Glossary and transcription
for Arabic and Persian terms
Compiler: Michael W. Thomas, Queensland
Frequently amended and expanded—latest Word document revision: 3 April 2025
Contents
• Introduction
Romanisation of Arabic   →  · Standardisation, · Bahá’í transcription
Accuracy
Information sources
List arrangement
Searching the list
Phonetic or common spelling
Suffixes
Download MS Word copy
Feedback and suggestions are welcomed and encouraged.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Introduction.
This document lists the Latin script transcription forms of many of the Arabic (Ar.) and Persian (Pers.) (including some of Turkic (T.) origin) names and words used in the Bahá’í Writings, books by Bahá’ís and the Qur’án as a GUIDE to their transcription. The full names of some people are listed, but for others the listing for each individual name will have to be checked. Some root words have been added as a guide to the meaning of their derivatives.
Some glossary terms, and information on them, can be found in the Glossary of This Decisive Hour: Messages from Shoghi Effendi to the American Bahá’ís 1932–1946.
Romanisation of Arabic
Although there has been no agreement as to a standard method of rendering Arabic words into the Latin alphabet, there are basically two philosophies with regard to the process of Romanization: various diacritics and non-standard Latin characters are used to represent Arabic graphemes1 or phonemes2 that do not exist in the Latin alphabet.
Romanisation is often termed “transliteration”, but this is not always technically correct. Transliteration is the direct representation of foreign letters using Latin symbols, while more useful systems for Romanisation of Arabic, in particular, are transcription systems in which Latin symbols are used to represent the sound of Arabic letters. Technically, transliteration is concerned primarily with accurately representing the graphemes of another script, whilst transcription is concerned primarily with representing its phonemes. In addition, transliteration is concerned with scripts, whilst transcription (from one language to another) is concerned with writing systems (the way a script is applied to a particular language).
Transcription uses diacritical marks to represent Arabic characters without equivalent letters in the Latin alphabet. It indicates the short vowels “a”, “i” and “u” that are not usually included in normal Arabic text but were included in the Qur’anic text to prevent misinterpretation. Long vowels are represented by adding an acute or a macron (a straight bar above a letter) to the vowel. Transcription of Qur’anic (classical) or Modern Standard Arabic text (see; “Standardisation” section), whether fully vowelled or not, is the most useful for a non-Arabic speaker. When Arabic text does not include the short vowels, it can be read by speakers of various Arabic dialects who will pronounce it according to their own vernacular.
Another issue is the representation of the Arabic definite article, which is always spelled the same way in written Arabic but has numerous pronunciations in the spoken language depending on context, in particular whether the following letter is a “sun” letter (see the “Arabic letters & abjad values” section. Likewise, the pronunciation of short vowels may be modified according to preceding consonants or may vary from place to place according to local dialects. This accounts for variations such as Moslem for Muslim; and Mohammed or Mohamed for Muḥammad.
Shoghi Effendi introduced a system of transcription of Arabic letters to Roman letters that is an adaptation of the system recommended by the Tenth International Congress of Orientalists held in September 1894 at Geneva. Refer to Muḥammad and the Course of Islám, pp. xiii–xvi for more details. The Persian language used by Bahá’ís can reflect various dialects. However, the Persian used by Shoghi Effendi reflected the Iṣfahání dialect (described in the list as Iṣfahání Persian or Bahá’í Persian) used by his grandmother, Munírih Khánum, and taught to her children and grandchildren. This is reflected in Shoghi Effendi’s use of Persian forms of Arabic words where “w” is replaced by “v”, and the last one or two letters (especially a word ending in a tá’ marbúṭa) are replaced by “ah”, “ih”, “yah” and “yih”. Shoghi Effendi also uses hybrid “words” where the singular AND plural forms of a word are “converted” to a “plural” by adding an English “s” instead of using the correct plural form of the Arabic or Persian word. Paragraph 229 (pp. 91–2) of The Promised Day Is Come is an atypical example where a large number of hybrid “words” have been used.
Standardisation
Modern Standard Arabic is a standardised form of Arabic used for written and formal spoken communications. It incorporates a large vocabulary derived from classical Arabic (al-‘Arabíyah al-Fuṣḥá), which is derived from the Arabic used in the Qur’án. ‘Uthmán ibn ‘Affán standardised the pronunciation of Qur’anic Arabic by adding short vowel marks (see Tahkíl) based on the Ḥijází dialect.. The Qur’án normally includes special recitation guide marks (seeQur’án). Punctuation did not exist in classical Arabic (or Persian)—it is a modern innovation.
“Standard” Persian is the official language of Iran and Tajikistan, and one of the two official languages of Afghanistan. It is a set of spoken and written formal varieties used by the educated persophones of several nations around the world.
In Iran, the Academy of Persian Language and Literature acts as the official authority on the language, and contributes to linguistic research on Persian and other languages of Iran. Hence, the “Standard Persian” that is the official language of Iran encompasses various linguistic norms (consisting of prescribed usage), and it is based on the Ṭihrání dialect. Obviously, there will be some differences between the official Iranian Persian and that based on the Iṣfahání dialect learnt by Shoghi Effendi.
Bahá’í transcription
On another page [The complete list of terms is to be found in many volumes of The Bahá’í World] is given the list of the best known and most current Bahá’í terms, and other Oriental names and expressions, all properly and accurately [there are errors] transliterated [transcripted], the faithful spelling of which by all the Western friends will avoid confusion in future, and insure in this matter a uniformity which is greatly needed at present in all Bahá’í literature.3
Regarding the transliteration [transcription] of Persian and Arabic words the House of Justice requests that the method adopted by the beloved Guardian, and which is described in the various volumes of The Bahá’í World, be followed, as it permits all languages which use the Roman alphabet to transliterate [transcript] such terms in the same way throughout the Bahá’í world.4
We agree ... to use the ending -a when the word is in an Arabic context and -ih when it is in a Persian one.
... since the purpose of the accent is merely to indicate a long vowel, we see no objection to permitting Bahá’í orientalists to use the horizontal accent [macron] (or indeed a circumflex or any other accent) in their scholarly works if they so wish, although, as stated above, we prefer the acute accent and this should be retained for general Bahá’í usage.
The [final] hamza is dropped in Persian but not in Arabic. Thus, Qayyúm’l-Asmá’, being an Arabic form, needs a hamza at the end, but the Persian form, Qayyúm-i-Asmá does not require it.5
The terms “Guardian” and “Universal House of Justice” are explained in the alphabetical list below.

1 The smallest meaningful contrastive unit in a writing system.
2 Any of the perceptually distinct units of sound in a specified language that distinguish one word from another.
3 Shoghi Effendi, postscript to a letter dated 12 March 1923, Bahá’í Administration, p. 43.
4 The Universal House of Justice, 21 July 1998, Messages from the Universal House of Justice 1963–1986, p. 187.
5 The Universal House of Justice letter to an individual dated 20 October 1978, paras 5.2, 5.5 & 5.9.
Accuracy
Any variations in transcription by the authors listed under the Information sources heading, and information from all other Bahá’í authors have been subjected to the following progressive checks:
a)Consistency with transcription rules as used by Shoghi Effendi, and similar words.
b)An internet search of transcripted forms of the words.
c)An internet search for the original Arabic of the words that are then manually transcripted.
d)A search for the words in dictionaries such as The Hans Wehr Dictionary of Modern Written Arabic and A comprehensive Persian-English Dictionary by Francis Steingass.).
e)Consulting knowledgeable Arabic and/or Fársí speaking Bahá’ís. However, this information needs to be cross checked with the above sources.
Entries in this document are amended when new information is found, and new ones are added when new names and words are found in relevant publications. Hence, it is recommended that you use the latest available Word copy from www.miscellanie.com/transcription/index.html or https://bahai-library.com/glossary_arabic_persian_transcription.
Corrections, additions and suggested improvements to the list are welcomed. Contact jonahwinters@gmail.com or romane@miscellanie.com.
Information sources
Some sources of information are given in brackets. The most reliable sources of information are to be found in documents issued by the Universal House of Justice; and books by Shoghi Effendi, Hasan Balyuzi and Adib Taherzadeh (caution: there are some errors in all published documents). Entries are checked using digital copies of Arabic (Hans Wehr, also a printed copy) and Persian (Steingass) dictionaries. If these sources lack the required information, then information is sought from the internet and a few knowledgeable individuals.
Some sources of information are given in brackets. The most reliable sources of information are to be found in documents issued by the Universal House of Justice; and books by Shoghi Effendi, Hasan Balyuzi and Adib Taherzadeh (caution: there are some errors in all published documents). Entries are checked using digital copies of Arabic (Hans Wehr, also a printed copy) and Persian (Steingass) dictionaries. If these sources lack the required information, then information is sought from the internet and a few knowledgeable individuals.
List arrangement
The first column of the following list contains forms (correct and incorrect) of the words/names without acute accents, initial ‘Ayns or underdots. This makes it possible to make a simple search for a word without having any knowledge of the correct transcription, and it is used to make an alphabetical sort (the sorting used by Word is not the desired order) of the list itself.
Searching the list
It is easier to search for words if you
a)Remove all accents and underdots.
b)Remove the definite article (“al-”, “ul-”, etc.; refer to the entry for “al-” and the description of the sun letters in the Arabic letters and abjad values section at the end of this list.)
c)Remove final letters such as “ah”, “yah” and “yyah” (usually Persian forms); “ih”, “yih” and “yyih” (forms representing an Iṣfahání dialect or Shoghi Effendi’s “Persian Bahá’í variation”); and “h” and “t” that often represent a tá’ marbúṭa (refer to the tá’ marbúṭa entry).
d)Replace “o” and “e” by “u” and “i” respectively. Then replace double vowels (representing á, í, ú) with a, i and u respectively. Also try replacing “v” (Persian) with “w”. In some cases “u” following a vowel should also be replaced by “w” or “y”.
e)Use the following table for the replacement of transliterated (translit.) Persian letters with single or double (diaeresis below) underdots with the letters in the letter(s) in the transcription (transcr.) column. The transliterated letter z may represent ḍ, dh, z or ẓ.
Translit Transcr. Plain text Translit Transcr. Plain text
th th d
t z z z
z z dh dh
Phonetic or common spelling
Words in brackets in the third column may indicate an old-style phonetical spelling found in some older publications. Others are variations of place names found in books or on maps—these can be useful to determine correct transcription or to locate the places when searching Google maps. Emphasis is given to what is described as Modern Standard Arabic.
Glossary and Roman transcripted forms of
Arabic & Persian terms
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments

Prefixes, suffixes and links

Prefixes
Ma- Ma- prefix creating nouns of place. e.g. khubz, “bread” → makhbaz, “bakery”; daras, “to study” → madrasah, “school”.
Mi- Mi prefix used to create instrument nouns. e.g. fataḥ, “to open” → miftáḥ, “key (instrument for opening)”; wazan, “to weigh” → mízán, “scales (instrument of weighing)”.
Mu- Mu- as pronoun prefix for Forms II and above—he who or those who. e.g. ḥamd, “praise” → Muḥammad, “someone who prays”.

Links
-i-, y-i- (-e, -yi-, y-e, -ye, -i) -i-, y-i- Persian (iḍáfa) –i- (“-e”) sound inserted in pronunciation (not represented in Persian script) at the end of one word to indicate that the following word stands in a possessive or adjectival relation to it; equivalent to “of” in English. If the noun ends in a long vowel (not a “y”) or a silent h, the link y-i- (“y-e-”) is used, e.g. Ágháy-i-Karand (formal) and Ághá Karand (informal). See iḍáfa entry.

Suffixes
dan -dán Pers. (suffix and prefix) denoting what holds or contains anything (i.e. container/box); know thou; (in compound) knowing, intelligent.
ha “-há” Pers. most common form of pluralization for Persian nouns. See above Persian section under Plurals heading.
hood -hood role denoted by the word it is suffixed to, usually a noun, e.g. childhood. 2. A group sharing a specified condition or state, e.g. brotherhood
istan -istán home or place
parast, -parastan -parast, pl. -parastán Pers. a non-joining suffix roughly equivalent to “ist”, frequently denoting a worshiper or follower of, but often with unpredictable meanings. Example: átish-parast, a fire-worshipper; a physician.
ship -ship English suffix of nouns denoting condition, character, office, skill, etc.
stan -stán Pers. “place of” or “country”
un, an, in, át -un, -an, -in; m. pl. -ún, -án, -ín; f. pl. -át subjective/nominative, objective/accusative and possessive/genitive singular noun case endings (respectively) where they exist See i‘ráb.
yy, yya (iya), yyih -yy, fem. -yya[h or t], Pers. -yyih nisba, a suffix used to form adjectives in Arabic grammar. Sometimes íya is used. Often denotes either a group of people who follow a certain person, or a group with a certain ideological system. The feminine nisbah is often used as a noun relating to concepts, most frequently to ones ending in “ism”, with the m. (ـِيّ) and fem. (ـِيَّة) nisbah being used as adjectival forms of the concept-noun (e.g. “ist”) depending on agreement. Thus al-ishtirákiyyah “socialism”, and ishtirákiyy (m.) and ishtirákiyyah (fem.) socialist.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
A
A’ila, ‘A’ilat, ‘Awa’il ‘Á’ila, pl. ‘A’ilát, ‘Awá’il family, household
A’ish, A’isha ‘Á’ish, ‘Á’isha[h or t], Pers. also ‘Á’ishih living comfortably. ‘Á’isha bint Abú Bakr, third wife of Muḥammad. Also spelt Aisha[h or t], ‘A’ishih, Aisyah, Ayesha or Ayisha.
A’la, ‘Ulya (Olya), ‘Ulan, A’alin, A’lahu A‘lá, fem. ‘Ulyá, pl. ‘Ulan, A‘álin higher, highest; upper, uppermost, exalted; ‘Álin the highest portion of something; heights, peaks (figuratively). A‘láhu further up, above.
A’lam, ‘Alma’ A‘lam, fem. ‘Almá’ more or most learned
A’rabi, A’rab A‘rábí, pl. A‘ráb an Arab of the desert, a Bedouin. This is not the “a‘rábs” (i‘ráb) in DND and MIS 1923–1957.
A’raj, ‘Arja, ‘Urj, ‘Urjan A‘raj, fem. ‘Arjá, pl. ‘Urj, ‘Urján lame, limping;—jack (in a deck of cards)
A’sam, ‘Asma’, ‘Usm A‘ṣam, fem. ‘Aṣmá’, pl. ‘Uṣm having a white foot (animal); excellent, valuable, precious
A’war, ‘Aura’. ‘Ur A‘war, fem. ‘Aurá’, pl. ‘Úr one-eyed
A’zam, (see Azim) A‘ẓam, f. ‘Uẓmá, pl. A‘áẓim greater, bigger; more significant, more important; greatest, major, supreme; most significant, paramount. Comparative form of ‘aẓuma’ (to make great). al-A‘ẓam Wáḥid “The Most Exalted One” is a title of the Báb.
A’zami A‘ẓamí Ghulám Ḥusayn A‘ẓamí
Ab Áb Pers. father (in parts of Írán).
Ab, Aban Áb, pl. Ábán Pers. water; river; largesse, gift, price. Ábán is the 8th month of the Persian solar year and 10th day of every month. Áb anbár (“cistern”) a traditional underground reservoir or cistern of drinking water in Persia. Usually underground to support the weight of water, topped with a dome and towers with wind catchers/breakers (Pers. bádgír).
Ab, Abu, Aba, Abi, Aba’ Ab, pl. Ábá’ a father (also ecclesiastical); ancestor, forefather. Abú’l- (father of; Abú, Abá and Abí (iḍáfa or partial names, nominative, accusative and genitive respectively) must be followed by another name); e.g. abú’l bashar, the father of man, Adam.
Aba-Basir ‘Abá-Baṣír Áqá Naqd-‘Alí, blind martyr from Zanján, given the name Abú-Baṣír (father of insight) by Bahá’u’lláh
Aba, A’bi’a, Aba’a, ‘Aba’at ‘Abá’ (Pers. also ‘Abá), pl. A‘bi’a ‘Abá’a(h) fem., pl. ‘Abá’át. loose outer garment, cloak, mantle. English aba or abba.
Abad, Abada Abad, fem. Abada[h or t], pl. Ábád Ar. endless, eternal, eternity without end; abadan always, forever; ever, (with negative) never (in the future). Pers. populous, thriving, prosperous, developed, inhabited; a city, building; cultivated, peopled, full of buildings and inhabitants; replenished, well filled (treasury); an open plain; good, elegant, fair, beautiful, convenient; salutation, congratulation; praise, eulogium, well done! ábád suffix used in compound Persian names of towns and inhabited areas, e.g. Alláhábád (“Abode of God”). Ábádah (Abadeh) is a city (31.163094, 52.6483765) in Fars Province, Írán. The city is 170 km north of Shiraz and 200 km SSE Iṣfahán. See Ḥadíqatu’r-Raḥmán. cf. azal.
Abada, ‘Ibada, ‘Ubuda, ‘Ubadiya ‘Abada (‘Ibada, ‘Ubúda, ‘Ubádíya) to serve, worship (a god), adore, venerate (someone, a god or human being), idolize, deify (someone); form II to enslave, enthral, subjugate, subject (someone); to improve, develop, make serviceable, make passable for traffic (a road); form V to devote oneself to the service of God; form X to enslave, enthral, subjugate (someone)
Abadan Ábádán Pers. nearly synonymous with but more emphatic than ábád, and never used in forming compounds. City (30.369238, 48.275891) in Írán to the north of Kuwait City, Kuwait.
Abadi Ábádí, pl. Ábádiyán Pers. pleasantness; a follower of Ábád or Mahábád, the first prophet sent to Persia, and alleged author of the Dasátír.
Abadih’i Ábádih’í Layla Ábádih’í, Mírzá Ḥusayn Khán Ábádih’í
Abahab, ‘Adhabat, A’dhiba ‘Adháb, pl. ‘Adhábát, A‘dhiba pain, torment, suffering, agony, torture; punishment, chastisement, castigation
Abarkuh (Abarqu, Abarquh, Abargu) Abarkúh (Abar-Kúh) city (31.129471, 53.282411) and capital of Abarkúh County, Yazd Province. 133 km SW of Yazd and 182 km NNW of Shíráz. Many variations of spelling.
Abasa, ‘Abs, ‘Ubs ‘Abasa (‘Abs, ‘Ubs) to frown, knit one’s brows; to glower, lower, scowl, look sternly
Abayd (Abaid), Bayda’, Bid, Bidan Abayḍ, fem. Bayḍá’, pl. Bíḍ (Abayze, Bayze) white; bright; clean, shiny, polished; blameless, noble, sincere (character); empty, blank (sheet of paper);—pl. al-bíḍán the white race; bayáḍ al-bíḍ white of egg, albumen. ad-dár al-Bayḍá’ “the white house”, Casablanca.
Ni‘matu’lláh Dhuká’í Bayḍá’í (“The Blessing of God, Intelligent and Radiant”) is a pseudonym used by Karím Khán-i-Máfí, a famous Bahá’í author from Qazvín. Author of Tadhkiríy-i-Shu‘aray-i-Qarn-i-Awwal-i-Bahá’í (“Memoirs of the Poets of the First Bahá’í Century”).
Abaziya (Abazi, Abazih) Abáẓíya[h or t] the Republic of Abkhazia (capital Sukhumi), is a partially recognized state in the South Caucasus, on the Black Sea, north of Georgia. The Abaza family in Egypt originally came from Abaza, Russia. They were known as the “family of the pashas”. Abáẓih Páshá was a governor of ‘Akká during the time of Bahá’u’lláh, but Bahá’u’lláh would not meet him.
Abbas ‘Abbás the lion, also stern looking, formidable, stentorian. Derived from ‘abasa, originally meaning a furious lion, hence with a lion’s characteristics. al-‘Abbás ibn ‘Abd al-Muṭṭalib; c. 568—c. 653) was paternal uncle and companion of Muḥammad, just three years older than his nephew. A wealthy merchant who protected Muḥammad while He was in Mecca, but only became a convert after the Battle of Baḍr in 624. His descendants founded the Abbasid Caliphate (al-Khiláfah al-‘Abbásíyah) in 750. His son, ‘Abd Alláh ibn ‘Abbás (c. 619–687), also known simply as Ibn ‘Abbás, was an early Qur’anic scholar and a nephew of Maymúnah ibnat al-Ḥárith al-Hilálíyah (c. 594–673)—she married Muhammad.
Abbas Abad, Abbas-Abad, Abbasabad ‘Abbás Ábád, ‘Abbás-Ábád, ‘Abbásábád villages in Írán: Caspian Sea coast and a part of Ṭihrán.
Abbas-‘Ali ‘Abbás-‘Alí Ḥájí Mullá ‘Abbás-‘Alí
Abbas-i-Nuri ‘Abbás-i-Núrí Mírzá ‘Abbás-i-Núrí or Mírzá Buzurg, Vazír-i-Núrí, Bahá’u’lláh’s father
Abbas-Quli Khan-i-Larijani ‘Abbás-Qulí Khán-i-Laríjání sniper who killed Mullá Ḥusayn, 1 February 1849.
Abbasi, Abbasiyyun, Abbasiyan ‘Abbásí, pl. ‘Abbásiyyún, Per. ‘Abbásiyán (“Abbassian”) Abbaside, descendant of al-‘Abbás, uncle of Muḥammad.
Pl. the princes of the house of ‘Abbás, the Abbasides.
‘Alí Akbar ‘Abbásiyán, from Ishqábád, he had a horse carriage custom made and sent as a gift to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Now located within the compound of the house of ‘Abdu’lláh Páshá.
Abbasiya, 'Abbasiyya ‘Abbásíya[h or t] Pers. ‘Abbásiyya[h or t]. Fem. of ‘Abbásí.
al-Khiláfah al-‘Abbásíyah, Abbasid (Abbaside) Caliphs (750–861).
al-‘Abbásíya[h or t], formerly al-Yahúdíya[h or t], former Palestinian village, now Israeli city of Yehud.
Abbud ‘Abbúd devoted or obedient worshipper of God. Derived from ‘abada. Ilyás ‘Abbúd was a Christian merchant of ‘Akká. His house in ‘Akká (32.921563, 35.067297) is joined on the eastern side to the smaller house of ‘Údí Khammár. The common wall has been opened. Both are now known as the House of ‘Abbúd.
Abd Allah, ‘Abdu’llah ‘Abd Alláh, ‘Abdu’lláh (Abdallah, Abdillah, Abdullah, Abdo’llah) “Servant of God”
Abd an-Nabi ‘Abd an-Nabí Shaykh ‘Abd an-Nabí (d. 1583) served as ṣadr aṣ-ṣudúr (1566 and 1579), the head officer in charge of madad-i ma‘ash grants (revenue of tax-free lands given in charity to religious or worthy individuals) and of the appointment of judges throughout the Mughal empire.
Abd Manaf (Abdu Manaf), Abd-i-Manaf ‘Abd Manáf, Pers. ‘Abd-i-Manáf name of an Arab tribe
Abd, ‘Abid, ‘Ubdan, ‘Ibad ‘Abd, pl. ‘Abíd, ‘Ubdán, ‘Ibád slave, serf; bondsman, servant, worshipper (as a servant of God);—(pl. ‘ibád) servant (of God), human being, man. al-‘ibád humanity, mankind. Names as plurals (“worshippers”) of ‘Abd: ‘Abdín, ‘Abadín, ‘Abidín (“‘Abdin, ‘Abadin, ‘Abidin”).
Abda, ‘Abdat ‘Abda, pl. ‘Abdát woman slave, slave girl, bondwoman
Abda’ Abda‘ more amazing, more exceptional; of even greater originality. See Badí‘
Abd-i-Hadir ‘Abd-i-Ḥáḍir “Servant in Attendance”
Abdar Ábdár Pers. watery, moist, juicy; of a good water (as a diamond or a sword); a keeper of water, a servant whose office is to keep water cool (hence water-carrier or butler); keen, sharp; glancing, dazzling, resplendent; flowing (verse); a sociable and convivial man; a man of understanding, reflection or wealth; a species of plant resembling the fibres of a palm-tree
Abdu’dh-Dhikr ‘Abdu’dh-Dhikr “the Servant of Remembrance”—a designation of the Báb
Abdu’l-... (“Abdil”, “Abdul”, etc.) ‘Abdu’l-... this is not a name or word, it is an iḍáfa or partial name [‘Abdu (slave or servant) + ’l (the) = slave or servant of the …] followed by the second part of the name (e.g. of God, ‘Abd Alláh or ‘Abdu’lláh). The same applies where the “l” is replaced by a sun letter reflecting the first letter of the second part of the name if it starts with one of the sun letters (e.g. ‘Abdu’s-Salám).
Abdu’l-‘Ali ‘Abdu’l-‘Alí
Abdu’l-‘Aliy-i-Harati ‘Abdu’l-‘Alíy-i-Harátí
Abdu’l-‘Azim ‘Abdu’l-‘Aẓím
Abdu’l-‘Azim-i-Khu’i ‘Abdu’l-‘Aẓím-i-Khu’í
Abdu’l-‘Aziz ‘Abdu’l-‘Azíz (1830–1876) Sulṭán of the Ottoman Empire
Abdu’l-Ahad ‘Abdu’l-Aḥad “servant of the only one”, a title of Mírzá Hádí Shírází, who served Bahá’u’lláh in ‘Akká
Abdu’l-Baghi ‘Abdu’l-Baghí Mírzá ‘Abdu’l Baghí, father of Mírzá Aḥmad Suhráb (known as Mirza Ahmad Sohrab)
Abdu’l-Baha ‘Abdu’l-Bahá “the Servant of Glory” (i.e. servant of Bahá). ‘Abbás Afandí (“Effendi”) (23 May 1844–28 November 1921). He initialled his correspondence, Tablets, etc., with the letters ع ع (‘Ayn ‘Ayn, A.A.). After the theft of His Seal, he signed with His name. Following the passing of Bahá’u’lláh he asked to be known as ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Wife Munírih Khánum. 4 daughters: Ḍíyá’íyyih (mother of Shoghi Effendi), Ṭúbá, Rúḥá and Munavvar. The Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (under construction, 2020–2022) is a low dome with gently sloping sides within a 170 m circle of gardens on the NW side of the Riḍván Garden to the east of ‘Akká.
Abdu’l-Baqi ‘Abdu’l-Baqi “servant of the everlasting”
Abdu’l-Baqir ‘Abdu’l-Báqir
Abdu’l-Fattah ‘Abdu’l-Fattáḥ “Servant of the Conqueror” (not Faṭṭáḥ)
Abdu’l-Ghaffar ‘Abdu’l-Ghaffár (MF)
Abdu’l-Ghani ‘Abdu’l-Ghaní
Abdu’l-Ghani Baydun ‘Abdu’l-Ghaní Bayḍún
Abdu’l-Hadi ‘Abdu’l-Hádí
Abdu’l-Hamid ‘Abdu’l-Ḥamíd ‘Abdu’l-Ḥamíd Khán (1842–1918), Sulṭán of the Ottoman Empire. Nephew and successor of ‘Abdu’l-‘Azíz (both responsible for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s 40 year imprisonment). Known as the “Great Assassin”.
Abdu’l-Haqq ‘Abdu’l-Ḥaqq
Abdu’l-Husayn ‘Abdu’l-Ḥusayn
Abdu’l-Husayn-i-Shushtari ‘Abdu’l-Ḥusayn-i-Shushtarí
Abdu’l-Jalil ‘Abdu’l-Jalíl
Abdu’l-Javad ‘Abdu’l-Javád
Abdu’l-Karim ‘Abdu’l-Karím
Abdu’l-Karim-i-Iravani ‘Abdu’l-Karím-i-Íravání
Abdu’l-Karim-i-Qazvini ‘Abdu’l-Karím-i-Qazvíní
Abdu’l-Karim-i-Tihrani ‘Abdu’l-Karím-i-Ṭihrání
Abdu’l-Khaliq ‘Abdu’l-Kháliq “Servant of the Creator”
Abdu’l-Khaliq-i-Isfahani ‘Abdu’l-Kháliq-i-Iṣfahání he cut his throat when Ṭáhirih put aside her veil at the conference of Badasht
Abdu’l-Khaliq-i-Yazdi ‘Abdu’l-Kháliq-i-Yazdí
Abdu’l-Majid ‘Abdu’l-Majíd Sulṭán of the Ottoman Empire (1823–1861)
Abdu’l-Majid-i-Nishaburi ‘Abdu’l-Majíd-i-Níshábúrí
Abdu’l-Majid-i-Shirazi ‘Abdu’l-Majíd-i-Shírází
Abdu’l-Malik ‘Abdu’l-Malik Fifth Umayyad Caliph
Abdu’l-Muhammad ‘Abdu’l-Muḥammad
Abdu’l-Muttalib ‘Abdu’l-Muṭṭalib
Abdu’l-Qadir ‘Abdu’l-Qádir BKG 124
Abdu’l-Vahhab-i-Qazvini ‘Abdu’l-Vahháb-i-Qazvíní
Abdu’l-Vahhab-i-Sha’rani ‘Abdu’l-Vahháb-i-Sha‘rání
Abdu’l-Vahhab-i-Shirazi ‘Abdu’l-Vahháb-i-Shírází Pers. Mírzá ‘Abdu’l-Vahhab-i-Shírází, martyred in Ṭihrán
Abdu’l-Vahhab-i-Turshizi ‘Abdu’l-Vahháb-i-Turshízí
Abdu’l-Vasi’ ‘Abdu’l-Vási‘
Abdu’llah ibn Abd al-Muttalib ‘Abdu’lláh ibn Abd al-Muṭṭalib father of the Prophet Muḥammad (b. 546)
Abdu’llah ibn Ubayy ‘Abdu’lláh ibn Ubayy ibn Salúl a powerful Medinite chief and a bitter opponent of Muḥammad, whose hopes of sovereignty were defeated when the Medinites asked Muḥammad to rule over them. He was the leader of the Hypocrites (munáfiqún) who secretly resisted Muḥammad at Medina.
Abdu’llah Khan-i-Turkaman ‘Abdu’lláh Khán-i-Turkamán a commander of forces attacking at Shaykh Ṭabarsí (he was killed during the conflict)
Abdu’llah Pasha ‘Abdu’lláh Páshá his house in ‘Akká is now a Bahá’í centre. Grid co-ordinates 32.923799, 35.068098
Abdu’llah Yusuf ‘Ali ‘Abdu’lláh Yúsuf ‘Alí (1872-1952) Indian barrister and translator of the Qur’án: The Meaning of the Holy Qur’án.
Abdu’llah-i-Ghawgha’ ‘Abdu’lláh-i-Ghawghá’
Abdu’llah-i-Qazvini ‘Abdu’lláh-i-Qazvíní
Abdu’r-Rahim-i-Qannad ‘Abdu’r-Raḥím-i-Qannád
Abdu’r-Rahim-i-Yazdi ‘Abdu’r-Raḥím-i-Yazdí (MF)
Abdu’r-Rahman Afandi Alusi ‘Abdu’r-Raḥmán Afandí Álúsí
Abdu’r-Rahman-i-Karkuti ‘Abdu’r-Raḥmán-i-Kárkútí
Abdu’r-Rasul-i-Qumi ‘Abdu’r-Rasúl-i-Qumí
Abdu’r-Razzaq ‘Abdu’r-Razzáq
Abdu’s-Sahib ‘Abdu’ṣ-Ṣáḥib
Abdu’s-Salam ‘Abdu’s-Salám
Abdu’s-Salih ‘Abdu’ṣ-Ṣáliḥ the Gardener of the Riḍván Garden, ‘Akká
Abdu’s-Samad ‘Abdu’ṣ-Ṣamad (Sammad)
Abdu’s-Samad-i-Hamadani ‘Abdu’ṣ-Ṣamad-i-Hamadání
Abdu’sh-Shams, ‘Abd Shams ‘Abdu’sh-Shams or ‘Abd Shams ‘Abd Shams ibn ‘Abd Manáf was the oldest son of ‘Abd Manáf al-Mughírah ibn Quṣayy (great-great-grandfather of Muḥammad through his son Háshim) and grandson of Quṣayy ibn Kiláb.
Abduhu (‘Abduh) ‘Abduhu (from aná ‘abdu-hu) (I am) his servant or slave. Muḥammad ‘Abduh (1849–1905) an Egyptian Islamic jurist, religious scholar and liberal reformer, a key founding figure of Islamic Modernism, sometimes called Neo-Mu’tazilism after the medieval Islamic school of theology based on rationalism, Mu’tazila. He broke the rigidity of the Muslim ritual, dogma and family ties. He was a Freemason and had a close relationship with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Bahá’í Faith. See Salafíya
Abdus, ‘Ubdus ‘Abdús, ‘Ubdús ‘abdús = ‘abd aws (gift) alláh (ú from w).This is a theophoric name (from Greek: “bearing or carrying a god”) where the final sound(s) (the apocopate) are omitted.‘Abdús ibn Abí ‘Uthmán
Abgusht, Ab-Gusht (Abi-Gusht) Ábgúsht, Áb-Gúsht Pers. (“abgoosht”, “abi-Gosht”) gravy, broth, stew
Abha Abhá more splendid, more brilliant. “Most Glorious”. al-Abhá (El-Abha) “The Most Glorious”. Abhá Beauty—Jamál-i-Abhá—a title of Bahá’u’lláh. Abhá Kingdom—The Most Glorious Kingdom (also Abhá Paradise). See Alláh-u-Abhá and Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá
Abhal, Ubhul, Abhala Abhal, Pers. Ubhul, fem. Abhala(h) savin (Juniperus sabina; botanical) or Persian the seed of the mountain cypress, or juniper; juniper berries; mountain cypress
Abhar Abhar Ar. more brilliant, more magnificent
Abhar Abhar Pers. a water-mill; a vein in the back, the jugular vein; the back of a bow. Abhar, now a city (36.146396, 49.222503), is on the road between Zanján and Qazvín. Ḥájí Mírzá Muḥammad-Taqíy-i-Abharí is known as Ibn-i-Abhar, Hand of the Cause of God.
Abi-Ghafray-i-Ta’i Abí-Ghafráy-i-Ṭá’í Pers. (see Ṭayy’). See SDC 48.
Abi-Quhafih Abí-Quḥáfih The Dawn-Breakers liv
Abid, Abidun, ‘Ubbad, ‘Abada ‘Ábid, pl. ‘Ábidún, ‘Ubbád, ‘Abada an adorer, or servant of God; worshipper—used in conjunction with Zayn.
Abir ‘Ábir, pl. ‘Ábirún passing; crossing, traversing, etc.; fleeting (smile); transient, transitory, ephemeral; bygone, past, elapsed (time);—pl. passerby. ‘ábir ṭaríq wanderer, wayfarer. See Áwárih
Abiward, Abivard Abíward, Abívard Pers. now Dargaz, Raḍawí Khurásán Province, Írán
Abiy Abíy disdainful, scornful; proud, lofty, lofty-minded
Abjad Abjad “alphabet”. The word consists of the first four (in original order) consonants (alíf, bá’, jím and dál) of the Arabic alphabet. Abjab is a writing system, e.g. Arabic, in which only consonants are represented. Abjab is also used as a term for the Arabic numeral system, where each consonant has an abjad numerical value.
Abraha al-Ashram ‘Abraha(h) al-‘Ashram (“Abraha al-Ashram”) an Abyssinian prince, who built a Christian church in Ṣaná‘ to rival the Ka‘ba at Mecca. According to traditional Arab belief, he made an unsuccessful attack with his forces of elephants to destroy the Ka‘ba CE 570 (known as the year of the elephant and date of the birth of Muḥammad).
