Islam Vocabulary Quiz Review

Practice vocabulary flashcards based on the Islam Vocab Quiz covering core theological terms, key historical and modern figures, and sacred traditions.

Imam

The prayer leader & teacher in a mosque.

Ibn Kathir

Famous 14th century Muslim Quranic commentator whose writings have consistently been used by groups like al-Qaeda & ISIS.

Hadith

A collection of oral traditions (sunna) related to things the Prophet said, did, or approved of which have been written down in a short narrative/biography and verified through a reliable chain of oral transmitters (isnad). The most important collections are those by al-Bukhari (d. 870) and al-Muslim (d. 875).

People of the Book

Quranic phrase that refers to Jews and Christians (Al al-Kitab).

Al-Ghazali

Influential Iranian philosopher, theologian, and mystic who helped to reconcile Sufism with orthodox Islam using the Kalam Cosmological Argument.

tawheed

A doctrine within Islam referring to the oneness of Allah.

Kaaba

Literally ‘cube,’ referring to the holiest shrine in Islam located in the Grand Mosque in Mecca. It contains the sacred Black Stone that Muslims walk around 7 times during hajj.

Caliph

The title of the Muslim spiritual and political leader or successor of the Muslim community who took over after Muhammad’s death.

dawah

Muslim missionary activity–to invite people to Islam.

Abrogation

Refers to the Muslim doctrine that claims that the chapters at the beginning of the Quran are more authoritative than those at the end.

Minaret

A distinctive feature of mosque architecture, a tower from which the faithful are called to worship via loud speakers.

Sahih Sitta

Refers to the “Authentic Six” in reference to the 6 biographies/traditions of Muhammad’s life that are considered authoritative for Sunnis.

Ali al-Sastani

An influential Shiite cleric and religious authority known for his writings and teachings on Islamic jurisprudence. Also known as the Grand Ayatollah.

Isa

The name for Jesus in Islam; known as the Messiah, sinless and a prophet—mentioned 25 times in the Quran—more than any other prophet. A key figure in Islamic eschatology, believed to return before the Day of Judgment.

Shabir Ally

A notable Muslim scholar and speaker known for his work in Islamic apologetics and interfaith dialogue, especially regarding comparative religion and the defense of Islamic beliefs. Oversees the Dawah Center International in Toronto.

Sufism

A mystical but small branch of Islam focused on a personal relationship with Allah, emphasizing inner purification and spiritual connection through practices such as meditation, poetry, and rituals. Legitimized by philosopher, Al-Ghazali.

Surah

One of 114 chapters in the Quran, each containing verses (ayahs) that address various themes, laws, and guidance for Muslims.

umma

Refers to the Muslim community.

Verse of the Sword

A verse in the Quran (9:29) that instructs Muslims to fight against those who do not believe and is often cited in discussions about jihad and warfare in Islam.

Zakir Naik

Indian Islamic scholar and public speaker, known for his lectures on comparative religion, who has been credited with convincing many Hindus & atheists to become Muslim.