Islamic Glossary

The Arabic word for God. The one and only Creator and Sustainer of all existence.

The holy book of Islam, the literal word of Allah revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through Angel Jibril over 23 years.

A recorded saying, action, or approval of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Collections graded as 'sahih' (authentic) are the most reliable.

The way of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ — his practices, habits, and teachings that Muslims strive to follow.

The five daily obligatory prayers. Also called salat or namaz in some cultures.

Ablution — the ritual washing performed before prayer to achieve a state of purity.

A single unit or cycle of prayer. Each prayer consists of 2, 3, or 4 rakaat.

Personal supplication or prayer to Allah. Can be made at any time, in any language.

Faith or belief. Specifically, belief in the six articles of faith.

The Oneness of Allah — the most fundamental concept in Islam. Allah is One, with no partners.

The declaration of faith: 'There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.'

The direction of the Kaaba in Makkah, which Muslims face during prayer.

The sacred cubic structure in Makkah. It was originally built by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail.

A mosque — the place of worship for Muslims. Literally means 'place of prostration'.

The global community of Muslims, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or language.

Forbidden or prohibited in Islam (e.g., consuming alcohol, pork, lying).

Permissible or lawful in Islam.

Paradise — the eternal reward for righteous believers in the Hereafter.

God-consciousness or piety. Being aware of Allah in all your actions.

Remembrance of Allah through repeating His names, phrases of praise, or Quran recitation.

Fasting — abstaining from food, drink, and intimate relations from dawn to sunset.

Obligatory annual charity of 2.5% on qualifying wealth, given to those in need.

The annual pilgrimage to Makkah, obligatory once in a lifetime for those who are able.