Absat Absaṭ simpler; wider, more extensive
Abtah, Abatih Abṭaḥ, pl. Abaṭiḥ flat, level;—pl. basin-shaped valley, wide bed of a wádí. al-Abṭaḥ is a wide valley that extends between Makkah and Miná. Muḥammad stopped here on His Ḥijjatu’l-Wadá‘ (Farewell Ḥajj) in AH 10.
Abtar Abtar curtailed, docked, clipped, trimmed; imperfect, defective, incomplete; without offspring. See root batara.
Abu ‘Abdu’llah ash-Shi’i Abú ‘Abdu’lláh ash-Shí‘í Abú ‘Abd Alláh al-Ḥusayn ibn Aḥmad ibn Zakaríya ash-Shí‘í (died 911) was a Da‘í (missionary) for the Isma‘ilis in Yemen and North Africa
Abu ‘Ali Abú ‘Alí
Abu ‘Amir al-Ashari Abú ‘Ámir al-Asharí father of Ḥanẓala
Abu ‘Imran Musa ibn Maymun Abú ‘Imrán Músá ibn Maymún Maimonides (originally Moshe ben Maimon)
Abu al-‘Ala’ (Abul A’la) Abú al-‘Alá’ (أبو العلاء) “father of glory” (“Abul A‘lá”)
Abu ad-Dawahi Abú ad-Dawáhí “Father of Iniquities”, Abú Bakr. See Dáhiya.
Abu al-Fida’, Abu’l-Fida’ Abú al-Fidá’, Pers. Abu’l-Fidá’ Abú al-Fidá’ Ismá‘íl ibn ‘Alí ibn Maḥmud al-Malik al-Mu’ayyad ’Imád ad-Dín (1273–1331), better known in English as Abulfeda, was a Kurdish historian, geographer and local governor of Hama. He was a prince of the Ayyubid dynasty and the author of The memoirs of a Syrian prince: Abu’l-Fidáʼ, Sulṭán of Ḥamáh. The moon crater, Abulfeda, is named after him.
Abu Dharr al-Ghifari al-Kinani Abú Dharr al-Ghifárí al-Kinání (“Abouzar”, “Abudhar”, “Abu-Dhar Ghefan”) (also known as Jundab bin Junádah bin Sufyán al-Ghifárí) (590–653) illiterate shepherd (of the Banú Ghifár,a Jewish tribe) who became a companion (4th or 5th) of Muḥammad and a companion of Imám ‘Alí
Abu Jahl Abú Jahl “father of ignorance”. Amr ibn Hishám ibn al-Mughíra, a leader of the polytheistic Quraysh tribe’s Banú Makhzúm clan. Abú-Jahl was the uncle of Muḥammad and his greatest enemy. He was known as Abu’l-Ḥikam (the father of wisdoms); but for his envy and opposition, Muḥammad named him, Abú-Jahl for his stringent opposition to Muḥammad. See ‘Ikrima.
Abu Nuwas Abú Nuwáṣ (usually given as “Nuwás”) nickname (“father of the forelocks”) of al-Ḥasan ibn Hání (Háni’) al-Ḥakamí (756–814), was a classical Arabic poet.  See náṣiya and háni’.
Abu Sinan (Abu-Sinan, Abou Senan) Abú Sínán (Abú-Sínán) “Father of the teeth”. a Druze village (Hebrew Abu Snan) about 7.5 km east of Bahjí and 4 km west the Druze village of Yarká (Yirká)
Abu-‘Umar-‘Uthman Abú-‘Umar-‘Uthmán
Abu-Bakr Abú-Bakr first Muslim caliph, Abú Bakr ‘Abdalláh bin Abí Quḥáfah, called aṣ-Ṣiddíq by Muḥammad.
Abu-Bakri’s-Siddiq Abú-Bakri’ṣ-Ṣiddíq Abú-Bakri’ṣ-Ṣiddíq-ibn-i-Abí-Quḥáfa, the first caliph, CE 632–634
Abu-Hanifa, Abu-Hanifih Abú-Ḥanífa (or Ḥanífih) an-Nu‘mán famous Persian theologian and jurist
Abu-Ja’far-i-Tusi Abú-Ja‘far-i-Ṭúsí follower of Imám Ṣádiq who handed down his traditions
Abu-Jahl Abú-Jahl (Abudjahl) (“father of ignorance”) Abu’l-Ḥakam ‘Amr Ibn Hishám
Abu-Nasr Muhammad al-Farabi Abú-Naṣr Muḥammad al-Fárábí (Alpharabius in the West) Persian philosopher and writer (c. 872–between 14 December 950 and 12 January 951)
Abu-Rahim Abú-Raḥím
Abu-Sufyan Abú-Sufyán Ṣakhr ibn Ḥarb, more commonly known as Abú Sufyán (580–640), was the leader of the Quraysh of Mecca, the most powerful tribe of pre-Islamic Arabia. He was a staunch opponent of Muḥammad, until later accepting Islám and becoming a warrior later in his life during the early Muslim conquests.
Abu-Talib Abú-Ṭálib Abú-Ṭálib, Mullá. Sons ‘Alí Ashraf and Áqá Bálá
Abu-Talib-i-Sang-Sari Abú-Ṭálib-i-Sang-Sarí Siyyid Abú-Ṭálib-i-Sang-Sarí (The Dawn-Breakers, p. 426
Abu-Talib-i-Shahmirzadi Abú-Ṭálib-i-Shahmírzádí
Abu-Turab Abú-Turáb
Abu-Turab-i-Qazvini Abú-Turáb-i-Qazvíní
Abu’d-Dawahi Abu’d-Dawáhí Father of Misfortunes
Abu’l-Bashar Abu’l-Bashar “the father of man”—one of the titles given by Muslims to Adam
Abu’l-Fadl (Gulpaygani, Gulpayigani) Abu’l-Faḍl Mírzá Muḥammad Gulpáygání (also Gulpáyigání) (1844–1914) (pseudonym Abu’l-Faḍl—“Father or progenitor of Virtue”) was the foremost Baháʼí scholar who helped spread the Baháʼí Faith in Egypt, Turkmenistan, and the United States. He is one of the few Apostles of Baháʼu’lláh who never met Baháʼu’lláh. ʻAbdu’l-Bahá addressed him as Abu’l-Faḍá’il (“Progenitor of all Virtues” or “Father of all Excellences”).
Abu’l-Fath-i-Shahristani Abu’l-Fatḥ-i-Shahristání
Abu’l-Fida Abu’l-Fidá’
Abu’l-Futuh Abu’l-Futúḥ (“the Father of Victories”) name given to Enoch Olinga by Shoghi Effendi
Abu’l-Hasan-i-Ardikani Abu’l-Ḥasan-i-Ardikání, Mullá Hájí Amín, Amín-i-Iláhí (“Trustee of God”) (Trustee of Ḥuqúqu’lláh)
Abu’l-Hasan-i-Bazzaz Abu’l-Ḥasan-i-Bazzáz
Abu’l-Hikam Abu’l-Ḥikam “the Father of Wisdoms”. See Ḥikma
Abu’l-Huda Abu’l-Hudá, Shaykh
Abu’l-Qasim-i-Hamadani Abu’l-Qásim-i-Hamadání
Abu’l-Qasim-i-Kashi Abu’l-Qásim-i-Káshí a learned Bábí from Káshán (Abu’l Káẓim)
Abu’l-Qasim-i-Khurasani Abu’l-Qásim-i-Khurásání
Abu’l-Qasim-i-Mazkani Abu’l-Qásim-i-Mazkání
Abu’l-Qasim-i-Qa’im-Maqam Abu’l-Qásim-i-Qá’im-Maqám
Abu’l-Qasim-i-Shirazi Abu’l-Qásim-i-Shírází
Abu’l-Qasim-ibn-i-Haji-Zayna Abu’l-Qásim-ibn-i-Ḥájí-Zayná
Abu’sh-Shurur Abu’sh-Shurúr “the father of iniquities or wickedness” (EGB, Balyuzi)
Abuqir, Abu Qir Abúqír, now spelt Abú Qír is a town (31.311532, 30.060205) visited by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on the coast 18 NE of Alexandria, Egypt
Abwa al-Abwá’ village 34 km NE of Rábigh (a town on the Red Sea coast)
Abwab al-Arba’ah, Abwab-i-Arba’ih al-Abwáb al-Arba‘a[h] (Pers. Abwáb-i-Arba‘ih or Abváb-i-Arba‘ih) “the Four Gates” for the Twelfth Imám. See Arba‘ and an-Nuwwáb al-‘Arba’a[h].
Abyan Abyan clearer, more distinct, more obvious. Root bána, bayán
Ad ‘Ád Traditionally, a fourth generation descendant of Noah; an ancient Arabian tribe
Ad’iyah wa Munajat Ad‘iyah (Ad‘iyyih) wa Munáját “Prayers and Supplications” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Ada, ‘Adat, ‘Awa’id, ‘Adatan ‘Áda(t), pl. ‘Ádát, ‘Awá’id habit, wont, custom, usage, practice; ‘Ádatan usually, customarily, ordinarily, habitually;—pl. ‘Awá’id taxes, duties; charges, fees, rates
Ada’ ‘Adá’ enmity, hostility, antagonism, animosity; aggression
Adab Adab, pl. Ádáb culture, refinement; good breeding, good manners, social graces, decorum, decency, propriety, seemliness; humanity, humaneness; the humanities; belles-lettres
Adall Aḍall more or most astray; more or most tending to lead astray
Adalla Aḍalla “to leave in error or lead astray”
Adam Ádam Adam, father of mankind. Abjad value is 45.
Adarisa Adárisa(h) the Idrisids (al-Adárisah) were an Arab Muslim dynasty of Morocco (788–974), founded by Idrís I. The Idrisids are considered the founders of the first Moroccan state.
Adasi ‘Adasí lenticular
Adasiya, Adasiyyih ‘Adasíya[h], Pers. ‘Adasiyyih now a town (32.666810, 35.623901) in Jordan 17 km SE of Tiberias. This is the resting place of a half brother of Bahá’u’lláh, and one of three villages (he purchased land in 1901) where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá grew corn and wheat during World War I. See as-Samrá and an-Nuqayb.
Addas ‘Addás (‘adás, lentil(s)) was a young Christian slave boy (originally from Nineveh, an ancient Assyrian city) who lived in Ṭá’if during the time of Muḥammad. He is believed to be the first person from the western province of Ṭá’if to convert to Islam.
Adhab-i-Qabr ‘Adháb-i-Qabr chastisement in the grave
Adham, Dahma’, Duhm Adham, fem. Dahmá’, pl. Duhm black, deep-black. Note Adham (ادهم, d-h-m) has the consonants d and h, not dh.
Adhan Ádhán (variation Adhán) announcing, giving notice; the signal for summoning to prayers, by the mu’adhdhin (mu’azzin) or crier, from the minarets or towers of the mosques; listening to. “I bear witness that Muḥammad is the Messenger of Alláh.” At the request of the Báb, Mullá Ṣádiq-i-Muqaddas added after the ádhán: “I bear witness that He whose name is ‘Alíy-Qabl-i-Muḥammad [‘Alí preceding Muḥammad, the Báb] is the servant of the Baqíyyatu’lláh [the “Remnant of God”, Bahá’u’lláh].”
Adhan, Adha Aḍḥan, Aḍḥá[h] (collective; nomen unitatis Aḍḥáh) slaughter animal, blood sacrifice, immolation. ‘Íd al-Aḍḥá “Festival of Sacrifice”.
Adhar (Azar), Adhur (Azur) Ádhar, Ádhur Pers. fire; and the 9th Persian solar month and the ninth day of every month
Adhar-bad-gan Ádhar-bád-gán Pers. a fire-temple. Evolution of name: Ádharbádhagn, Ádharbádgán, Ázarbáydján (New Persian) and present-day Ázarbayján (Azerbaijan). See Ádharbayján.
Adharbayjan, Adhirbayjan Ádharbayján, (Ázarbayján) Pers. “land of fire” or “land of fire guardians”. Azerbaijan is a region consisting of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Iranian Azerbaijan (north-western provinces of West Azerbaijan, East Azerbaijan and Ardabil. Alternatives: Ádhirbayján, Ázarbayján, Ázarbaygán.
Adharbayjani, Adhirbayjani Ádharbayjání, (Ázarbayjání) Pers. official language in Ádharbayján
Adhari, Adhariyan Ádharí, pl. Ádhariyán Pers. native of Ádharbayján (Ázarí, pl. Ázariyán)
Adi ‘Ádí customary, usual, common, ordinary, normal, regular; undistinguished, run-of-the-mill; ordinary, regular (e.g., meeting, as opposed to extraordinary, special, emergency); simple, plain, ordinary (man); old, ancient, antique
Adib Ádib host
Adib, Adiba, Udaba’ Adíb, fem. Adíba, pl. Udabá’ cultured, refined, educated; well-bred, well-mannered, civil, urbane; a man of culture and refined tastes; man of letters, writer, author (superlative form of ‘Aduba’ [to learn])
Adibu’l-‘Ulama’ Adíbu’l-‘Ulamá’ littérateur or literary man of the ‘Ulamá’. Title given to Mírzá Muḥammad Ḥasan, known as Adíb, Hand of the Cause of God.
Adil (‘Adilih), ‘Adila, ‘Adawl ‘Ádil, fem. ‘Ádila, pl. ‘Adawl just, fair, equitable; upright, honest, straightforward, righteous. Persian fem. also ‘Ádilih
Adil Abad (Adel Abad, ‘Adilabad) ‘Ádil Ábád (‘Ádilábád) Zindán ‘Ádil Ábád (or Shiraz Central Prison) in Shíráz (29.576725, 52.506803)
Adirna, Adirnih, Adarnah Adirna[h or t], Pers. Adirnih, T. Adarnah Hadrianopolis (Greek), Adrianople (English), now known as Edirne. Same numerical value (260=+5+200+4+1 ادرنة,), as Sirr (60+200, “Mystery”). See Adrianople and Arḍ as-Sirr.
Adiya, ‘Adiyat, ‘Awadin ‘Ádiya, pl. ‘Ádiyát, ‘Awádin wrong, offense, misdeed, outrage; adversity, misfortune, reverse; obstacle, impediment, obstruction;—pl. vicissitudes. Root ‘adá’
Adja’ Adjá‘ father of Qarád SDC 49
Adl, ‘Udul ‘Adl, pl. ‘Udúl straightness, straightforwardness; justice, impartiality; fairness, equitableness, probity, honesty, uprightness; equitable composition, just compromise;—(pl.) just, equitable, fair, upright, honest; person of good reputation, person with an honourable record (Islamic Law); juristic adjunct assigned to a cadi (Maghrib)
Adliya ‘Adlíya justice, administration of justice, jurisprudence
Adna, Dunya, Adanin, Adnun Adná, fem. Dunyá pl. m. Adánin, Adnún, fem. Dunan) nearer, closer; situated lower down, nether; lower, inferior; lowlier; smaller, of less significance; more appropriate, better suited, more suitable. Femine: world; earth; this world (as opposed to al-úlá (“pre-existence”) and al-ákhira (“afterlife”)); life in this world, worldly existence; worldly. temporal things or possessions; earthly things or concerns. See Awwal and Ákhira entries.
Adrianople Adrianople now Edirne. See Adirna.
Adu’dh-Dhikr ‘Adu’dh-Dhikr Ar. Servant of the Remembrance. A designation of the Báb.
Adud (‘Azud), A’dad ‘Aḍud, pl. A’ḍád help, aid, assistance, support, backing; helper, aide, assistant, supporter, backer. (pl.) upper arm; strength, power, vigour, force
Adudu’d-Dawlih ‘Aḍudu’d-Dawlih (CE 978–983)
Aduw, A’da’, ‘Idan, ‘Udan, ‘Udah, A’adin ‘Aduw, pl. A‘dá’, ‘Idan, ‘Udan, ‘Udáh (pl. also A‘ádin; fem. ‘Adúwa, “‘Aduwa”) enemy
Afaf, ‘Iffa ‘Afáf = ‘Iffa[h or t] abstinence, continence, virtuousness, virtue, chastity, decency; purity; modesty; integrity, probity, honesty, uprightness, righteousness. ‘Iffat, a daughter of Badí‘u’lláh. See ‘Affa
Afandi (Efendi, Effendi) Afandí, pl. Afandíyá from Turkish efendi (pronounced effendi), title of nobility meaning a lord, master or gentleman (after the name, when referring to non-Europeans wearing Western clothes and the tarboosh). It designates a higher rank than Big.
Afdal, Fudla, Afdalun, Afadil, Fudlayat Afḍal, fem. Fuḍlá (pl. m. Afḍalún, Afáḍil, fem. Fuḍlayát) better, best; more excellent, preferable, etc.
Aff, ‘Affa ‘Aff, fem. ‘Affa[h or t] chaste, modest, virtuous, pure; decent; honest, upright, righteous
Affa (‘Iffa, ‘Afaf) ‘Affa (‘Iffa[h or t] = ‘Afáfa) to refrain, abstain (from something forbidden or indecent); to be abstinent, continent, virtuous, chaste, modest, decent, pure. Derivative: ‘iffa[h or t] abstinence, continence, virtuousness, virtue, chastity, decency; purity; modesty; integrity, probity, honesty, uprightness, righteousness. See ‘Afáf and ‘Iffatíya.
Affan ‘Affán Pers. name of the father of the caliph ‘Usmán (Othmán or ‘Uthmán)
Afghan Afghán, pl. Afághina[h or t] people living in the mountains between the mountains between Kandahár and the river Indus; lamentation, groaning, cries for help; alas!
Afghani Afghání of Afghán (adjective and noun)
Afghanistan Afghánistán Afghanistan
Afif, Afifa, A’fa’, A’iffa ‘Afíf, fem. ‘Afífa[h or t], pl. A‘fá’, A‘iffa haste, modest, virtuous, pure; decent; honest, upright, righteous. ‘Afíf is a city 343 km east of Medina. Iṣfahání Pers. ‘Afífih.
Afifi ‘Afífí of or from ‘Afíf.
Muḥammad al-‘Afífí, Persian Consul in ‘Akká in 1880s. He owned the gardens (Ḥumaymih or ‘Afífí) near ‘Ayn Fawwár and the village of an-Nahr.
Abú ‘Alá’ ‘Afífí (1919–2007) was a scholar and author known for his work on Sufism and mystical philosophy. He wrote “at-taṣawwuf: al-thawra al-rúḥíya fí’l-Islám” [“Mysticism: The Spiritual Revolution in Islám”], 1963.
Afirin (Afarin), Afrin Áfirín, Áfrín Pers. praise, glory, applause, encomium, benediction, blessing; blessed; well done! bravo! name of the first of the five intercalary days of the Persian year; (in compounds) creating
Afjah (Afjeh), Afchah (Afcheh) Afjah, Afchah (also Afjih, Afchih) Pers. village (35.859750, 51.689849; 36 km NE Ṭihrán) in Lavasanat District (Bakhsh Lavásánát), Shemiranat County (Sháristán Shimíránát), Teheran Province. It is 7.25 km NE of the town of Lavásán and 47.5 km SW of Takúr. Bahá’u’lláh was the guest of the Grand Vizir, Ja‘far-Qulí Khán, in his summer residence in the village, when the assassination attempt was made on the Sháh near his Níyávarán summer palace.
Aflatun Afláṭún Plato, from the Greek form of the name
Afnan-i-Kabir Afnán-i-Kabír
Afra Afrá Pers. bravo! well done! praise applause. Village SW of Qá’im Shahr and just to the east of the Shrine of Shaykh Ṭabarsí. The village masjid (36.436642, 52.815196) is 0.9 km to the east. The village was owned by Naẓar Khán.
Afranj Afranj Pers. Elegance, dignity, grace; magnificence, grandeur, power; maguitude; a throne; a crown; provisions, necessaries. The Franks, French; the crusaders; all Europeans. Khán-i-Afranj in ‘Akká.
Afrasiyab (“Afrasyab”) Afrásiyáb Pers. name of an ancient king celebrated in Persian poetry, sovereign of Túrán, and a Scythian or Turk by birth; one who moves leisurely on the road; a travelling companion
Afriqa, Ifriqiya, Afriqiya Afríqá fem. and Ifríqiyá (now usually pronounced Afríqiyá fem.) Africa
Afrukhta (Afrokhta, Afrukhtih) Afrúkhta(h) Pers. inflamed, lighted; shining, radiant; polished, furbished
Afruz (Afroz) Afrúz Pers. burning; illuminating, dazzling, animating. Feminine name.
Afsah, Fusha Afṣaḥ, fem. Fuṣḥá of purer language; more eloquent
Afsana (Afsanih, Afsaneh) Áfsána, Afsána Pers. fem. name. A charm, incantation; a fiction, tale, fable, romance, parable; a narrative, a story of past events; public, notorious, noted.
Afshar Afshár Pers. a largely nomadic Turkic tribe mostly found in Írán; (in compounds) speaking idly; fixing, inserting; pressing, squeezing out (water); a weaver’s foot treadle; an assistant, associate, companion, partner
Afshin Afshín Pers. name of a person known for his liberality
Aftab-parast Áftáb-Parast Pers. a worshipper of the sun; sun-flower; a chameleon (or iguana); a water-lily; in India, any blue flower
Aftab, Aftabam Áftáb Pers. masc. name, sunlight or sunshine; the sun; a day; wine; the soul. Áftábam (Áftáb+am) I am the sun. See Khurshíd
Aftabah (Aftabih) Áftábah Pers. a ewer, water-pot, or kettle
Aftah, Mufattah Afṭaḥ and Mufaṭṭaḥ broad-headed, broad-nosed
Afus Afús village 156 km WNW of Iṣfahán
Afuw ‘Afúw one who forgives much. al-‘Afúw, attribute of God, The Pardoner, The Effacer, The Forgiver
Afw ‘Afw, Pers. also ‘Afú, ‘Ufú effacement, obliteration, elimination; pardon, forgiveness; waiver of punishment (Islamic Law); amnesty (for); boon, kindness, favour; surplus
Afyah, Fayha Afyaḥ, fem. Fayḥá’ fragrant, redolent, aromatic, sweet-smelling; wide, vast, spacious, extensive. al-Fayḥá’ (another name for Tripoli), because of the smell of the orange pollen from vast orange orchards that were in the area. al-Fayḥá’ is a nickname of Damascus.
Agah Ágáh Pers. aware, wary; intelligent, knowing, acquainted with; prudent; vigilant, attentive; notice, news, indication, information
Agahu’llah Ágáhu’lláh Ágáhu’lláh Tízfahm, executed May 1982
Agar, Ar Agar, Ar Pers. if; although
Agarih (Agareh, Agira, Agreh) Agarih Pers. a tiny village (36.1595203, 53.832541) 26 klm SW of Chashmah-i-‘Alí, in Semnan Province
Agha, Aghawat, Aghayan Ágh;á, pl. Aghawát, Pers. Ágháyán lord, master, sir; eunuch serving at royal court, harem chamberlain. Ághá Muḥammad Khán-i Qájár (14 March 1742–1797), castrated as a 6 year old, chieftain of the Quyúnlú branch of the Qájár tribe, as the founder of the Qájár dynasty of Írán (r. 1789–1797). Similar to áqá.
AH AH Anno Hejirae (Latin, “in the year of the Hijira”, used in the West)—precedes the date. H or Hijra in the Islamic calendar.
Ahad, Ihda Aḥad, fem. Iḥdá, pl. Áḥád one; somebody, someone, anybody, anyone (especially in negative sentences and questions). al-Aḥad (“the only one”), an attribute of God.
Ahadiya (Ahadiyya) Aḥadíya(h or t) unity, oneness (also absolute unity), singularity; concord, alliance
Ahamid (Ahamed) Aḥamid powerful, authoritative or influential. A variant used in the Indian region for Aḥmad.
Ahang Áhang aḥám Pers. concord, symphony, harmony, modulation, melody, pitch, tune; design, institution, purpose, intention; canon, regulation; rule, custom, manner of proceeding; a row, a series; the side (of a cistern); the curve or arch of a cupola or dome; a tether, stable, stall; haste, expedition; behold!
Ahangar Áhangar Pers. blacksmith, a dealer in iron
Ahd, ‘Uhud ‘Ahd, pl. ‘Uhúd knowledge; acquaintance, contact (with); the well-known, familiar nature (of something); close observance, strict adherence (to), keeping, fulfilment (of a promise); delegation, assignment, committing (of something to someone), vesting (in someone of something), commissioning, charging, entrusting (of someone with something); commission; making a will or testament;—pl. commitment, obligation, liability; responsibility; pledge, vow; promise; oath; contract, compact, covenant, pact, treaty, agreement; time, epoch, era. Meaning in Bahá’í Writings (see Kitáb-i-‘Ahd) is usually “covenant”. Muḥammad is described as having an “unwritten Covenant” since He was unable to write it. ibn al-‘Ahd Bahá’u’lláh, “The Child of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh” is the Will and Testament of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and the Bahá’í Administrative Order (God Passes By, p. 243)
Ahda Ahdá better guided; more correct, more proper, better. Qur’án 28:49: Qur’án gives ahdá, “clearer” guidance; not afṣáḥ, “eloquent” language—this is the criterion for judging the inimitability (i‘jáz) of the Qur’án: “its ability to guide humanity to the truth, to Allah and to salvation, its ability to inspire people with devotion and to constrain people to act in ways that are moral and righteous.” Islam and the Bahá’í Faith, p. 230.
Ahdiya, Ahdiyih (Ahdieh) ‘Ahdiya[h or t], “Pers.” ‘Ahdiyih the one who keeps his covenant or word, a faithful one. Hushang Ahdieh.
Ahi Áhí Pers. a fawn
Ahkam Aḥkam wiser, stronger, strongest; very firm; more, most, or very stable; most able to decide
Ahl al-Kisa’ Ahl al-Kisa’ people of the cloak: Muḥammad; his daughter, Fáṭima; his cousin and son-in-law ‘Alí; and his two grandsons Ḥassan and Ḥusayn.
Ahl al-Kitab, Ahlu’l-Kitab Ahl al-Kitáb, Ahlu’l-Kitáb “people of the Book”. Used by members of some Christian denominations to refer to themselves; used in Judaism to refer to the Jewish people; and an Islamic term that refers to Jews, Christians, Sabians and Zoroastrians.
Ahl at-Tariq Ahl aṭ-Ṭaríq “people of the path” or “people of true religion” (Islamic)
Ahl-i-Baha Ahl-i-Bahá “people of Bahá”
Ahl-i-Bayan Ahl-i-Bayán “people of the Bayán”
Ahl-i-Haqq Ahl-i-Ḥaqq “people of the truth”
Ahl, Ahlun, Ahalin, Ahali Ahl, pl. Ahlún, Ahálin, Ahálí relatives, folks, family; kin, kinfolk; wife; (with following genitive) people, members, followers, adherents, possessors, etc.; inhabitants; deserving, worthy (of something); fit, suited, qualified (for);—pl. the natives, the native population;—pl. ahálí inhabitants, citizens, commons; persons, individuals, members; family-folk; consorts, spouses, wives; domestics, dependants, followers
Ahla Aḥlá spouses, wives; domestics, dependants, followers
Ahli Ahli (the) people, or (of the) people
Ahmad al-Ahsa’i, Shaykh Aḥmad al-Aḥsá’í, Shaykh Aḥmad b. Zayn ad-Dín b. Ibráhím al-‘Aḥsá’í known as Shaykh Aḥmad al-Aḥsá’í (1753–1826). Born in the village of al-Mutayrifí (25.478801, 49.557241), and died in Hadíyah (25.533908, 38.749569), Saudi Arabia, about 140 km NW of Medina. He is buried in the cemetery of al-Baqí‘ (24.46713, 39.616360) in Medina. The first of the “twin resplendent lights” (Bábayn, two gates) who taught their followers that the coming of the Promised One of Islám (the Báb) was at hand and prepared them for His advent. Founder of the 19th-century Shí‘í Shaykhism (ash-Shaykhiya[h]), whose followers are known as Shaykhis (Shaykhiyún). For successor, see Siyyid Káẓim Rashtí.
Ahli Ahlí domestic, family (adjective); native, resident; indigenous; home, national
Ahmad, Ahamid (Ahamed) Aḥmad, pl. Aḥamíd more laudable, more commendable, more praised [comparative form of ‘ḥamida’ (to praise)]—a title of Muḥammad
Ahmad Big Tawfiq Aḥmad Big Tawfíq
Ahmad-i-‘Allaf Aḥmad-i-‘Alláf
Ahmad-i-Azghandi Aḥmad-i-Azghandí
Ahmad-i-Bahrayni Aḥmad-i-Baḥrayní
Ahmad-i-Ibdal Aḥmad-i-Ibdál
Ahmad-i-Ibdal-i-Maraghi’i Aḥmad-i-Ibdál-i-Marághi’í
Ahmad-i-Kashani Aḥmad-i-Káshání
Ahmad-i-Katib Aḥmad-i-Kátib
Ahmad-i-Khurasani Aḥmad-i-Khurásání
Ahmad-i-Kirmani Aḥmad-i-Kirmání
Ahmad-i-Mu’allim Aḥmad-i-Mu‘allim
Ahmad-i-Nukhud-Biriz Aḥmad-i-Nukhud-Biríz
Ahmad-i-Payvandi Aḥmad-i-Payvandí
Ahmad-i-Qazvini Aḥmad-i-Qazvíní
Ahmad-i-Ruhi Aḥmad-i-Rúḥí
Ahmad-i-Saffar Aḥmad-i-Ṣaffár
Ahmad-i-Yazdi Aḥmad-i-Yazdí
Ahmad-ibn-i-Abi-Talib-i-Tabarsi Aḥmad-ibn-i-Abí-Ṭálib-i-Ṭabarsí
Ahmadiy, Ahmadi Aḥmadíy, Aḥmadí belonging to Aḥmad; a Muslim; name of a gold coin
Ahmadiya Aḥmadíya[h], Pers. Aḥmadiyya[h] followers of Aḥmad (alternative name for Muḥammad). al-Jamá‘ah al-Islámíyah al-Aḥmadíyah (the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community), founded by Mírzá Ghulám Aḥmad in Qádiyán, Punjab, India. Aḥmadíya Shaykh Maḥmúd al-Masjid in Haifa (32.804954, 34.969869).
Ahmar, Hamra, Humr Aḥmar, fem. Ḥamrá’, pl. Ḥumr red, red-coloured, ruddy; rosy, pink. Alhambra (Spanish), the Citadel of Granada, (“the Red Palace”; al-Ḥamrá’, lit. “the red one”). Baḥru’l-Aḥmar, the Red Sea.1

1A system of color symbolism representing the cardinal directions, believed to be used by the Achaemenids (or First Persian Empire) (550–330  BC), had black for north (e.g. North or Black Sea), red for south (e.g. South or Red Sea), white for west (e.g. White or Mediterranean Sea), and green or light blue for east.
Ahrari Aḥrárí Ḍíyá’u’lláh Aḥrárí executed 1982. Aḥrár is pl. of Ḥurr
Ahsa’i Aḥsá’í of or from al-Aḥsá’. See Ḥisá’ and Shaykh Aḥmad-i-Aḥsá’í.
Ahsan, Ahasin Aḥsan, pl. Aḥásin better; nicer, lovelier, more beautiful; more excellent, more splendid, more admirable
Ahsanu’l-Qisas Aḥsanu’l-Qiṣaṣ The Best of Stories: a name for the Surih of Joseph.—Tafsír-i-Aḥsanu’l-Qiṣaṣ : the Báb’s commentary on the Súrih of Joseph, the Qayyúmu’l-Asmá’, called the Qur’án of the Bábís. Translated into Persian by Ṭáhirih.
Ahu Áhú Pers. a vice, fault, defect, stain, spot, villainy; flight, escape; an exclamation, cry for help; an asthma ; a deer, roe, gazelle ; any object of pursuit or chase; a beautiful eye; a mistress
Ahwa, Hawwa’ (Hauwa’) Aḥwá, fem. Ḥawwá’ black, dusky (in the lips); fem. Eve, the mother of mankind. Abjad value of Eve is 16.
Ahwar, Hawra (Haura), Hur, Huran Aḥwár, fem. Ḥawrá’, pl. Ḥúr, Pers. Ḥúrán having eyes with a marked contrast of white and black, (also, said of the eye:) intensely white and deep-black.—pl. Ḥúr (also used as singular in Pers.) interpreted as virgins or a “virgin of Paradise”. See ḥúríya and ḥúrí.
Aja’ibu’l-Makhluqat ‘Ajá’ibu’l-Makhlúqat “The marvels of creation” by Qazwíní
Ajab, A’jab ‘Ajab, pl. A‘jáb astonishment, amazement;—(pl.) wonder, marvel
Ajal Ajal, pl. Ájál appointed time (term), date, deadline; instant of death; respite, delay. In the Qur’án often refers to the term of nation(s).
Ajal, ‘Ajala ‘Ajal, fem. ‘Ajala[h or t] hurry, haste; precipitance, precipitation, ‘Ajal Alláhu Farajahu (“May God hasten his [Qá’im’s] glad advent”).
Ajam ‘Ajam (collective) mute in the sense of mumbling or to speak indistinctly, hence barbarians, non-Arabs (modern), Persians. Opposite of ‘Aran. Also (collective; noun denoting an individual) stone kernel, pit, pip, seed (of fruit)
Ajami, A’jam ‘Ajamí, pl. A‘jám barbarian, non-Arab; Persian (adj. and n.)
Ajda’ Ajda‘ mutilated (by having the nose, or the like cut off). SDC p. 49.
Ajiba, ‘Aja’ib ‘Ajíba, pl. ‘Ajá’ib wondrous thing, unheard of thing, prodigy, marvel, miracle, wonder;—pl. remarkable things, curiosities, oddities
Ajja, Ajij Ajja, Ajíj to burn, blaze, flame (fire). e.g. Má’ ujáj bitter, salty water.
Ajudan Ájúdán Pers. aide-de-camp, adjutant
Ajudan-Bashi Ájúdán-Báshí Pers. chief adjutant
Ajuz, ‘Ajz, A’jaz ‘Ajuz, ‘Ajz, pl. A‘jáz backside, rump, posteriors. Also stem, stump, trunk (of palm tree) Qur’án 54:20 & 69:7
Ajwibatu’l-Masá’il, Ajwibatu’l-Masa’il Ajwibat al-Masá’il “Answers to some questions”, book by Shaykh Aḥmad. Pers. Ajwibatu’l-Masá’il (Ajvibatu’l-Masa’il). See Jawáb
Ajz ‘Ajz weakness, incapacity, disability, failure, impotence (for, to do something); deficit
Akasha (‘Akash, Akkash) ‘Akásha[h or t] awkwardness, clumsiness
Akbar-ibn-i-‘Abid Akbar-ibn-i-‘Ábid
Akbar, Akbarun, Akabir, Kubra, Kubrayat Akbar, pl. Akbarún, Akábir greater, bigger, larger; older; senior-ranking [comparative form of ‘kabura’ (to elevate)]. Note: akbar, اكبر, consists of four consonants: ر ب ك ا (right to left in Arabic, or Alif, Káf, Bá’ and Rá’ in English)—the first letter is an Alif, but shown as a short vowel.Fem. Kubrá, pl. Kubrayát.
Akh, Ikhwa, Ikhwan Akh, pl. Ikhwa, Ikhwán brother; fellow man, neighbour; friend;—pl. ikhwán specifically, brethren or members of an order; al-ikhwán religious brotherhood of the Wahabi sect, militant in character, established by Ibn Sa‘úd in 1910
Akhar Ákhar another, different, second
Akhbari. Akhbariyun Akhbárí, pl. Akhbaríyún news. The Akhbaris are a group of Imámí jurists who only accept the traditions ascribed to the Prophet and the Imáms. The school was founded by Mullá Muḥammad-Amír of Astarábád. This is in contrast with the mujtahids or the Uṣúlí (they constitute the vast majority of the Twelvers), who maintain that the mujtahid has the right, as the deputy of the Hidden Imám, to deduce principles from the Qur’án as well as the traditions, and to use qiyás or ‘analogy’ to make an authoritative statement. See Khabar, pl. Akhbár.
