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Islamic Terms: A-Z Glossary of 170+ Words & Meanings

Adhan · Bismillah · Halal · Salah · Wudu · Zakat — and 185 more

By Effat Saleh · Updated May 16, 2026

What this glossary covers

Arabic vocabulary runs through every part of Muslim life — the five daily prayers, the Quran, the call of the muezzin, everyday greetings, and the recipes on a halal package. If you have ever heard a word like mashallah, inshallah, or alhamdulillahand weren't sure exactly what it meant, or if you've read a hadith and bumped into sahabi, tafsir or ghazwah, this page is for you.

Below are concise English definitions of 192+ Islamic terms, sorted A to Z. Where a term ties into a tool or resource we already publish — prayer times, the 99 names of Allah, hadith collections, the Qibla compass, or our Quran reader — the entry links straight to it, so you can move from the word to its actual practice in one click.

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A-Z glossary of Islamic terms

A

Adab
Refers to prescribed Islamic etiquette: good manners, morals, good character, decency and humaneness. Islam has laid out a clear an ethical code for Muslim to adhere to. Adab in the context of behavior means courtesy, respect, being appropriate and would include covering acts for washroom, cleansing and posture
Adhan
Is call to congregational prayer (salat / namaz). It is used to signify the beginning of the five obligatory daily prayers. It's often spelled azan, adhan, or athan. Learn more →
Adl
The literal meaning is ‘justice'. It's one of the 99 names of Allah. The muslim male names adel or adeel are derived from Adl. Learn more →
After Hijrah (A.H.)
Refers to after Hijrah which was the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions from Mecca to Medina. The Islamic calendar starts from this event.
Ahad
The literal translation is the “one”. It refers to being “unique” or “matchless” and used by Muslims when referring to Allah. Similar to the concept of Tawhid. Learn more →
Ahlul-Bayt (Ahl al-Bayt)
Is a phrase meaning “People of the House”, “People of the Household” or “Family of the House”. It refers to the household of the Prophet (saws).
Ahzab
It means parties, clans, or combined forces. In Islamic history, Ahzab is used to refer to the large alliance of pagan tribes that attacked Muslims in Medina for 30 days in January and February of the year 627 CE. The 33rd chapter of the Quran is titledSurah Ahzabwhich gives more background to this battle.
Akhirah
Is the Arabic phrase referring to the Hereafter.
Akhlaq
It's the practice of virtue, morals and manners.
A'lam
Meaning “world” or “universe”. In Arabic literature, like in Surah Fatiha, Alam is used in phrases like “Rabbil-Alam-een which would come to mean “the Lord of all Worlds/Universes”. This refers to Allah's as Absolute and Highest Divinity.
Alayhis Salaam (A.S.)
Is an abbreviation meaning Alayhis Salaam, which means peace be upon him. It's an example of Islamic honorifics, to show respect and make prayers specifically for the previous prophets, their mothers, and members of Ahl al-Bayt (12 imams and Fatimah). Alayhas salaam is used if it follows a woman's name, for plural we use Alayhimas-salaam.
Alhamdulillah
It means all praise to Allah alone. It is sometimes used as an expression to “thank God.” Read more →
Alhamdulillah Ala Kulli Haal
It means All praises are for Allah in every condition or in every circumstance. Read more →
Alim
Is one of the 99 names of Allah meaning the “all knowing”. It can also refer to an intelligent, learned or scholar of Islam (pl. ulama meaning ‘learned ones') Learn more →
Allah
Used in English is the word for God. However, the word Allah has been used since pre-islamic times by Arab and non-Arab people of different religions. You can trace by the name's origin to earlier semitic writing in which el or eloah was used in the Hebrew Bible (old testament). There are 99 other ways to call God by, these are the 99 names of Allah and are used to describe all his attributes. Learn more →
Allah Azza Wa Jalla / Allah Azzawajal
Translation is the Mighty, the venerable, and the Majestic. Glorified and Sublime be He. It is a form of durood or Islamic honorifics.
Allah Subhana Watala (SWT)
Is another for of durood used by Muslims to glorify Allah. In Arabic, Subhanahu wa ta'ala translates as “Glory to Him, the Exalted”
Allah Yahdina
Means, may Allah guide us.
Allah Yashfeek
Meaning is, may Allah cure you.
Allah Yerhamo
The literal translation is “Rest In Peace”. For a male who passed away you would say Allah yerhamo, if the deceased is a female you would say “Allah yerhama”. Read more →
Allahu Akbar
Means God is the Greatest. These words are repeated by Muslims many times throughout the day to show remembrance of Allah. You will often hear Allahu akbar recited when expressing a happy feeling or in an approving tone towards witnessing something grand. Read more →
Allahu Musta'an
It means Allah (alone) Whose help can be sought. Often said when dealing with a difficult situation or in trying times. Read more →
Allahumma Ameen
Allahumma is an Arabic and Islamic term used to address Allah. It can be translated as “O Allah” or the equivalent of “Ya Allah”. It asking for Allah to hear your prayer (hear my prayer, my invocation). We also say ameen ya rabbal ‘alameen, which means to answer me O Lord of the Universe. Read more →
Allahumma Barik
May Allah bless you. It's used to ask Allah to bless something or someone or said when we like something or admire. Read more →
Amanah
Means fulfilling or upholding trusts. It is the concept of trusting someone with something of value and expecting that person to carry out what was entrusted to them.
Ameen ya Rabbul Alameen
An Islamic expression often recited when making dua, Ameen means “Oh Allah accept our invocation” and Ya Rabbul Alameen translates to, “O Lord of the Worlds”.
Amin
Is an Arabic name given to males which means someone who is loyal or faithful.
Arafah
Is an Islamic holiday which falls on the ninth day of Dhul-Hijjah of the lunar calendar.
Asabiyyah
Means tribal loyalty, nationalism, or the concept of social solidarity. It focuses on unity and togetherness.
Asr
The late afternoon obligatory salat, prayer. Learn more →
Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh
Means Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings; the Islamic greeting for Muslims. The shortened form would be Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi or Assalamu alaikum. Read more →
Auzubillah minashaitan nirajeem
I seek refuge / protection in God against the Devil.
Awrah
Refers to the intimate or private parts of the body.
Ayah / Ayat
It is a verse of the Quran. The Quran is divided into chapters called surahs. Each surah consists of sentences, each sentence would be referred to as an ayah. The plural of ayah would be ayat. Learn more →
Ayatul Kursi
Is the 255 verse from Surah Baqarah of the Quran titled “the throne”. It is one of the most well known and memorized verses from the Quran. Learn more →

