this term widely in the Qur‘ān to remind the people of all the blessing Allah has given mankind such as the rain, crops and fruit.
Nifaaq is an Arabic term which means hypocrisy.
A face covering worn by women, often only revealing the eyes
The intention. A highly important aspect when carrying out any deed. An action can be highly rewarded by Allah if the intention is correct.
a member of a people that travels from place to place to find fresh pasture for its animals and has no permanent home.
A Prophet sent by Allah. One of the 5 most prominent Prophets. He was commanded by Allah to build a ship and used this ship to avoid the floods that Allah punished the disbelievers with.
Omar Al-Mukhtar was the leader of the resistance against colonial forces in Libya, he was honoured by Allah through martyrdom.
His full name is Umar ibn Al-Khattab ibn Nufayl ibn Abdul- Uzza. He was known as Abu Hafs and earned the nickname of Al Farooq (the Criterion) because he showed his Islam openly in Makkah and through him Allah distinguished between disbelief and faith. He was born in 583 AC (Cristian Era), thirteen years after Amul-Fil (the year of the Elephant). His father was Al-Khattab ibn Nufayl, and his grandfather Nufayl was one of those whom Quraish Tribe used to refer for judgment. His mother was Hantamah bint Hashim bin Al Mugheerah.
Umar (R.A.) was wise, eloquent, well spoken, strong, tolerant, noble, persuasive and clear of speech, which made him qualified to be an ambassador for Quraish, to speak up for them before the other tribes. Ibn Al-Jawzi said:
“The role of ambassador fell to Umar ibn Al-Khattab. If there was a war between Quraish and another tribe, they would send him as an ambassador, and if another tribe was boasting against them, they would send him to respond in kind, and they were pleased with him.”
Before converting to Islam, Umar (R.A.) opposed Islam and he even threatened to kill Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W). He was adamant and cruel in opposing Messenger of Allah (S.A.W.) and very prominent in persecuting Muslims.
The Ottoman Empire was a state that controlled much of Southeastern Europe, Western Asia, and Northern Africa between the 14th and early 20th centuries.
The Prophetic way of greeting a fellow Muslim
The people that the Prophet Hud (as) was sent to were know as ‘Aad. They were punished by Allah through a vicious wind that laid waste to them all.
These were a group of people who sought refuge from a tyrant king by hiding in a cave. Allah caused them to sleep for many years and when they awoke time had moved on significantly. (Story is found in Surah Al-Kahf)
The 5 fundamental pillars of Islam. These are as follows:
1. Bear witness to the oness of Allah and that Muhammed is his messenger.
2. Establishing Prayer
3. Zakat
4. Fasting in the month of Ramadhan
5. Hajj
The 6 requirements needed for a complete eman. These include belief in Allah, His Angels, His books, His Prophets, the Day of Judgement and the decree of Allah.
A person who is qualified to judge in accordance with Islamic law
The Battle of al-Qadisiyyah was fought in 636 between the Arab Muslim army and the army of the Sasanian Empire of Persia during the first period of Muslim conquests.
This word means the heart. The spiritual heart is mentioned in the Hadith of the Prophet that "if your heart is pure then everything in the body is pure and if your heart is corrupt then everything in the body becomes corrupt".
Qari is a title given to one who recites the Qur‘ān (with correct tajweed rules).
This was the name of the Camel of the Prophet (pbuh)
The day when people will be resurrected and will stand on mass awaiting the judgement of Allah.
This refers to a huge stack of gold. In the Qur‘ān Allah says "If you desire to replace a wife with another and you have given the former ˹even˺ a stack of gold ˹as a dowry˺ (qintaar), do not take any of it back. Would you ˹still˺ take it unjustly and very sinfully?" 4:20
A highly recommended prayer which can be performed after the Isha salah up until Fajar begins. The Prophet (pbuh) would regularly offer this prayer in units of two.