Akhdar (Akhzar), Khadra’, Khudr Akhḍar (f.), Khaḍrá’, pl. Khuḍr green. al-Khaḍrá’ “the Verdant” (epithet of Tunis); the sky. Persian forms are similar and the ḍ is replaced by a ẓ. Khaḍrá’—final Hamza is left out in some books.
Akhir, Uthra, Awakhir Akhír, irregular fem. Uthrá, pl. Awákhir ast; latest; rearmost; the second of two. irregular fem. al-ukhrá, the invisible world, the afterlife, the hereafter.
Akhir, Akhira, Akhirun, Akhirat, Awakhir Ákhir, pl. Ákhirún, Awákhir (fem. Ákhira[h or t], pl. Ákhirát) last, ultimate, utmost, extreme; end, close, conclusion; foot, bottom (of a paper). fem. al-ákhira[h or t] the invisible world, the afterlife, the hereafter. See akhúr, dunyá and awwal.
Akhlat Ákhlaṭ Turkish (also Ahlat; Armenian Khlat) is a historic town and district on the west side of Lake Van.
Akhtar-Khawari (Akhtar-Khavari) Akhtar-Kháwarí
Akhtar, Akhtaran Akhtar, pl. Akhtarán Pers. a star; horoscope, predominant star at anyone’s nativity; an omen, augury; an ensign, standard; name of an angel. Name of a newspaper
Akhtaran Taban Akhtarán-i-Tábán Pers. “brilliant stars”. Book by Furúgh Arbáb.
Akhu’th-Thamarah Akhu’th-Thamarah “the Brother of the Fruit”. Báb: “Akhu’th-Thamarah, 238”—The fruit is Mírzá Yaḥyá and 238 equals Ḥusayn-‘Alí (Bahá’u’lláh)
Akhur Akhúr, Pers. also Ákhur a stall, a[n animal] stable or barn for horses; the collar-bone. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá substituted ákhur for ákhir on a number of occasions when referring to the ‘ulamá’: “They have held to this [animal] stable but they have not seen the ultimate of things.” Diary of Juliet Thompson, p. 102. See Ákhir.
Akhwand, Akhund, Akhwanda-ha Akhwánd, Akhúnd, pl. Akhwánda-há Pers. (also “Ákhúnd” and Akhond) tutor, master, preacher (low ranking Muslim priest or mullah). See ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Shahmírzádí
Akif, Akifan ‘Ákif, pl. ‘Ákifán Pers. assiduous, diligent; constantly staying in the mosque and employed in devotion
Akka, ‘Akk ‘Akka (‘Akk) to be sultry, muggy (day), sweltering
Akka, ‘Akka’ ‘Akka[h], ‘Akká’ and ‘Akká ‘Ako (Phoenician, “curved triangle”), more commonly spelt Akko or Acre (seaport in Israel).
‘Akká is the Arabic form used by Bahá’ís.
Houses in ‘Akká used by the Bahá’ís: Malik, Khavvám and Rábi’ih, ‘Údí Khammár and ‘Abbúd.
Bahá’u’lláh’s family left in 1877 for Mazra‘ih.
Akram, Akarim Akram, pl. Akárim nobler more distinguished; more precious, more valuable; most honourable; very high-minded, very noble-hearted, most generous
Akthar Akthar more; oftener, more frequently; more numerous; longer; most; major portion, greater part, majority
Al Ál family, relatives, kinsfolk, clan; companions, partisans, people; mirage, fatamorgana. This is not the Arabic definite article al-. Ál-mán (“our kin”) used by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as a play on the word alámán (a German) in Persian.
Al- al- the definite article in Arabic, often translated as “the” in English. The letter “l” is replaced by a sun letter if the following word starts with one of the 14 sun letters—refer to the Arabic letters and abjad values section.
Al-i-Muhammad Ál-i-Muḥammad children (or family) of Muḥammad
Ala ‘Alá (preposition) on, upon, on top of, above, over (place, rank); at, on, by; in, in the state of, in the manner of, in possession of; to, toward, for; in addition to; to the debit of, to the disadvantage of; against, in spite of, despite; on the basis of, on the strength of, by virtue of, due to, upon; by, through; according to, in accordance with, pursuant to; to (one’s taste, one’s mind, one’s liking, etc.); during
Ala ‘Alá’ high rank, high standing, nobility; loftiness
Ala, Uluw ‘Alá, ‘Ulúw to be high, elevated, rise high, loom, tower up; to rise, ascend; to ring out (voice); etc.
Ala’ Álá’ Pers. benefits, favours, kindnesses
Ala’i ‘Alá’í (علائی) from the root ‘Alá, high, elevated. Shu‘á‘u’lláh ‘Alá’í, Hand of the Cause of God.
Ala’u’d-Dawlih ‘Alá’u’d-Dawlih, Yúsuf
Alam Alam, pl. Álám pain, ache, suffering, agony
Alam al-Hayawan ‘Álam al-Ḥayawán the animal kingdom
Alam al-Ma’adin ‘Álam al-Ma‘ádin the mineral kingdom
Alam an-Nabat ‘Álam an-Nabát the vegetable kingdom
Alam-i-Dharr ‘Álam-i-Dharr “realm of subtle entities” is an allusion to the Covenant between God and Adam mentioned in Qur’án 7:172
Alam, A’lam (I’lam) ‘Alam, pl. A‘lám sign, token, mark, badge, distinguishing mark, characteristic; road sign, signpost, guidepost; flag, banner, standard, ensign, streamer, pennants; mountain (Qur’án 55:24); a distinguished, outstanding man; an eminent personality, an authority, a star, a luminary
Alam, Alamun, Awalim ‘Álam, pl. ‘Álamún, ‘Awálim world; universe, cosmos;—pl. ‘Álamún—inhabitants of the world, specifically human beings. al-‘álamán the two worlds = Europe and America. See Baḥrání
Alama, Alamat, Ala’im ‘Aláma[h or t], pl. ‘Alámát, ‘Alá’im mark, sign, token; badge, emblem; distinguishing mark, characteristic. Used for the signs of the promised Resurrection.
Alamat ‘Alámát al-Waqf “signs for stops” are symbols used to indicate Qur’anic punctuation. Some are listed here. (م) mím: mandatory stop. (ج) jím: optional stop. (لا) lám alif: do not stop here. س)) sín: take a soft/short pause without taking a breath. (قلي): you can stop or move on, but stopping is preferred. (صلي): you can stop or continue, but continuing is preferred. () ta‘ánuq al-waqf: you can stop at one, but not both. the “perfect stop”, or various symbols, e.g. ֍ : the end of a verse
Alamat al-Faraj ‘Alámát al-Faraj “Signs of deliverance” will occur, according to Shaykh Aḥmad Aḥsá’í, in the year 68 (ḥín) or AH 1268 (ended 15 October 1852)/CE 1952, and he alluded to “after a while” (ba‘da ḥín) in Qur’án 38:88. This is about the time Bahá’u’lláh (sometime in October 1852) has a vision of the Maiden, who announces to Him that He is the Manifestation of God for this Age. The Báb repeatedly gave the year nine as the date of the appearance of “Him Whom God shall make manifest”. The Declaration of the Báb occurred in AH 1260, and the year nine (AH 1269) started 16 October 1952.
Alami ‘Álami worldly, secular, world (adj.); international; world-wide, world-famous, enjoying world-wide renown
Alamu’l-Amr ‘Álamu’l-Amr (lower) world of creation
Alamu’l-Haqq ‘Álamu’l-Ḥaqq (upper) eternally inaccessible world of God that is exalted beyond the grasp of the minds of men
Alamu’l-Huda ‘Alamu’l-Hudá “distinguished guide”
Alamu’l-Khalq ‘Álamu’l-Khalq (intermediate) world of the revelation of the divine command
Alamut Alamút eagle-nest. Name of a region in Írán on the western edge of the Alborz (Elburz) range and a ruined fortress (55 km NE of Qazvín and 110 km NW of Ṭihrán.
Alaniya ‘Aláníya openness, overtness, publicness, publicity (as opposed to secrecy)
Alaq, ‘Alaqun, ‘Alaqat ‘Alaq(at), ‘Alaqun, pl. ‘Alaqát medicinal leech; leech; (coagulated) blood, blood clot. Note: the tá’ marbúṭa here is represented by ‘at’.
Alast (Alastu) Alast (Alastu) “Am I not?” Cycle of alast is a reference to a pre historic Covenant between God and man. According to Qur’án 7:172, God called all the men in his presence before their creation and asked them alastu bi-rabbikum?  “Am I not your Lord?” and all the men confirmed that by saying “yes, yes, thou art our Lord”. This demonstrates the total and inherent essential dependence of man to the continuous grace of God. So alast and the cycle of alast is a reference to this Covenant.
Alawi, ‘Alawiya, ‘Alawiyan ‘Alawí, fem. ‘Alawíya[h or t] pl. ‘alawiyán upper; heavenly, celestial; prince, lord (a descendant of ‘Alí ibn Abí Ṭálib). ‘Alawíya[h] is a follower of Imám ‘Alí; English Alawis or Alawites; official name of the Nusayris (Nuṣayríyah), an Islamic sect inhabiting the coastal district of Latakia in NW Syria, founded by Ibn Nusayr. Pers. also ‘Alawiyih.
Alayhi (‘Alaihi) ‘Alayhi upon, against, with him (or it);—‘alayhi’s-salám, Peace be upon him! (formula of reverence added after the name of any prophet). Abbreviation in English pbuh.
Alayka (‘Alaika), ‘Alayki, ‘Alaykum ‘Alayka, fem. ‘Alayki, pl. ‘Alaykum (fem. pl. ‘Alaykunna) (‘Alayka = ‘Alá + káf) above, on, or to thee, on you. In some places ‘Alayka is shortened to ‘Alayk. salám.
Alaʼ ad-Din, ʻAlaʼ ud-Din, ‘Ala’u’d-Din ʻAláʼ ad-Dín, ʻAláʼ ud-Dín, ‘Alá’u’d-Dín (علاء الدين) Aladdin (form dependent on whether nominative, genitive or accusative) is a male given name “nobility of faith” or “nobility of creed/religion”. Sometimes written ‘Alá’u-d-dín or ‘Alá ad-Dunyá wa ad-Dín Abu’l Muẓaffar Tekish (Tekiş? ibn Il-Arslán, Sháh of the Khwarezmian Empire (r. 1172–1200). His son, ‘Alá ad-Dín Muḥammad II (full name: ‘Alá ad-Dunyá wa ad-Dín Abu’l-Fatḥ Muḥammad Sanjar ibn Tekish), Sháh of the Khwarezmian Empire (r. 1200–1220). He is perhaps best known for inciting the Mongol invasion of Khwarezmia, which resulted in the utter destruction of his empire.
Alburz Alburz, Alborz the principal mountain range in northern Írán
Alf, Uluf Alf, pl. Ulúf, Áláf thousand; millennium
Alfi ‘Id Alfí: Alfí ‘Íd millennial celebration, millenary
Alfiya (Alfiyya) Alfíya(h), Pers. Alfíyyih millennium. al-Alfíya short title of al-Khuláṣa al-Alfíya (“Millennium Summary”), famous 1,000 line poem on the principles of Arabic grammar by Ibn Málik, Abú ‘Abd Alláh Jamál ad-Dín Muḥammad (c. 1204–1274), was an Arab grammarian born in Jaén, Spain, worked in Damascus.
Ali ‘Alí high, eminent. al-‘Alí, the divine name for the All-Knowing.
Ali an-Naqi, Ali-Naqi ‘Alí an-Naqí, ‘Alí-Naqí ‘Alí ibn Muḥammad ibn ‘Alí, commonly known as ‘Alí al-Hádí and ‘Alí an-Naqí, 10th Imám
Ali Baba ‘Alí Bábá Mullá ‘Alí Bábá of Tákur. ‘Alí Bábá wa al-Arbá‘ún Luṣúṣ (“‘Alí Bábá and the forty thieves”). Name in English has become Alibaba.
Ali Big Yuz-Bashi ‘Alí Big Yúz-Báshí
Ali ibn Abi Talib ‘Alí ibn Abí Ṭálib Imám ‘Alí (the first) (601–661), son of ‘Abú Ṭálib ibn ‘Abd al-Muṭṭalib, was a cousin and son-in-law of Muḥammad, who ruled as the fourth caliph from 656 to 661. He is one of the central figures in Shí‘a Islám and is regarded as the rightful immediate successor to Muḥammad as an Imám by Shí‘a Muslims
Ali ibn Muhammad ‘Alí ibn Muḥammad
Ali ibn Musa’r-Rida ‘Alí ibn Músá’r-Riḍá
Ali Pasha ‘Álí Páshá Muḥammad Amín ‘Álí Páshá or in Turkish, Mehmed Emin Âli Pasha (1815–1871), five times he was appointed the Grand Vizier (or Prime Minister) of the Ottoman Empire by two Sultans.
Ali-‘Askar-i-Tabrizi ‘Alí-‘Askar-i-Tabrízí Merchant from Tabríz
Ali-Abad (Aliabad, Aliyabad) ‘Alí-Ábád a village 35 km SW of Ṭihrán. A very small village (35.1318499, 50.9764761) in the Central District of Qom County, Qom Province. A very common name.
Ali-Ahmad ‘Alí-Aḥmad
Ali-Akbar-i-Ardistani ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Ardistání
Ali-Akbar-i-Mazgani ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Mázgání (MF)
Ali-Akbar-i-Najjar ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Najjár (MF)
Ali-Akbar-i-Quchani ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Qúchání
Ali-Akbar-i-Shahmirzadi ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Shahmírzádí known as Ḥájí Ákhúnd, a Hand of the Cause of God (1842–1910)
Ali-Asghar ‘Alí-Aṣghar (MF)
Ali-Baba ‘Alí-Bábá
Ali-Hamzih ‘Alí-Ḥamzih
Ali-ibn-i-Abi-Talib ‘Alí-ibn-i-Abí-Ṭálib
Ali-ibn-i-Muhammad ‘Alí-ibn-i-Muḥammad
Ali-ibn-i-Musa’r-Rida ‘Alí-ibn-i-Músá’r-Riḍá
Ali-Jan ‘Alí-Ján
Ali-Khan ‘Alí-Khán
Ali-Mardan ‘Alí-Mardán
Ali-Mirzay-i-Shirazi ‘Alí-Mírzáy-i-Shírází
Ali-Muhammad ‘Alí-Muḥammad
Ali-Murad (‘Alimurad) ‘Alí-Murád (Sometimes shortened to ‘Alímurád)
Ali-Qabl-i-Muhammad ‘Alí-Qabl-i-Muḥammad
Ali-Quli Khan (Ali-Kuli Khan) ‘Alí-Qulí Khán better known as Ali-Kuli Khan (c. 1879-1966), married Florence Breed (parents of Marzieh Gail). He was born in Káshán. Persian diplomat (given the title Nabíl al-Dawla by the Qájár government in 1914) and a Bahá’í translator.
Ali-Rida ‘Alí-Riḍá
Ali-Shawkat ‘Alí-Shawkat (GPB 241)
Ali, 'Aliy, 'Aliya, 'Ilya ‘Alí, adj. ‘Alíy, fem. ‘Alíya[h or t] (pl. ‘Ilya[h or t]) high, tall, elevated: exalted, sublime, lofty, august, excellent; —pl. upper class, people of distinction, prominent people.
Name of the son-in-law and fourth successor of the Prophet Muḥammad.
al-‘Alí, the Most High, the Supreme (one of the attributes of God).
Alif Alif the vertically aligned or “upright” first consonant (, á) with an abjad value of 1. The basic shape of the alif has two forms depending on its position in a word.
The alif is one of three letters: alif ا, wáw و, and yá’ ي, which might be either a consonant or a vowel letter.
The Báb is often identified as the “upright Alif”, a vertical line that is unwavering and straight, and thus the symbol of the true Path of God, the supreme Standard of truth, the straight line of justice and moderation.
In writing the alif serves as a prop for vowel-signs (small vowel diacritics above or below):
اَ a;
اِ i;
اُ u;
اُو ú, o, au; and ای í, e, ai.
Since an alif cannot occur at the end of a word, an alif maqṣúra, written as ى, and pronounced as á (e.g., ىمر ramá) is used, and the ى takes markings such as ḥamza like a regular alif.
The ىٰ is called an alif qá’ima, alif khanjaríyah, or dagger alif. The alif at the end of the word is called الألف اللينة (al-alif al-layna[t]), which can be translated as “the soft or flexible alif” because it can be written as either a و or a ي.
Alil, A’illa’ ‘Alíl, pl. A‘illa’ sick, ill, ailing; sick person, patient; soft, gentle, mild, pleasant. meaning with place names: “lower”
Alim, ‘Ulama ‘Alím, pl. ‘Ulamá’ (Pers. ‘Ulamá) knowing; cognizant, informed; learned, erudite; al-‘Alím the omniscient (one of the attributes of God)
Alim, Alima, Ulama ‘Álim, fem. ‘Álima, pl. ‘Ulamá’ (adj. or noun) “scholar”, knowing; familiar, acquainted (with), cognizant (of); expert, connoisseur, professional;—pl. “learned ones”, learned, erudite; scholars (of Islamic law), savants, scientists, doctors, theologians. The ‘ulamá’ are Muslim scholars recognized as having specialist knowledge of Islamic sacred law and theology. The ‘ulamá’ are collectively known in Persian society as the Jámi‘a-i Rúḥáníyat (the spiritual concourse). Bahá’í Writings use ‘Ulamá.
Alima (‘Ilm) ‘Alima (‘Ilm) to know; teach; tell, notify; to learn, study; to inquire, ask
Alin ‘Álin high, tall, elevated; loud, strong (voice); higher (as opposed to elementary); lofty, exalted, sublime, high-ranking, of high standing; excellent, first-class, first-rate, outstanding, of top quality (commodity)
Alipur or Chah-i-Ahmad Vatn Dust ‘Alípúr or Cháh-i-Aḥmad Vaṭn Dús village in Yunesi Rural District, Yunesi District, Bajestan County, Razavi Khorasan Province, Írán
Aliy-i-Baraqani ‘Alíy-i-Baraqání
Aliy-i-Barfurushi ‘Alíy-i-Bárfurúshí Muḥammad-‘Alíy-i-Bárfurúshí (1820–1849) was entitled Quddús by Bahá’u’lláh at Badasht and this was later confirmed by the Báb.
Aliy-i-Bastami ‘Alíy-i-Basṭámí Mullá ‘Alíy-i-Basṭámí, a Letter of the Living
Aliy-i-Kani ‘Alíy-i-Kání
Aliy-i-Kirmanshahi ‘Alíy-i-Kirmánsháhí
Aliy-i-Las-Furush ‘Alíy-i-Lás-Furúsh
Aliy-i-Miri ‘Alíy-i-Mírí
Aliy-i-Mudhahhib ‘Alíy-i-Mudhahhib
Aliy-i-Qazvini ‘Alíy-i-Qazvíní
Aliy-i-Sabzivari ‘Alíy-i-Sabzivárí
Aliy-i-Salmani ‘Alíy-i-Salmání
Aliy-i-Sardar ‘Alíy-i-Sardár
Aliy-i-Sayyah-i-Maraghih’i ‘Alíy-i-Sayyáḥ-i-Maraghih’í
Aliy-i-Tabib-i-Zanjani ‘Alíy-i-Ṭabíb-i-Zanjání
Aliy-i-Tafrishi ‘Alíy-i-Tafríshí
Aliy-i-Turshizi ‘Alíy-i-Turshízí Mullá Shaykh ‘Alíy-i-Turshízí, surnamed ‘Aẓím
Aliy-i-Zanjani ‘Alíy-i-Zanjání
Aliy-i-Zargar ‘Alíy-i-Zargar
Aliy-i-Zunuzi ‘Alíy-i-Zunúzí
Aliy, ‘Aliya, ‘Ilya ‘Alíy, fem. ‘Aliya[h], pl. ‘Ilya[h] (“‘Aliyy”, “‘Alí”) high, tall, elevated, exalted, sublime, lofty, august, excellent. Iṣfahání Pers. fem. also ‘Alíyyih.
Aliya ‘Alíya[h or t) descent from, or the descendants of ‘Alí; English Alids.
Aliyabadi (‘Aliabadi) ‘Alíyábádí Pers. a surname. Derived from ‘Alíyábád (built or populated by ‘Alí). Mírzá Zakíy ‘Alíyábádí founded the Mírzá Zakíy Khán Seminary (36.548471, 52.682296) near Ḥaẓír Furúshán Square (“Mat sellers square”, 36.549107, 52.682804), Bárfurúsh.
Aliyu’llah ‘Alíyu’lláh ‘Alí is chosen by, or from God
Aliyu’llahi ‘Alíyu’lláhí a sect in western Írán that combines elements of Shí‘a Islám with older religions. Used as a general term for several denominations that venerate or deify Imám ‘Alí, like the Kaysáníya, the ‘Alawiyán, the Ahlu’l-Ḥaqq and Nuṣayríya.
Aliyu’l-‘Ala, ‘Aliyyu’l-‘Ala ‘Alíyu’l-‘Alá, ‘Aliyyu’l-‘Alá the exalted of the exalted
Alizad (‘Ali-Zad) ‘Alizada (‘Alizadeh) ‘Alízád, ‘Alí Zád (‘Alízáda, ‘Alí Záda) descendent of ‘Alí. Asadu’lláh ‘Alízád and Maqṣúd ‘Alízádah
Alladhi, Allati, Alladhina Alladhí, fem. Allatí (relative pronoun) he who, that which; who, which, that. Plurals: m. alladhína, fem. allátí, allawátí (“allawati”), allá’í (“alla’i”)
Allaf ‘Alláf seller of provender (dry food such as hay and oats for livestock)
Allah Alláh (originally al-Iláh) God: The God, by way of eminence (being a contraction of the compound of the definite article ال (al, The) and الهٰ (iláh, a God). See iláh.
Allah-Vardi, Allah-Virdi Alláh-Vardí, Alláh-Virdí
Allah-Yar Alláh-Yár Ḥájj Alláh-Yár. A small village 100 km west of Kirmánsháh. 34.249047, 45.986214
Allahu ‘Azam, Allah-u-‘Azam Alláhu ‘Aẓam, Pers. Alláh-u-‘Aẓam God is Great
Allahu A’zam, Allah-u-A’zam Alláhu A‘ẓam, Pers. Alláh-u-A‘ẓam (greeting response to Alláh-u-Akbar—men) God is the Most Mighty
Allahu Abha, Allah-u-Abha Alláhu Abhá, Pers. Alláh-u-Abhá (greeting response to Alláh-u-Ajmal (“God the Most Beauteous”)—women) “God is Most Glorious, God is All-Glorious”. A form of the Greatest Name. A salutation that “is a clarion that pealeth out the lordship of the divine Beauty [Baháʼuʼlláh]”. (‘Abdu’l-Bahá) Its repetition 95 times each day is ordained by the Báb and adopted by Bahá’u’lláh. Lilláh (95) = Letters of the Living (18) × 5 + Báb (5). Bahá, or any of its derivatives such as Abhá, Yá Bahá’u’lláh, or Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá, are all referred to as the Greatest name. Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá (O Glory of Glories or O Glory of the All-Glorious) is an invocation used in the calligraphy designed by Mishkín-Qalam.
Allahu Ajmal, Allah-u-Ajmal Alláhu Ajmal, Pers. Alláh-u-Ajmal (greeting response to Alláh-u-Abhá—women) God is the Most Beautiful.
Allahu Akbar, Allah-u-Akbar Alláhu Akbar, Pers. Alláh-u-Akbar greeting by a man to a man. God is the Most Great or God is the Greatest. See Alláh-u-A‘ẓam above
Allahu Anwar, Allah-u-Anwar Alláhu Anwár, Pers. Alláh-u-Anwár God is Most Luminous
Allahu Aqdam, Allah-u-Aqdam Alláhu Aqdam, Pers. Alláh-u-Aqdam God is the Most Ancient
Allahu Athar, Allah-u-Athar Alláhu Aṭhar, Pers. Alláh-u-Aṭhar God the Most Pure
Allahu Azhar, Allah-u-Azhar Alláhu Aẓhar, Pers. Alláh-u-Aẓhar God is Most Manifest
Allahumma Alláhumma “O God!”, “O Thou My God”. Possible derivation from Hebrew elohim (pl. of eloah).
Allam ‘Allám knowing thoroughly
Allama ‘Alláma[h or t] most erudite, very learned (of the ‘ulamá); learned in every branch of the Islamic sciences
Allamiy ‘Allámíy very learned; possessed of the highest degree of knowledge, but never applied to God, because the letters ة and ى, although here expressive of intensity, not of femininity or relationship, might imply an imputation of the latter two qualities to the divine being.
Allamiy-i-Hilli ‘Allámiy-i-Ḥillí “the very erudite doctor” from al-Ḥillah, a title of the famed Shí‘ih theologian, Jamál ad-Dín al-Ḥasan bin Yúsuf bin ‘Alí ibn al-Muṭahhar al-Ḥillí (CE 1250–1325) (MF p. 169), commonly known as Alláma Ḥillí, was one of the well-known Twelver Shí‘í Muslim scholars of his time and an expert in Twelver theology and a mujtahid. His kunya was Abu Manṣūr, his first title was ‘Alláma “sage,” his second, Jamál ad-Dín, and third, Jamál al-Ḥillah wa’l-Ḥaqq wa’l-Dín. His given name was al-Ḥasan and his father’s given name was Yúsuf.
Allamiy-i-Nuri ‘Allámiy-i-Núrí
Alliyu’llahi ‘Allíyu‘lláhí a sect
Almaniya Almániyá Germany
Alqa ‘Alqa (e.g.) beating; bastinado; a thrashing, spanking. See falaqa.
Alus Álús Pers. amorous or angry side-glance
Alusi Álúsí (Alossy) Ibn-i-Álúsí, Muftí of Baghdád
Alvah-i-Laylatu’l-Quds Alváḥ-i-Laylatu’l-Quds Tablets of the Holy Night by Bahá’u’lláh
Alvah-i-Salatin Alváḥ-i-Saláṭín Tablets to the Sultans
Alvah-i-Tablighi-i-Amrika Alváḥ-i-Tablíghí-i-Amríká Pers. collection of Tablets by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to America, translated as Tablets of the Divine Plan. Amríká also given as Imríká
Alvah-i-Vasaya Alváḥ-i-Vaṣáyá Tablets of Commandments by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Am Am Pers. (first person of búdan, to be), I am, and as such, like the English “am”; the suffixed form of the pronoun of the first person, signifying “my” after a noun
Ama ‘Amá’ loss of the way; contention, litigation; a cloud, high, dense, rainy, thin; a black or white cloud; a cloud which has shed rain; blindness.]
See root word ‘amiya.
Hence, ‘Amá’ can be translated as blindness, secrecy, obscurity, etc.; though it also has the sense of “cloud”, possibly “heavy and thick clouds (which hide and obscure) or (the opposite!) light diaphanous clouds.1
In Islamic theology, it is sometimes used to describe a state of divine obscurity or the primordial state before creation.

Ama, Ima, Amawat Ama, pl. Imá’, Amawát bondmaid, slave girl
Amad, Amadam Ámad Pers. he came; arrival. Dar Ámadam (“I have arisen”)
Amada ‘Amada to baptize, christen
Amadan az fawq Ámadan az fawq Pers. “come from on high” or “come down from on high”. Expression used by Bahá’ís meaning sent by Shoghi Effendi, etc.
Amadan Ámadan Pers. to come, to arrive; to exist, to be found; to become
Amal, A’mal ‘Amal, pl. A‘mál doing, acting, action, activity; work, labour; course of action, way of acting, practice; achievement, accomplishment; activity (for), work (in the service of something); making, production, manufacture, fabrication; performance, execution; make, workmanship; practical work, practice;—pl. act, action; operation (military); work, job, chore, labour; deed, feat, achievement, exploit; occupation, business; trade, craft, handicraft; vicegerency, province, district; administrative district
Aman Amán Ar. Security, safety; peace; shelter, protection; clemency, quarter (mil.); safeguarding, assurance of protection; indemnity, immunity from punishment
Aman’u’llah Amán’u’lláh the protection of God. Fí amánu’lláh (Be under God’s protection) is an expression used by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Amana, Amanat Amána(h or t), Amánát reliability, trustworthiness; loyalty, faithfulness, fidelity, fealty; integrity, honesty; confidence, trust, good faith; deposition in trust; trusteeship;—pl. something deposited in trust, a deposit, trust, charge, anything given in trust; security, safety, protection; safe-guard, safe-conduct. Ḥusayn Amánat (1942–) is an Iranian-Canadian architect and brother of academic ‘Abbás Amánat. He is the architect of the Burj-i-Shahyád (“Shah’s Memorial Tower”, renamed Burj-i-Ázádí, “Freedom Tower”) in Ṭihrán, three Bahá’í Arc buildings in Haifa, the Samoan House of Worship and the Shrine of ʻAbdu’l-Bahá.
Amara, Amarat, Ama’ir Amára(h or t), pl. Amárát, Amá’ir sign, token, indication, symptom, mark, characteristic
Amara, Amr, Awamir, Umur Amara, Amr, pl. Awámir, Umúr to order, command, bid, instruct (someone to do something), commission, charge, entrust (someone with something or to do something);—pl. Awámir order, command, instruction (to do something); ordinance, decree; power, authority; (grammar) imperative;—pl. Umúr matter, affair, concern, business. Hence, can be defined as “divine order” and “acts of obedience and pious deeds that are ordained” by God.
Amasiya Amásiyá (Amasya) city in Türkiye, 84 km SW of Samsun
Amatu’l-A’la Amatu’l-A‘lá (“the Handmaid of the Most High”) Title given to Dr Susan Moody by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Amatu’l-Baha Amatu’l-Bahá Hand of the Cause of God, Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum Rabbani (née Mary Sutherland Maxwell) (1910–2000). [“It was Amatu’l-Bahá’s preference that Rabbani not be” transcripted. Letter from her Literary Executors, 9 Jan. 2007 to M.W.T.] Her names mean “The Handmaiden of the Glory”, “Spiritual” and “Lady” respectively.
Amatu’l-Haqq Amatu’l-Ḥaqq “Maidservant of Truth (or God)”. Title given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to Núríyyih, the first wife of Varqá.
Amatu’llah Amatu’lláh (The Handmaiden of God)
Amid, ‘Umada ‘Amíd, pl. ‘Umadá’ support; head, chief; dean (of a faculty); principal, headmaster, director (of a secondary school); doyen, dean (as, of a diplomatic corps; high commissioner
Amil az-Zakah, ‘Ummal az-Zakah ‘Ámil az-Zakáh, pl. ‘Ummál az-Zakáh to give alms or almsgiver (incorrect: ‘ummál-i-dhakát in PDC p. 92). Pers. ‘Ámil-i-Zakáh, pl. ‘Ummál-i-Zakáh.
Amil, Awamil, Ummal ‘Ámil, pl. ‘Awámil, ‘Ummál active; effective;—(pl. ‘awámil) factor, constituent, element, (causative) agent, motive power; word governing another in syntactical regimen, regent (grammar);—(pl. ‘ummál) maker, producer, manufacturer; doer, perpetrator, author; worker, workman, working man, labourer; wage earner, employee; governor.
Amili ‘Ámilí an agent
Amin-i-Halabi Amín-i-Ḥalabí, Shaykh [Amín Ḥalabí]
Amin-i-Ilahi Amín-i-Iláhí Trusted of God. See Ardakání
Amin, Amina Ámin, fem. Ámina(h) peaceful. Áminah bint Wahb, mother of Muḥammad; died AD 577 in the village of al-Abwá’.
Amin, Umana Amín, pl. Umaná’ reliable, trustworthy, loyal, faithful, upright, honest; safe, secure; authorized representative or agent; trustee; guarantor (of); chief, head; superintendent, curator, custodian, guardian, keeper; chamberlain; master of a guild. Superlative form of amuna or amána (to be faithful, reliable, trustworthy). Turkish Emin.
Amini Amíní Persian name. Office of amín; trust, guardianship, custody; security; commission, deputation; secure, safe.
Aminu’d-Dawlah Amínu’d-Dawlah Trusted of the state
Aminu’l-‘Ulama’ Amínu’l-‘Ulamá’ trustworthy scholars
Aminu’l-Bayan Amínu’l-Bayán “Trusted of the Bayán”
Aminu’llah Amínu’lláh “Trust of God”
Aminu’s-Sultan Amínu’s-Sulṭán (MF)
Amir, ‘Amira ‘Ámir, fem. ‘Ámira(t) inhabited; peopled, populated, populous; full, filled, filled up; jammed, crowded, filled to capacity (with); amply provided, splendidly furnished; civilized; cultivated (land); flourishing, thriving, prosperous
Amir Ámir commander; lord, master; orderer, purchaser, customer, client
Amir al-Mu’minin Amír al-Mu’minín Commander of the Faithful, Caliph. Sunnis believe the first to hold the title was ‘Umar ibn al-Khaṭṭáb, and Shí‘i believe the title applies exclusively to ‘Imám ‘Alí.
Amir Rud (Amirud) Amír Rúd Pers. a village (36.633470, 51.567460) on the Caspian Sea coast, Mazandaran Province. It is named after the river to its east.
Amir Tuman Amír Túmán military commander of 10,000 men
Amir-Divan Amír-Díván position of authority. al-Amírí ad-Díván is the sovereign body and administrative office of an Amír
Amir-i-Kabir Amír-i-Kabír Great Prince
Amir-Nizam Amír-Niẓám Grand Vizir or General of the Army
Amir-Tuman Amír-Túmán
Amir-Zada (Amir-Zadih) Amír-Záda or Amírzáda Pers. someone of noble birth or family; a king’s son, a prince. See Mírzá
Amir, Umara, Amirat Amír, pl. Umará’, pl. fem. Amírát commander, governor, lord; prince, emir; title of princes of a ruling house; tribal chief
Amira’l-Mu’minin Amíra’l-Mu’minín Commander of the Faithful
Amiru’l-Kuttab Amíru’l-Kuttáb Prince of Calligraphers
Amiru’sh-Shu’ara’ Amíru’sh-Shu‘ará’ (The Emir of Poets) (sing. shá‘ir)
Amiya, ‘Aman ‘Amiya (‘Aman) to be or become blind, lose one’s eyesight; to be blind (to something); to be obscure (to someone); form II to blind, render blind (someone); to blindfold (someone); to obscure, render cryptic, enigmatic or mysterious, mystify (something); form IV to blind, render blind (someone); to blindfold (someone); to make (someone) blind (to a fact); form V to be or become blind, lose one’s eyesight; form VI to shut one’s eyes (on something), pretend not to see (something); to be blind (to). That is, ‘to become blind, to be obscure’
Amm ‘Ámm public; universal, prevalent; general; common
Amm, 'Ammu, 'Umum, A'mam 'Amm, fem. 'Amma[h or t] (pl. ‘Umúm, A‘mám; fem. ‘Ammát) father’s brother, paternal uncle (fem. paternal aunt); ibn al-‘amm cousin on the father’s side; bint al-‘amm female cousin on the father’s side. ‘Ammú (in colloquial Arabic), a paternal uncle, can be used out of respect for any older man, also used as a name.
Amma, ‘Ammatan, ‘Awamm ‘Ámma(h), pl. ‘Awámm (noun) generality; commonalty; the masses, the people;—‘ámmatan (adverb) in general; generally; commonly, altogether, in the aggregate, collectively;—pl. al-‘Awámm the common people, the populace; the laity (Christian). cf. Kháṣṣa.