B

Baab Al Salaam
The literal translation of this Arabic phrase means “Gate of Peace” and is the name of one of the gates at the Great Mosque of Mecca in Saudi Arabia.
Baligh
is one who is an adult. It’s a legal term and refers to a person who has reached maturity and has full responsibilities under law.
Baqi
is the first Islamic cemetery in Medina. The cemetery contains the graves of many of the Prophet’s closest companions.
Barakah
Means blessing or divine grace.
Batil
is an Arabic word meaning void or falsehood. It’s used to describe an invalid act according to Islamic law.
Batin
Means inner, inward or hidden. What this refers to is the hidden message or meaning for example of a passage of the Quran. A person who devotes himself to studying such hidden meanings is a batini
Biddah
Means an Islamic Innovation in religion. Inventing new methods of worship that has no authenticity. It is considered a serious sin by Muslim as you’re trying to alter and perpetuate the teachings of the religion.
Bismillah
Is the shortened version of the above; meaning “In the Name of Allah” often recited when beginning a chore or task, signifying I begin with the Name of Allah.
Bismillah hir rahman nir raheem
A phrase often recited before doing an activity. The reason is to remember God before starting whatever it is you were about to do. The meaning of this phrase is “In the name of Allah, the most beneficent, the most merciful.”
Bulugh
Refers to reaching adulthood, puberty or maturity.
Burqa
Is a garment worn by women to cover both the body and face. Not to be confused with Hijab which is just a head scarf.

C

C.E.
Is abbreviation meaning the Common Era. In Islamic texts C.E. is preferred over the term A.D. to refer to time before Hijrah, the start of the Muslim calendar.
Caliph
The successors or spiritual leader(s) after the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ after his death. The first Caliph was Abu Bakr (The father in law of Prophet Muhammad).