The Qunut is the name of a du’aa (supplication) offered during prayer at a specific point while standing. For example, it is made during the Witr prayer
The tribe that the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) originated from. They were considered one of the most noble in the region.
The most high ranking tribe in Arabia during the time of the Prophet (pbuh)
Rajab is the 7th month of the Islamic calendar.
May Allah have mercy on him. A phrase used when referring to a Muslim who has passed away
Allah is Rahim, meaning He is merciful and loving towards His creation.
A portion of the salah (prayer). Each prayer is made up of a number of Rak‘ahs
The ninth month of the Islamic calender is called Ramadan. In this special month Muslims will fast and do extra good deeds as the rewards are multiplied by Allah the Almighty.
Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. It is a special and blessed month for the Muslims because it is the month of fasting. In Ramadan the gates of heaven are open and the gates of hell closed. The reward for good deeds is multiplied.
Literally means "day."
One of the gates of Janna. This gate is specifically for those who engaged in Fasting.
Riba is a forbidden type of transaction. An example is taking a loan of £100 but having to pay back £120. The extra £20 is interest and is forbidden in Islam.
Ridwan is the angel that guards the gates of paradise.
The Sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh) was to use his right hand for all honorable things like eating, shaking hands and combing with hair.
A river of wine that exists in paradise that is there for the pleasure of believers whom Allah has forgiven and rewarded with His Janna.
The capital city of the land that is currently known as Saudi Arabia
This is the act in prayer by which the worshipper bends over with his hands on the knees.
An action that provides protection and healing. Performing this action offers protection against sorcery, the envious eye can also provide a cure for illness.
This is the name of the walk between the hills of safa and marwa during the pilgrimage.
Sa‘d ibn Mu‘adh was the chief of the Aws tribe in Madina and one of the prominent companions of the Prophet (pbuh).
It can mean patience, steadfastness and self-dicipline.
Is a statement found in the Qur‘ān meaning "Allah the Exalted has spoken the truth".
Sadaqah is the Arabic term given to voluntary charity.
Two mountains that are present near the Kabah. The Prophet Ibrahim (as) took his second wife Hajar to Arabia upon which he was commanded to leave his wife and young son, Ismail (as). His wife Hajar accepted the command of Allah knowing the truth of her husbands message. In her pursuit of water for her young son she ran between these two mountains in panic until finally Allah caused water to gush from the ground beneath the feet of her son. This water became the Zam Zam well and Muslims replicate her actions every time they perform pligrimage to the kabah.
These are the companions of the Prophet (pbuh).
One of the most authentic books of recorded hadith, compiled by Imam Bukhari
Sa‘eed ibn Zayd was a companion of the Prophet (pbuh) and the husband of Fatimah, the sister of Umar (ra)
The last prayer of the day is called Salaat al-Isha. It is prayed after the Maghreb prayer and before the middle of the night.
He was a Muslim leader who led a military campaign against the crusaders. He defeated them and conquered the holy city of Jerusalem.
Peace. Allah is the source of all peace and safety.
Salat Ad-Duhr is the second pray of the day and performed after midday.
A highly rewarded optional prayer before the midday Thuhr prayer.
The Friday prayer that is accompanied by a sermon.
Salat ul Fajr is the (obligatory) morning prayer performed before sunrise. It consists of two units, followed by another set of two units. (These are for Salat ul Fajr and not obligatory, but strongly recommended)
The fifth and final obligatory prayer of the day.
A highly recommended type of prayer described by the Prophet (pbuh). It is carried out when a person is trying to make a decision about something.
Salat al-Janazah is the Islamic funeral prayer performed in congregation to seek forgiveness for the deceased.
Is a prayer that is performed when a solar eclipse happens i.e. when the moon comes between the earth and the sun. This is not an obligatory but an encouraged act of worship.
Is the evening prayer that is part of the five-day salat and therefore part of the Five Pillars of Islam. Fasting muslims will break their fast when the time for Maghirb starts.