Amman ‘Ammán Ancient Philadelphia, capital city of Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
Ammar, Ammara Ammár, fem. Ammára[h or t] constantly urging, always demanding (to do something); inciting, instigating
Amna’ Amna‘ harder to get at, more forbidding; offering greater resistance
Amr ‘Amr preserving; living long; visiting; faith, religion. ‘Amr ibn al-‘Áṣ as-Sahmí (c. 573–664) was the Arab commander who led the Muslim conquest of Egypt and served as its governor in 640–646 and 658–664. Also an Arab commander for the conquest of Syria. He conquered most of Palestine and appointed governor. He led the Arabs to decisive victories over the Byzantines in 634 and 636.
Amr al-Baha’i Amr al-Bahá’í (Amr-i-Bahá’í) “the Glorious Cause”, “the Bahá’í Cause”, the Bahá’í Faith
Amr Allah, Amru’llah Amr Alláh, Amru’lláh “command of God”, “House of God’s command” or “cause of God”
Amr va Khalq Amr va Khalq Revelation and creation, compilation by Fáḍil Mázandarání
Amr-i-Abda’ Amr-i-Abda‘ (the Most Wondrous New Cause)
Amr-i-Badi’ Amr-i-Badí‘ (the Wondrous New Cause)
Amr, ‘Amru (‘Amro) ‘Amr, ‘Amrú (pronounced ‘Amr) he final و being employed solely to distinguish this word from ‘umar, Omar. A proper name. See Ḥadíth-i-Jábir and ‘Amr (‘Amú) bin ‘Abdiwudd.
Amr, ‘Amru Amr; pl. Awámir, Umúr order, command, cause; (in grammar) imperative; affair, business, transaction; event, occurrence, fact, circumstance; matter, case, thing, particular; point, question.—pl. (Awámir) order, command, instruction (to do something); ordinance, decree; power, authority; (grammar) imperative;—pl. (Umúr) matter, affair, concern, business.
Amra ‘Amra(h) headgear (e.g., turban); (e.g.) repair, repair work
Amran ‘Amrán a small city in western central Yemen
Amrani ‘Amrání Muḥammad Muḥammad Ṣa‘íd al-Baqqálí al-‘Amrání, Bahá’í arrested in Morocco, 1962
Amrika Amríká America
Amru’llah Amru’llah “God’s command”. Name given to a house (41.679178, 26.556450) occupied by Bahá’u’lláh on the northern side of the Sulṭán Salím Mosque in Erdine.
Amu (Amuya) Ámú (Ámúya) Pers. a tumour, swelling, inflation; Ámú Daryú modern name of the ancient Oxus River
Amu, ‘Ammu ‘Amú, ‘Ammú Pers. paternal uncle. Mullá Ḥasan ‘Amú. See ‘amm.
Amud, A’mida, Umud ‘Amúd, pl. A‘mida, ‘Umud flagpole, shaft (of a standard); pale, post, prop, shore, pier, buttress; lamppost; (telephone, telegraph) pole; column, pillar, pilaster; stem (of a glass); (pl.) column (of a newspaper)
Amud, Awamid (Avamid) ‘Ámúd, pl. ‘Awámíd column, pillar pole. post.
Modern meaning: steering column, steering mechanism (of an automobile)
Amul (Amol) Ámul companion. A town (36.466423, 52.354574) in Mázindarán province, on the Haraz River, near the Caspian Sea.
An ‘An (preposition) off, away from; from (designating the source); out of (a feeling); about, on (a topic); according to, as attested or declared by, from what ... says, on the authority of; on the basis of, on the strength of; for, in defence of; as a substitute for
Anahita Anáhítá Old Pers. immaculate, undefiled. Venus, Aphrodite (Greek) and Venus Erucina (Roman). See modern form Náhíd
Anam Anám mankind, mortals; creatures; jinn; demons. al-anám mankind, the human race.
Anas Anas joy, friendliness, delight. Anas ibn Málik ibn Naḍr al-Khazrají al-Ansárí (c. 612-c. 712) was a well-known ṣaḥábí (companion) of Muḥammad.
Anaya, ‘Inaya, ‘Inayat ‘Anáya[t], ‘Ináya[t], pl. ‘Ináyát (“Enayat”) meaning, signifying, intending (somewhat by one’s words); bestowing pains upon; happening, occurring; agreeing with one (food); guarding, preserving; solicitude, anxiety, care; assistance, aid, favour; a gift, present, bounty. See ‘Ináyatu’lláh.
Anbar Anbár Pers. full to the brim, replete; a pond, a reservoir
Anbar, ‘Anabir ‘Anbar, pl. ‘Anábir ambergris;—pl. sperm whale
Anbar, Nibr, Anabir Anbár, Nibr, pl. Anábir, Anábír barn, shed, granary, storeroom, storehouse, warehouse. Anbar-i-Sháhí (“Royal Storehouse”, 35.678809, 51.420662—it is south of the Golestan Palace and north of the Síyáh-Chál). Its name later became synonymous with a ḥubús (dungeon) and then a zindán (jail) (i.e. the Anbar Prison).
Anbijaniya Anbijániya may be a plain, thick sheet or blanket, or a garment from the Syrian town of Manbij. In a ḥadíth, Muḥammad is said to have found a patterned khamíṣa (“khamisa”) distracting Him from His prayers and asked for a plain anbijániya (or a manbijániya garment).
Anbiq, Inbiq, Anabiq Anbíq, Inbíq, pl. Anábíq alembic, distilling flask; figuratively “something that refines or transmutes as if by a process of distillation”
and, ‘ind, ‘und, ‘anda, ‘inda ‘and, ‘ind, ‘und a side, part, quarter;—‘anda, ‘inda (adverb of time and place), near, nigh, with, before, about, in, according to. min ‘inda’lláh, “on God’s part”. min 'indaná, “from us” or “on our part”.
Andalib, ‘Anadil ‘Andalíb, pl. ‘Anádil Pers. a nightingale. See Láhíjání.
Andar Andar Pers. in, into, within; added to the words
Andarman (Enderman, Endermane) Ándarmán small village 10 km south of the centre of Ṭihrán and 3 km NW of the Sháh ‘Abdu’l-‘Aẓim Shrine (in Shahr-i-Ray)
Andarun Andarún Pers. within; the inside; the heart, bowels; intrinsic, interior, internal. Village 190 km ESE Ahváz, Írán
Andaruni Andarúní interior; inner women’s apartments. See bírúní
Andarz Andarz Pers. a testament, last will. It is most often applied to remarks made by a prominent person to his son, his courtiers, “people of the world,” etc., and commonly indicates a spiritual testament. As a literary designation, it denotes the type of literature which contains advice and injunctions for proper behavior, whether in matters of state, everyday life, or religion.
Andirmani (Andarmani) Ándirmání probably Ándarmání, of or from Ándarmán. See Ándarmán.
Andulus al-Andalus Spain
Anfusihim Anfusihim themselves
Angiz Ángiz Pers. raised, elevated; (in compounds) exciting, raising. village 84 km SW Ardabíl, and 95 km east of Tabríz, Írán
Angur Angúr Pers. a grape, a raisin; granulations in a healing sore [angoor]
Anis, Anisa Anís, fem. Anísa[h or t] close, intimate; close friend; friendly, kind, affable, civil, polite, courteous. Close Companion, Anís, is the title of Mírzá Muḥammad-‘Alíy-i-Zunúzí, the companion of the Báb in martyrdom, and Ḥájí Muḥammad-Ismá‘íl (referred to as Anís in Súriy-i-Ra’ís).
Anisa Anísá ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: By the gathering together under the shade of the symbolic “Tree of Anísá [Pers. شجره انيسا, shajarah anísá] is meant the Tabernacle of the Lord of Grace, the divine Lote-Tree, the Tree of Life, "the Olive [the blessed tree] that belongeth neither to the East nor to the West, whose oil would well nigh shine out even though fire touched it not”. (Qur’án 24:35) Shoghi Effendi said at times it refers to the Temple of the Manifestation. See The Hidden Words, Persian 19.
Anjuman (Anjoman) Anjuman Pers. a company, assembly, society, banquet, congregation, synagogue, congress, any place where people meet and converse; a multitude
Ankabut, Anakib ‘Ankabút, pl. ‘Anákib spider
Anqa’ (‘Anka) ‘Anqá’ a legendary bird, griffon
Anqura Ánqura[h or t] Greek Ánkyra (“anchor”); Ánqurah or Ankara, capital of Türkiye
Ans ‘Ans bending (a stick); a strong she-camel with a long tail; an eagle.
Ansari, Ansariyyah Anṣárí, pl. Anṣaríyyah related to Anṣár, the Helpers. Those who rallied around Muḥammad after His flight from Mecca to Medina. Anṣaríyyah is believed to be a mistranscription of Nuṣayríyyah. Abú al-Qásim Khalaf ibn al-‘Abbás az-Zahráwí al-Anṣárí (936–1013), popularly known as az-Zahrawi, Latinized as Abulcasis, was an Arab Andalusian physician, surgeon and chemist. Considered to be the greatest surgeon of the Middle Ages. See Náṣir (helper) and ‘Alawí.
Ansi ‘Ansí al-‘Ansí is an ancient and prolific tribe originating in the Ḥaḍramawt region of Yemen. After the final breach of the Ma’rib Dam about CE 570, its members spread across the Arabian Peninsula. al-Aswad ibn-Ka‘b ibn-‘Awf al-‘Ansí, better known as Abhala bin Ka‘b. Also known as Dhú’l-Ḥimári’l-Aswad. He was a leader of the al-Ansí tribe and was the second false prophet—he declared when Muḥammad became ill after his final pilgrimage to Mecca.
Antun (Anton, Antoun) Antún Latin Anthony
Anud ‘Anúd (“anoud”, not ánúd) contumacious (stubbornly or wilfully disobedient to authority), refractory, wayward; a cloud big with rain
Anushirwan (Anushirvan, Nushirvan) Anúshírwán (Núshírván) “immortal soul” or “eternal spirit”. Sásáníyán king of Persia known for his just rule (CE 531–578). The Prophet Muḥammad was born in Arabia at the time of his reign (c. 570–1) (SDC p. 68). Persians sometimes use Anúshírván or even Núshírván. There are instances of Núshíraván, Núshíruván and Nawshíraván (MF 20).
Anwari (Avari) Anwárí (Anvárí) Name of a famous Persian poet, who died AH 586/CE 1190. See núr
Anyabuli Anyábulí now Inebolu. A Black Sea port 225 km WNW of Samsun, Türkiye.
Anzali Anzalí Pers. Bandar-i-Anzalí (37.466949, 49.469869), Port of Enzeli, SW end of Caspian Sea, Írán. See nuzl.
Aq, Ak Áq Turkish white
Aqa Baba (Aqa-Baba, Aga Baba) Áqá Bábá (Áqá-Bábá) small villages in Qazvín Province: “Aka-Baba” 21 km south Qazvín and “Aga-Baba” (Ágha Bábá) 22 km SNW Qazvín
Aqa Buzurg-i-Nishapuri Áqá Buzurg-i-Níshápúrí born in Khurásán, but was the son of Ḥájí ‘Abdu’l-Majíd-i-Níshápúrí. Bahá’u’lláh sent Áqá Buzurg to Írán with a messenge for Náṣiri’d-Dín Sháh. Áqá Buzurg was then martyred. He was given the titles Badí‘ (Wonderful) and Fakhru’sh-Shuhadá’ (Pride of Martyrs)
Aqa Fatu’llah Áqá Fatu’lláh (Fatollah)
Aqa Jan Kashani Áqá Ján Kashání Mírzá Áqá Ján Kashání (1837–1901), the first person to believe in Bahá’u’lláh as “Him Whom God shall make manifest”. Bahá’u’lláh chose him to become His amanuensis (despite his limited education) and gave him the title of Khádim (“Servant”) and later Khádimu’lláh (“Servant of God”). Áqá Ján served as Bahá’u’lláh’s amanuensis for nearly 40 years, but was dismissed shortly before Bahá’u’lláh died in 1892. During Bahá’u’lláh’s retirement to the mountains of Kurdistan, Mírzá Áqá Ján worked for Mírzá Yaḥyá and even went on a secret mission to assassinate Násiri’d-Dín Sháh. He became a Covenant-Breaker about 1897.
Aqa Jan-i-Kaj-Kulah Áqá Ján-i-Kaj-Kuláh Áqá Ján was a native of Salmás in Ádharbáyján. Originally an officer in the Persian army, he defected to the Ottomans and joined the Ottoman army as an artillery officer. He retired as a Colonel in 1866. He became an accomplice of Siyyid Muḥammad Iṣfahání and was known as kaj-kuláh (“Skew-cap”). Seven Bahá’ís murdered Siyyid Muḥammad Iṣfahání, Áqá Ján and Mírzá Riḍá-Qulíy-i-Tafrishí in ‘Akká on 22 January 1872.
Aqa Mirza ‘Abdu’-r-Rahim-i-Burujirdi Áqá Mírzá ‘Abdu’-r-Raḥím-i-Burújirdí (Boroodjerdy)
Aqa Najaf-‘Aliy-i-Zanjani Áqá Najaf-‘Alíy-i-Zanjání
Aqa Siyyid Áqá Siyyid [Asseyid is an abbreviation]
Aqa, Aqayan Áqá, pl. Áqáyán Pers. master, sir, gentleman; when affixed to a name means Mr (a male honorific title—‘the Master’). Sarkár Áqá (Chief Master) or Áqá was a title given by Bahá’u’lláh solely to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Aqaba ‘Aqaba to follow (someone, something or after someone, after something), succeed (someone, something); to come after, ensue; to continue
Aqaba, ‘Iqab ‘Aqaba[h or t], pl. ‘Iqáb a tendon; mountain pass; the summit of Miná, where Muḥammad was first publicly acknowledged by a number of persons; steep mountain-summits difficult of approach;—pl. declivities or difficult passages of mountains. al-‘Aqaba (ancient name Elath, Ailath; modern name a shortened form of ‘aqabat Aylah, “the mountain-pass of Ayla”), the only coastal city in Jordan at the northern end of the Gulf of ‘Aqaba. Pledge of al-‘Aqaba (al-bay‘a al-‘Aqaba) is the oath of allegiance of people from Yathrib to Muḥammad, prior to his emigration to Yathrib (later Medina). The first pledge (known as Bay‘at an-Nisá’ since there was no pledge of war) in 621 and the second pledge (Bay‘at al-Ḥarb) in 622. The significance of these pledges is that both were important in the preparation for emigration of Muḥammad and Muslims from Mecca to Medina.
Aqasi Áqásí Turkish proper name, e.g. Ḥájí Mírzá Áqásí (Grand Vizier of Persia, the Antichrist of the Bábí Revelation)
Aqay-i-Kalim Áqáy-i-Kalím Mírzá Músá, known as Áqáy-i-Kalím, a faithful brother of Bahá’u’lláh
Aqay-i-Munir Áqáy-i-Munír
Aqay-i-Rikab-Saz Áqáy-i-Rikáb-Sáz
Aqay-i-Tabrizi Áqáy-i-Tabrízí (MF)
Aqdas Aqdas more hallowed, more sacred, holier. The Most holy. A derivative of qadusa, as is Quds.
Aqida, Aqa’id ‘Aqída[h or t], pl. ‘Aqá’id article of faith, tenet, doctrine; dogma; creed, faith, belief; conviction; ideology (modern meaning)
Aqil, ‘Uqala’ ‘Aqil, pl. ‘Uqalá’ intelligent, wise, judicious (persons)
Aql al-Awwal al-‘Aql al-Awwal first intellect
Aql, ‘Uqul ‘Aql, pl. ‘Uqúl intellect, intelligence, reason, insight, mind, rationality and wisdom;—(pl.) sense, sentience, reason, understanding, comprehension, discernment, insight, rationality, mind, intellect, intelligence
Aqli, ‘Aqliya, ‘Aqliyun Aqlí, fem. ‘Aqlíya[h or t], pl. ‘Aqlíyún reasonable, rational; ratiocinative; mental; intellectual; fem. mentality, mental attitude;—pl. rationalist; an intellectual
Aqliya ‘Aqlíya(t) mentality, mental attitude
Aqsa al-Madina Aqṣá al-Madína[h or t] most distant part of a city or the most distant city (in a country or world). e.g. Shíráz and Búshihr. See Qur’án 36:20.
Aqsa, Quswa, Aqasin Aqṣá, fem. Quṣwá, pl. Aqáṣin more distant, remoter, farther (away); al-Masjid al-Aqṣá, “the Farthest Mosque”, built on the claimed site of the Temple of Solomon on the southern end of Fort Antonia or the claimed “Temple Mount” in Jerusalem. See aṣ-Ṣakhrah and Ḥarám
Ara Árá Pers. (in compound, from árástan), embellishing, adorning; ornament (e.g. majlis-árá, gracing the banquet, etc.)
Arab Khayl (Arab Kheyl) ‘Arab Khayl is a village (36.6962440, 52.751382) in Mazandaran Province near the Caspian Sea.
Arab, Urab, A’rub, Urban, ‘Arabha ‘Arab (collective), pl. ‘Urúb, A‘rub Arabs; true Arabs, Arabs of the desert, Bedouins. Other plurals: ‘Urbán, A‘ráb. The Arabian Peninsula or simply Arabia: Shibhu’l-Jazírati’l-‘Arabiyyah, “Arabian Peninsula” or Jazíratu’l-‘Arab, “Island of the Arabs”. Pers. pl. also ‘Arabhá.
Arabi, ‘Arabiya ‘Arabí, fem. ‘Arabíya[h or t] Arab, Arabic, Arabian; truly Arabic; an Arab. al-‘Arabíya, the language of the ancient Arabs; classical, or literary, Arabic. ibn ‘Arabí (1165–1240), full name Abú ‘Abd Alláh Muḥammad ibn ‘Alí ibn Muḥammad ibn ‘Arabí al-Ḥátimí aṭ-Ṭá’í, was an Arab Andalusian Muslim scholar, mystic, poet, and philosopher; honorific titles ash-Shaykh al-Akbar (“the Greatest Shaykh”) and Muḥyí ad-Dín (“Renewer of the Faith”). Nuṣúṣ ‘Arabíya (“Arabic text”) consists of rasm, nuqaṭ al-i‘jám (points or dots to distinguish between say ص and ض), and at-tashkíl (supplementary diacritics to indicate vocalization, including the al-ḥarakát (to indicate short vowels, long consonants, and some other vocalizations)).
Arabistan ‘Arabistán the land of Arabia
Arabiyah al-Fusḥa al-‘Arabíyah al-Fuṣḥá “the most eloquent Arabic”. It is the standardised literary form of Arabic used from the 7th century and throughout the Middle Ages, most notably in Umayyad and Abbasid literary texts such as poetry, elevated prose and oratory, and is also the liturgical language of Islám. Modern Standard Arabic is based on classical Arabic.
Arad, A’rad ‘Araḍ, pl. A‘ráḍ accident (philosophy); contingent, non-essential characteristic; something non-essential, a contingent, something accidental; symptom, manifestation of disease
Arafa (‘Arfa), Arafih ‘Arafa[h or t], Pers. ‘Arafih wind; diligent inquiry. Yawm ‘Arafah (Day of Arafah) is day 9 of the month Dhu’l-Ḥijjah, and is the second day of the Ḥajj—it celebrates the revelation of Qur’án 5:3 to Muḥammad just before sunset while on Jabal ‘Arafát for His farewell sermon (Khuṭbatu’l-Wadá‘). He gathered the Muslims and recited the revelation after sunset, the day then considered to be 10 Dhu’l-Ḥijjah AH 10 (the Islamic Friday and Sunday 8 March 632)—hence part of the confusion over the date, see Yawm. See ‘Arafát.
Arafa, Ma’rifa, ‘Irfan ‘Arafa, Ma‘rifa(h or t), ‘Irfán to know (someone, something); to recognize, perceive (someone, something); to be cognizant, be aware (of something), be acquainted (with something), to discover, experience, find out (something)
Arafat ‘Arafát 70 m high granite hill (Jabal ‘Arafát (Mount ‘Arafát 21.354841, 39.984009)—also known as Jabal ar-Raḥmah (the Mount of Mercy), 18.5 km ESE of central Mecca) and adjacent plain. See ‘Arafa(h).
Araja, ‘Uruj ‘Araja, ‘Urúj to ascend, mount, rise
Arak Arák capital of Markazi Province, Írán (formerly Sulṭánábád)
Aram (Eram) Árám Pers. calm, rest, tranquillity, peace, quiet, repose, cessation, inaction; power, obedience, subjection. Can be translated as paradise.
Aramram ‘Aramram strong, violent, vehement
Aran va Bidgul Árán va Bídgul a city that grew from an amalgamation of two villages (Árán and Bídgul, 34.060281, 51.478633), 9 km NE of Kashan
Ararat Ararat European name of the Ararat peaks (Greater and Lesser: Ağrı Dağı, 5,137 m; Küçük Ağrı dağı, 3,896 m) in Türkiye. Prior to the 6th century, the traditional Armenian name was Masis, derived from the name of King Amasya. Genesis 8:4 refers to Noah’s ark resting “upon the mountains of Ararat”—the mountainous region of Armenia (Urartu) was known to the ancient Greeks as Ararat. See al-Júdí.
Aras Aras name of a river near Tiflís, the Araxes of the ancients. See Ra’s
Arastan Árástan Pers. to adorn, decorate, embellish; to set in order
Arastu Arastú Pers. a swallow; swallow-wort
Araysh al-‘Aráysh Larache, harbour town, Morocco
Arba’, Arba’a, Arba’un (Arba’in) Arba‘, fem. Arba‘a[h or t], pl. Arbá‘ún our;—pl. forty. Iṣfahání Pers. Arba‘ih. “Arba‘in” error of the genitive form (arba‘ín) in The Kitáb-i-Íqán, p. 242 (see Shaykh Bahá’í, author of al-Arba‘ún Ḥadíth).
Arba’ata ‘Ashara, Arba’a ‘Asharata Arba‘ata(h) ‘Ashara, f. Arba‘a ‘Asharata(h) fourteen
Arbil Arbíl (Erbil, Irbil) city 80 km ESE of Mosul, ‘Iráq
Ard al-Muqaddasa al-Arḍ al-Muqaddasa the Holy Land, Palestine. Shoghi Effendi stated it became the Most Holy Land (al-Arḍ al-Aqdas) after the arrival of Bahá’u’lláh.
Ard wa Sama’ Arḍ wa Samá’ earth and heaven. ‘Earth’ is the earth of knowledge and understanding, the earth of new insight, etc. ‘Heaven’ is the heaven of new teachings and religion. By the shattering of the heaven (sky) on the day of resurrection, is meant that the heaven of the old religion is removed and a new one is raised through the Advent of a new Manifestation and the earth of recognition of God is decorated with Faith.
Ard-i-A’la Arḍ-i-A‘lá “the Exalted Spot”, name given to the Shrine of the Báb and to the fort of Khájih (Khwája), Zanján, by the Báb (Zanján upheaval 13 May 1859–c. 2 January 1851.
Ard-i-Jannat Arḍ-i-Jannat the Land of Paradise, Mílán
Ard-i-Sirr Arḍ-i-Sirr Pers. the Land of Mystery, Adrianople. See Adirna.
Ardabil Ardabíl or Ardibíl city 175 km east of Tabriz, in the province of Ádhirbáyján, near the Caspian Sea
Arif, ‘Arifin ‘Árif, pl. ‘Árifín acquainted, conversant, familiar (with); connoisseur, expert; wise man, mystic, saint, gnostic;—pl. mystics, saints, gnostics
Ardabili Ardabílí of or from Ardabíl.
1. Ṣafí ad-dín Isḥáq Ardabílí (1252/1253–1334) was a poet, mystic, teacher and Ṣúfí master. He reformed the Záhidíya (Zahediyeh) and renamed it the Safaviyya, which he led from 1301 to 1334. He was the eponymous ancestor of the Safawiyan (Safavid dynasty), which ruled Írán from 1501 to 1736.
2. Son, and successor, Ṣadr ad-Dín Músá ibn Ṣafí ad-Dín Isḥaq Ardabílí (1305–1391), also known as Ṣadr ad-Dín aṣ-Ṣafaví or Ṣadr ad-Dín al-Khánagáh. He was the first to use the title Ṣadr al-Ardibílí.
3. Mírzá Muḥammad Ṣáliḥ ibn Músá ibn Ṣafí ad-Dín Isḥaq Ardabílí (d. 1704), grandson, second Ṣadr al-Ardibílí.
4. Mírzá Muḥammad Ibráhím (etc.; d. 1738), the third Ṣadr al-Ardibílí. ...
8. Mírzá Muḥammad Ḥasan (1789–1848), the seventh Ṣadr al-Ardibílí. He served as a spiritual guide and a political advisor for Muḥammad Sháh Qájár.
Ardakan Ardakán or Ardikán city 55 km NW of Yazd
Ard, Arz, Aradin, Aradun, Arazi Arḍ fem., pl. Aráḍín, Aráḍún earth; land, country, region, area; terrain, ground, soil. Pers. arẓ, pl. aráẓí
Ardakani (Ardikani) Ardakání of or from Ardakán. Ḥájí Abu’l-Ḥasan-i-Ardikání (1831–1928), also known as Amín-i-Iláhí.
Ardashir, Ardishir (Ardeshir) Ardashír, Ardishír Pers. “great lion”. Name of Persian rulers (Ardishír and Ardashír are derived from Middle Persian Artakhishatr, which was derived from the Greek Artaxerxes) and a small village 85 km NE of Tabríz in East Azerbaijan Province, Írán (38.750145, 46.746858).
Ardibili Ardibíl city on west side of Caspian Sea, Írán
Ardikan (Ardakan) Ardikán city 55 km NW of Yazd
Ardiya, Ardiyat Arḍíya[h or t], pl. Arḍíyát floor; ground (also, e.g., of a printed fabric, of a painting); ground floor; storage, warehouse charges
Ard as-Sirr, Ard-i-Sirr Arḍ as-Sirr, Pers. Arḍ-i-Sirr “Land of Mystery”, name given to Adrianople by Bahá’u’lláh. See Adirna.
Ardistan Ardistán Province in Írán
Ardshir Ardshír Pers. intrepid, courageous
Arf ‘Arf fragrance, perfume, scent, aroma
Arg (Ark) Arg Pers. the inner fortress or citadel of a walled city. Ark is a modern colloquialism for a small citadel.
Arghun Arghún an organ; a wild horse
Ari Árí Pers. yes, very well, indeed, truly; no
Arid, Irad ‘Aríḍ, pl. ‘Iráḍ broad, wide; extensive, vast
Arida, ‘Ara’id ‘Aríḍa, pl. ‘Ará’iḍ petition, application, memorial
Arif, ‘Arifun, ‘Arifin ‘Árif, pl. ‘Árifún, ‘Árifín knowing, perceiving; acquainted, conversant, familiar (with); scientific; wise, skilful, intelligent, sagacious; connoisseur, expert; well known, notorious; patient; a holy man, a saint, the highest grade to which a mystic can attain
Arif, ‘Urafa’ ‘Aríf, pl. ‘Urafá’ knowing (something), cognizant, aware (of something); expert, authority, specialist; teaching assistant, monitor (an older pupil assisting the teacher of a Qur’anic school)
Arish, ‘Urush, ‘Ara’ish ‘Arísh, pl. ‘Urush, ‘Ará’ish arbor, bower; hut made of twigs; booth, shack, shanty; trellis (for grapevines); shaft, carriage pole. al-‘Arísh, city on the northern coast of the Sinai Peninsula.
Aristu, Arasta, Arastu Arisṭú, Pers. Arasṭá, Arasṭú Aristotle (“the best purpose”). Dr Arisṭú Khán, brother of Dr Luṭfu’lláh Ḥakím,
Arjmand (Arjumand) Arjmand Pers. rare, excellent, worthy of great price, valuable, exquisite, beloved, dear, brave, generous, noble, distinguished; wise
Archiya, ‘Arshiyya (Arshiyyih) ‘Arshíya[h or t], Pers. ‘Arshiyya[h or t] follower of Mullá Ṣadrá, DB, p. 207. See ‘Arsh and Sadrá’íya.
Arjumand, Arjmand, Arzaman Arjumand, Arjmand, Arzamán Pers. town, formerly Arzamán, in and the capital of Arjumand District, in Fírúzkúh County, Ṭihrán Province, Írán. Also written “Arjomand”.
Arjumandi Arjumandí of, from Arjumand
Arman Ármán Pers. desire; a sigh; grief, sorrow; remorse
Arqam Arqam (a serpent) speckled with black and white (of a very dangerous species); name of an Arabian tribe
Arrab, ‘Arraba ‘Arráb, fem. ‘Arrába[h or t] godfather/godmother, sponsor
Arsh, ‘Arshiya, Urush, A’rash ‘Arsh, fem. ‘Arsha[h or t] (pl. ‘Urúsh, A‘rásh) a throne, chair of state; the throne of God (‘Arsh Alláh, the Shrine of the Báb or more generally, the Bahá’í World Centre); the empyrean (heaven); a palace, citadel; roof of a house; a canopy; a tent; a prop, buttress, stay, support; a leader or chief of the people
Arshi, ‘Arshiyan ‘Arshí, pl. ‘Arshiyán from the throne (of God) or divine “presence”, heavenly; pl. angels who carry the throne of God, bearers of the celestial throne
Arshin Árshín Russian cubit (арши́н)
Arshiyyih ‘Arshíyyih followers of Mullá Ṣadrá, DB, p. 207. See ‘Arsh
Arslan Árslán, Arslán Pers. from Turkish. A lion; surname adopted by several kings of Persia. Alp Arslán (honorific in Turkish meaning “Heroic Lion”, given because of his military prowess and fighting skills; full name Ḍiyá’ ad-Dunyá wa ad-Dín ‘Aḍud ad-Dawlah Abú Shujá‘ Muḥammad Alp Árslán ibn Dáwud (1029–1072), real name Muḥammad bin Dáwud Chaghri (Turkic Çağrı), was the second Sulṭán of the Seljuk Empire and great-grandson of Saljúq (Seljuk), the eponymous founder of the dynasty.
Arus, ‘Urus, ‘Ara’is, ‘Arusan ‘Arús, pl. ‘Urus bridegroom; f. (pl. ‘ará’is) bride; doll; al-‘arúsán bride and groom, the newlyweds
Aryamihr (Aryamehr) Áryámihr “Light of the Aryans”
As ‘Áṣ ‘Amr ibn al-‘Áṣ as-Sahmí (c. 585–664) was the Arab commander who led the Muslim conquest of Egypt and served as its governor in 640–646 and 658–664. He conquered most of Palestine, to which he was appointed governor, and led the Arabs to decisive victories over the Byzantines in 634 and 636. He was a contemporary of Muḥammad and one of the Ṣaḥába.
As’ilah wa Ajwiba As’ilah wa Ajwiba Questions and Answers
Asab, A’sab ‘Aṣab, pl. A‘ṣáb nerve; sinew
Asabi ‘Aṣabí sinewy, nerved, nervy; nervous, neural, nerve-, neuro-, neur- (in compounds); nervous, high-strung
Asadabad (Asad-Abad) Asadábád city (34.781937, 48.122466) in Hamadan Province, 130 km by road from Kirmánsháh.
Asad, Usud, Usd Asad, pl. Usud, Usd, Usúd, Ásád lion; Leo (astron.)
Asadu’llah Asadu’lláh Lion of God. Compound proper name
Asadu’llah Fadil Mazandarani Asadu’lláh Fáḍil Mázandarání Mírzá Asadu’lláh Fáḍil Mázandarání (c. 1880–1957), also known as Jináb-i-Fáḍil or Fazel, was a prominent Iranian Bahá’í scholar, noted for his travel teaching in North America. He was later appointed a Hand of the Cause of God by Shoghi Effendi..
Asadu’llah-i-Isfahani Asadu’lláh-i-Iṣfahání Mírzá Asadu’lláh-i-Iṣfahání (c. 1826–1930) the emissary who took the remains of the Báb from Írán to the Holy Land. He married a sister of Munírih Khánum (Ḍiyá’ Khánum). Daughter Faraḥángíz Khánum (see Faraḥángíz entry) and son Dr Amínu’lláh (sometimes Amín, or Ameen Ullah Fareed) Faríd (1882–1953), known in Persian as Mírzá Amínu’lláh Asadu’lláh). Mírzá Asadu’lláh-i-Iṣfahání was sent (1900–1902) to consolidate the American community and to address the effects of Kheiralla’s disaffection. Shortly after (1914?), Mírzá Asadu’lláh and his son were expelled from the Faith.
Asadu’llah-i-Sabbagh Asadu’lláh-i-Ṣabbágh (GPB 297)
Asadu’llah-i-zadah Asadu’lláh-i-Zádih, Ḥusayn Ḥusayn Asadu’lláh-i-zádah
Asadyari Asadyárí, ‘Abdu’l-‘Alí
Asaf ad-Dawla, Asafu’d-Dawla Áṣaf ad-Dawla, Áṣafu’d-Dawla (1748–1797) was the Nawab wazir of Oudh (Awudh, r. 1775–1797)
Asala, Asalatan Aṣála(t) firmness, steadfastness, strength of character; nobility of descent, purity of origin (originality); aṣálatan immediately, directly, personally
Asalat-i-Naw’ Aṣálat-i-Naw‘ originality of species
Asara, ‘Asr ‘Aṣara (‘Aṣr) to press (out), squeeze (out) (something, e.g., grapes, olives, etc.); to wring (something, especially wet clothes); to compress (something). See ‘Aṣr listing for other Forms.
Asaran Ásárán Pers. small village (35.854657, 53.293100) in Semnan Province
Asas, Usus, Asasiyyun Asás, pl. Usus, Asásiyyún foundation (hence also principle), fundament, groundwork, ground, basis, pedestal; keynote;—pl. Asásiyyún people of principle. The term “assassin” likely has roots in ḥashsháshín (ḥashísh (hashish) smokers or users), a mispronunciation of the original Asásiyyún, but not a mispronunciation of Asásiyyín. The term assassin originally referred to the methods of political control exercised by the Asásiyún, and it can be seen how it became “assassin” in several languages to describe similar activities anywhere. The Asásiyún were medieval Nizárí (an-Nizáriyyún) Ismailis (Ismá‘íliyyún).
Asasi, Asasiyat, Asasiyyin Asásí, fem. Asásíya[h or t] (pl. Asásíyát, Asásiyyín) fundamental, basic; elementary; essential; principal, chief, main
Asaturiyan Marcard Ásátúriyán Márcárd (Dr Marcard Assadorian)
Asbah, Asbahi Aṣbaḥ Pers. of a handsome face; a tearing lion; red-coloured; name of a king of Yemen
Asbahi Aṣbaḥí (Pers. of Ar. influence) referring to King Aṣbaḥ of Yemen
Asbaq Asbaq earlier, antecedent; preceding, previous, prior; former, ex-; foremost, more or most excellent; surpassing; previous; past times
Asdaq Aṣdaq truer, sincerer. ibn-i-Aṣdaq (Mírzá ‘Alí-Muḥammad, 1850–1928). Designated by Bahá’u’lláh as Shahíd ibn-i-Shahíh (Martyr, son of the Martyr). He is the son of Mullá Ṣádiq-i-Khurásání (formerly known as Muqaddas)—both were named a Hand of the Cause of God.