D

Dar-al-Islam
A term referring to Islamic world, literal translation is “house”, “abode”, “structure”, “place”, “land”, or “country”.
Da'wah
is issuing summons or making invitation to Islam. Teaching others about Islamic practices, beliefs, virtues would be an example of Dawah.
Deen (Din)
When referring to a Muslim’s deen you’re describing three of his/her senses: judgement, custom and religion. The word refers to the way of life for a Muslim, his compliance with the divine law, his beliefs, character and deeds.
Dhikr
Is a devotional act or prayer whereby a short phrase is repeated. The significance of dhikr is for remembrance of Allah and for repentance. Learn more →
Dhimmi
A non-Muslim citizen in an Islamic state. Dhimmis are exempt from military service and zakat (charitable contribution) but instead pay a tax called jizyah. Their life and property are protected by the Islamic state.
Dhuhr
Is the second compulsory prayer that is four ruk’ah in length. The timing is around afternoon; but the exact time varies for each geographic location. Learn more →
Dhul Hijjah
Is the twelfth and last month of the Islamic calendar.
Dhul Qidah
Is the 11th month of the Islamic calendar.
Dua
Is a supplication (invocation); a calling to Allah. Learn more →
Dunya
Refers to this life, life on planet earth.
Durood
invocation which Muslims make by saying specific phrases to compliment the Prophet Muhammad. An example would be reciting sallallahu alaihi wasallam after the Prophet’s name.

E

Eid
Is a Muslim festivity, a celebration, a get together of families and communities. There are different types of Eid.
Eid ul-Adha
falls on the tenth day of Dhul Hijjah, it’s also called the “Festival of the Sacrifice”. It honours the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah’s command.
Eid ul-Fitr
falls on the 1st day of Shawwal, Eid al-Fitr also called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast” which celebrate the end of Ramadan. It lasts three days.

F

Fajr
Is the first obligatory prayer of the day that occurs at dawn. Learn more →
Faqih
A faqih is an Islamic jurist, an expert in fiqh, or Islamic jurisprudence and Islamic Law.
Fard
Meaning obligatory. A religious obligation or duty, Islamic ruling. Praying 5 times a day is fard, neglecting fard is a sin.
Fatiha
is the opening chapter of the Quran. It is called Umm Al-Kitab translated to ‘Mother of the Quran’ according to scholars. Learn more →
Fatima or Fatema
Fatima The Prophet’s daughter, who married of Ali b. Abi Talib (A.S.), the mother of Hasan and Hussein (A.S.)
Fatwa
A decisive Islamic law which gives a ruling on various matters. The necessity for these rulings is usually based on modern issues which come about after the time of the Prophet. These rulings are not random, they are based on evidences in Quran and Sunnah.
Fimanallah
“In the protection of God”, or “(be) with the safety of Allah”, “May Allah Protect You”.
Fiqh
The body of Islamic jurisprudence (the theory or philosophy of law, legal system). In Islam it also means understanding, comprehension and knowledge. The faqih who is an expert in legal matters, passes verdicts within the rules of the Islamic Law.
Fitnah
Civil strife, riots, war or any trial or tribulation.
Fitrah
“Fitra” or “fitrah” refers to “original disposition” a child is born with. It’s believed they are a clean slate, pure and innocent.

G

Ghadeer
Is the name of the place near Mecca. The event of Ghadeer refers to a sermon delivered by the Prophet at the Pond of Khumm. According to Shi’ite traditions, shortly before his death in 632 CE, in the sermon Muhammad announced Ali ibn Abi Talib as his successor, after which the final verse of the Quran was revealed, proclaiming the perfection of the religion of Islam. The day’s anniversary in the Islamic calendar (18 Dhu al-Hijjah) is celebrated by Shi’ite Muslims as Eid al-Ghadir.
Ghaflah
Is the Arabic word for heedlessness or negligence. In Islam it often refers to forgetfulness of God or becoming indifferent.
Ghasbi
Usurped, taken or used without ownership or proper permission of the owner.
Ghazi
Translates roughly to “raider”, a holy warrior; a mujahid
Ghazwah
A military expedition.
Ghufranaka
Is a short dua meaning “[I ask You for] Your Forgiveness” recited when exiting the toilet.
Ghusl
Is a spiritual or ritual purification of the body that is required after sexual intercourse, menstruation, or seminal discharge. Learn more →

