KHALIFAH Meaning and
Definition
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Khalifah, also spelled caliph, is an Arabic term that originated from the word "khalafa," meaning "to succeed" or "to follow." It is used to refer to the political and religious leader of the Islamic community, known as the ummah. The khalifah holds a position of authority and is considered to be the successor of Prophet Muhammad, who founded the Islamic faith.
In the early years of Islam, the khalifahs were responsible for maintaining the unity of the Muslim community, implementing and upholding Islamic law (Sharia), and ensuring justice and righteousness among the believers. They were seen as the guardians of Islam and had both religious and political powers.
The role and significance of the khalifah have evolved throughout Islamic history. During the Rashidun Caliphate, consisting of the first four khalifahs, they were elected by the ummah. However, the Umayyad Caliphate marked a shift towards hereditary succession.
Today, the position of khalifah is not universally recognized and accepted. Some movements, such as the Islamic State, claim to have reinstated the caliphate and aim to establish a political and religious Islamic state governed according to their interpretation of Islamic teachings.
Overall, khalifah is a term that signifies leadership within the Islamic community and encompasses both political and religious dimensions. Its historical and contemporary implications continue to shape the discourse and narratives surrounding political Islam and Muslim governance.
Common Misspellings for KHALIFAH
- khalif
- jhalifah
- mhalifah
- lhalifah
- ohalifah
- ihalifah
- kgalifah
- kbalifah
- knalifah
- kjalifah
- kualifah
- kyalifah
- khzlifah
- khslifah
- khwlifah
- khqlifah
- khakifah
- khapifah
- khaoifah
- khalufah
Etymology of KHALIFAH
The word "khalifah" is of Arabic origin. It comes from the Arabic word "خَليفة" (khalīfah), which means "successor" or "deputy". The term initially referred to the successors of Prophet Muhammad, who were the leaders of the Muslim community after his death. Over time, "khalifah" also became a title for rulers who claimed to be the political and religious successors of Muhammad.
Similar spelling words for KHALIFAH
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