Asdaqi Aṣdaqí
Asdiqa’ al-Iman Aṣdiqá’ al-Ímán friends of the faith
Asfal, Sufla (Sofla), Asafil Asfal, fem. Suflá, pl. Asáfil lower; lowest; lower or lowest part, bottom
Asfiya’, ‘Asfiyyih Aṣfiyá’, Pers. Aṣfiyyih Druse village of ‘Isfiya, east side Mt Carmel. See Ṣafíy
Asghar, Sughra, Asaghir Aṣghar, fem. Ṣughra, pl. m. Aṣághir smaller, younger [Comparative form of ṣaghíra (to belittle)]. Ṣughra is the name of a half-sister of Bahá’u’lláh and mother of ‘Alí Akbar Furútan.
Asgharzada (Asgharzadeh, Asghar zadih) Aṣgharzáda, Aṣghar Záda, Aṣgharzádih Pers. surname, e.g. Ḍíyá’u’lláh Aṣgharzádih
Ash -ash Pers. (added to a noun ending in soft ه he, i.e. not sounded), his, her
Ash Ásh Pers. meat, victuals, viands, soup, broth, gruel, pottage; drinking, a drinker
Ash-i-kashk Ásh-i-kashk (MF p. 68) barley soup with whey
Ash’ar Ash‘ar hairy, hirsute, long-haired, shaggy
Ash’ari Ash‘arí Abú al-Ḥasan ‘Alí ibn Ismá‘íl ibn Isḥáq al-Ash‘arí (c. 874—936)
Ash’ariyya, ‘Asha’ira al-‘Ash‘aríyya(h) or al-‘Ashá‘ira(h) Ash‘arism or Ash‘ari theology—a foremost theological school of Sunni Islam founded by Abú al-Ḥasan ‘Alí ibn Ismá‘íl ibn Isḥáq al-Ash‘arí (873–4 to 935–6). Followers: Ash‘arites. See Sha‘r and Kayfa.
Ash’ath Ash‘ath Pers. one whose hair is dishevelled and soiled with dust
Ashab al-Aykah Aṣḥáb al-Aykah “Companions of the Wood”, a name given to the Midianites, since they used to worship a large tree.
Ashab al-Kahf Aṣḥáb al-Kahf “Companions of the cave”, a Christian and Islamic tradition (Qur’án 18:9–26) that tells the story of the ‘Seven Sleepers’ (unknown number of youths according to Qur’án 18:22) who hide in a cave near a city around CE 250 to escape religious persecution and to emerge 300 years later. Identified as a cave 1 km east of Ephesus by Christians, and as a south facing (Qur’án 18:17) cave 7 km SE of Amman (31.898860, 35.973800) by Muslims. See ṣáḥib.
Ashab, Sahba’, Suhb Aṣhab, f. Ṣahbá’, pl. Ṣuhb reddish; wine
Ashar Ashar liveliness, high spirits, exuberance; wildness; insolence, impertinence
Ashr, Ashra, Ashar, ‘Asharha, ‘Asarat ‘Ashr, ‘Ashra[h or t] (fem. ‘Ashar, ‘Ashara[h or t], pl. ‘Asharát) ten; al-‘Ashara the first ten days of Muḥarram;—pl. decimal numbers, some tens, tens (of); decades
Ashchi Áshchí cook, maker of broth.  Áqá Ḥusayn-i-Áshchí.  See Ásh
Ashhadu Ashhadu I bear witness, I testify, I declare. See Sháhid.
Ashhal, Shahla Ashhal, fem. Shahlá having bluish-black eyes.  (Pers. with Ar. influence) Shahlá, a black eye inclined to red, and having a sly, deceitful, sinister look; a dark-grey-eyed woman
Ashiq, ‘Ashiqa ‘Ashiq, fem. ‘Ashiqa[h or t to love passionately (someone, something), be passionately in love (with someone, with something)
Ashiq, Ushshaq, Awashiq (Avashiq) ‘Áshiq, pl. ‘Ushsháq, ‘Awáshiq lover; fancier, fan;—pl. knucklebone; (game of) knucklebones. Fem. ‘Áshiqa[h or t]. ‘Aváshiq is a village in the Diyálá Valley east of Baghdád.
Ashjari Ashjárí ‘Azízu’lláh Ashjárí
Ashmunin, Ushmunin, Ushmunayn Ashmúnín (Ushmúnayn) al-Ashmúnín (Ashmunein, derived from a Coptic form of the original Egyptian) is a town on the west bank of the Nile River 255 km south of Cairo. The town surrounds the remains of the major ancient city of Hermopolis Magna (“City of Hermes”).
Ashraf, Sharfa’ Ashraf, fem. Sharfá’ more or most noble; eminent; a person of noble birth, nobleman; gentleman. City in Írán, see Bihshahr. ‘Alí Ashraf Garden—a large garden on the west side of the Riḍván Garden (SE east of ‘Akká), with the Firdaws (Paradise) Garden to its north. Original owner Mullá Abú-Ṭálib. ‘Alí-Ashraf, his son, later donated it to the Faith. Áqá Siyyid Ashraf-i-Zanjání (mother: Umm-i-Ashraf).
Ashrafi Ashrafí Pers. a gold coin. Sháh Ashraf Hútak (c. 1700–c. 1730; r. 1725–1729) issued gold coins that were named after him.
Ashtiyan (Ashtian) Áshtiyán Pers. capital city of Áshtiyán County, Markazí Province, Írán. 81 km WSW of Qum.
Ashu (Asho) Ashu Pers. heavenly Ashu Zarathushtra
Ashura ‘Áshúrá’, ‘Ashúrá’, Pers. also ‘Áshúrá name of a voluntary fast day on the tenth day of the Muslim month Muḥarram—Shí‘ih Muslims observe the first 10 days of the month as a period of mourning for the Imáms, ending with the Yawm ‘Áshúrá’ (on the 10th day), the commemoration of the martyrdom of the Imám Ḥusayn at Karbilá
Ashyab, Shayba’ (Shaiba’), Shib Ashyab, fem. Shaybá’, pl. Shíb Ar. white, grey (hair); white-haired, grey-haired (person); old, aged; old man.
Asi, Asiya, Asiyih Ásí, fem. Ásíya[h or t] Pers. Melancholy, solicitous, sorrowful; a physician, surgeon. Ásíyih is the name of Pharaoh’s daughter who rescued Moses. See Navváb, Ásíyih is the title given to Bahá’u’lláh’s wife (Ásíyih Khánum).
Asif (Asaf, Assaf), Asifa Áṣif, fem. Áṣifa[h or t] from Hebrew Asaf, to gather or harvest. Áṣif bin Barkhiyá is the name of a sage that the Arabs claim was Sulayman’s grand wazír, hence proverbially used for any wise counsellor. The name is considered to be a symbol of strength and prosperity.
Asif, ‘Asifa, ‘Awasif ‘Áṣif, fem. ‘Áṣifa[h or t], pl. ‘Awáṣif violent wind, gale, tempest, storm, hurricane
Asifu’d-Dawla, Asifu’d-Dawlih ‘Áṣifu’d-Dawla (Pers. ‘Áṣifu’d-Dawlih) “Storm of the State” or “Storm of the Dynasty”
Asir, Aseer ‘Asír difficult, hard, harsh, rough; ‘Asír is a mountainous province in SW Arabia, between the Hejaz and Yemen, capital city is Abhá.
Asiya Ásiyá Asia
Askar, Asakir ‘Askar, pl. ‘Asákir army, host, troops
Askari ‘Askarí, pl. ‘Askariyún, ‘Asákir military, army-(in compounds);—(pl. al-‘askariyún) the military;—(pl. ‘asákir) soldier; private (military); policeman;—pl. enlisted men, ranks. ‘Alí al-Hádí (the tenth Imám) had the title al-‘Askarí (military) due to the town (Sámarrá) he had to live in was a military camp). The hidden Imám Mahdí (twelfth), Muḥammad ibn al-Ḥasan al-‘Askarí (disappeared CE 874).
Asl-i-Qullu’l-Khayr Aṣl-i-Qullu’l-Khayr “Words of Wisdom”, Tablet by Bahá’u’lláh, published in Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 153–7.
Asl, Usul, Asliyan Aṣl, pl. Uṣúl, Pers. Aṣliyán root; trunk (of a tree); origin, source; cause, reason; descent, lineage, stock (especially one of a noble character); foundation, fundament, basis; the origins!;—pl. principles, fundamentals, rudiments, elements (e.g., of a science):—Pers. nobles, gentlemen.
Aslam Aslam (adj. of salím) safer; freer; sounder; healthier (“most peaceful”)
Aslas Aslas more tractable, more pliable, more obedient; more flexible, smoother, more fluent. See salis
Asli, Usuli Aṣlí, pl. Uṣúlí original, primary, primal, initial; genuine, authentic, pure; basic, fundamental, principal, chief, main:—pl. in accordance with the rules, conforming to prevailing principles; traditional, usual; legist.
Asl-i-Kullu’l-Khayr Aṣl-i-Kullu’l-Khayr lit. source of all good. “Words of Wisdom” Tablet by Bahá’u’lláh, published in Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 153–7.
Asliya, Usuliya Aṣlíya[h or t], pl. Uṣúlíya[h or t] originality; genuineness; nobleness;—pl. fundamentalism (“usulism”). al-Uṣúlíya, the school of jurisprudence that emphasizes the study of uṣúl al-fiqh. In the 19th century, it is almost synonymous with the mujtahids.
Asma’ Allah al-Husna Asmá’ Alláh al-Ḥusná the Most Beautiful Names of God (usually 99, drawn mostly from descriptions of God in the Qur’án)
Asma’u’l-Husna Asmá’u’l-Ḥusná Most Beauteous Names (of God). According to a ḥadíth, Muḥammad said, “Verily there are 99 names of God, and whoever recites them shall enter Paradise.” The traditions also maintain that the “Almighty has a hundredth name, the ‘Most Great Name’, and that whoever calls on God by this Name shall obtain all his desires. Bahá’u’lláh revealed that the Greatest Name (Ism-i-A‘ẓam) is Bahá’.
Asman Ásmán Pers. heaven, the celestial orb; the ceiling of a house; name of the angel of death
Asmar, Samra’, Sumr, Samrawat Asmar, f. Samrá’, pl. Sumr brown; tawny;—pl. Samráwát brown-skinned women
Asqalan, Ashkelon, Ashqelon, Ascalon ‘Asqalán, Heb. Ashkelon a coastal city of Israel, 50 km south of Tel Aviv and 147 km SSW of ‘Akká. See ESW, p. 178.
Asr, ‘Asar, ‘Usur ‘Aṣr, ‘Aṣar, pl. ‘Uṣúr (fem.) afternoon; afternoon prayer (Islamic Law
Asr, A’sur, ‘Usur, A’sar ‘Aṣr, pl. A‘ṣur, ‘Uṣúr, A‘ṣár (act of) pressing (out), squeezing (out); (act of) wringing (out);—pl. age, era, time; period; epoch; afternoon
Asrar-i-Shihadat-i-Imam Asrár-i-Shihádat-i-Imám mysteries of the martyrdom of the Imám. Dar Asrár-i-Shihádat-i-Imám Ḥusayn by Siyyid Káẓim.
Asraru’l-Athar Asráru’l-Áthár The mysteries of the Writings by Fáḍil Mázanarání.
Ast Ast Pers. is (from búdan, to be); he willeth, he seeketh
Ast Ást Pers. praise, commendation
Astaghfiru’llah Astaghfiru’lláh (“I ask pardon of God”), God forgive me! God forbid! (modern colloquialism) not at all; on the contrary. A common response of those considering themselves deeply learned after meeting ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and recognizing themselves as profoundly ignorant.
Astan, Astana (Astane) Ástán, Ástána Pers. the place where shoes are removed; a threshold; lying supine; a king’s court, royal palace; the Ottoman Porte; the tomb of a prophet or saint. Village (36.278167, 54.083907) near Chashma ‘Alí and NW of Dámghán, in Semnan Province.
Astani Ástání Yadu’lláh Ástání
Astar Astar Pers. a mule; a bone; a seed, a kernel
Astarabad (Gurgan, Gurgin or Gorgan) Astarábád (Istarábád) Pers. (astar+ábád, “city of mules”) (“Istarabad”) city (36.842300, 54.433518) near the south eastern corner of the Caspian Sea. Renamed Gúrgán (Gorgán) in 1937.
Astarabadi Astarábádí Mullá Muḥammad Amín bin Muḥammad Sharíf al-Akhbárí Astarábádí was an Iranian theologian and founder or proponent of the conservative (Akhbárí) strand in Twelver Shí‘a Islamic belief, those who favour aḥádíth over fatáwá. He opposed the uṣúlí tendency within the Twelver Shí‘a tradition.
Aswad, Sawda (Sauda), Sud, Sudan Aswad, fem. Sawdá, pl. Súd black; dark-coloured;—pl. súdán a black, Negro
Ata az-Zakata Atá az-Zakáta to give alms
Ata, Ityan, Aty, Ma’ta Atá (Ityán, Aty, Ma’tá(h)) to come, arrive
Ata’, ‘Atiya (‘Ata’iyih), A’tiya, ‘Ata’yat ‘Aṭá’, fem. ‘Aṭíya[h or t] pl. a‘tiya, ‘aṭá’yát, fem. ‘aṭáyá. Gift, present;—pl. ‘Aṭá’yát offer, tender. Pers. fem. ‘aṭa’íyih, “‘aṭa’íyyih”, “ataieh”. ‘Alí Akbar Furútan married ‘Aṭá’íyyih ‘Azíz-Khurásání in 1931.
Ata’u’llah ‘Aṭá’u’lláh Gift of God
Ataba, ‘Atab, A’tab ‘Ataba(h), pl. ‘Atab, A‘táb doorstep, threshold; (door) lintel; also al-‘Ataba(h) al-‘ulyá step, stair; ‘Utbah masc. name
Ataba, ‘Atab, A’tab, ‘Atabat ‘Ataba[h or t], pl. ‘Atab, A‘tab, ‘Atabát a gate, a port; the threshold; the lintel of a door; the round of a ladder, a step; a royal court; anything adverse or disagreeable. Also ‘Ataba[h or t] ‘ulyá, step or stair. Plural: steps, thresholds. “‘Atabát”, the Shi’ite holy shrines in ‘Iráq and the cities where they are located: the tombs of the first six Imams; and the cities of Karbalá’, Najaf, Káẓimayn, and Sámarrá. See al-‘Atabát al-‘Álíyát.
Atabak Atábak Pers. (from atá, a father, and bak, a lord), the lord father (a title given to the governors of Shíráz); a guardian, preceptor, teacher; the prime minister, or vizír; honorary title of an ámir
Atabak-i-A’zam (Atabik-i-A’zam) Atábak-i-A‘ẓam Title of Mírzá ‘Alí-Asghar Khán
Atabat al-‘Ali, Atabat-i-Aliyat al-‘Atabát al-‘Álíyát (Pers. ‘Atabát-i-‘Álíyát) (lit. Supreme Shrines). Bahá’í Shrines of the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh. Applied by Shí‘a Muslims to the cities of Karbalá’, Najaf, Káẓimayn and Sámarrá. Also known as al-‘Atabát al-Muqaddasa (“holy doorsteps”).
Ataturk Atatürk Turkish (Ata + türk, father of the turks) honorific surname given to Muṣṭafá Kemál Páshá
Athar Aṭhar Pers. more or most pure
Athar Athar, pl. Áthár track, trace, vestige; sign, mark; touch; impression, effect, action, influence (on); tradition (relating the deeds and utterances of Muḥammad and his Companions); work (of art, especially of literature); ancient monument;—pl. also: antiquities; remnants, vestiges; (religious) relics
Athar-i Qalam-i A’la Athar-i-Qalam-i-A‘la “Traces of the Most High Pen”. Collected Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh in Arabic and Persian
Athari Atharí, Áthárí archaeologic(al); archaeologist; old, ancient, antique
Athim, Athama, Uthama’ Áthim, pl. Athama, Athím, Uthamá’ sinful, criminal, wicked, evil; sinner
Athir Athír marking; marked, chosen, selected;—(from Greek αίθήρ) sky, ether; fire as an element. Pers. the sphere of fire; the sun; tears
Athiri Athírí ethereal
Atifi ‘Áṭifí sentimental; emotional; emotive, feeling; tender, affectionate, loving
Atiq ‘Atíq old, ancient, antique; matured, mellowed, aged (wine); of ancient tradition, long-standing; antiquated, outmoded, obsolete; free, emancipated (slave); noble
Atir, ‘Atira ‘Aṭir, fem. ‘Aṭira[t] sweet-smelling, fragrant, aromatic; perfumed, scented
Atish Átish Pers. fire; light, splendour; rage; levity, fickleness; valour, value, dignity; dearness, scarceness; (metaphorically) the Devil; a courageous man, bold, brave; a lover; fire of Jove; desire, appetite, greed; digestive heat; sulphur. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said Marzieh Gale had átish and namak.  Arches of the years, p. 87.
Atish-Parast (Atishparast, Atishparastan) Átish-Parast, pl. Átish-Parastán fire-worshippers
Atiya, ‘Ataya ‘Aṭíya(h or t), pl. ‘Aṭáyá Pers. also ‘Atíyya(h) gift, present
Atlit (Athlit) ‘Atlít Hebrew. Atlit is a coastal town 14 km south of Haifa. It was a Crusader outpost until 1291. The ruins of the Crusader Château Pèlerin or Atlit Castle (1218–1291) are 1.5 km to the north on a small peninsula.
Atqan Atqan more perfect, more thorough
Attar, ‘Attara ‘Aṭṭár, fem. ‘Aṭṭára[h or t] 1. perfumer, perfume vendor; druggist; 2. sweet-smelling, fragrant, aromatic. From the form II root عطّر. Abú Ḥamíd bin Abú Bakr Ibráhím (c. 1145–c. 1221), better known by his pen-names Faríd ud-Dín and ‘Aṭṭár (apothecary), was a 12th-century Persian poet, theoretician of Sufism, and hagiographer from Níshápur who had an immense and lasting influence on Persian poetry and Sufism. Manṭiq-uṭ-Ṭayr (“The Conference of the Birds”) and Iláhí-Náma (“The Book of Divine”) are among his most famous works.
Attari ‘Aṭṭárí of or relating to a druggist; the business of a perfumer or druggist
Atyab, Atyaban, Atayib Aṭyab, dual Aṭyabán, pl. Aṭáyib better, best, more or most sweet, fragrant, delicate, pleasant, delightful;—(dual) the two delights, Ceres (goddess of agriculture) and Venus (goddess of love), or youth and gay spirits;—pl. the best parts (of something); pleasures, comforts, amenities; delicacies, dainties. See ṭúbá
Aw (Au) Aw or (with following subjunctive) unless, except that
Awara (Awarah, Avarih, Avareh) Áwára Pers. (آوراه) (Iṣfahání Pers. Áwárih, Ávárih) an account-book; computation; certainty, assuredness; lost, annihilated; ruined; scattered; destitute of name or character; an exile, outcast, vagabond, vagrant, wanderer, straggler, immigrant; iron filings; oppression, injustice; bane, ruin, desolation. For Arabic, see Ṭaríq. See also Áyatí.
Awasta (Avesta) Awastá Pers. the sacred books of Zoroaster.
Awf (Auf) ‘Awf flying round anything (as birds round a watering-place or carcase); state, condition; work, business; a guest; good fortune, happiness; one who takes care of his family
Awih (Avih, Aveh, Awah) Áwih villages in the provinces of Fárs, Markazí and Qazvín (26 km SSE Sávih (Sáveh) and 45 km NW of Qum).
Awin Áwín Áwín Zindán (Evin Prison, Ṭihrán)
Awj (“Auj”), Awji Awj noun. highest point, acme, pinnacle; culmination, climax; apogee (astron.); peak (fig.; of power. of fame). Adj. Awjí
Awn (‘Aun), A’wan ‘Awn, pl. A‘wán being middle-aged (a woman); helping, assisting; aid, assistance, succour, help; an aider, helper, defender, protector; an ally; a servant;—‘awni iláhí, Divine aid. Muḥammad ibn ‘Abd al-Mu‘ín ibn ‘Awn (1767–1858), was Sharíf and Imára (Emir) of Mecca from 1827–1836, 1840–1851 and 1856–1858. The Báb was in Mecca on Friday 20 December 1844 (Islamic Friday 10 Dhu’l-Ḥijjah AH 1260), hence Ḥajj-i-Akbar, fulfilling a ḥadíth for the appearance of the Qá’im, in this case, a Friday in both calendars!
Awrang (Aurang) Awrang Pers. a throne; wisdom, understanding; beauty, gracefulness; life; a manufacturing village; fraud, deceit; mirth; a worm which eats into wood; a line whereon things are hung to dry; glory, honour; a man’s name; (metaphorically) heaven. A low mountain near the village of Tákur, in the province of Núr, Persia, the summer residence of Bahá’u’lláh.
Awraq-i-Nariyyih Awráq-i-Náríyyih Pers. form “the Infernal Letters” See waraq (paper) and nárí
Aws (Aus) Aws giving in exchange or return, requiting, repaying; a gift; name of an Arab tribe (Banú Aws)
Awsa’ (Ausa’) Awsa‘ wider, larger, roomier, more spacious
Awsat (“Ausat”), Awasit, Wusta, Wusat Awsaṭ, pl. Awsaṭ middle, central; the middle finger
Awtad Awtád pegs or tent stakes. See Watad/Autád
Awwal (Auwal), Ula, Awwalun, Awa’il Awwal, f. Úlá, pl. m. Awwalún, Awá’il first; foremost, most important, principal, chief, main; first part, beginning; (with definite article also) earlier, previous, former. al-úlá “pre-existence”—ad-dunyá (earthly life) and al-ákhira (afterlife), pl. also Awwalín
Awwali Awwalí prime, primary, primordial, original, initial, first; elemental, fundamental, basic, principal, chief, main; elementary; primitive, pristine, primeval
Awwaliya, Awwaliyat Awwalíya[h or t], pl. Awwalíyát fundamental truth, axiom; primary constituent, essential component, element; primal; precedence; priority
Awwam ‘Awwám good swimmer. az-Zubayr ibn al-‘Awwám ibn Khuwaylid (594–656), was one of the companions of Muḥammad and Khadíjah’s nephew.
Ay Ay that is (to say), i.e.; namely, to wit
Aya (Ayih), Ay, Ayat Áya(h or t), collective Áy, pl. Áyát sign, token, mark; miracle; wonder, marvel, prodigy; model, exemplar, paragon, masterpiece. Commonly used to refer to each of the 6,236 verses in the Qur’án (6,348 áyát if all the Bismi’lláh [no plural] verses are included). Muslims regard each áya of the Qur’án as a sign from Alláh. (The Bahá’í Proofs).
Aya Sufiya (Sofiya) Ayá Ṣúfiyá (Ayá Ṣófiyá) Greek αγία σοφία, agia sofiya, “Holy wisdom”. English Hagia Sophia. Turkish based on the Greek sound: Ayasofya or Aya Sofya). Ar. from Greek Ayá Ṣúfiyá, but translated as al-Ḥikmat al-Muqadasa. The first St. Sophia (360–404) was a Christian cathedral built by Constantine the Great. It was largely destroyed during riots in 404. A second church (415–532) was destroyed by fire. in 532 Construction of the present structure was started that same year by Justinian I. Converted to become one of the most famous Muslim mosques (1453–1935), a museum (1935–2020), and now a mosque again.
Ayati Áyatí Mírzá ‘Abdu’l-Ḥusayn Áyatí Taftí (1871–1953), titled Ra’ís al-Muballighín (“chief of missionaries”) and Ávárih (wanderer) by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, was a prominent Iranian Bahá’í. Author of al-Kawákib ad-Durríya fí Ma’áthir al-Bahá’íya (“The Pearly Stars in the Achievements of the Bahá’í Faith”). After the death of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá he pressed for the election of the UHJ in the hope of becoming a member. When he failed, he withdrew from the Bahá’í Faith and began to publicly denounce it and published Kashfu’l-Ḥiyal (Uncovering of Trickery).
Ayatu’l-Kursi Áyatu’l-Kursí “Verse of the throne”, Qur’án 2:255
Ayatu’llah Áyatu’lláh “sign of God” A senior Shí‘ih religious leader in Írán (title origin 19th century) and a title given to Shoghi Effendi by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His Will and Testament
Ayatu’llah al-‘Uzma Áyatu’lláh al-‘Uẓmá the greatest sign of God, “Grand Ayatu’llah”, designates a Marji‘ at-taqlíd (“source to follow”) or Marji‘ ad-Díní (“religious reference”). In post 1979 revolution Írán, the next levels down are Áyatu’lláh, used for any established mujtahid; and Ḥujjatu’l-Islám for aspiring mujtahids. See a‘ẓam or ‘uẓm.
Ayatu’llah-i-Khurasani Áyatu’lláh-i-Khurásání (MF)
Ayaz Áyáz and Ayáz Pers. name of a favourite of Sulṭán Maḥmúd of Ghaznah; name of one of the Emirs of Sulṭán Ibrahím bin Mas‘úd bin Maḥmúd Ghaznawí.
Aydil-Khani Aydil-Khání
Ayk (Aik), Aykatun Ayk, Ayka(h or t), pl. Aykatún (collective; nomen unitatis ة) thicket, jungle, a forest, copse, grove, thicket, wood (أيكةة).—pl. the dwellers of woods (an epithet for the people of Midian (Midianites) to whom the prophet Shu‘ayb was sent).
Ayman (Aiman) Ayman, fem. Yumná right-hand, right, on the right; lucky
Ayn (‘Ain), ‘Aynan, ‘Uyun, A’yun ‘Ayn fem., ‘Aynán (pl. ‘Uyún, A‘yun, A‘yán) eye; evil eye; spring, source, fountainhead (of water); scout, reconnoiterer; hole; mesh; flower, choice, prime (of something);—(pl. a‘yán) an eminent, important man, used especially in plural: people of distinction, important people, leading personalities, leaders, notables, prominent persons; substances, essences; self, individuality;—chattel, object of material value, (corporeal or personal) property, personality, capital asset (Islamic Law);—ready money, cash; name of the letter ع (18th in Arabic and 21st in Persian alphabets—see hijá’í). A‘yán can also be used to mean archetypes or ideal forms in the Platonic sense. The Bahá’í Faith transcripts an ‘Ayn as a left single quotation mark ⟨‘⟩ [U+2108]. Two internationally accepted forms are a Greek rough breathing mark ⟨ʻ⟩ [U+02BB] and a modifier letter left half ring ⟨ʿ⟩ [U+02BF]—see the Special characters section.
Ayn-‘Ayn (E. E.) ‘Ayn-‘Ayn short form for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá ‘Abbás
Ayni, ‘Aini ‘Ayní Pers. (Ar. influence) of or relating to the eye; genuine, essential, real
Aynu’l-Baqar (Aynu’l-Baghar) ‘Aynu’l-Baqar an ancient spring (“The spring of the cow”) about half-way between the moat around ‘Akká and Tel ‘Akká
Aynu’llah (‘Ainullah) ‘Aynu’lláh Eye of God. Brothers Sulaymán and Raḥmán ‘Aynu’lláhí, guards in the Disciplinary Forces (NAFA).
Aynu’s-Sitt ‘Aynu’s-Sitt “Spring of the woman”—about 200 metres south of ‘Aynu’l-Baqar
Ayyam-i-Ha Ayyám-i-Há “Days of Há” Intercalary days
Ayyam-i-Shidad Ayyám-i-Shidád “Days of stress”—the supreme crisis in Adrianople, engineered by the diabolical Siyyid Muḥammad (GPB 163)
Ayyub (Aiyub) Ayyúb Job (the prophet)
Ayyubiyun al-Ayyúbíyún Ayyubid dynasty, the Ayubites
Az Áz Pers. desire, love, passion, lust; avidity, avarice, covetousness; (at the end of compounds) greedy; name of a city.
Az Az Pers. from; of; for; by; out of; with; belonging to; by means of; in
Az-Bagh-i-Ilahi Az-Bágh-i-Iláhí “From the Garden of Holiness” by Bahá’u’lláh
Azad Ázád Pers. free, independent, liberated, delivered, manumitted, exempted; fault, less; solitary, lonely; a kind of faqír, or devotee; a lily; a cypress; a fresh date; an evergreen; a delicious kind of fish
Azad Bun (Azad Bon) Ázád Bun Pers. a village (36.662395, 52.963961) 29 km NE Babol and 14 km NW of Sárí. Burial place of Ḥaydar, brother of Quddús.
Azadi Ázádí Pers. liberty; freedom from worldly cares; praise, thanksgiving
Azal Azal Pers. eternity (without beginning). cf. abad.
Azali Azalí, pl. Azálál Pers. existing from all eternity, eternal; God; a follower of Mírzá Yaḥyá based on his assumed title of “Ṣubḥ-i-Azal”.
Azaliya Azalíya(t) life everlasting, eternity
Azamat, ‘Azamut ‘Azamat, ‘Azamút, pl. ‘Azamát Pers. magnitude, magnificence, pride, pomp, grandeur; (met.) a grandee.
Azamatu’llah ‘Aẓamatu’lláh Magnificence of God
Azamut ‘Aẓamút Ar. greatness, magnitude, grandeur, dominion
Azan Áẓán or Aẓán (also Adhán) Pers. announcing, giving notice; the signal for summoning to prayers, by the Mu’aẓẓin or crier, from the minarets or towers of the mosques; listening to
Azar Ázar Muslim name for Abraham’s father, or, according to others, his uncle’s, that of his father being Tárikh. See Táraḥ and Tárakh.
Azariqa Azáriqa(h) al-Azáriqah were an extremist branch of al-Khárijíyat, who followed the leadership of Náfi‘ ibn al-Azraq. Adherents participated in armed struggles against the rulers of the Umayyad Caliphate, declared those who avoided this duty infidels, and allowed them to be murdered. The Azraqites did not extend the principle of killing “apostates” to Christians and Jews, since they believed that they did not betray the teachings of the prophets Jesus and Moses.
Azghand Azghand village (35.259502, 58.800555; 130 km SW Mashhad) and rural district
Azhar Aẓhar more distinct, more manifest, clearer
Azhar, Zahra, Zahra’i Azhar, fem. Zahrá shining, luminous, radiant, brilliant; bright. al-Azhar University, Cairo. Zahrá ehite splendid, clear, serene, bright, shining, beautiful, flourishing, blooming. Comparative form zahrá’ “bright”. Fátima bin Muhammad is commonly known as Fáṭimah az-Zahrá’, the “radiant one”. Surname Zahrá’í a radiant one, a dazzling beauty. See Zahr
Azib ‘Ázib unmarried; distant pasture; a camel which feeds abroad all night; name of a mountain. Bará’ ibn ‘Ázib of the Anṣár was a companion of Muḥammad and narrator of ḥadíth. He fought beside Muḥammad in 15. In 645, during the caliphate of ‘Uthmán, he was made governor of ar-Ray (in Persia). He died in 690.
Azim (Azzaam) ‘Azím applying the mind to, undertaking; determined to accomplish; a powerful enemy
Azim-i-Khu’i ‘Aẓím-i-Khu’í
Azim-i-Tafrishi ‘Aẓím-i-Tafríshí (MF)
Azim, Uzama, Izam, Aza’im ‘Aẓím, pl. ‘Uẓamá, ‘Iẓám, ‘Aẓá’im great, big, large; strong, powerful, mighty; significant, important; grand, grandiose, imposing, stately, magnificent; lofty, exalted, august, sublime, splendid, gorgeous, glorious, superb; huge, vast, prodigious, enormous, tremendous, immense, stupendous; hard, distressing, gruesome, trying, oppressive (see A‘ẓam) Mullá Shaykh ‘Alí of Khurásán was given the name ‘Aẓím by the Báb. The Great One (Superlative form of ‘aẓuma).
Azima, ‘Aza’im ‘Azíma(h or t), pl. ‘Azá’im determination, firm will, firm intention;—pl. resolution (to do something), decision; incantation; spell
Aziz, A’izza’, A’izza ‘Azíz, pl. A‘izzá’, A‘izza[h or t] mighty, powerful, respected, distinguished, notable; strong; noble, esteemed, venerable, august; honorable; rare, scarce, scarcely to be found; difficult, hard (for); precious, costly, valuable; dear, beloved (to), cherished, valued (by); friend; ruler, overlord
Aziz Khan-i-Sardar ‘Azíz Khán-i-Sardár he killed Ṭáhirih
Azizi ‘Azízí (Ar. element) greatness, valuableness
Azizu’llah ‘Azízu’lláh “Dear God”. ‘Azízu’lláh Khán Bahádur (Unfolding Destiny, p. 44)
Azm ‘Azm determination, firm will, firm intention, decision, resolution; energy
Azm, A’zum, ‘Izam ‘Aẓm, pl. A‘ẓum, ‘Iẓám bone
Azm, Uzm, ‘Azam, ‘Uzma ‘Aẓm, ‘Uẓm, ‘Aẓam, fem. ‘Uẓmá the principal or larger part of anything. ‘Uẓmá greater, most supreme.
Azraq, Zarqa’, Zurq Azraq, fem. Zarqá’, pl. Zurq blue; blue eyed; heaven, the sky. al-Azraq ash-Shámí, a Damascene blue dye, also name of a Syrian notorious for causing grave suffering to the captive family of Imám Ḥusayn after the tragedy of Karbila.
Azuma, Izam, Azama ‘Aẓuma, ‘Iẓam, ‘Aẓáma to be or become great, big, large, grand, grandiose, magnificent, imposing, powerful, or mighty; etc.
Azurdigan (Azordegan, Azordigan) Ázúrdigán Pers. name
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
B
Ba name of the second Arabic letter, b. This “lying down” letter (Persian can be transcripted as bih) can be used to represent humility.
Ba’ata (ba’t) Ba‘ata (Ba‘t) to send, send out, dispatch; to forward; to delegate; to emit; to evoke, arouse, call forth, awaken; to stir up, provoke, bring on; to revive, resuscitate; to resurrect (someone from death); to incite, induce, instigate; to cause (something; e.g., astonishment)
Ba’da Ba‘da (preposition) after; in addition to, beside; aside from
Ba’is, Bu’asa’ (Buasa, Buassa) Ba’ís, pl. Bu’asá’ miserable, wretched
Ba’ith, Bawa’ith Bá‘ith, pl. Bawá‘ith incentive, inducement, motive, spur, reason, cause, occasion. Root is ba‘ata, so can also mean to resurrect from death.
Ba’qubah, Baqubah, Baquba, Baqouba Ba‘qúbah city 51 km NNE of Baghdád, on the Diyálá River. Bahá’u’lláh passed here en route to Baghdád.
Ba’th, Bu’uth Ba‘th, pl. Bu‘úth sending out, emission, dispatching, delegation, etc.; resurrection;—pl. delegations, deputations. Yawm al-Ba‘th Day of Resurrection (from the dead)
Ba’tha (Bi’tha), Ba’atat Ba‘tha[h or t], pl. Ba‘athát delegation, deputation, mission; expedition; student exchange; group of exchange students; revival, rebirth, renaissance, rise. The Báb is said to calculate the beginning of the Islamic revelation from the year Ba‘tha (the Call in CE 612) instead of the year of the Hijra (CE 622) when Muḥammad migrated from Mecca to Medina.