H

Hafiz
A Hafiz is a Muslim who has memorized the Quran or knows it by heart. The literal translation is “memorizer” or Protector.
Hajj
Is the Pilgrimage to Mecca. It is a mandatory act for all Muslims to complete at least once in their lifetime if the individual is financially and physically capable.
Halal
Is an Arabic word that translates to “permissible” into English.
Halaq
Refers to the act of shaving the entire head and involves trimming the hair on the head by at least an inch. Performing Halq or Taqsir is the Wajib (obligatory) act that must be performed in order to leave the state of Ihram.
Hamdullah
Is short form of saying Alhamdulillah which is an Arabic phrase meaning “praise be to God”. sometimes translated as “thank God.”)
Haram
Haram are things that are not permitted in Islam. For example, eating pork, gambling and drinking alcohol are all considered to be haram.
Hawa
Vain or egotistical desire; individual passion; impulsiveness.
Hijab
Literally means “veil” and is a headscarf used by women to cover their hair.
Hikmah
Hikmah is the concept in Islamic philosophy and law. It refers to self awareness of oneself and others, to know the essence of beings as they really are.

I

Iftar
Refers to breaking of the fast, typically in the month of Ramadan.
Ihram
A sacred state in which every pilgrim in Hajj or Umrah has to enter. There are certain restrictions, like where modest clothes.
Ihsan
Is an Arabic term meaning perfection or excellence. It is a Muslim’s individual responsibility to take one’s inner faith and show it through their deeds and action. It’s the responsibility to try and pursue perfection knowing it will never be reached. To try and seek perfection in worshipping Allah as if they see him, although they cannot see him. Allah loves when one of you is given a task, that he or she does it in the most excellent manner.
Ijaz
Miracle, the character of the Qur’an in both form and content.
Imam
Is a qualified religious leader or the head of a local community or mosque. He also leads in community political affairs.
Iman
Is full, deep belief or faith in Allah. It is a part of the deen.
Injil
Is the Gospel of Isa (Jesus) the new testament, it is one of the four holy books in Islam along with the Qur’an.
Inna Allaha Ma Sabireen
The phrase innallaha ma sabireen means “Surely, Allah is with those who are As‑Saabiroon (the patient).”
Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un
Is a short prayer said upon hearing news for deceased, it means “Allah we belong and to Him is our return”.
Insan
Meaning person. This word is often repeated in the Qur'an referring to "people", "man", or "mankind".
Inshallah
Inshallah means with the will of Allah or god willing.
Iqamah
Is the second call to prayer, the adhan being the first. It’s said just before starting prayer the formal congregational prayer. It is typically recited quickly and in a monotone nature compared to the adhan. Learn more →
Isa
Is the Arabic name of Jesus, the son of Mariam (Mary). He is a Prophet of Allah. Isha the last daily obligatory salat (prayer) which occurs after sunset later in the evening. Islam the word Islam means submission or to submit oneself to God.
Istighfar
Is the act of seeking forgiveness. SayingAstaghfirullah wa atubu ilaihis an example of istighfar. Learn more →

J

Jahiliyah
Refer to a time of ignorance and idolatry, before the revelation to Mohammed.
Jannah
Is Paradise; what many refer to in English as Heaven.
Jannatul Firdaus
There are different layers of heaven, “Firdaus” is the designatation for the highest layer.
Jazakallah khair
Jazakallah khair or Jazak allahu khayran meaning of this phrase is “May Allah reward you for the good (goodness).” It’s often recited as way to express thanks or gratitude towards another as a sign of appreciation. Allah gives the best rewards, so saying this phrase is like a short prayer made on behalf on the person you are thanking. Read more →
Jihad
Jihad meaning “Struggle” in Arabic but also commonly translated as to strive in the way of Allah. This can be either spiritual or personal effort. Jihad is also fighting the enemies of those who oppose or try to oppress Islam. A fight in defense of it’s ideals and advancement.
Jinn
Is the unseen spiritual beings who are also required to follow order of Allah. But like humans they too can be either good or evil spirited and will be accountable for their deeds.
Jizyah
Is a tax paid by non-Muslims living in a Muslim State. Since the non-Muslims are exempt from military service and taxes imposed on Muslims, they must pay this tax. The Islamic state guarantees its non-Muslim citizens security and protection in return for jizyah.
Jumu'ah
Is the special Friday prayer, also referred to as salatul Jumu’ah Learn more →
Juz
One of thirty parts of the Qur’an. Every night during of the month of Ramadan, one Juz is completed in Tarawih. After 30 days, the entire Quran would have been read. Learn more →