The word witr means "odd" when referring to numbers. The prayer of witr is performed at the end of the day after all other prayers have been completed and has an odd number of rak‘ats.
The Prophet (pbhu) said that the prayer offered in congregation is better than when it‘s prayed individually. When Muslims pray together being led by an Imam it‘s called Salatul Jamāʿah.
The phrase we use to honour the Prophet (pbuh). We are commanded to say this whenever we mention the Prophet (pubh)
Was a companion of the Prophet (pbuh) who was from the lands of Persia.
She was the wife of the Prophet Ibrahim (as) and the mother of the Prophet Is-haq (as).
Is a biography of a person‘s life.
One of the four schools of Islamic law. Named after the Arab scholar Muhammed ibn Idrees al-shafi‘i.
A notable scholar that compiled notable hadith collections including his 40 Hadith collection and Riyad Assaliheen.
Shariah is an Arabic word that means "the way" to be followed. Literally it means "the way to a watering hole." In its broadest sense, Shariah consists of laws that people have derived from the Qur‘ān and the Sunnah
A title given to a person of knowledge or someone who is old.
A famous contemporary Muslim Scholar
Shuaib (as) was sent to the people of Madyan. The people of Madyan were Arabs who lived in the country of Ma’an, part of which today is greater Syria. he people of Madyan were a greedy people who did not believe that Allah existed and who led wicked lives. They gave short measure, praised their goods beyond their worth, and hid their defects. They lied to their customers, thereby cheating them
A large majestic lote tree that marks the end of the seventh heaven, the boundary which no creation can pass. The Prophet (pbuh) was brought here by the angel Jibreel during the Night Journey.
According to sharee’ah, the meaning of sihr is what the magicians do to delude and confuse people, so that the one who is watching thinks that it is real when in fact it is not. This is completely forbidden in Islam.
Mount Sinai (also known as Jabal Musa) is a mountain in Egypt that is a possible location where Moses is said to have received the Ten Commandments.
This is referred to as the straight path that leads to success in the hereafter.
A Muslim should not expose the sins of others in public. The Prophet (pbuh) told us that whoever covers up the sins of someone Allah will cover up their sins in this world and the Afterlife.
Siwaak (also known as Miswaak ) is a teeth cleaning stick that comes from twigs of specific trees such as the mustard tree. In many cultures it is used instead of the toothbrush.The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) used to clean his teeth regularly with miswaak in particular before performing salah
Shawwal is the 10th month in the Islamic Calendar and comes straight after Ramadan. The first day of Shawwal is also know as Eid ul Fitr.
This was a miracle performed by Musa (as) by the will of Allah when he was and the tribe of Banu Israeel were being chased by Fir‘aun and his army. Allah brought Musa (as) and his followers to safety but caused Fir‘aun and his army to drown.
The splitting of the moon was a miracle performed by the Prophet (pbuh). This happened by the permission of Allah in order to show the idolators the truth of the message of Islam.
A phrase that glorifies Allah, decalres His perfection, and is recommended that we say often.
Suhoor is a meal that is eaten early in the morning by the person who wants to fast. It is eaten before dawn. The Prophet Muhammad encouraged those who intended on fasting to eat the suhoor as it would give them energy to fast through the day.
The part of the salah at which we prostrate to Allah with our head, hands and knees all touching the floor in an act of total submission.
A Prophet of Allah. Allah bestowed upon him great favours such as his ability to talk to animals and Jinn.
He was the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1603 until his death in 1617 and is also well known for his construction of the Blue Mosque, one of the most famous mosques in Turkey.
A book that is a collection of hadith compiled by Abu Dawud.
Asking Allah directly for anything. This could be for forgivness, for reward, for guidance or even for material things.
Synagogues are the place of worship of the Jews.
They are the two Muslim generations that came immediately after the Companions.
Tafsīr is the explanation of the words of the Qur‘ān. A great number of books have been written by scholars trying to explain the meanings of the Qur‘ān. These are known as the books of Tafsīr.