Bab-i-Amin Báb-i-Amín Shrine of the Báb door—centre NW side
Bab-i-Ashraf Báb-i-Ashraf Shrine of the Báb door—centre NE side (Tomb ‘Abdu’l-Bahá)
Bab-i-Bala Báb-i-Bálá Shrine of the Báb door—centre SE side
Bab-i-Fadl Báb-i-Faḍl Shrine of the Báb door—northern end NW side
Bab-i-Giachery Báb-i-Giachery Shrine of the Báb door—southern end NW side
Bab-i-Ioas Báb-i-Ioas Shrine of the Báb octagon door—SW side
Bab-i-Karim Báb-i-Karím Shrine of the Báb door—northern end SE side
Bab-i-Makhsus Báb-i-Makhṣúṣ Special or specific gate
Bab-i-Maxwell Báb-i-Maxwell Shrine of the Báb door—centre SW side
Bab-i-Qassabchi Báb-i-Qaṣṣábchí Shrine of the Báb door—southern end, SE side
Bab, Babayn (Babain), Abwab, Abvab Báb, dual Bábayn, pl. Abwáb, Pers. Abváb door; gate; opening, gateway; entrance; chapter, section, column, rubric; group, class, category; field, domain (figurative). Title assumed by Siyyid Mírzá ‘Alí Muḥammad (al-Báb, the Gate; born 1 Muḥarram 1235, 20 October 1819; executed 27 Sha‘bán 1266, 9 July 1850 in the Tabriz barrack square) after the declaration of His Mission in Shíráz two hours and eleven minutes after sunset on 22 May 1844. Father was Mírzá Muḥammad-Riḍá, who died (1828) while he was still an infant. House location in Shíráz, see Baytu’l-Mahdí. He left to go on pilgrimage to Mecca, arriving in time to perform the sacrifice on Friday 10 Dhu’l-Ḥijjah 1260 (Friday 20 December 1844). Before leaving He addressed a Tablet to the Sharíf of Mecca (Muḥammad ibn ‘Abd al-Mu‘ín, see the ‘Awn entry) to proclaim His advent. He arrived in Medina on 1 Muḥarram 1261 (Friday 10 January 1845), His birthday. From Medina He travelled to Jiddah and sailed back to Búshihr. His wife was Khadíjih-Bagum. Writings: Qayyúmu’l-Asmá’, the Persian and Arabic Bayán, Dalá’il-i-Sab‘ih (“Seven Proofs”) and the Kitáb-i-Asmá’. Second wife, Fáṭimih (sister of Mullá Rajab ‘Alí Qahír and Mullá ‘Alí Muḥammad Siráj), married 6 months in Iṣfahán in 1847; Mírzá Yaḥyá married her for a few days (Bahá’u’lláh was in Kurdistán), on the basis that he was the Báb’s “successor”, then passed her to Siyyid Muḥammad. Some designations of the Báb are: Siyyid-i-Dhikr, Ṭal‘at-i-A‘lá, Siyyid-i-Báb, ‘Abdu’dh-Dhikr, Ḥaḍrat-i-A‘lá, Bábu’lláh, Rabb-i-A‘lá, Nuqṭiy-i-Úlá and Nuqṭiy-i-Bayán. (DB 72).
Baba-Iski Bábá-Iskí Babaeski, 50 km SE Adrianople, Türkiye
Baba-zadih (Babazadih) Bábá-Zádih
Baba, Babawat Bábá, pl. Bábawát, Pers. Bábáyán pope; papa, father, daddy
Babak Bábak Pers. (diminutive of báb), a little father; one who educates; faithful, constant, firm, strong; a turquoise stone; name of a king.
Babawayh Bábawayh Persian family name. Abú Ja‘far Muḥammad ibn ‘Alí ibn al-Ḥusayn ibn Músá ibn Bábawayh al-Qummí (c. 923–991), usually known as ibn Bábawayh or by the title ash-Shaykh aṣ-Ṣadúq (“the truthful scholar”), was a Persian Shí‘a Islamic scholar.
Babawi Bábawí papal, relating to the Pope
Babawiya Bábawíya[h or t] papacy, office of the Pope
Babi, Babiyun Bábí, pl. Bábíyún (Pers. Bábiyyún) a follower of the Báb. Generally, the hybrid plural Bábís is used.
Babiya, Babiyya, Babigari Bábíya[h or t], Bábiyya[h or t] the Bábí place (Pers. Bábígarí). Name given to the house Quddús asked Mullá Ḥusayn to build in Mashhad. al-Bábíya[h or t] or al-Bábiyya, Babism, or more commonly, the Bábí Faith. Also possible is al-Ímán al-Bábí.
Babr, Bubur Babr, pl. Bubúr (babur, babor, babar and baber) tiger
Babri Babrí of Babr. Babrí Masjid—formerly a famous mosque in Ayodhya, India. See Ẓáhir.
Babu’d-Din Bábu’d-Dín “The Gate of Religion”
Babu’l-Bab, Bab-i-Bab Bábu’l-Báb, Pers. Báb-i-Báb “gate of the Gate”, name given to Mullá Muḥammad-Ḥusayn-i-Bushrú’í (also Janáb-i-Bábu’l-Báb)
Babu’llah Bábu’lláh (“The Gate of God”) (a designation of the Báb)
Babu’llahu’l-A’zam Bábu’lláhu’l-A‘ẓam the Most Great Báb
Babul (Babol), Babil Bábul, Babíl Babel, Babylon, renowned for wine and magic; the planet Jupiter; the East. City (36.538588, 52.676906) in Mazandaran Province, formerly known as Bárfurúsh.
Babulsar, Babul Sar, Mashhad-i-Sar Bábulsar, Bábul Sar Pers. also known as Mashhadsar, Mashhad-i-Sar and Meshed-i-Sar; is a city and capital of Babolsar County, Mazandaran Province, Írán. It is located alongside the Caspian Sea north of Bábul. A busy seaport during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Bad Bád Pers. wind, air, breath
Bad’a, Badi’a, Bidaya Bad’a[h or t], Badí’a[h or t] Bidáya[h or t] (Badáya[h or t]) beginning, start
Bada Badá Ar. to appear, show, become evident, clear, plain or manifest, come to light; to be obvious; to seem good, acceptable, proper (to someone). Form III to show, display, evince, manifest, reveal, declare openly
Bada’ Badá’ Pers. coming in the mind; appearing; beginning. Two meanings: 1. Appearance after hiding involving alteration of the Divine Will or the non-fulfilment of the Divine Will. A Shí‘a concept where God may alter the course of human history as is seen to be fit. 2. Origination of a new idea. The Sunní view on Badá’ is that it is not applicable to God. The Báb made significant reinterpretations of the concept of badá’. 1. Change in divine revelation according to the principle of progressive revelation. 2. Acceptance embodies the recognition of God’s absolute power and authority and thus is the highest sign of spiritual maturity. 3. The concept of magnification (takbír), as the symbol of the completion of the four layers of the divine covenant. One’s faith is complete and will not be subject to alteration or negation if one believes in all four supports or pillars of the covenant. See Gate of the heart, pp. 207–11.
Bada’, Bada’a Badá’, fem. Badá’a[h or t] beginning, start; first step, first instance, new
Bad-Gir (Badgir), Bad-Gir-Ha Bád-Gír (Bádgír), pl. Bád-Gír-Há Pers. an airy house; a funnel perforated in every part for the admission of air. Also wind catcher, wind tower, or wind scoop—a traditional architectural element used to create cross ventilation and passive cooling in buildings.
Badakhshan Badakhshán “Badakh Mountains”. NE Afghánistán province
Badasht Badasht a village (36.421145, 55.052742) 7 km east of Sháhrúd and 8.5 km SE of Basṭám in Semnan Province, venue of the first Bábí conference.
Badawi, Badw Badawí, pl. Badw Bedouin, nomadic; rural (as distinguished from urban); a Bedouin;—pl. desert, nomads, Bedouins
Badawiya, Badawiyat Badawíya, pl. Badawíyát Bedouin woman, Bedouin girl
Badayi’u’l-Athar Badáyi‘u’l-Áthár “initial impressions”, diary of Mírzá Maḥmúd-i-Zarqání. Given English title of “Travels of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the West.
Badhinjan, Baydhinjan (Baidinjan) dhinján and Baydhinján (collective; nomen unitatis ة) pl. -át. eggplant, aubergine
Badi’ Badí‘ unique, marvellous, wonderful, astonishing, surprising, wondrous, rare. Name of the calendar introduced by the Báb in the Kitabu’l-Asmáʼ (“Book of Divine Names) and used by the Bahá’ís. See abda‘ and Áqá Buzurg-i-Níshápúrí. Mírzá Badí‘ Khurásání delivered Bahá’u’lláh’s Epistle to Náṣir ad-Dín Sháh Qájár (Lawḥ-i-Sulṭán).
Badi’ al-Jamal, Badi’u’l-Jamal Badí‘ al-Jamál, (Pers.) Badí‘u’l-Jamál of astonishing beauty
Badi’ az-Zaman, Badi’u’z-Zaman Badí‘ az-Zamán, (Pers.) Badí‘u’z-Zamán the wonder of the age
Badi’a (Badi’ih), Bada’i Badí‘a[h or t], pl. Badá’i‘ (fem. of Badí‘) an astonishing, amazing thing, a marvel, a wonder; original creation. Pers. also Badí‘ih or Badí‘yyih?
Badi’i Badí‘í rhetorical
Badi’u’l-Hayat Badí‘u’l-Ḥayát “Wondrous Life” A name give by Bahá’u’lláh to Mírzá Ja‘far.
Badi’u’llah Badí‘u’lláh “wonder of God”. Mírzá Badí‘u’lláh (1867–1950), a son of Bahá’u’lláh and His second wife, Mahd-i-‘Ulyá. He wrote a “confession”, at-Ta‘límu’l-Bahá’íyat, which was translated as An Epistle to the Bahai World.
Badil, Badila, Budala’ Badíl, fem. Badíla(h), pl. Budalá’ substitute; stand-in, double (theatrical art); a good, just, religious man; (fem.) serving as a replacement or substitute. Budayl (Badíl) ibn Warqá‘ al-Khuzá‘í was a Meccan Companion of the Prophet and one of the shaykhs of the Khuzá‘ah tribe.
Badkubah (Badkubih), Bad-Kubah Bádkúbah, Bád-Kúbah “Wind-pounded city”. See Bákú
Badkubi’i (Badkoubei Bádkúbi’í Pers. (bád + kúb)
Badr, Budur Badr, pl. Budúr full moon. Badr Ḥunayn is a city 80 km SE of Yanbú‘. Site of the famous Battle of Badr, between the Quraysh led polytheists, and the Muslims under the leadership of Muḥammad, in 624.
Badri Badrí of or relating to the full moon; plenilunar; one who had been present at the battle of Badr; a purse full of money
Badshah, Padshah Bádsháh, Pádsháh Pers. an emperor, sovereign, monarch, king. Also Pád-Sháh (“Padeshah”)
Badw Badw desert; nomads, Bedouins
Bagh gh garden
Bagh Bagh Pers. a ditch; name of an idol; a god (enters into composition of names, as bagh-dád—“god-given”)
Bagh-i-Firdaws gh-i-Firdaws “Garden of Paradise”, agricultural land west of the Riḍván Garden, and east of old Akko (‘Akká)
Bagh-i-Jannat gh-i-Jannat “Garden of Paradise”
Bagh-i-Takht gh-i-Takht “Garden of the Throne” or “Garden of the Level”, in north western Shíráz (29.634226, 52.542910). A garden with a spring that once flowed over 7 terraces to a pool.
Bagh-Misha (Bagh-Mishih, Baghmisheh) Bágh-Mísha Pers. “garden of early man”; eastern district of Tabríz (38.075720, 46.384497)
Bagh-Panba (Bagh-Panbih) Bágh-Panba “cotton garden”. Bagh-Panbeh is an old district of Qum (≈ 2 km NE of city centre; 34.647643, 50.891723)
Baghban-Bashi ghbán-Báshí
Baghban, Bagh-Pira ghbán, Bágh-pírá Pers. a gardener; a vine-dresser
Baghcha ghcha Pers. a little garden, a garden
Baghdad Baghdád the original circular city of Baghdád (about 3 km NW of the present city centre) was built on the site of an earlier village by the Abbasid Caliph al-Manṣúr in CE 762–766 as the official residence of the Abbasid court. Its official name in Abbasid times was Madínat as-Salám (“The City of Peace”), Dár as-Salám (“the Abode of Peace”) or Madínatu’lláh (“the City of God”, because peace is an attribute of God). Baghdád may have derived from ancient Persian Bagh (“God”) and Dád (“gift”), i.e. “Gift of God” or “God-given”. Alternatively, also from Persian, Bagh and Dádh (“founded”), hence city “Founded by God”. In Islamic times, the west bank was known as az-Zawrá and the east bank as ar-Rawḥá’.
Baghdadi, Baghdadyun, Baghdida Baghdádí, pl. Baghdádyún, Baghádida native of Baghdád
Bagum (Begum, Bigum) Bagum (Turk) dame. Feminine form of ‘Big’. A title placed after the name.
Baha Baha Pers. far be it!
Baha Bahá Pers. price, value
Baha’ Bahá’ (بَهاء) beauty, magnificence, splendour; brilliancy; glory or light. Title of Bahá’u’lláh. See Abhá. An Islamic Tradition states the Most great Name (Huwu) consists of four names:,
1. “God” (Alláh),
2. “the Blessed” (Tabáraka),
3. “the Exalted” (Ta‘álá, from the same root as ‘Alí),
4. The hidden name of God—identified by the Báb as hidden in Ta‘álá, i.e. ‘Ali, but the ultimate name is Bahá’ [the Greatest Name]. See Gate of the heart, pp. 105–7. Abjad of Bahá’ (B = 2, h = 5, á = 1, hamza (apostrophe) = 1) is = 9, hence the significance of the number 9 in the Bahá’í Faith. Refer to the Bearers of the throne of God (8) section.
Baha’ ad-Din, Baha’u’d-Din Bahá’ ad-Dín, Bahá’u’d-Dín literally “splendour of the faith”. Bahá’u’lláh was known by the locals in the Haifa ‘Akká area as Bahá’u’d-Dín, a name that was less theologically problematic than Bahá’u’lláh.
Baha’i Holy Year Bahá’í Holy Year 1. Centennial of “year nine” AH 1269/CE 1952 (Revelation received by Bahá’u’lláh about two months after imprisonment in Siyàh Chál)—October 1952 to October 1953. 2. Centennial Ascension Bahá’u’lláh, Riḍván 1992 to Riḍván 1993.
Baha’i Khun Baháʼi Khún Pers. the price of blood (which is paid to the relations of a person killed, as an atonement)
Baha’i, Baha’iyun (Baha’iun) Bahá’í, pl. Bahá’iyún (بهائيين) precious, valuable. “Follower of the Glory” (Bahá’ís is a generally used hybrid plural) A follower of Bahá’u’lláh; a person of light, of enlightenment. al-Ímán al-Bahá’í: Bahá’í Faith. “Bahá’íán” (the Bahá’ís) by Siyyid Muḥammad Báqir Najafí.
Baha’iya, Baha’iyya, Baha’igari Bahá’íya[h or t], Bahá’iyya[h or t] (Pers. Bahá’ígarí) (Ar. pl. Bahá’íyyát). Fem. of Bahá’í “Radiant” or “Full of Glory”. Bahá’íyyih Khánum (also known by Persians as the variant Bahíyyih Khánum), the Greatest Holy Leaf, daughter of Bahá’u’lláh. al-Bahá’íya or al-Bahá’iyya, Baha’ism, the doctrine of practice of the Bahá’ís, or more commonly, the Bahá’í Faith. Also possible is al-Ímán al-Bahá’í.
Baha’u’l-Abha Bahá’u’l-Abhá (previously written as Baha-el-Abha) “The Glory of the All-Glorious” “The Glory of the Most Glorious”
Baha’u’llah Bahá’u’lláh (بهاءاله or بهاءالله) (“The Glory of God”) Title of Mírzá Ḥusayn-‘Alí of Núr, founder of the Bahá’í Faith (1233–1309; 1817–1892). Born (2 Muḥarram 1233; 12 November 1817) in Ṭihrán. His parents were Mírzá ʻAbbás-i-Núrí (or Mírzá Buzurg Núrí) and his second wife Khadíjih Khánum. When Bahá’u’lláh, the Supreme Manifestation for this age, first heard of the Báb’s Revelation prior to His own declaration, He instantly acclaimed its truth, and arose to champion and promote its cause. He became known incorrectly as a “follower” and a “disciple” of the Báb. Wives: Ásíyih Khánum, Fáṭimih Khánum and Gawhar Khánum.
Bahadur, Bahaduran Bahádur, pl. Bahádurán Pers. brave, bold, valiant, courageous, magnanimous, warlike, strong, athletic; a soldier, champion, hero, chevalier, knight, horseman; a title of honour conferred by the Great Mogul and other Eastern potentates, bearing some resemblance to the European title of military knighthood. Abú Sa‘íd Baḥádur—should be Bahádur
Bahar Bahár Pers. spring, beginning of summer; a blossom; orange-flower; a Buddhist temple; an idol; the harem of a prince
Bahar, Baharat Bahár, pl. Bahárát spice; a species of odoriferous herb; anything beautiful and splendid; name of a village 14 km NW Hamadán
Bahari Bahárí Pers. belonging to the spring, vernal
Baharistan Baháristán Pers. spring; vernal blossoms; title of a celebrated work of Ṣúfí, Persian poet, native of Jám, Búshihr Province, Írán
Bahariyih, Bahariyyih, Baharieh Baháríya[h or t], Baháriyya Pers. (Bahariyyih, Bahareh), fem., “someone or something that arises in the spring”. Baháriyyih Rúḥání Ma‘ání.
Bahhaj Bahháj delightful, blissful. Form of the word bahija
Bahij Bahij, Bahíj magnificent, splendid, beautiful; happy, joyous; delightful
Bahija Bahija to be glad, be happy (about), be delighted (at). Root of Bahij and Bahja.
Bahir Báhir dazzling, brilliant, splendid, sparkling
Bahira Baḥírá known as Sergius the Monk to the Latin West, was a Syriac or Arab Arian, Nestorian or possibly Gnostic Nasorean monk who, according to Islamic tradition, foretold to the adolescent Muḥammad his future as a prophet. His name derives from the Syriac bḥírá, meaning “tested (by God) and approved”.
Bahiri Báhirí Mihdí Báhirí (martyr)
Bahiy al-Abhá, Bahiyu’l-Abhá Bahíy al-Abhá, Bahíyu’l-Abhá most glorious, magnificent and brilliant. “Ere long God will shine from the face of Bahíyu’l-Abhá with the name of Bahá’, on the Day of Absolute, in the plain of ‘Akká.” (Dalá’il al-‘Irfán, p. 156)
Bahjatu’s-Sudur (Bihjatu’s-Sudur) Bahjatu’ṣ-Ṣudúr, “Bihjatu’ṣ-Ṣudúr” “Delight of hearts” by Ḥájí Mírzá Ḥaydar-‘Alí. See bahja and ṣadr
Bahji, Bahij Bahij, Bahíj, Bahjí derivatives of bahija. Bahij: happy, joyous; delightful. Bahíj: magnificent, splendid, beautiful. Bahjí: less common form and can be considered a derivative or a colloquial variation, with a similar meaning to bahij. Bahjí (it has been translated as “place of delight”) is a part of the plain of ‘Akká where the Shrine and the Mansion of Bahá’u’lláh are located. See Núr ‘Alá Núr; and “Khammár, ‘Údí” for his doorway inscription.
Bahman Bahman Pers. intelligent, acute, adroit; the supreme intelligence; a cloud pouring rain; (also bahmani barf, “snow”) an avalanche of snow. The 11th month of the Persian solar calendar.
Bahnimir (Behnamir) Bahnimír city (36.667845, 52.761898) near southern coast of the Caspian Sea
Bahr, Bihar, Buhar, Abhar, Abhur Baḥr, pl. Biḥár, Buḥúr, Abḥár, Abḥur sea; large river; a noble, or great man (whose magnanimity or knowledge is comparable to the vastness of the sea); meter (poetry). Dual forms: Baḥrán (“Bahran”) (nominative, not used for the modern nation) and Baḥrayn (“Bahrayn, Bahrain”) (genitive and accusative). al-Baḥrán or al-Baḥrayn: “the two seas or rivers”. Qur’án 25:53 “two bodies of flowing water, one sweet and fresh and the other salty and bitter”. Dual form occurs 5× (figuratively?) in the Qur’án, only once in the nominative case, they do not refer to the modern nation (originally known to the Arabs as “Awwal”) but possibly to the oases of al-Qaṭíf and Ḥadjár (modern al-Ḥasá). The Bahrayn nation consists of 50 natural and 33 artificial islands in the western Persian Gulf. See Yamm and Biḥáru’l-Anwár.
Bahram Bahrám Pers. the planet Mars; name of several kings of Persia, and of other kingdoms in the East (corrupted by the Greeks into Varanes); name of several heroes; the twentieth day of every month. The older form is Vahrám (Middle Persian), also spelled Wahrám, literally meaning “smiting of resistance” or “victorious”.
Bahram Shahi, Bahramshahi Bahrám Sháhí, Bahrámsháhí Rúḥu’lláh Bahrámsháhí
Bahrami Bahrámí Pers. bravery, valour; slaughter
Bahran (Bahrain, Bahrein) Baḥrán Bahrain Islands
Bahrani Baḥrání of the Bahrain Islands. Shaykh ‘Abdu’lláh bin Núru’lláh al-Baḥrání al-Iṣfahání (d. CE 1711) compiled 11 vol. collection of traditions and Islamic history known as ‘Awálim or ‘Awálim al-‘Ulúm (‘Awálim al-‘Ulúm wa al-Ma‘árif wa al-aḥwál min al-Áyát wa al-Akhbar wa al-Aqwál, “The worlds of science, knowledge and conditions of verses, news and sayings”). The books are a revised arrangement and consummation of Bihar al-Anwar, the famous collection of Shí‘a traditions compiled by ‘Allámah Majlisí. The books are also known as Ḥadíth al-Ghadír.
Bahru’l-‘Ulum Baḥru’l-‘Ulúm “sea of all knowledge”
Bahru’l-Iram Baḥru’l-Iram Pers. “calm sea” or Sea of paradise”, name of a lake with a large island (the lake has since been reclaimed; 36.530251, 52.676284) on which a palace was built (Bágh-i-Sháh). Bágh Baḥru’l-Iram, an island garden.
Bahth, Buhuth, Abhath Baḥth, pl. Buḥút, Abḥáth search (for), quest (of); examination, study; research; investigation, exploration; discussion; treatise; (pl.) study, scientific report (on)
Bajastan (Bajestan, Bejestan, Bijestan) Bajastán, Bajistán a city (34.517094, 58.184451; 232 km SW of Mashhad) and capital of Bajestan County, Írán.
Bajastani (Bajestani, Bejestani, Bijestani) Bajastání, Bajistání Mullá Ḥasan-i-Bajistání, a Letter of the Living.
Baji Bájí Pers. sister; miss, lady (modern colloquialism)
Baka, Buka, Bukan Baká (Buká’, Bukan) to cry, weep (over); to bemoan, lament, bewail (someone), mourn (for) II and IV to make (someone) cry X to move (someone) to tears, make (someone) cry
Bakhit Bakhít lucky, fortunate
Bakhsh Bakhsh Pers. fate, destiny, portion, share, fortune, lot, part (a land division equal to a district)
Bakhshandagi (Bakhshandegi) Bakhshandagí Pers. liberality; pardon
Bakht Bakht Pers. fortune, prosperity, felicity, happiness; luck (good or bad); a horoscope, nativity, planet, constellation; the nightmare
Bakhtar Bakhtar Pers. commonly “the west”, if the subject is the rising sun, then “the east”. Otherwise, use sharq for “the east”.
Bakhtaran Bakhtarán Pers. name of Kirmánsháh (1987–95)
Bakhtawar (Bakhtavar) Bakhtáwar lucky, fortunate
Bakhtiyari Bakhtíyárí (بختياري) Pers. prosperity, riches. Tribe of western Írán (Bachtiari)
Bakk Bakk bruising, knocking; tearing, rending; crowding
Bakka Bakka (verb) to crowd as in a bazaar
Bakkah, Bakkat Bakka(h or t) believed to be an ancient name of Mecca (the b and m were interchangeable in the Arabic used in that area at the time of Muḥammad), but Muslim scholars say Bakkah refers to the Ka‘ba and the sacred site immediately surrounding it (due to the crowding and congestion of people in the area), while Mecca is the name of the city in which they are both located.
Bakr, Bakra, Abkhur, Bukran Bakr, fem. Bakra[h or t] (pl. Abkur, Bukrán) young camel. Caliph Abú-Bakr.
Bakri, Bakriyun Bakrí, pl. Bakríyún follower of Abú-Bakr (i.e. traditionalist), used by Shi‘as to refer to Sunnis.
Bakshish Bakshísh Per. See Baqshísh
Baku (Bad-kubah, Badkubah) Bákú Baku, capital city of Azerbaijan. The name is derived from the old Persian name for the city Bád-kúbah (or Bádkúbah), meaning “wind-beaten”, thus referring to a place where wind is strong and pounding.
Bakus (Bakos, Bacos, Bacus, Bakkos) Bákús suburb of Alexandria, Egypt.
Bala Bálá upper, up, above, better quality or prestigious. Where there are two nearby villages, it can be used to indicate one is above the other or is of a better quality. See ‘ulyá, and contrast with pá’in and suflá (asfal) (used for lower parts of villages)
Bala, Balih (Bale) Balá (Pers. Balih) yes, yes indeed, certainly, surely
Bala-Khanih Bálá-Khánih Balcony
Bala-Khiyaban Bálá-Khíyábán a neighbourhood (36.293903, 59.612958) in Mashhad
Bala-Rastaq Bálá-Rastáq a village in Írán
Bala-Sari, Balasari, Balasariyun Bálá-Sarí, Bálásarí, pl. Bálásaríyún Pers. “above the head”. A term used by Shaykhis (Shaykhí followers) to distinguish ordinary (later only those hostile to the Shaykhis) Shi’ites (the Bálá-Sarí—those who pray standing at the head of the Imám while facing the Qiblih; i.e. with their backs to the Imám) from members of their own sect—they preferred to call themselves Kashfíya (“those who reveal”) or the Pusht-sarí (“behind the head” [of the Imám]). Persians may use bálásarí-há (balasari-ha).
Bala’ Bala’ to test, to afflict
Bala’ Balá’ trial, tribulation, visitation, affliction, distress, misfortune; scourge, plague; creditable performance, bravery, gallantry, heroic action
Balad, Bilad, Buldan Balad m. and f., pl. Bilád, Buldán country; town, city; place, community, village;—(pl. bilád) regions, habitations; provinces, territories; an inhabited country;—(pl. buldán) cities, countries. bilád al-ḥabash, Ethiopia; bilád. aṣ-ṣín, China; bilád al-hind, India.
Balada (Baladeh) Balada Pers. the first woman, eve. A village (36.200139, 51.807656) 18 km west of Tákur. The family home of the prime minister, Mírzá Áqá Khán.
Baladu’l-Amin Baladu’l-Amín “protected land” or “safe city”, i.e. Makkah
Balagh, Balagha, Balaghat Balágh, fem. Balágha[h], pl. Balághát communication, information, message, report; announcement, proclamation; communiqué; statement; notification (of the police). Balágha eloquence; art, of good style, art of composition; literature.
Balah (Balih, Baleh), Bali (Bale) Balah (Balí) Pers. yes
Balal Balál Pers. moisture, humidity, freshness (of youth or young plants); water
Balat, Balata, Ablita Baláṭ, fem. Baláṭa, pl. Abliṭa(h) pavement, tiled floor; floor tiles; palace;—pl. floor tiles. Tall Baláṭa (Nablus, West Bank) is believed to be the site of Sychar (or Shechem).
Balinus Bálinus Apollonius was also known as Bálinus
Balkh Balkh city (formerly Bámí; 36.758235, 66.898352) and province in Afghánistán. The city is in what was Ancient or Greater Khurásán, a historical eastern region in the Iranian Plateau between Western and Central Asia.
Ballur, Billaur, Bulur Ballúr, Billaur, Bulúr Pers. crystal; beryl
Baluch Balúch Iranian tribe who live mainly in the Balochistan region of the southeastern-most edge of the Iranian plateau in Pákistán, Írán, and Afghánistán.
Baluchistan Balúchistán SW province of Pakistan
Baluz, Baluza, Baluzat Balúz, Balúza, pl. Balúzát blouse
Balyuz Bályúz said to derive through Turkish (from Balius, Baylus (بالیوز, “balyoz”) and Baliuz) from Venetian Italian balio (or bailo, meaning governor, later ambassador), which is derived from Latin (bájulus, pl. bájulí: porter, carrier; manager, steward, bailiff; administrator)
Balyuzi Bályúzí Ḥasan Muwaqqar Bályúzí (1908–1980).
Bamdad, Bamdadan Bámdád, Bámdádán Pers. early morning
Bana, Bayan Bána (Bayán) to be or become plain, evident, come out,come to light; to be clear (to someone)
Banadak Sadat Banádak Sádát village (31.574338, 54.206706) 40 km south Yazd
Banan Banán finger tips
Banani Banání Hand of the Cause Músá Banání, and wife Samíḥih
Band Amir (Band-e Amir) Band Amír “The ruler’s dam”. National Park in Afghánistán (34.840170, 67.234339) consisting of six intensely blue lakes created by natural travertine dams high in the Hindu Kush. “Bendemir” in Thomas Moore’s “Lalla Rookh”, see Lála-Rukn.
Banda (Bandih), Bandagan Banda, pl. Bandagán Pers. bondsman, servant, slave
Banda Astanash Banda Ástánash “the servant of His Threshold”. Shoghi Effendi’s well-known signature on his correspondence with the East was Bandih ástánash, Shoghi [the servant of His Threshold, Shoghi].
Bandar-i-‘Abbas, Bandar ‘Abbas Bandar-i-‘Abbás, Bandar ‘Abbás Pers. a port city and capital of Hurmúzgán Province on the southern Persian Gulf coast of Írán
Bandar-i-Gaz Bandar-i-Gaz (Bandar-i-Jaz) Pers. port city (36.775484, 53.949476) in Golestan Province, on the Caspian Sea (SE corner). It is the “port of Gaz”, a village (36.738585, 53.972901) 4 km to the SSE.
Bandar, Banadir Bandar, pl. Banádir seaport; commercial centre; district capital (Egyptian)
Bandiy-i-Bab-i-Baha Bandiy-i-Báb-i-Bahá Pers. bondsman at the door of Bahá (Bahá’u’lláh). A designation used by Mishkín-Qalam. See banda
Bandiy-i-Khuda Bandiy-i-Khudá bondsman or slave of God. See banda
Bani-Hashim Baní-Háshim The sons or children of Háshim, great-grandfather of Muḥammad. That is, the people deriving from the quasi-mythical Shem (Sám), son of Noah.
Bank Bánk Pers. bank (money). Bánk Millí Írán (BMI; the “National Bank of Iran”)
Banna Banná’ (Banná) Pers. a builder, mason, architect
Banu Bánú Pers. a princess; a lady; a bride; a flagon of wine; a goblet of rose-water
Banu an-Nadir, Banu’n-Nadir Banú an-Naḍír or Banú’n-Naḍír (Pers. Banú Naḍír) were a Jewish Arab tribe who lived in northern Arabia until the 7th century at the oasis of Medina. The tribe challenged Muḥammad’s leadership of Medina, planned along with allied nomads to attack Muḥammad and were expelled from Medina as a result. The Banú an-Naḍír then planned the battle of the Trench (Ghazwat al-Khandaq) together with the Quraysh. They later participated in the battle of Khaybar.
Baqa’ Baqá’ remaining, staying, lingering, abiding; continuation, continuance, duration; survival, continuation of existence after life; immortality, eternal life; existence; permanence. See Faná’
Banu Tamim Banú Tamím Arabian tribe. Tamím ibn Murr, the ancestor of the tribe, is a direct descendant of Abraham. Hence this large tribe is considered to be an Ishmaelite tribe.
Banu Umayya Banú Umayya was a clan in the Quraysh tribe named after ‘Abd Shams ibn ‘Abd Manáf’s adopted son Umayya ibn ‘Abd Shams.
Baqar Baqar cattle
Baqara, Baqarat Baqara, pl. Baqarát cow
Baqi Báqí remaining, left; alive; permanent, durable, fixed, firm; immortal, everlasting, eternal; one of the names of God; remainder, rest; balance, arrears; (adverb) for the rest; upon the whole
Baqi’ Baqí‘ a place in which there are a number of trees; Jannat al-Baqí‘ or Baqí‘u’l-Gharqad (because it formerly abounded large boxthorn trees), the cemetery of Medina (demolished in the 19th and 20th centuries). It was the resting place of many of Muḥammad’s relatives and companions. It is SE of the Prophet’s Mosque containing the tomb of Muḥammad.
Baqila’ Báqilá’ a bean (Faba sativa)
Baqillani Báqillání (Ar. influence) a vendor of beans; nickname of a celebrated scholar. Abú Bakr Muḥammad ibn aṭ-Ṭayyib al-Báqillání (c. 940–1013), I‘jáz al-Qur’án (The Inimitability of the Qur’án). See Báqilá’
Baqir Báqir (“One who expands or breaks”) Title of the fifth Shí‘a Imám and an Ethiopian slave who was one of the very early converts to Islám.
Baqir-Abad, Baqirabad (Baghirabad) Báqirábád now Báqirshahr (35.532500, 51.402500) a city in Rayy County, Teheran Province. 18 km south of Ṭihrán. Baqer Abad caravanserai (34.930381, 50.823423) on Teheran-Qom Old Rd.
Baqir-i-Bastami Báqir-i-Basṭámí
Baqir-i-Kafsh-Duz Báqir-i-Kafsh-Dúz
Baqir-i-Kandi Báqir-i-Kandí
Baqir-i-Kashani Báqir-i-Káshání
Baqir-i-Qa’ini Báqir-i-Qá’iní
Baqir-i-Rashti Báqir-i-Rash
Baqir-i-Sabbagh Báqir-i-Ṣabbágh
Baqir-i-Shiraz Báqir-i-Shíráz
Baqir-i-Tabrizi Báqir-i-Tabrízí
Baqiri Báqirí descendant of Imám Muḥammad al-Báqir
Baqiriya (Bakiriya) Báqiríya followers of the fifth Imám
Baqíya as-Sayf Baqíya as-Sayf “remnant of the sword”, a title given to the survivors of the Shaykh Ṭabarsí upheaval.
Baqiya, Baqaya Baqíya(h or t), pl. Baqáyá remainder, rest; remnant, residue
Baqiya, Baqiyat Báqiya(h or t), pl. Báqiyát remaining; remainders;—pl. remainders, balances, arrears
Baqiyatu’llah, Baqiyyatu’llah Baqíyatu’lláh (Pers. Baqiyyatu’lláh) “Remnant of God”. Abjad 183. A title of the Twelfth Imám that is also applied to the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh.
Baqlava Báqlavá a sweetmeat
Baqqal (Bakkal), Baqqalun, Baqqala Baqqál, pl. Baqqálún, Baqqála greengrocer; grocer
Baqshish Baqshísh, pl. Baqáshísh present of money; tip, gratuity, baksheesh
Bar Bar Pers. (preposition) on, upon, onto
Bara’, Bara’a, Bara’at Bará’, fem. Bará’a, pl. Bará’át free, exempt (from); fem. being free; disavowal, withdrawal, repudiation; innocence, guiltlessness; naiveté, guilelessness, artlessness;—pl. license, diploma, patent. See Bismi’lláhi’r-Raḥmáni’r-Raḥím for Súra 9:1.
Barafrukhta (Bar-afrokhta) Barafrúkhta(h) Pers. inflamed, fired, lit up. Dr Ali Mohammed Barafroukhteh, the only member of the 1960 French NSA to reject Mason Remey’s claims. Three others later repented and asked for forgiveness.
Barak Barak Pers. a firm and durable woven cloth used for coats, overcoats, shawls (in Afghánistán) and leggings. Good quality barak is made from mohair, inferior quality from camel hair.