K

Ka'bah
Literally translation is “cube” and refers to the holy building in Mecca originally built by the Prophet Ibrahim. Muslims all across the world when they pray face the Ka’ba, during pilgrimage they circulate the building. Learn more →
Kafir
Is the Disbeliever. It refers to people who completely disbelieve in Allah.
Khamr
Is an intoxicant such alcohol.
Khutbah
Is a lecture; given during Salat al-Jumu’ah
Kitab
Is Arabic word for book. The Quran is regarded as “Al-Kitab” meaning The Book.
Kun
Kun is an Arabic word for the act of “manifesting”, “existing” or “being”. Allah’s command to the universe, “kun fa-yakoon” which is translated to ‘Be! And it is’. This is fromSurah Yaseen Verse 82.

L

La Hawla Wa La Quwwata illah Billah
The meaning of this expression is: “There is no power and no strength save in Allah.”
La ilaha illallah muhammadur rasulullah
Is the Shahada, the translation for the first part is “There is no lord worthy of worship except Allah.” This encompasses concept of Tawhid or oneness of God, the most important belief in Islam. The second part of this declaration is “Muhammadun Rasul Allah,” which means “Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.”
Labbaik allahumma labbaik
God, I obey you (said during pilgrimage in hajj).
Laylat Al-Qadr
Is referred to as the Night of Power, Night of decree, or the Night of Value. It a day close towards the end of Ramadan and signifies the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.

M

Maghrib
This is the fourth compulsory prayer of the day to be given after sunset; Three ruk’ah in length. Its exact time varies for each geographic location, so it’s necessary to obtain a for your local area. Learn more →
Mahram
Like a guardian; A woman’s mahram is a male and can be her father, brother, uncle, son, etc.
Makruh
are actions are disliked acts. They wouldn’t be haram or subject to punishment but are generally discouraged acts and Muslims would be rewarded for avoiding. An example would be using excessive water when making wudu.
Mashallah
The meaning of “Masha’ Allah” is “Whatever Allah wants” or “Whatever Allah wants to give, He gives.” Muslims say this whenever they see something they like, wish to express their happiness, when giving a compliment to a Muslim. It is proper etiquette to say “mashallah” with a compliment and Muslims believe that it can avert envy. Read more →
Masjid / Mosque
A place of worship for Muslims. Place of prayer; a mosque.
Maulvi
An honorific Islamic title often, but not exclusively, given to Muslim religious scholars or Ulma preceding their names. Maulvi generally means any religious cleric or teacher.
Mi'raj
Miraj or the night journey is Ascension of Prophet Muhammad to the Seven Heavens. Some Muslims celebrate this event by offering optional prayers during this night
Mu'awwidhatayn
Mu’awwidhatayn is known as the verses of refuge. It is referring to Surah Al-Falaq and an-Nas. These two surahs should be said to relieve suffering (also protect from Black Magic and Jinns)
Mu'min
Is a Muslim who observes the commandments of the Qur’an.
Mustahabb
Commendable, favoured or virtuous actions. These are encouraged. These would be things are recommended but not necessary. If one does it, he will be rewarded on the day of judgement but if neglected there are no sins associated. Reciting the long version of salam would be mustahabb.

N

Naar
Jahannam or hell is also referred as an-Nar meaning “the fire”.
Nabi
Nabi is literally means prophets. In the Islamic context, a Nabi is a man sent by God to give guidance to man, but not given scripture. Prophet Ibrahim is an example of a Nabi. Contrasted with Rasul, a Messenger.
Nikah
Is the matrimonial contract between a bride and bridegroom within Islamic marriage. Niqab garment of clothing that covers the entire face besides the eyes.
Niyyah
Is an Islamic concept that refers to the intention of a person’s heart to do an act. Prayer in front of other people for the sake of being seen as a religious person, this person prayer would be rejected as his niyyah is not right. One should make prayer for the sake of Allah and himself. Learn more →

Q

Qadar
Is a concept in Islam to accept one’s fate. It’s god’s plan, our fate, predestination. We must accept our life the way it is, it can not be any other way.
Qiblah
Is the direction that Muslims face when they make prayer or salat. This would be towards the Kaaba. Learn more →
Qiyamat / Qiyamah
Is the day of Resurrection.
Qur'an
Islam’s holy book. Muslims believe this book is the words of Allah the Almighty. It was revealed over 23 years in stages to the last and final messenger of God, Muhammad SAW. It is preserved its pristine state just as it was when it was revealed. Early followers of Islam committed the revelations to memory, which were later recorded in the form of a book. Learn more →
Quraysh
Is the name of a tribe in Arabia which the Prophet Muhammad belonged to.

