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U

Ulu al-am

Ulu al-amr include all those entrusted with directing Muslims in matters of common concern.

Ummah

Ummah, community, or nation, is a special name given to Muslim brotherhood and unity. The Qur'an refers to Muslims as the best Ummah raised for the benefit of all mankind (3:110). At another place, (2:143), it calls them 'the middle nation' (Umma Wasat) a unique characteristic of the Islamic community which has been asked to maintain equitable balance between extremes, pursue the path of moderation and establish the middle way. Such a community of Muslims will be a model for the whole world to emulate.

Ummi

Ummi signifies the 'unlettered'. It is also used to refer to those who do not possess Divine revelation.

Ummul Mumineen

"Mother of the Faithful." A title given to each of the wives of  the Holy Prophet (S.A.W.).

'Umrah

'Umrah (Minor Pilgrimage) is an Islamic rite and consists of  pilgrimage to the Ka'bah. It consists essentially of ihram, tawaf (i.e. circumambulation) around the Ka'bah (seven times),  and sa`y (i.e. running) between Safa and Marwah (seven times). It is called minor Hajj since it need not be performed at a particular time of the year and its performance requires fewer ceremonies than the Hajj proper.

Al-Uzza

Al-Uzza has been identified with Venus, but it was worshipped under the form of an acacia tree, and was the deity of the Ghatfan tribe.

Sources

Islam 101 - www.islam101.com


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