Baraka, Barakat Baraka(t), pl. Barakát blessing, benediction; abundance, prosperity
Baraka’llahu Fikum Báraka’lláhu Fíkum “May God bless you”
Barakatu’llah Barakatu’lláh “God bless you”
Baramaki, Baramika Barmakí, pl. Barámika(t) a hero, a noble, liberal man; of the Persian family of Barmacides (highly celebrated all over the East for their generosity, magnificence, and distinguished patronage of men of genius) founded by Khalid ibn Barmak (705–782). When Balkh, the native town of Barmakids fell to the Arabs, Khalid ibn Barmak and his brothers moved to the garrison town of Baṣra in ‘Iráq, where they converted to Islám. Their ancestor was a Pramukh (pronounced in Arabic as Barmak), a title borne by the high priest in the Buddhist temple of Nawbahár (naw + bahár, new monastery).
Baraqan (Baraghan), Savojbolagh Baraqán village, in Sávajbulágh county, 14 km north of Karaj and 52 km WNW of Ṭihrán
Baraqani (Baraghani) Baraqání from Baraqán (Baraghán). Fáṭima Zarrín Táj Baraqání (Ṭáhirih).
Barazat Barázát Temptation
Barfurush Bárfurúsh a town in Mázindarán, now known as Bábul (Babol)
Bari’ Bári‘ skilled, skilful, proficient, capable, efficient; brilliant, outstanding (work of art)
Bari’ Bári’ the creator, God, the Deity. Hence, al-Bári’
Barid Baríd Pers. a fast or light breed of horse; courier’s horse; hunter; courier, messenger, running footman; a measure of two parasangs or twelve miles
Barik Bárik Pers. thin, slender, minute
Baris, Paris Bárís, Pers. Párís Paris
Barmakiyan, Baramika Barmakíyán, Ar. Barámika(h) Pers. the Barmakids (Ar. al-Barámikah), also spelled Barmecides, were an influential Iranian family from Balkh where they were originally hereditary Buddhist leaders (in the Nawbahár monastery), and subsequently came to great political power under the Abbasid caliphs of Baghdád.
Barq, Buruq Barq, pl. Burúq lightning; flash of lightning; telegraph
Barqi (Barki) Barqí (Barkí) pertaining or relating to lightning; electric; telegraphic, telegraph- (in compounds). Aḥmad bin Muḥammad bin Khálid bin ‘Abd al-Raḥmán al-Barqí (b. ~200/815-816—d. 274/887–888 or 280/893–894) was a renowned Twelver Shí‘a muḥaddith (ḥadíth scholar) and historian of 3rd/9th century.
Barr Barr land (as opposed to sea), terra firma, mainland; open country
Barr, Abrar, Barara Barr and Bárr, pl. Abrár and Barara reverent, dutiful (+ preposition bi—toward), devoted (+ preposition bi—to); pious, godly, upright, righteous; kind
Bartalla (Bartella, “Baratallih”) Barṭalla[h or t] to bribe. A town (36.351768, 43.379366) 21 km east of Mosul, ‘Iráq.
Barzakh, Barazikh Barzakh, pl. Barázikh interval, gap, break, partition, bar, obstruction; isthmus. An interworld, boundary between the mundane and celestial realms. Example: between this life and the next, between Heaven and Hell, the period between two manifestations etc.
Bas Bas Pers. a great number, many, more; very much, greatly; enough, sufficient; often; yes, indeed, certainly, it is so, very true, surely, undoubtedly, unquestionably
Basar (“Bassar”), Absar Baṣar, pl. Abṣár vision, eye-sight; glance, look; insight; sight, discernment, perception. Name (“Baṣṣár”) given by Bahá’u’lláh to blind poet Mírzá Baqir Bihish
Bash sh Ar. senior, chief (in compounds).
Pers. (imperative of búdan) be, stay, remain, wait, be still.
Basha, Bashawat, Pasha shá, (Pers. Páshá), pl. Báshawát Ar. being, existing; English a basha or pasha (corruptions of bádsháh (a king), pádsháh, pádisháh, etc.); governor of a province, counsellor of state, great lord (or boy, prince); also sometimes the grand vazir. Former honorary title given to Turkish officers of high rank. bin-bashí (Turkish binbaşı) rank of major (1,000 men). Pers. pl. Pásháhá. Turkish paşa, pl. paşalar.
Buratha (Baratha) Buráthá Buratha Mosque (Jámi‘ Buráthá or Majid Shaykh Junayd; 33.351195, 44.361215) is between central Baghdád and Kaẓímayn (now a suburb of Baghdád)
Bashar Bashar man, human being; men, mankind; mortals, the human race
Bashi Báshí (in compounds) chief, head or commander of
Bashir wa Nadhir Bashír wa Nadhír Bahá’u’lláh appeared as the “Announcer and Warner”, cf. Qur’án 35:22.
Bashir-i-Ilahi Bashír-i-Iláhí Announcer of God
Bashir, Bushara’ Bashír, pl. Bushará’ bringer of glad tidings (announcer), messenger, herald, harbinger, forerunner, precursor; evangelist (Christian)
Bashiri Bashírí
Bashnih (Beshneh) Bashnih a village (29.362013, 54.834977) 53 km ENE of Nayríz; a town (28.793284, 55.036605) 85 km SE Nayríz. Both are in Fárs Province.
Basir Baṣír (most insightful, discerning, endowed with insight, seeing) Adjective, superlative form of Baṣár (sight).
Basir-i-Hindi Baṣír-i-Hindí Siyyid Baṣír-i-Hindí, the blind Indian Bábí
Basira Baṣíra, pl. Baṣá’ir (keen) insight, penetration, discernment, understanding, (power of) mental perception, mental vision
Basit Básiṭ Pers. one who spreads abroad or stretches out; a name of God, who dispenses riches to whom he will; distant from water (pasture). “open”
Basit Basíṭ, pl. Busaṭá’ simple; plain, uncomplicated; slight, little, modest, inconsiderable, trivial, trifling;—pl. simple souls, ingenuous people
Basita al-Basíṭa[h or t] the earth, the world
Bazargan (Bayazid) Bázargán Pers. a merchant, a trader. An Iranian (since 1913) border city (39.391611, 44.387709) about a 20 km walk from Máh-Kú Qal‘a. An area marked as the village of “Bayazid” on old maps—the “Báyazíd” in DB p. 244? See Báyazíd.
Basmala Basmala, pl. Basmalát “word” meaning to utter the invocation bismi’lláh ar-raḥmání ar-raḥímí “In the name of God, the Benificent, the Merciful”. The “word” is derived from “in the name of” and is the act of uttering the above invocation.
Basra (Basrih) Baṣra[h or t] (Pers. Bahá’í Baṣrih) a single pimple or pustule. Baṣrah “port” in southern ‘Iráq (untranscripted variations: The new al-Fáw Grand Harbour (Míná’ al-Fáw al-Kabír), about 100 km SE of Basrah, on the Persian Gulf is under construction. Basra, Bosrah, Basorah, Balsora)
Basri, Basriyun Baṣrí, pl. Baṣriyún native of al-Baṣrah. Baṣriyún (English Basran, school of) grammarians. See Kúfí
Bast Basṭ Pers. (verbal noun), Stretching out (the hand); distension; diffusiveness; being wide enough for; preferring, exalting
Bast Bast Pers. be bound or connected; a lover, a sweetheart, one in whom the heart is bound up; a turban, wreath for the head; a knot; a hundred; a sanctuary, asylum; a bank, a rampart; a mountain; distribution of water into canals, ditches, or drains
Bastam, Bistam, Bustam Basṭám, Bisṭám or Busṭám city in and capital of the Basṭám District of Sháhrúd County, Semnan Province, Írán. 8 km north of Sháhrúd. Home of Mullá ‘Alí, the fourth Letter of Living.
Bastami, Bistami Basṭámí, Bisṭámí from or of Basṭám. Abú Yazíd Ṭayfúr bin ‘Ísá bin Surúshán al-Bisṭámí (804–874), commonly known in the Iranian world as Báyazíd Bisṭámí, was a Persian Ṣúfí. Known to later Sufis as Sulṭán al-‘Árifín (“the king among those who have Knowledge (of God)”, metaphorically, “the first among the Wise”; or “King of the Gnostics”). Shrine is in central Basṭám.
Bastan Bástán Pers. ancient, preceding, old; the past; the world, fortune; solitary
Batara (Batr) Batara (Batr) to cut off, sever (something); to amputate (something); to mutilate, render fragmentarily (a text) Form VII to be cut off, be severed, be amputated
Batha’, Bitah, Bathawat Baṭḥá’, pl. Biṭáḥ, Baṭḥawát basin-shaped valley; plain, level land, flatland, open country. Baṭḥá’ Quraysh is a southern neighbourhood of Mecca. See Makkah.
Batil, Abatil Báṭil, pl. Abáṭíl nugatory (of no value or importance), vain, futile; false, untrue; absurd, groundless, baseless; worthless; invalid, null, void; deception, lie, falsehood;—pl. vanities, trivialities, trifles, flimflam, idle talk, prattle
Batin, Bawatin Báṭin, pl. Bawáṭin inner, interior, inward, inmost, intrinsic; hidden (concealed), secret. Derived from baṭn. See opposite ẓáhir. báṭin al-báṭin—inner inward meaning.
Batini Báṭiní internal
Batn, Butun, Abutun Baṭn, pl. Buṭún, Abṭun belly, stomach, abdomen; womb; interior, inside, inner portion; depth
Batt (Butt) Batt settlement, decision
Battah Baṭṭáh village on coast of Libya, 115 km east of Bengazi
Battani Battání Battán is thought to be a street or a part of Ḥarrán. Abú ‘Abdu’lláh Muḥammad ibn Jábir ibn Sinán ar-Raqqí al-Ḥarrání aṣ-Ṣábi’ al-Battání (Latinized as Albategnius, Albategni or Albatenius) (c. 858–929) was an Arab astronomer, astrologer, and mathematician. He is perhaps the greatest and best known astronomer of the medieval Islamic world. He was the author of a set of Astronomical Tables, which in its Latin version provided the groundwork of astronomy in Europe for several centuries.
Battuta, Batuta Baṭṭúṭa[h] Muḥammad ibn Baṭṭúṭa or Ibn Baṭúṭah; 1304–1368 or 1369), was a Moroccan scholar who widely travelled the medieval world.
Batul Batúl virgin
Batuli Batúlí virginal
Batum Báṭúm now Batumi, Black Sea port city, Georgia
Bawanat (Bavanat) Bawánát Bawánát-i-Fárs, county (whose boundary has changed a number of times) in Fars Province. County capital city of Súriyán (Surian) renamed (2001) Bavánát (30.489738, 53.593380).
Bawil, Bavil Báwíl, Bávíl village 23 km SW of Tabríz. It consists of Bávíl ‘Ulyá or Bávíl Bálá (Upper Bavil), and Bávíl Suflá or Bávíl Pá’ín (Lower Bavil). See Mílán and Uskú
Bawwab, Bawwaba, Bawwabun Bawwáb, pl. Bawwábún a porter, warder, doorkeeper, gatekeeper. Feminine bawwába[h or t], pl. bawwábát: (large) gate, portal. As the Shí‘a Muslims were awaiting the return of the “Hidden Imám”, the Báb’s initial use of the title reflected the gate-hood” (al-bawwába), figurative, of the four consecutive “báb”s (gates or portals) through whom the Hidden Imám communicated with the faithful before going into his “Greater Occultation”. “Babhood” should be replaced by Gate-hood or Door-ship] (-hood or -ship—state of being, quality or condition).
Bay, Baya, Bayat Báy, f. Báya, pl. Báyát formerly, in Tunisia, a title after the names of the members of the Bey’s family. See Beg
Bay’a (Bai’a) Bay‘a(h or t) agreement, arrangement; business deal, commercial transaction, bargain; sale; purchase; homage; inauguration, salutation, or acknowledging the authority of a great man; swearing allegiance; homage, fealty. Bay‘ah originally referred to the striking together of hands between buyer and seller to mark an agreement. Bay‘at is sometimes taken under a written pact given on behalf of the subjects by leading members of the tribe with the understanding that as long as the leader abides by certain requirements towards his people, they are to maintain their allegiance to him. The Pledge of the Tree (bayʻat ash-shajarah), Pledge of Satisfaction or of Riḍwán (bayʻat ar-riḍwán) was a pledge that was sworn to Muḥammad by his Ṣaḥába (companions) prior to the Treaty of Ḥudaybiyyah (AH 6/ CE 628). The pledge, sworn under a tree, was to avenge the rumoured death of ‘Uthmán ibn ‘Affán.
Bayad, Bayadat Bayáḍ, Bayáḍát white, whiteness: whitewash;—pl. barren, desolate, uncultivated land, wasteland; gap, blank space (in a manuscript); blank; leucoma (medicine); linen
Bayan-i-‘Arabi, Arabic Bayan Bayán-i-‘Arabí “Arabic Bayán” by the Báb completed after the Bayán-i-Fársí
Bayan-i-Farsi, Persian Bayan Bayán-i-Fársí “Persian Bayán” (Mother Book of the Bábí Revelation) by the Báb
Bayan, Bayanat Bayán, pl. Bayánát clearness (particularly of the meaning of revelation), plainness, patency, obviousness; statement, declaration, announcement; manifestation; explanation, elucidation, illustration; information, news; (official) report, (official) statement; enumeration, index, list; eloquence. Also exposition or utterance. Title given by the Báb to His Revelation, and, in particular, to His Books. Muslims are puzzled by the chronology given in Qur’án 55:2–4. “Bayán (exposition) [“speech”, 55:4] signifies the Revelation of the Báb, which unveils the hidden truth of the Qur’án. ‘Man’ [55:3] signifies the ‘Perfect Human Being’—the Manifestation of the Names and attributes of God ....” Gate of the heart, p. 262. al-Bayán (نايبل or “ن ا ي ب ل ا”) has an abjad value of 94 (“al” (value 31) consists of an unstressed Alif and Lám). Compare lilláh
Bayani, Bayaniya (Bayanis) Bayání, fem. Bayáníya (pl. bayáníyún, fem. bayáníyát) explanatory, illustrative; rhetorical. A follower of the Báb, but not Bahá’u’lláh. Some also followed Mírzá Yaḥyá (Ṣubḥi-i-Azal).
Bayat Bayát Ar. passing the night; doing anything in the night; a nocturnal invasion; place name, name of a tribe. Pers. grief, anxiety, care.
Bayazid, Bayizid Báyazíd, Báyizíd Pers. (Turkish beyazıt) Bayezid I, also known as Bayezid the Thunderbolt (Yıldırım Beyazıt; c. 1360–1403), was the sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1389 to 1402. Born in Bursa (first capital of the Ottoman Empire), moved court to Edirne in 1393 (second capital), captured by Timur in 1402 in Ankara. See Íldirím. Doğubeyazıt (East Beyazıt, 39.547069, 44.069424), Türkiye, 47 km NW Máh-Kú Qal‘a. Hence, unlikely to be the “Báyazíd” in DB p. 244. See Bázargán.
Bayda (Baida, Baiza), Baydun, Baydat Bayḍa(h), pl. Bayḍún, Bayḍát egg; helmet; main part, substance, essence. Pers. also Baiẓa. ‘Abdu’l-Ghaní Bayḍún owned 14.5 ha of land adjacent to Bahjí, but he and his family fled in 1948 and the land reverted to the state. The land was swapped in 1952 for the land purchased by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for Dhikru’lláh SE of the Sea of Galilee, near the Jordan River.
Baydi (Baidi, Baizi), Baydawi Bayḍí, Bayḍawí and Bayḍáwí egg-shaped, oviform, oval, ovate. “bayḍ” is often written as “baiḍ”, “beyd”, “bayz”, “beyz” and “baiz”.
Baydun Bayḍún white (a pl. form of abyaḍ). ‘Abdu’lláh Páshá built a palace south of Bahjí (now part of the Atidot Research Institute) that was purchased by ‘Abdu’l-Ghání Bayḍún, he was from a prominent Muslim family of ‘Akká, who were always antagonistic to the Bahá’í Faith.
Bayg (Bag, Big), Bayk Bayg, Bayk Pers. town (35.374245, 59.038781) in Razavi Khorasan Province. Áqá Bálá Bayg from Shíshaván was the Naqqásh-Báshí, chief artist in the court of the crown prince. He made the only portrait of the Báb.
Bayhaq (Baihaq) Bayhaq See Sabzivár. Abú Bakr Aḥmad ibn Ḥusayn ibn ‘Alí ibn Músá al-Khusrawjirdí al-Bayhaqí, also known as Imám al-Bayhaqí was born 994 in Khusrawjird, near Bayhaq. During his lifetime, he became a famous Sunní ḥadíth expert, following the Sháfi‘í school in fiqh and the Ash‘arí school of Islamic Theology.
Bayigani Báyigání Pers. Siyyid Muḥammad-i-Báyigání
Bayn (Bain) Bayn separation, division; interval; difference
Bayram (Bairam) Bayrám Turkish festival. Due to past influence of Ottoman Turkish, many Muslims have adopted the use of the word Bayrám, using the term “Lesser Bayrám” to refer to their own Eid al-Fitr (‘Íd al-Fiṭr) celebrations; “Greater Bayrám” refers to Eid al Adha (‘Íd al-Aḍḥá) (see Aḍḥan).
Bayrut (Bairut) Bayrút Beirut (capital of Lebanon). See Lawḥ-i-Arḍ-i-Bá.
Bayt (Bait), Buyut, Buyutat, Abyat Bayt, pl. Buyút, Buyútát house, building, temple, edifice; fabric, tent (of nomads); room; apartment, flat; (garden) bed; family; case, box, covering, sheath; verse, couplet;—pl. large, respectable houses; respectable families;—(pl. abyát) verses, couplets. Baytu’l-Ḥarám (Baytu’d-Du‘á, Baytu’l-‘Atíq, Baytu’llah) = The temple of Mecca.
Bayt al-Maqdis Bayt al-Maqdis the Holy Land
Bayt-i-A’zam Bayt-i-A‘ẓam “The Most Great House” (House of Bahá’u’lláh in the Kakh quarter of Baghdád,occupied by the family shortly before Bahá’u’lláh returned from Kurdistán) See Madad, house of.
Baytu’l-Funduq (Bayt-i-Fanduq) Baytu’l-Funduq (Bayt-i-Funduq) “hotel house”. A house in the German Templar colony, Haifa, where Bahá’u’lláh stayed, 1883.
Bayt-i-Zahlan Bayt-i-Zahlan German zählen (“to count”)?, hence “Counting house”
Baytu’l-‘Adl Baytu’l-‘Adl Pers. House of Justice
Baytu’l-‘Adl-i-A’zam Baytu’l-‘Adl-i-A‘ẓam Pers. Universal House of Justice. See Universal House of Justice listing.
Baytu’l-Hazan Baytu’l-Ḥazan house of sadness
Baytu’l-Ma’mur Baytu’l-Ma‘múr Frequented Fane. In Islám, the Ka‘bah or its archetype in heaven.
Baytu’l-Mahdi (Beitol Mahdi) Baytu’l-Mahdí Masjid Baytu’l-Mahdí (29.612247, 52.540839) built on the site of the House of the Báb in Shíráz, It is across the main street from the huge Masjid Naw (29.610966, 52.541609).
Baytu’l-Maqdis Baytu’l-Maqdis al-Aqṣá Mosque, Jerusalem
Baytu’l-Muqaddas Baytu’l-Muqaddas “The House of Holiness”—name given to Jerusalem
Baytu’llah Baytu’lláh the House of God—the Ka‘bah in Mecca
Bayyina (Bayyinah), Bayyinat Bayyina (Bayyinah), pl. Bayyinát clear proof, indisputable evidence; evidence (Islamic Law); a document serving as evidence
Baz-Av-u-Bidih-Jami Báz-Áv-u-Bidih-Jámí “Return and grant a chalice” by Bahá’u’lláh
Bazar, Bazarat Bázár, pl. Bázárát bazaar, permanent, enclosed oriental market (Pers. origin, and Middle Persian wázár)
Bazari Bázárí merchant or craftsman of the bazzaar
Bazzaz Bazzáz draper, cloth merchant; the mercer
Bedikian Bedikian Armenian. “Auntie” Victoria Schnabel (1879–1955) married Díkrán (Տիգրան, tigran (pronounced díkrán) “fighting with arrows”) Mardiros (Մարտիրոս, “martyr”) Bedikian (Պետիկյան, petikyan, pronounced bítíkyán) (1866–1945), in 1901.
Beg (Big, Bag), Bey, Begum, Beygum Beg (Big), fem. Begum Turkish from old Turkic Bey (gentleman, chieftain, lord, prince). Variations used: Bayk (Persian), “Beik”, “Beyk”, “Beyg”, “Baig”, etc. Title for a chieftain, and an honourific, traditionally applied to leaders or rulers. A title placed after the names of servants and petty officials. Today, a social title for men, similar to the English “sir” and “mister”. See Báy.
Ben Gurion Sderot Ben Gurion Ben Gurion Ave passes through the German Colony from Haifa Harbour up to the base of the Bahá’í terraces. As part of the restoration of the German Templer Colony 2003 and onwards, the Haifa municipality moved the upper end of Ben Gurion Avenue 1.86 m to bring it into alignment with the terraces’ central stairs.
Bethulia, Bethulie Bethulia, Bethulie Bethulia is a Biblical city (location uncertain), situated on a mountain overlooking the plain of Jezrael, whose deliverance by Judith, when besieged by Holofernes, forms the subject of the Book of Judith. Hebrew בתוליה (a virgin). Similar to Ar. Batúlí (virginal).
bi bi (prep.) in, at, on (place and time); with (indicating connection, association, attendance); with, through, by means of (designating instrumentality or agency, also with pass. = by); for (= at the price of); by (= to the amount of); by (introducing an oath)
bi Pers. be (a privative particle or preposition), without; when prefixed to nouns, implying wanting, or being destitute
bi-Chara, bi-Charawar bí-Chára, bí-Chárawár Pers. without remedy; remediless; hopeless; helpless, destitute, desperate, miserable, reduced to the last extremity, or even “poor”.
bi-Farmayid (Bifarmayid) bi-Farmáyíd Pers. “here you are”, please come and eat, please come and sit, ..., etc.
bi-Qamis al-Babiyya bi-Qamíṣ al-Bábiyya garment of Gatehood
bi-Qamis al-Wilaya bi-Qamíṣ al-Wiláya garment of Sanctity
bi’l-Haqq bi’l-Ḥaqq of a truth
bi’l-Quwa bi’l-Qúwa(t) with power, powerfully, vigorously
bi’llah bi’lláh “by God!”, “with God” or “through God”
Bi’r (Ber), Abar, Bi’ar Bi’r fem., pl. Ábár, Bi’ár well, spring
bi’t-Tasrih bi’t-Taṣríḥ Pers. in detail; expressly, distinctly, explicitly
Biba (Beba, “Babba”) Bibá city (28.922043, 30.980567) in Bibá district, Muḥáfẓat Baní Sawíf (Beni Suef Governorate), 130 km SSW of Cairo, Egypt. See Kawm as-Sa’aydah
Bibi Bíbí Pers. a lady, a matron; wife, mistress of the house
Bibi-Dukhtaran Bíbí-Dukhtarán Shrine of Bíbí Dukhtarán in Shíráz (29.613000, 52.538959) where the Báb’s son, Aḥmad, is buried
Bibinid (Bebeeneed) Bibíníd ببینید Pers. look and see; behold. A favourite word of Shoghi Effendi and Zikrullah Khadem.
Bid’, Bid’a, Abda’, Bida’ Bid‘, fem. Bid‘a[h or t] (pl. Abdá‘, fem. Bida‘) innovator; new, original; unprecedented, novel;—fem. innovation. novelty; heretical doctrine, heresy;—fem. pl. creations (of fashion, of art). ahl al-bida‘ heretics.
Bidil Bídil Pers. heartless, dispirited, out of heart; pusillanimous; love-sick; ignorant; melancholy, dejected, sad, stupid.
Bidil, Abdu’l-Qadir Bídil, Abdu’l-Qádir Mawláná Abu’l-Ma‘ání Mírzá ‘Abdu’l-Qádir Bídil (1642–1720), a famous representative of Dari poetry and Sufism in Afghánistán. He is considered the most difficult and challenging poet of Safavid-Mughal poetry. The pairing of Bídil’s patronymic, Abu’l-Ma‘ání, “The Father of Meanings”, with his devastating nom de plume, Bídil, “The Heartless”, illustrates perfectly the conceptual coupling of Love and Meaning in the sensibilities of the literary self-expression of his audiences.
Bidpay (Pilpay) Bídpáy (Pílpáy) friendship; a famous Indian philosopher and author of the celebrated collection of fables about animals (in reality moral stories about kings, ministers, etc.). Better known by the Arabic version Kalílah wa Dimnah (after the names of two jackals), and the Persian version Anwár-i-Suhaylí (Lights of Canopus)—both derived from the Sanskrit Panchatantra (of Bídpáy) and Hitopadesa stories.
Bigliyirbigi Biglíyirbigí Beylerbey or Beylerbeyi (Ottoman Turkish: “Bey of Beys”, meaning “the Commander of Commanders” or “the Lord of Lords”). Initially designating a commander-in-chief, it eventually came to be held by senior provincial governors. In Ottoman usage it designated the governors-general of some of the largest and most important provinces. Equivalents in Arabic were ámir al-umará, and in Persian, mír-i mírán.
Bih Bih Pers. good, excellent; elegant; better; safe, sound
Biharu’l-Anwar (Bihar al-Anwar) Biḥáru’l-Anwár (Biḥár al-Anwár) Seas of Lights”. A 26 vol. compilation of Shí‘í traditions (aḥádíth) compiled by Shí‘a scholar Muḥammad-Báqir Majlisí. The full title: Biḥár al-‘Anwár al-Jámi‘ah li-Durar ‘Akhbár al-‘A’immah al-Aṭhár (“Oceans of lights, an encyclopedia for pearls of traditions of the pure imams”). See Majlisí.
Bihbahan, Behbahan, Behbehan Bihbahán Pers. city and capital of Behbahan County, Khuzestan Province, Írán. 100 km east of Bandar Máhshahr.
Bihbahani Bihbahání of or from Bihbahán. Áqá Muḥammad Báqir al-Bihbahání (b. 1118/1706–7—d. 1205/1791) known as al-Waḥíd al-Bihbahání, was a twelver Shí‘a scholar in fiqh, uṣúl. He was titled as Waḥíd al-‘Aṣr (The exceptional of the time) by as-Sayyid Muḥammad aṭ-Ṭabáṭabá’í al-Iṣfahání. His son was Sayyid Muḥammad ‘Alí b. Waḥíd Bihbahání (b. 1144/1731–32, d. 1216/1801) known as Áqá Muḥammad ‘Alí Kirmánsháhí. He was an influential Shí‘a jurist, uṣúlí and rijál (biographical evaluation) in twelfth/eighteenth and thirteenth/nineteenth century. His fame was mostly due to his serious broad fight with Sufism at the time of the Qájárs, so that some Sufis called him “Ṣúfí-kush” (Sufi-killer).
Bihi Bihi with, for, from, in, or by him, or it
Bihmard Bihmard Pers. bih + mard
Bihmardi Bihmardí Pers. Faríd Bihmardí. Bih+Mardí
Bihnam Bihnám Pers. bih + nám. Bihnám Páshá’í
Bihnaz (Behnaz) Bihnáz Pers. fem. name
Bihruz Bihrúz Pers. (Behrouz, Behrooz, Behruz Behrus, Bihuroz) Bih+rúz = “good day or lifetime”, success
Bihshahr (Behshahr) Bihshahr Pers. city (36.696676, 53.545713) in Mazindaran, 47 km NE Sárí. Formerly named Ashraf and Ashraf al-Bilád.
Bijan, Bizhan Bíjan or Bízhan Pers. “hero”. One of the main Iranian heroes in the Sháhnámih
Bika (not Baka) Bika A composite comprising the prefix “bi” with the suffix “ka”, which stands for the 2nd person singular masculine pronoun “Thou” or “Thee”. “Bika” can be translated as “upon Thee”, “to Thee”, “on Thee” or “about Thee”, depending on the context. “Baka” in Tablets of Abdul-Baha Abbas should be Bika.
Biktash, Baktash, Bektashi Biktáshí, Baktáshí, Bektáshí Turkish. Dervish order, mainly in Antolia and the Balkans.
Bilad al-Kurd, Kurdistan Bilád al-Kurd, Pers. Kurdistán Kurdistan (English) or the land (bilád) of the Kurds (al-Kurd).  Greater Kurdistan, a roughly defined geo-cultural historical region wherein the Kurdish people form a prominent majority population and Kurdish culture, languages and national identity have historically been based.
Bilal Bilál Bilál ibn Rabáḥ (580–640) also known as Bilál ibn Riyáḥ and Bilál al-Ḥabashí, a freed Ethiopian slave born in Mecca, he was one of the most trusted and loyal companions of Muḥammad, who appointed him as the first muezzin. He was criticized for his pronunciation because a speech defect caused him to mispronounce the letter "shín" as “sín”.
Billahi’l-‘Aliyyi’l-‘Azim Billáhi’l-‘Alíyyi’l-‘Aẓím “in God, the Exalted, the Mighty” (bi+Alláh)
Bilqis Bilqís queen of “Sheba” in Arabian tradition. She is also known as Queen Makeda in Ethiopian tradition, her capital was in the Azeba district, Tigray Region, Ethiopia (about 13 km SW Adigrat). See Saba’
Bimar Bímár Pers. sick, infirm, afflicted; the eye of a mistress
Bimaristan Bímáristán hospital; lunatic asylum
Bin Bin the son of
Bint Bint daughter of
Binyamin Binyámín Benjamin
Biradar Birádar Pers. brother
Biradar-zadar Birádar-záda Pers. brother’s son, nephew
Biraw (Birau) Biraw Pers. (“biro”, “buro”, “burro”) go!, get away!, get off!
Birjand Bírjand city in eastern Írán
Birjis al-Birjís Jupiter (astronomy). Martyr, Dr Sulaymán Birjís, Káshán (1897–1950)
Birkas Birkás now Lüleburgaz (“Lule Burgas”), Türkiye. It is 23 km ESE Babaeski and 75 SE Edirne.
Birujird Birújird Capital city of the province of Luristán, Mírzá Bururg was governor
Birun Bírún Pers. without, out of doors; exterior, extrinsic, foreign; the outside; from, a great way from
Biruni Bírúní Pers. outer or men’s quarters. See andarúní
Bisat, Bisatat, Absita, Busut Bisáṭ, pl. Bisáṭát, Absiṭa[h or t], Busuṭ (anything spread out such as) carpet, rug; bedding; goods, wares
Bishara, Bisharat, Basha’ir Bishára(t), pl. Bishárát, Bashá’ir good news, glad-tidings; annunciation, prophecy; gospel; bashá’ir good omens, propitious signs. Glad-Tidings by Bahá’u’lláh
Bisharat-i-‘Uzma Bishárát-i-‘Uẓmá Supreme Glad-tidings
Bishr Bishr joy
Bisitun (Bisotun) Bísítún city (34.396402, 47.444158) in Kermanshah Province
Bismi’llah Bismi’lláh “word” derived from the expression “In the name of God” = bi-ismi-alláh = bi’smi-alláh. Basmala is the act (verb) of saying the recurring Islamic phrase “Bismi’lláhi ar-Raḥmáni ar-Raḥími”—“In the name of God, the Most Compassionate (or Gracious), the Most Merciful”. Bismi’lláh is the first phrase of the first verse of every súra of the Qur’án except the ninth, and is repeated in 27:30, i.e. it occurs 114 times in the Qur’án. The verse/expression consists of 19 letters.
Bismi’llahu’l-Amna’u’l-Aqdas Bismi’lláhu’l-Amna‘u’l-Aqdas (“In the Name of God, the Most Unapproachable, the Most Holy”—Báb) (DB 66), the formula substituted by the Báb for the Muslim Bismi’lláhi’r-Raḥmáni’r-Raḥím.
Bismi’llahi’l-Bahiyyi’l-Abha Bismi’lláhi’l-Bahíyyi’l-Abhá “In the name of God, the Glorious, the Most Glorious” (used in calligraphic bird design by Mishkín-Qalam—described as a “bird of paradise in the form of the Greatest Holy Name sitting on the tree of Ṭúbá (tree of paradise)”
Bismi’llahi’r-Rahmani’r-Rahim Bismi’lláhi’r-Raḥmáni’r-Raḥím or Bismi’lláh ar-Raḥmán ar-Raḥím (there are 19 consonants in بِسْمِ ٱللّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ, and it has an abjad value of 786) “In the Name of God, the Most gracious, the Most Merciful”—it appears at the start of every sura, except Súra 9, and constitutes the first verse of Súra 1 in the traditional order. Súra 9:1 also starts with the letter “B”, the word Bará’at”. It is claimed that ‘Alí said: “All that is in the Qur’án is contained in the first sura, all that is in the first sura is contained in Bismi’lláhi’r-Raḥmáni’r-Raḥím, all that is in Bismi’lláhi’r-Raḥmáni’r-Raḥím is contained in the B of Bismi’lláh, all that is contained in the B of Bismi’lláh is contained in the point which is beneath the B—and I am that Point.”
Bistami Bisṭámí native of Basṭám
Bistum Bistum, Bístum Pers. the twentieth
Bisutun (Bisotun) Bísutún Pers. pillarless. Bísutún city 36 km NE Kirmásháh, at the foot of Mount Bísutún on which there is the huge Bísutún Inscription in 3 cuneiform scripts (crucial to the decipherment of one of the cuneiform scripts)
Bisyar Bisyár Pers. many, much; numerous; frequent; copious; very; exceedingly
Bisyar Khub Bisyár Khúb Pers. very well, all right, very or most good
Bitra’, Batra’ Bitrá’, Batrá’ from Greek for “rock”. al-Bitrá’ (Petra) is a ruined ancient city of the Edomites and Nabataeans; 185 km SSW of Amman in SW Jordan. Original name was Raqmu.
Biya Biyá Pers. (imperative of ámadan), come, come hither, approach
Biya inja Biyá ínjá Pers. come here
Biyaban, Bayaban Biyábán, Bayábán Pers. uncultivated, desert; a desert. A mountain (30.563130, 57.439224; 2,724 m) 47 km NE of Kirmán. A village, Qal‘ah Biyábán (28.526147, 54.872187). The mountain range to the south of Nayríz. It lies between the Nayríz plain and the Biyábán Plain. It is accessed via the “Bísámán” track from the mill on the Farusht Stream.
Biyarjumand (Beyarjomand) Bíyárjumand a small village (36.080803, 55.804240) in Semnan Province
Bronlundfjord Brønlundfjord (error “Bronlunsfjord”) a former research and radio station on the shore of Jørgen Brønlund Fjord (a northern branch of Independence Fjord) in southern Peary Land, north Greenland. MBW p. 149 (“147”)
Biyaban Bíyábán a mountain near Zanján
Brummana (Broummana) Brummáná (Beit Roumana, Aramaic name possibly meaning the “house of Rammana, the God of Air, Storm and Thunder") town 13 km east of Beirut, Lebanon
Budan Búdan Pers. to be; to become; to exist; existence
Buddha dhá (Ar.) Buddha Maitreya-Amitábha, the Buddha of the future, the Lord of the Age. Maitrya or Maitreya—”Kindness”; Amitábha—“Infinite light”.
Bughḍ, Bighda and Baghda’ Bughḍ, Bighḍa(h) and Baghḍá’ hatred, hate
Bujnurd (Bojnord) Bujnúrd city (37.474359, 57.324294) in North Khurasan province. 242 km NW of Mashhad.