R

Radi allahu anhu
May Allah be pleased with him.
Rahimullah
May Allah’s mercy/blessing be upon him. Usually used after mentioning the companions of Muhammad.
Rak'ah
One unit or one cycle of an Islamic prayer. It consists of standing, bowing and prostrating in prayer. Learn more →
Ramadan
Is the Month of fasting in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
Rasool / Rasul
Is the messenger; one who receives revelation from Allah and delivers the message to his people. There are twenty-five Prophets mentioned throughout the Quran. Five among them are major messengers: Nuh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), Isa (Jesus), and Muhammad, peace be upon them all.
Riba
Refer to usury or interest (as in loans) interest. The charging and paying of interest in Islam are forbidden by the Qur’an.
Ruh
Ruh refer to the spirit.

S

Sabr
Is a concept in Islam referring to patience, endurance, and self-restraint.
Sadaqah
Charity beyond that which is obligatory (zakat).
Sadaqah Jariyah
Is charity that continues even after you have passed. Having children and teaching them the deen, building a school, passing knowledge is sadaqah jariyah. The rewards are continuous.
Sadaqallahul Azim
The meaning of Sadaqallahul Azim is “Allah has spoken the truth”.
Sahabi
The sahabi are the companions of Prophet Muhammad (pl. sahabah) Learn more →
Salah / Salat
is the second of the Five Pillars in the Islamic faith, and an obligatory religious duty for every Muslim. It is a physical, mental, and spiritual act of worship that is observed five times every day at prescribed times. Learn more →
Salam
Salam is a greeting used by Muslims when meeting or leaving, it means peace. Learn more →
Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam
Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam or S.A.W means peace and blessings of Allah be on him (referring to the Prophet Muhammad saws).
Sawm
is the act of fasting, usually referring to fasting during Ramadan. Sawm includes abstinence from food, liquids, and sexual relationships from dawn to sunset, for a complete one lunar month.
Shahadah
Mean to bear witness, testimony, or declaration of faith. It’s one of the five pillars of Islam. The Shahadah is short phrase, the Arabic transliteration is la ilaha illallah muhammadur rasulullah.
Shaitan
Is the devil, the source of evil in the world. Shaitan (satan) always tries to misguide and mislead people. Another name for shaitan is Iblis.
Sheikh
Is a title, or a name given to elderly, the wise or a person who is knowledgeable of Islam.
Shirk
Is a major sin in Islam, it is associating partners with Allah. Tawhid is believing in the oneness and uniqueness of Allah, to put another deity on the same pedestal as Allah is blasphemy.
Shukran
Shukran is an Arabic word meaning thank you.
Subhanallah
Means glorified is Allah; Allah is pure. Muslims say subhan Allah when they appreciate something. It is a short dhikr (prayer) that is often repeated.
Sujood / Sujud
Is the prostration to Allah in the daily prayer. During sujud, Muslims make sure that the forehead, nose, hands, knees, and toes, are all touching the floor. This is the humblest position in the prayer, in this moment a person is closest to Allah which is why it’s recommended to supplicate. Learn more →
Sunnah
Sunnah refers to sayings, actions and behavior of the Prophet Muhammad. These are recorded in the hadith books by the companions of the Prophet. Learn more →
Surah
Surah is a chapter of the Quran. In total the Quran consists of a total of 114 chapters. Learn more →

