Here are some Islamic terms that you may have read or heard but you may be
unfamiliar with. Their meanings are given below. We will be adding terms and
their meanings to this page on a regular basis. In the meantime, if you
would like to know the meaning of another Islamic term, please email us at info@islamawareness.co.nz
God God is the one, single god of Islam. The word 'Allah' is a contraction of the Arabic words 'al illah' which means"the god." God is a singular being who was neither born nor gives birth. God is the object of submission for Muslims.
Fatwa Legal opinion concerning Islamic Law.
Hadith Reports on the sayings and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) or what he witnessed and approved.These are the real explanation, interpretation, and the living example of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) for teachings of the Qur'an.
Halal Something which is lawful and permitted in Islam.
Haram Something which is unlawful or prohibited in Islam.
Hijab The word "hijab" comes from the Arabic word "hajaba" meaning to hide from view or conceal. In the present time, the context of hijab is modestly covering oneself. Hijab is not merely a covering dress but it is also behavior, manners, speech and appearance in public. Dress is only one facet of the total being.
Jihad Means to strive. This can be any kind of striving in the way of God which involves either spiritual or personal effort, material resources, or arms.
It is an Arabic word the root of which is Jahada, which means to strive for a better way of life. The nouns are Juhd, Mujahid, Jihad, and Ijtihad. The other meanings are: endeavor, strain, exertion, effort, diligence, fighting to defend one's life, land, and religion.
Masjid A place of worship also known as the 'the mosque.' The life of the early Muslims used to revolve around the masjid. Meetings would be held there, discussions would take place there.
Muslim A follower of Islam. One who submits to God.
Qur'an Is the holy book of Islam. It was revealed to Muhammad (peace be upon him) by God through angel Gabriel over a period of 23 years. It is written in the Arabic language.
Ramadhan The 9th month in the Islamic lunar calendar. It was during this month that the Qur'anic revelations began. During this month Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset
PLEASE NOTE: The revealed Arabic Qur'an is the authoritative and primary source of reference and as such the Qur'anic English translations are provided purely as indicative interpretations.