Anything that is worshipped besides Allah. It can also refer to an evil person.
The night prayer. This is to pray optional extra prayers after the prescribed Isha prayer. This is an act most beloved by Allah.
The phrase Allahu Akbar. Literally meaning God is greater than everything.
This is the first takbeer (saying of "Allahu Akbar") at the commencing of salah.
Was a king appointed by Allah upon the Banu Israel
A licence given to those who are travelling to reduce the length of their prayer to make things easy upon them.
Having taqwa means to be mindful of Allah therefore only doing those actions which Allah loves and staying away from that which Allah dislikes.
Taraweeh is the voluntary prayers performed during the nights of Ramadan.
The hollistic Islamic development of a person in all positive areas of their life.
A Berber general who led the Muslim conquest of Spain in May 711. Ṭāriq landed on Gibraltar with an army of 7,000 men.
The day of Tarwiyah is the 8th day of Dhul Hijjah. On this day the pilgrim leaves for Mina.
Tasbih means to glorify Allah and declare His perfection. It includes saying phrases like SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah and AllahuAkbar
The final act of prayer upon which a person exits the state of prayer.
The final thing a person should do before leaving the holy city of Makkah: perform Tawaf
Tawaf is when the pilgrim goes around the ka‘ba (circumambulates) 7 times during umrah or Hajj.
Repentance. A muslim engages in tawbah constantly for bad deeds that he has carried out and asks Allah to forgive and for any shortcomings he is not aware of.
The concept of believing that there is only one God worthy of worship.
The book the Jews regard as their Holy book.
A substitute for Wudu when no water is available.
The call to prayer. Usually it is called a brief period before the obligatory salah takes place. The first caller of the adhan was the notable companion Bilal ibn Rabah.
The cave that the Prophet (pbuh) would isolate himself in before he received revelation. It was in this cave that he was approached by the angel Jibreel and the first Qur‘ānic verses were revealed to him,
Sultan Mehmed II conquered Constatinople on May 29, 1453 after a 55 day long seige. This brought an end to the Byzantine empire. Mehmed surrounded Constantinople from land and sea while pounding it with cannons.
This refers to the day of Judgement when the horn will be blown.
The day of Judgement on which people will be brought back to life and held to account.
Divine information that is revealed to Prophets.
The path by which a person will achieve the forgiveness of Allah. The straight path is to be guided in life by the commandments of Allah. It is referenced directly in the opening chapter of the Qur‘ān.
The holy book of the Jews. Mentioned in the Qur‘ān as one of the books revealed to those people who came before the Prophet Muhammed.
A Muslim behaves in this life as if he is a traveller. He understands that his final abode is not hear and thus prepares to leave this life.
Muslms believe in the unseen. This refers to everything that exists but is beyond human ability to see such as the Afterlife, the future etc
The wizards or magicians of Egypt were summoned by the Pharoah to defeat Moses. However, when they saw his staff turn into a snake they fell into prostration and became Muslim
This is the cow the Isralites were instructed to find and slaughter by Moses (as)
The Throne of Allah is called the ʿArsh in Arabic. The Qur‘ān tells us that it carried by eight incredible angels.
A treaty of peace between the Quraish and the Muslims that took place in the 5th Hijri year. The number of people who embraced Islam flourished after this agreement.
Tuba is the name of a tree in paradise. The Prophet (pbuh) said: "Tuba is a tree in Paradise, one hundred years big. The clothes of the people of Paradise are made from its calyces (outer casing of its flowers)." (Saheeh al-Jaami’, 3918)
This is a prohibited expression that should not be used for one‘s parents. Nothing as light as "uff" should be said to the parents therefore prohibiting anything bigger than this too. (Surah al-Isra: 23-24)
The second battle that took place between the Muslims and Quraish. The Muslims were defeated due to certain parts of the Muslim army disobeying the Prophet (pbuh)
Um Kulthum bint Muhammed was a sahabia and the daughter of the Prophet Muhammed and Khadija. She was the second wife of Uthman ibn Affan after the death of his first wife Ruqaya.