T

Tabarakallah
Is used similarly to reciting Mashallah, the meaning is Blessed is Allah. It’s said by Muslims when they see something that amazes them. It could be recited when you see something beautiful or when something has you in awe. It’s to show appreciation or gratitude towards Allah for the beauty of his creation. Literal meaning is “blessed is He [Allah]”.
Tafseer
A term used for a commentary of any book, specifically the Holy Qur’an. Learn more →
Takbeer / Takbirah
Is the name for the Arabic phrase ‘Allahu-akbar’ which means “God is [the] greatest”.
Talaq
A form of divorce whereby a Muslim man could legally divorce his wife by pronouncing talaq (the Arabic word for divorce) three times.
Tasbih
Tasbih is the recitation of short prayers (dhikr). For example, saying “Subhanallah” repeatedly. To keep track of counting Muslims, count on their fingers of the right hand or use misbaha (prayer beads). Learn more →
Taslim
The concluding portion recited at the end of prayer, the Arabic transliteration is As-salamu alaikum wa-rahmatu-llah meaning “Peace and blessings of God be unto you”. Learn more →
Tawaf
Tawaf is part of the pilgrimage which involves circling around the Kabah. Learn more →
Tawakkul
Is the belief or acceptance of total reliance on Allah. Nothing can happen without his will.
Tawbah / Taubah
The Islamic concept of repenting to God to ask forgiveness for any sins and misdeeds committed.
Tawhid
Refers to the unification or oneness of God. It’s encompasses the monotheistic nature of Islam. Learn more →
Tayammum
Spiritual cleansing which is a substitute for wudu and ghusl. In situations where wudu is difficult to make or not possible, like in a desert or a place where there’s no water, a person may preform tayammum as a substitute for wudu / ghusl. Learn more →

U

Ummah
Refer to the entire Muslim community.
Umrah
The minor or little pilgrimage.

W

Wa Alaikum Assalam
Is the common response to the one who says “assalmualkium” which means “and unto you peace”.
Wa Iyyakum
Common response to someone who said Jazakallah khair, wa iyyakum means ‘and to you too’. Read more →
Wajib
Wajib is obligatory an act which must be performed. A religious duty.
Wali
A friend, protector, guardian, supporter, or a helper.
Wallah
The meaning in English is “I swear to God.”
Witr
A voluntary, optional night prayer offered after isha but before fajr. Learn more →
Wudu / Wudhu
the act of purifying (ablution) before daily ritual prayers or before reading the Quran. Learn more →

Y

Ya Rab
It's similar to saying ya allah meaning, my Lord. It’s a decloration or call to Allah.
Yarhamuhu / Allah Yarhamuhu
“May God have mercy of his/her soul”. It is said when someone has passed away.
Yarhamuk Allah
Meaning “May God have mercy on you”, said when someone sneezes.

Z

Zakat
Religious obligatory tax that every Muslim must pay. It is one of the five pillars of Islam and a form of alms-giving or chartiy. The amount donated is based off a percentage of your income so it varies per individual. The money is to be used to provide for the less fortunate.
Zina
Zina refer to sexual activity outside of marriage, fornication. It is haram.
Zuhralso: Dohr Zuhur
Is the second compulsory prayer that is four ruk’ah in length. The timing is around afternoon; but the exact time varies for each geographic location. Learn more →
Zum-Zumalso: ZamZam
is a well located within the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. The water which comes from this well is called Zum Zum water. It is noted in Hadith that Hajar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), was searching for water to quench her and Ismail’s thirst. An angel aided her in finding the spot of the well. It is still in use today.
Frequently asked questions

What does Bismillah mean?

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Bismillah is the shortened form of bismillah ir-rahman ir-rahim, which means "In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful." Muslims say it before starting an activity — eating, travelling, reading — to begin in remembrance of God.

What does Inshallah mean?

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Inshallah translates to "if Allah wills" or "God willing." Muslims say it whenever speaking about a future event, in recognition that nothing happens except by Allah's will (Quran 18:23–24).

What does Mashallah mean?

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Mashallah means "whatever Allah has willed" and is said when admiring something or someone, as a way of thanking Allah for the blessing rather than the person. It is considered etiquette that helps protect against envy.

What is the difference between Halal and Haram?

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Halal means permissible under Islamic law, and Haram means forbidden. Eating beef slaughtered correctly is halal; consuming pork, alcohol or earnings from interest (riba) is haram.

What does Jihad really mean?

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Jihad is the Arabic word for "struggle" or "striving." Classical Islam recognises an inner jihad (the personal struggle against sin and ego) and an outer jihad (defensive military effort under strict scholarly rules). It does not mean unprovoked violence.

What does SAW / PBUH mean after the Prophet's name?

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SAW is the abbreviation for sallallahu alaihi wasallam (ﷺ), and PBUH stands for the English translation: peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Muslims add it as an honorific after every mention of the Prophet Muhammad.

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