A notable Muslim leader. So good was his rule, that people recalled the times of the 4 rightly guided Caliphs.
One of the most prominent companions of the Prophet (pbuh). He participated in all of the major battles with the Prophet (pbuh) and was most beloved to him. He was also the second caliph after Abu Bakr (ra) and the Muslims prospered during this period.
The wives of the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh)
This is like the minor pilgrimage where a person travels to Makkah, make tawaf around the Ka‘bah, perform Sa‘i and shave their head. The major pilgrimage is called Hajj
Foundations of Islamic law. It is the basis by which Fatwas are stated.
Uthman ibn affan was a great companion and the son in law of the Prophet (pbuh). He was also 3rd Khalif after the passing away to the Prophet (pbuh).
The daughter of the notable companion Abu Bakr (ra) and the beloved wife of the Prophet (pbuh). Was a notable teacher of Islamic knowledge after the death of the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh)
A public wedding party to let people know that these two are now married.
This is an Arabic expression which means "I swear by God".
To create a means of getting nearer to Allah. An example of this is to invoke Allah‘s names when making Du‘a
The whispers of the devil. He tries his best to misguide humanity, trying to tempt people through his whispers.
These are the whisperings of the shaytan when he tries to distract a person from the straight path of Allah.
Wudu is the ritual washing of the hands, face, mouth , nostrils, arms and feet. The wiping of the head and the ears in also included is the process of making wudu. One must perform wudu before performing salah.
A Prophet sent by Allah. Allah, the Exalted, described Prophet Yahya (as) as righteous and He described the Prophets in the same way in surah al-Anaam, in which He says (interpretation of the meaning): “And Zakariya and Yahya and Eesa and Ilyas: all belonged to the upright ones. ” (Surah al-Anaam: 85)
Yajuj and Majuj are two evil tribes who will reappear at the end of times.
Yaqub (as) was a Prophet of Allah. His father was Ishaaq (as) and grandfather was Ibrahim (as) who were also great Prophets of Allah. Prophet Yusuf was the son of Yaqub (as) and he too was a Prophet.
Literally meaning "May Allah have mercy on you." The Prophet (pbuh) instructed us to make this supplication when someone sneezes and says alhamdulillah.
Before the Prophet (pbuh) migrated to Madinah the city was known as Yathrib.
Another name for the Day of Judgement
The day of standing. Another name for the day of Judgement. It is the day when all of mankind will be raised from the dead and they will stand awaiting the judgement of Allah. On that day, Allah, as a judge, will call all people to account.
Yemen is a country at the southern end of the Arabian Peninsula.
Prophet Yunus (as) story in mentioned in the Qur‘an. He was swallowed by a whale but saved by Allah due to his amazing Du‘a
The Prophet Yusuf (as) is the son of the Prophet Yaqub (as). His story is told in full in the Qur‘an in the 12th chapter.
Yusuf ibn Tashfin was a leader of the Berber Almoravid empire. He co-founded the city of Marrakesh and led the Muslim forces in the Battle of Sagrajas
A book revealed by Allah to Dawud (as).
One of the pillars of Islam. It is to give 2.5% of ones wealth to charity on an annual basis.
A well situated in Makkah that first appeared beneath the feet of Ismail (as) when he was a small child whilst his mother was running between the two hill of Al-Safa and Al-Marwa
A tree in the hell fire, the fruits of which are like the heads of devils. It is mentioned in surah al-Dukhaan.
Any form of haram relationship outside of marriage.
Zubayr ibn Awwam or Zubayr ibn al-Awwam, was one of the companions of Muhammed (pbuh) and is also one of the ten persons, whom the Prophet (pubh) gave glad tidings of Janna. Zubayr is the son of Safiyya bint Abd al-Muttalib, the aunt of Muhammed (PBUH)