Bukhar, Bukharat, Abkhira Bukhár, pl. Bukhárát, Abkhira vapour, fume; steam
Bukhara Bukhárá city in Uzbekistan
Bukharan Bukhárán people of Bukhárá
Bukhari Bukhárí steam (adjective), steam-driven. Abú ‘Abd Alláh Muḥammad ibn Ismá‘íl ibn Ibráhím ibn al-Mughírah ibn Bardizbah al-Ju‘fí al-Bukhárí (810–870), Persian Islamic scholar, author of the aṣ Ṣaḥíḥ al-Bukhárí collection of hadiths (aḥádíth).).
Bulbul, Bulbula, Balabil Bulbul, fem. Bulbula[h or t], pl. Balábil nightingale
Buli, Bolu Búlí Ar. for town (Bolu) 260 km east of Istanbul.
Buluk Bulúk Pers. a tract of country that a subject obtains either by gift, purchase, or succession, holding of the sovereign upon feudal tenure; a district (modern colloquialism)
Bulus Búlus Arabic form of Paul
Bun Bun Pers. root, basis, foundation; the bottom; the stern of a ship; extremity, point, end, tip (of anything); a cluster of dates; the trunk of a tree
Bun (Bon) Bún Pers. foundation, root, origin; end, limit
Bunab Bunáb Pers. the bottom or depth of water
Bunduq, Banadiq Bunduq, pl. Banádiq hazelnut(s), filberts; hazel, hazel tree. Pers. Funduq, Turk. Findík
Buni Búní ‘Abdu’lláh Búní (SDC 104)
Bunn Bunn coffee beans; coffee
Buq’a, Buqa’, Biqa’ Buq‘a, pl. Buqa‘, Biqá‘ spot, blot, smudge, stain; place, site, plot, patch, lot
Buq’atu’l-Hamra Buq‘atu’l-Ḥamrá’ “Crimson Spot”—a term used in several allegorical and symbolic senses in the Bahá’í Writings, including for the prison-city of ‘Akká. Samaríyyih Hill (32.961469, 35.092595, designated Buq‘atu’l-Ḥamrá’ by Bahá’u’lláh), 2 km north of Bahjí, opposite the kibbutz of Lohamei HaGeta’ot, where red flowers grew in abundance in the time of Bahá’u’lláh.
Buq’atu’l-Khadra’ Buq‘atu’l-Khaḍrá’ “The Verdant Spot”, a former private cemetery near the government “castle”, Yazd. Designated as such by Bahá’u’lláh.
Buqrat Buqráṭ Hippocrates, from the Greek Ippokrátis. Hippocrates II of Kos, usually known simply as Hippocrates. The most celebrated physician of ancient Greece and the grandson of Hippocrates I.
Bur Búr uncultivated, fallow
Burhan (Borhan), Barahin Burhán, pl. Baráhín proof, demonstration
Burhan-i-Lami’ Burhán-i-Lámi’ (Burhane Lame) published as “The Brilliant Proof”
Burhani’d-Din Burháni’d-Dín Proof of religion
Burida Gush (Borideh Gosh) Burída(h) Gush Pers. crop-eared, i.e. ear cut off. Name applied to ‘Abdu’l-Karím (assisted with the internment of the remains of the Báb)
Burj-i-Azadi (Burj-i-Shahyad) Burj-i-Ázádí Pers. “Freedom Tower” since 1979, formerly known as the Burj-i-Shahyád (“Shah’s Memorial Tower”). Designed by the Bahá’í architect Ḥusayn Amánát. Since moving to Canada in 1980, he has designed three administrative buildings on the Baháʼí Arc in Haifa, and the Baháʼí House of Worship in Samoa.
Burj, Buruj, Abraj Burj, pl. Burúj, Abráj tower, castle, sign of the zodiac
Burnus, Baranis, Barnus,Burnus Burnus, pl. Baránis (also barnús, burnús, pl. baranís) burnoose, hooded cloak; casula, chasuble (of Coptic priests)
Burqa, Burqu’, Baraqi’ Burqu‘, (Pers. also Burqa‘), pl. Baráqi‘ veil (worn by women; long, leaving the eyes exposed)
Burujird Burújird Capital city of the province of Luristán, place of the governorship of Mírzá Buzurg
Busayra, Busayrah, Busaira, Bozrah Buṣayrá (Ar.), Boṣrah (Heb.) historical site and former capital of Edom. Adjacent to the town of Basira (Bouseira, Busaira), Jordan—about 30 km SE of the “southern end” of the Dead Sea.
Bushihr (Bushehr or Bushire) shihr also known as Bandar Búshihr, previously Beh Ardasher, Antiochia in Persis and Bukht Ardashir. Iranian city (once the primary port of Írán) and province on the Persian Gulf.
Bushr Bushr glad-tidings
Bushru’i Bushrú’í (of or from Bushrúyih)
Bushruyih (Boshrouyeh) Bushrúyih a town in Khurásán, 55 km NE of Ṭabas and 70 km WSW of Tún.  It is the birthplace of Mullá Ḥusayn, first disciple of the Báb.
Busra (Bosra, Bozra, Bozrah) Buṣrá officially named Buṣrá ash-Shám, town SW Syria where 12-year old Muḥammad met the monk Baḥírá
Bustan, Basatin Bustán, pl. Basátín garden or orchard. Tablets of Abdul-Baha Abbas “Boston”
Bustani Bustání gardener; garden (adj.); horticultural
Butrus Buṭrus Peter (Petros). See batrá
Buy Búy Pers. odour, fragrance, perfume; scent, spice; hope, wish, desire; search, quest; love; nature, disposition; portion, part, lot
Buy-i-Juy-i-Muliyan Búy-i-Júy-i-Múliyán Pers. "The fragrance of the Muliyan Brook" poem by Rúdakí
Buya (Boya) Buya Pers. hope, desire; fumitory; a Persian dynasty (Buyid) of the Dailamites (Daylamígán) founded by ‘Alí ibn Buya.
Buyuk Búyúk Turkic (Büyük), great, big, large, major, grand
Buyuk-Aqa Búyúk-Áqá
Buyukcekmece (“Buyuk-Chakmachih”) Büyükçekmece Turkish “Big drawbridge”, a district and municipality of Istanbul Province (about 30 km west of the city), on the European shore of the Sea of Marmara coast.
It is west of Küçükçekmece.
Iṣfahání Persian phonetic form is Búyúk-Chakmachih.
Buzurg-Banna Buzurg-Banná Ustád Áqá Buzurg-Banná
Buzurg-Mihr Buzurg-Mihr Pers. “large sun”. Buzurg-Mihr-i-Búkhtagán was an Iranian sage and dignitary, who served as minister of the Sasanian king Kavad I (r. 498–531), and the latter’s son and successor Khusraw I (r. 531–579). He also served as a military commander under Khusraw I and his successor Hurmúzd IV (r. 579–590). He was regarded as a man of “exceptional wisdom and sage counsels” and later became a characterisation of the expression.
Buzurj, Buzurg Buzurj, Pers. Buzurg great, grand. The title given by Fatḥ-‘Alí Sháh to Mírzá ‘Abbás-i-Núrí (better known as Mírzá Buzurg-i-Vazír of Núr, hence also Buzurg-i-Núrí). Bahá’u’lláh was his third child by second wife, Khadíjih Khánum.
Buzurjzada, Buzurgzada Buzurjzáda, Pers. Buzurgzáda (Buzurgzadeh) Bozorgadeh Kahn
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
C
Caelum, Cælum, Coelo, Cœlo ex cœlo Latin. cælum is sky, heaven. Cœlum is a variation of cælum. Hence, ex cœlo is “from the sky” or “from heaven”. Compare with ex cathedra “from the chair”, with the full authority of office. The Catholic pope is said to occupy the “chair of Peter”. Refer to The heart of the Gospel, p. 66.
Chadar, Chadur (Chador) Chádar, Chádur Pers. A tent, pavilion; a mantle, scarf; a veil; a sheet; a shroud, winding-sheet; a table-cloth. Shawl or a long, loose cloak worn over other garments by Muslim women.
Chah Cháh Pers. a well, pit; a prison, dungeon; a snare
Chah-Qilan Cháh-Qílán locality, possibly near Kirmánsháh. Mentioned in DB p. 13.
Chahar (Char, Chihar), Chahar juy Chahár Pers. four, a crab. Contraction chár. Chahár júy, the rivers of Paradise; the elements; name of a province in Khurásán.
Chahar Bagh, Charbagh (Chihar Bagh) Chahár Bágh Pers. “four gardens”, a Persian, Indo-Persian, and Islamic quadrilateral garden layout based on the four gardens of Paradise mentioned in the Qur’án. The quadrilateral garden is divided by walkways or flowing water into four smaller parts.
Chahar Sham’ Pish Chahár Sham’ Písh “four candles ahead” or the time to burn four candles. A shrine (36.553683, 52.685930) in Babol, a former suburb and the area of the Áq-rúd village where Quddús was born.
Chahar Vadi (Chihar-Vadi) Chahár Vádí “Four Valleys” by Bahá’u’lláh. Addressed to Shaykh ‘Abdu’r-Raḥmán-i-Karkútí. See chahár and wádí
Chahardar Chahárdah Pers. fourteen
Chahishk Cháhishk Pers. village on the NW side of Mashhad
Chal Chál Pers. a hole wherein one may stand upright without being buried, pit, cavern, trench
Chaman, Chamman Chamán (Chammán) Pers. walking, giving oneself haughty, swinging, or graceful airs in walking; a goblet of wine; a party of friends
Changiz Changíz Genghis Khán (c. 1162–1227)
Chapan, Chupan (Chuppan) Chapán, Chupán Pers. tattered garments
Chapar Chápár Turkish a runner, mounted messenger, courier; post; mail. Persian government post, called in old times, Baríd, where post horses may be hired by private individuals.
Chapar-chi, Chaparchi Chápár-chí, Chápárchí Turkish courier
Chaq Cháq Pers. time; health; healthy, well; stout, obese
Chardivari Chárdívárí private home or four walls
Chashm, Chashmha Chashm, pl. Chashmhá Pers. the eye; hope; an amulet or charm (particularly of holy writ) against fascination or enchantment; the individual himself (as ‘ayn in Arabic); anything resembling an eye, as the hole of a sieve, the eye of a needle, the mesh of a net, etc.
Chashma (Cheshmeh, Chashmih) Chashma (چشمه) Pers. (also “Chashmih”) a fountain, source, spring; the sun; spectacles; eye of a needle; a vaulted arch
Chashma ‘Ali (Chashmih-‘Ali) Chashma ‘Alí or Chashmah-i-‘Alí Pers. “spring of ‘Alí”, “Chashmih-‘Alí”, “Cheshmeh-‘Ali”, “Chishmih-‘Alí”. Name of many locations. A spring (35.607392, 51.444928) 10 km SSE city centre of Ṭihrán. A village (36.278167, 54.083907) near Ástána and NW of Dámghán, all are in Semnan Province.
Chawush Cháwush Turkish a sergeant, a beadle; a herald; the leader of an army or caravan; a guide. A guide who would chant poems praising the Prophet or the Imams, and he would call on people to take him as a guide for a pilgrimage either to Mecca, the ‘Atabát, or Mashhad. He would hoist a special banner to announce the imminent pilgrimage. This may explain why Mullá Ḥusayn’s party were able to carry a black banner without arousing any suspicions.
Chawush-Khwani Cháwush-Khwání recitation by a guide
Chay (Cha’i) Cháy (Chá’í) Pers. tea. See Sháy
Chi or Chih, Chiha Chi or Chih, pl. Chihá Pers. something; who? what? which? a Turkish affix to form words denoting the agent
Chigan, Jigan Chígán, Jígán village (32.897875, 50.334005) 128 km WNW of Iṣfahán
Chihal (Chihil) Chihal, Chihil Pers. forty
Chihr, Chihra Chihr, fem. Chihra (چ‍ره) Pers. face, visage; original essence; a map; small shot
Chihra-Nama (Chehreh-Nama) Chihra-Namá Pers. “Face view”, “portrait painter” or “real face of people”. Iranian newspaper first published (possibly 1890s) in Alexandria and then Cairo. It acted as a conduit of ideas (unable to be published in Írán) between Egypt and Írán in the campaigns of political, social, and cultural reform.
Chihriq, Chehriq, Chahriq Chihríq (Čahrīk, Turkic “challenge”) Qal‘ah Chihríq (“Shimko Castle”, see Şikák) is a citadel in Kurdish Ádhirbáyján, designated by the Báb as Jabal-i-Shadíd (the “Grievous Mountain”), name chosen based on Chihríq and Shadíd (“grievous”) having the same abjad value of 318. He was imprisoned there May 1848–July 1850. There are two villages: Chihríq-i-Ulya (“Upper” Chihríq, 38.079311, 44.599834), about 70 km NW of Urmia; and Chihríq-i-Suflá (“Lower” Chihríq, 38.076439, 44.611989) is 1 km ESE of Chihríq-i-Ulya. The ruins of the fortress (38.080166, 44.589550) is on the end of a ridge with steep sides between the now largely dry Zúlá Cháy River and a side stream. It is about 0.8 km to the west of Chihríq-i-Ulya and 19 km SE of the modern Türkye border. Access to the fort was only possible by crossing the river, making it more difficult for the Báb’s followers to reach him. Armenian Christians (they left about 1830) lived in the walled village (with a church) below the castle. They had a second church (38.078982, 44.591295) 200 m to the south and a cemetery west of this church.
Chilaw-kabab Chiláw-kabáb “national dish” of Írán; cooked rice with one of many varieties of kebab
Chinar Chinár Pers. chenar or Oriental plane tree
Chinar-Sukhtih Chinár-Súkhtih “burnt tree”, a section of Nayriz (south and SW of city centre) that includes the Masjid Jámi‘ Kabír. Varqá’s house ≈ 29.189037, 54.326549. Qal‘ah-i-Khwájah (≈ 29.194332, 54.337368) was ≈ 1 km to the east.
Chiragh (Cheragh, Chiraq) Chirágh Pers. a lamp; light; the wick of a candle; a guide, director; a client, dependant; a horse’s rearing; a pasture. Sháh Chirágh (29.609674, 52.543340) is a funerary monument and mosque in Shíráz. See Ar. Siráj.
Chisht Chisht town (now city, Chishti Sharíf, 34.342240, 63.738131) 140 km east of Heart, Afghánistán (formerly eastern Persia)
Chishti Chish Chishtí Ṣúfí Order is known for its emphasis on love, tolerance and openness. It began with Abú Isḥáq Shámí (d. 940) in Chisht, c. CE 930. It was the first of the four main Ṣúfí orders (Chishtí, Qádiríya, Suhrawardí and Naqshbandí) to be established in this region.
Chiz, Chi Chíz, Chí Pers. something; who? what? which? a Turkish affix to form words denoting the agent
Chub (Chob) Chúb Pers. a log; wood; a tree; a staff, rod, baton, stick; a drumstick; a beam; a plough-tail; a shoot of a tree, sucker
Chubin Dar, Chubindar, Jubin Chúbín Dar (Choobindar Choubindar; also known as Júbín Dar, Chúbín, and Chundar) is a village to the SW of Qazvín. Chúbín Dar Zindán (Prison) is on the west side of the village. See Sijn-i-Matín
Chula (Chuleh, Chulih, Choleh) Chúla (چوله) Pers. porcupine
Chulaw (Chulav), Chilaw Chuláw (Chuláv) Pers. plain boiled rice
Chupan Chúpán Pers. (Chopan, Copan) a shepherd. Amír Chúpán and Dr Chúpán
Comforter Comforter (Gk. Paracletos) Muḥammad and Aḥmad (“the Praised One”, “a Mercy for all creatures” and “most kind and merciful to the Believers”) are almost a translation of the Greek word Periclytos. The use of “Comforter” in the John 14:16 and 16:7 is based on the Greek word Paracletos (“Advocate”, “one called to the help of another, a kind friend”). Muslims argue that Paracletos is a corrupt reading for Periclytos.
Cunningham Cunningham 1919 model car arrived at Port Said early January 1920 (Prelude to the Guardianship, p. 126). It is stored in an air conditioned garage at the front of 7 Har-Parsim St, Haifa. It was restored about 2015.
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Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
D
Da’a, Du’a’ Da‘á, Du‘á’ Ar. to call (someone); to summon, call or send for someone; to call up; to call upon someone, appeal to someone for something or to do something; to propagate, propagandize (something), make propaganda, make publicity (for)
Da’i or Du’at Dá‘í, pl. Du‘át Pers. who or what invites or stimulates (others) to anything; who prays for, invokes a blessing upon; the Muezzm who calls to prayers; Muhammad (as caller to the faith). Meaning also a missionary, see da’wa.
Da’if, Du’afa Ḍa‘if, pl. m. Ḍu‘afa’ weak, feeble; frail, weakly, delicate, debilitated, impotent, languid, flabby, slack
Da’im Dá’im lasting, enduring; endless, eternal, perpetual, everlasting; perennial; continued, continuous, continual, incessant, unceasing, constant; permanent, standing, established; durable. As in permanent marriage. Compare with munqaṭi‘.
Da’iman Dá’iman continually, forever
Da’ir Dá’ir turning, revolving, spinning; circulating; current (e.g., expression), common; ambulant, itinerant; in progress, under way; working, in operation; running (machine, engine); round
Da’ira, Dawa’ir Dá’ira(h), pl. Dawá’ir circle (also mathematics); ring; circumference, perimeter, periphery; sphere, scope, range, compass, extent, circuit; field, domain (figurative); official agency, department (especially Ir., Syr., Leb.); office, bureau; department of a court of justice (e.g., Tun.); farm, country estate (e.g.); misfortune, calamity, affliction. The Dá’ira represents the Sun of Truth (the Manifestation of the Names and attributes of God) (from the Báb). Hence, women are called the “possessors of the circle (dá’ira)” because the Manifestation of the Names and attributes of God is enshrined within the heart of each individual. See haykal.
Da’ish (Daesh) Dá‘ish The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, ad-Dawlah al-Islámiyah fí’l-‘Iráq wa sh-Shám), officially known as the Islamic State (IS) and also known by its Arabic-language acronym Daesh (Dá‘ish), is a terrorist militant group that follows a fundamentalist, Salafi jihadist doctrine of Sunni Islam.
Da’iya (Da’i), Dawa’in Dá‘iya (“Dá‘í”), pl. Dawá‘in one who calls for something, invites to something; propagandist, herald; (pl.) motive, reason, cause, occasion; requirements, exigencies. Hence, ad-dá‘iya, the caller.
Da’wa, Da’awa, Da’awin Da‘wá, pl. Da‘áwá, Da‘áwin allegation, pretension; claim; lawsuit, case, action, legal proceedings (Islamic Law)
Da’wa, Da’awat Da‘wa(h), pl. Da‘awát call; appeal; bidding, demand, request; call, convocation, summons (to), calling up, summoning; (official) summons, citation; invitation; claim, demand, plea; missionary activity, missionary work, propaganda;—pl. invocation, imploration, supplication, prayer; good wish. The summons to Islám that precedes or replaces holy war; Islamic missionary endeavour, proselytization.
Dabb, Dabab, Adubb, Dubban Ḍabb, pl. Ḍabáb, Aḍubb, Ḍubbán lizard
Dabba, Dawabb Dábba(h or t), pl. Dawább animal (including man), beast; riding animal (horse, mule, donkey). See Qur’án 11:59 and 27:19.
Dabir, Dibir Dabír, Dibír Pers. a writer, secretary, notary; a writing-master; dabíru’l-mulk, Secretary of State
Dabiristan (Dabistan), Dibiristan Dabíristán, Dibíristán Pers. a high school; a record office. Dabistán (“Debistan”) is either a contraction of dabíristán or an abbreviation of adabistán.
Dabistan al-Madhhahib Dabistán al-Madhháhib title of a book (“School of doctrines”) containing historical records of religions and creeds, we find stories and traditions concerning the Brahaman and Zoroastrian miracles. Persian Dabistánu’l-Madhháhib
Dabit, Dubbat, Dawabit Ḍábiṭ controlling device, control, governor, regulator (techn.); prepositor entrusted with discipline (in e.g. schools); (pl. ḍubbáṭ) officer; (pl. ḍawábiṭ) general rule, canon, (moral) precept or order
Dabita, Dawabit Ḍábiṭa, Ḍawábiṭ police; (pl.) curbing force, order
Dad Dád Persian. He gave; a gift; justice, equity; redress of grievances; complaint, lamentation (under oppression); measure; a part, portion; revenge; a ringworm; life; age; a year
Dada Dada (Dadih) Pers. a grandfather; a title given to dervishes, especially qalandars; a nurse who brings up children
Dada Dáda governess, dry nurse, nurse
Dada Dádá Pers. a female servant, particularly an old one who has attended upon anyone from her youth; a handmaid.
Dadash Dádásh Pers. brother
Dah Dah Pers. ten; indicating sometimes a large, sometimes a small number; displeasure; annoyance, trouble; curses, imprecations; commanding what is right and forbidding what is wrong
Dahaj (Dehaj) Dahaj (Dahíj) town (30.690764, 54.877358) between Shíráz and Kirmán
Dahaji Dahají from Dahaj. Siyyid-i-Mihdíy-i-Dahají was named Ismu’lláhu’l-Jamál by Bahá’u’lláh. He rebelled against ‘Abdu’l-Bahá after the death of Bahá’u’lláh.
Dahan, Dihan Dahán, Dihán Pers. the mouth; an orifice
Dahiya, Dawahin Dáhiya(t), pl. Dawáhin calamity, disaster, catastrophe; misfortune
Dahmubidi Dahmúbidí (Dah + múbidí) Dáryúsh Dahmúbidí
Dahr, Duhur, Adhur Dahr, pl. Duhúr, Adhur (ادھر) time; long time, age, epoch; lifetime; eternity; fate, destiny; “world of duration”. Note adhur plural has the letters d and h, not dh.
Dai’a, Diya’ Ḍai‘a, pl. Ḍiyá‘ landed estate, country estate, domain; small village, hamlet
Daidanaw (Daidanow), Day Da Naw Daidanaw, Day Da Naw Burmese. Daidanaw, known as “‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s village”, is 4.25 km NE along the road to Kawhmu from the main road junction in Kungangon, Burma (Myanmar). Siyyid Muṣṭafá Rúmí’s shrine is to the north of the Bahá’í Centre (16.465353, 96.040762). Refer to https://bahai-library.com/history_bahai_faith_myanmar
Dajjal, Dajjalun, Dajajila Dajjál, pl. Dajjálún, Dajájila (“Dedjal”) swindler, cheat, imposter; quack, charlatan; Antichrist (false Christ or anti-Christ). The Antichrist (Siyyid Muḥammad Iṣfahání, the “Antichrist of the Bahá’í revelation”), who would appear at the Advent of the Promised One (Bahá’u’lláh), to contend with and ultimately be defeated by Him. See Sufyání and Áqásí.
Dakhan Dakhan smoke, fume, vapour. Town 98 km ENE Hamadán
Dakhil, Dukhala’ Dakhíl, pl. Dukhalá’ inner, inward, internal; inner self, heart, core;—pl. extraneous; foreign, alien; exotic; foreigner, alien, stranger; not genuine, false, spurious; newly added (to); novice; (new) convert; guest; protégé, charge, ward
Dakhili Dakhílí Masrúr Dakhílí executed 1981
Dakhma (Dakhmih, Dakhmeh) Dakhma a Pársí word for a circular stone building in the form of a cylinder (so-called “tower of silence”, tower of khámushí “silence”). Zoroastrians lay the bodies of their dead on its flat top surface (the receptacle for the dead); a tomb; a coffin; a mausoleum (modern colloquialism)
Dal Dál Letter ‘D’
Dala’il al-‘Irfan, Dala’ilu’l-‘Irfan Dalá’il al-‘Irfán, Dalá’ilu’l-‘Irfán “Signs of knowledge” by Ḥájí Mírzá Ḥaydar ‘Alí Iṣfahání
Dala’il-i-Sab’a (Dala’il-i-Sab’ih) Dalá’il-i-Sab‘a (Dalá’il-i-Sab‘ih) “The Seven Proofs” in Persian by the Báb
Dalaki Dálakí city 73 km NE of Búshihr and 15 km SW Kunár Takhta. The Báb was arrested in this city in 1846.
Dalal Ḍalál a straying from the right path or from truth; error
Dalil, Adilla, Dala’l, Adilla’, Dala’il Dalíl, pl. Adilla, Dalá’l, Adillá’ (the latter of persons) indication (of); sign, token; symptom; proof, evidence (of); guide; tourist guide; pilot (of a ship, of an airplane);guidebook, guide manual, handbook; directory, telephone directory; railroad guide, timetable; guide rail (technical); roller path (in steel construction). pl. also dalá’il.
Dalilu’l-Mutahayyirin Dalílu’l-Mutaḥayyirín Guide of the astonished, bewildered, helpless or perplexed
Daliyat ar-Rawha’ Dálíyá(t) ar-Rawḥá’ (fragrant vine”) a Palestinian village 24.5 km SE of Haifa. The Jewish colony of Dalia was established on land purchased in the village in 1939. It was depopulated of its Arab inhabitants in late March during the 1948 Palestine War.
Dall, Dawall, Dallin Ḍáll, pl. Ḍawáll, Ḍállín straying, roaming, wandering; astray, lost; erroneous, false. Ḍállín (gone astray)
Dallal Dallál auctioneer; broker, jobber, middleman, agent, commission merchant; hawker
Dalvand Dálvand Sháhín Dálvand
Damawand, Damavand Damáwand, Damávand city (58 km east Tehran), county and mountain (5,609 m, 27 km north of the city)
Damdam Ḍamḍám one who comprehends, contains, grasps, or holds everything; anything that contains, surrounds, or comprises another
Damghan Dámghán city (36.162988, 54.333824) 125 km SE Sari and 60 km SW of Sháhrúd
Damir Ḍámir loan, skinny, thin; slender, slim, svelte, lank (camel or any riding animal). See Qur’án 22:27 where it is often translated as “lean camel”.
Damma, Dammat Ḍamma, pl. Ḍammát the vowel point for the short vowel u;—pl. embrace, hug. See kasra and fatḥa
Dana (Danih) Dána Pers. grain; a berry; stone of fruit, seed of grain or fruit; a pimple; grain or bait scattered for catching birds; a cannon-ball; knowledge, science, learning; learned
Danaq, Daniq, Dawaniq Dánaq, Dániq, pl. Dawániq two carats (2 qíráṭ, 1/6 dirham); an ancient coin; small coin; a square measure. Abú Dawáníq, a nickname of the Caliph Abú-Ja‘far Manṣúr on account of his avarice.
Dani’, Adniya’, Adna’ Daní’,pl. Adniyá’, Adná’ low, base, mean, vile, despicable, contemptible; inferior, second-rate, of poor quality. Adná’ also “lowest” or “even closer”—being the second station (the other is that of divinity) of the Báb, that of servitude. (Gate of the heart, p. 223)
Danish Dánish Pers. science, knowledge, learning; excellence
Danishniya Dánishníyá[t] Pers. (dánish + níyá[t]) knowledgeable or learned. Adíb Dánishníyá.
Dannun (Danun, Dunnun, Thulnoon) Dannún shrines of Shaykh Dannún (32.991081, 35.147904) and Shaykh Dawúd (32.993921, 35.150093) in small villages of the same name are now merged as the village of Sheikh Dannun, 5 km ESE of the city of Nahariya, Israel.  Bahá’u’lláh would have passed through or near here enroute to the former village of an-Nahr in 1880. See Nahr. For “thulnoon”, see Dhú’n-Nún.
Daqiqa, Daqa’iq Daqíqa, pl. Daqá’iq particle; nicety (“subtlety”); intricacy; detail, particular; minute (time unit)
Dar Dar Pers. 1. (preposition) in, into, within, among; on, upon, above; of, concerning, about; by, for; because of; near, hard by, at; to, as far as, according to; before, in presence of; against; with; under; at length; after; so much; out, out of doors. 2. (noun) a door, gate, passage, door-way or gate-way; a chapter (of the Zand); a subject, topic; way, manner, method; genus, sort, kind; turn, step, degree; a kind of wild bird; a gnat; a blackberry; a valley; a mountain-pass; the foot, also summit, of a mountain. 3. (imperative of darídan), tear thou; (in composition) tearing, as parda-dar, veil-tearing, dishonouring.
Dar al-Athar, Daru’l-Athar Dár al-Áthár, (Pers.) Dáru’l-Áthár museum, archives
Dar al-Funun, Daru’l-Funun Dár al-Funún, Dáru’l-Funún building or centre for arts and sciences) The first technical college of Írán in Teheran founded by Prime Minister Mírzá Taqí Khán. BKG 72
Dar as-Salam, Daru’s-Salam Dár as-Salám, Pers. Dáru’s-Salám (Darussalam, Dar es Salaam) paradise, heaven; epithet of Baghdád (Abode of Peace or the City of God since peace is an attribute of God). See Bahá’u’lláh King of Glory, p. 296. Dar es Salaam (seaport and capital of Tanzania).
Dar Kula, Darkula, Darab Kola, Dara Kola Dár Kulá (Dárkulá) a village (36.512137, 52.301776) in the Central District of Amol County, Mazandaran Province
Dar, Daran Dár, pl. Dárán Pers. wood; a gallows; a beam; the roofing of a house; a tree, stake; (imperfect of dáshtan, in compounds) holding, possessing, keeping; a keeper, possessor, lord, master
Dar, Dur, Diyar, Diyarat, Diyara Dár f., pl. Dúr, Diyár, Diyárát, Diyara[h] house; building, structure, edifice; habitation, dwelling, abode; residence, home; seat, side, locality; area, region; land, country (especially diyár). dár al-baqá’ the eternal abode, the hereafter; dár as-sa‘áda and dár as-salṭana Constantinople (designation before World War I); dár as-salám paradise, heaven; dár al-hijra Medina. Example Dúru’l-Bahá’íyya. Pers. in compounds as an imperative of dáshtan: holding, possessing, keeping; a keeper, possessor, lord, master.
Dara Dárá Pers. holding fast; a possessor; God; Darius, son of Dáráb; the Darii, kings of Persia; a sovereign
Darab Daráb (Dar Áb) Pers. dar+áb (در آب), in the water
Darab Dáráb A town in Fárs, southern Persia, home of Vaḥíd’s ancestors.
Darabi Dárábí Sayyid Yaḥyá Dárábí (1811–1850), Bábí leader usually known as Waḥíd Akbar (Peerless One), a title given him by the Báb. The eldest son of Sayyid Ja‘far al-Kashfí Iṣṭahbánátí.
Daraja, Darajat Daraja, pl. Daraját step, stair; flight of steps, stairs, staircase; degree, step, tone (of a scale; music); degree (mathematics, geography; of temperature); grade, fate; degree, order, rank; club (also, e.g., in trains, of a decoration); phase state, stage (of a development); mark, grade (in school)
Darb, Durab, Adrab Ḍarb, pl. Ḍurúb, Aḍráb beating, striking, hitting, rapping; shooting, shelling, gunning, bombing, bombardment; multiplication; coining, formation; minting (of money);— (pl. ḍurúb) kind, sort, specimen, species, variety; (pl. aḍráb) similar, like
Darband Darband Pers. gateway or mountain door. City (renamed Derbent) in the province of Dághistán (Russia) on the western banks of the Caspian Sea (gateway to the Caucasus). Also a village (gateway to Mt. Tochal (Tuchál), mountain and ski resort) that is now a neighbourhood on the north side of Ṭihrán.
Dard, Darad Dárd, Dárad Pers. an attribute of God; dárad he holds, has, is possessed of
Dargaz (Dar Gaz) Dargaz (Dar Gaz) also known as Darreh Gaz; formerly, Muḥammadábád, Muḥammadábád Arbáb, and Abíward (Abivard), is a city 65 km NE of Qúchán, in Raḍawí Khurásán Ústán (province), Írán.
Dari Darí Pers. belonging to a door; belonging to the royal court, courtly; one of the three surviving dialects of the seven anciently spoken in Persia, said to prevail chiefly in Balkh, Bukhárá, and Badakhshán, and called the language of the court and of Paradise
Daridan Darídan Pers. to tear, rend, lacerate; to cut out (cloth); to lay open; to subtract; to be loosed; to be torn
Darkala or Dar-Kala (Dar-Kola) Dárkalá or Dár-Kalá (“Kalaa”, “Dhakala”) a village (36.161685, 51.939188) in Núr County (8 km SW of Tákur) in Mázindarán, a second ancestral home of Mírzá Ḥusayn-‘Alí.
A village (36.464393, 52.193668) 14 km west of Ámul where Bahá’u’lláh’s family stayed away from the winter cold of Tákur.
Darr Ḍárr harmful, injurious, detrimental, noxious, disadvantageous.
Abú Dharr al-Ghifárí al-Kinání, also Jundab ibn Junádah, was the 4th or 5th convert to Islam, and a Muhájirún
Dars, Durus Dars, pl. Durús effacement, obliteration, extinction;—pl. study, studies; lesson, chapter (of a textbook); class, class hour, period; lecture; lesson (taught by experience, etc.)
Darsu’l-Akhláq, Dars-i-Akhlaq Darsu’l-Akhláq, (Pers.) Dars-i-Akhláq “Lessons in morals, good behaviour and character building” (“Dars Akhláq”)
Daru’l-Tabigh or Daru’l-Tarwij Dáru’l-Tabígh or Dáru’l-Tarwíj (Teaching or Propagation Centre, for the Hands)
Daru’l-Tashri’ Dáru’l-Tashrí‘ (House of Legislation, Universal House of Justice)
Daru’s-Surur Dáru’s-Surúr “the happy home”
Daru’sh-Shafa Dáru’sh-Shafá Pers. house of treatment, a building constructed for medical purposes, equivalent of a modern hospital or health clinic
Daru’sh-Shafay-i-Masjid-i-Shah Dáru’sh-Shafáy-i-Masjid-i-Sháh Pers. hospital at the Sháh Mosque in Tehran
Darugha (Darughih) Dárúgha (Pers. Bahá’í Dárúghih) Pers. from Chinese, a territorial subdivision (later a province) in the Mongol Empire that was ruled by a darughachí. In Safavid Persia, a dárúgha was the head man of an office, prefect of a town or village, overseer, or superintendent of any department. Similarly, in the Mughal Empire of South Asia, dárúgha was the title of the district police officer or police magistrate.
Darughagi (Darughachi) Dárúghagí Pers. from Mongolian dárúghachí. A superintendency. He was in charge of administration and taxes—sometimes referred to as a governor.
Darvish Muhammad-i-Irani Darvísh Muḥammad-i-Írání Name used by Bahá’u’lláh while in Sulaymáníyyih
Darvish Sidq-‘Ali Darvísh Ṣidq-‘Alí
Darvish-Salah Darvísh-Ṣaláḥ
Darwaz, Darwaza (Darvarza, Darvazih) Darwáz, Darwáza Pers. large gates, or doors of a city, palace, or fortress (always open); a square, market-place; mendacity;—fem. a door; a gate; a square, market-place, or exchange where merchants meet, and mendicants beg; (hence) begging; a pass through mountains.
Darwaza Kazirun Darwáza Kázirún Kázirún Gate (29.609111, 52.532378) is the west side old city gate (destroyed) of Shíráz on the Kázirún to Shíráz road. The Báb met Mullá Ḥusayn here on 22 May 1844.
Darwaza Qur’an Darwáza Qur’án (or Darwáza Shíráz) “Qur’án Gate”, was at the northern entrance gate to Shíráz on the Iṣfahán road. The gate once had two very large and heavy, hand-written “Qur’áns” (i.e. maṣḥafayn; named hafdah man (weight 51 kg)) stored in a room on top of the arch. The maṣḥafayn were moved in 1937 and are now in the Pars Museum. The modern gate is a “recreation”. All the other city gates have been destroyed.
Darwish (Darvish), Darawish Darwísh, pl. Daráwísh poor, indigent; dervish or monk. A beggar or faqír (poor one) “... those who are completely severed from all but God, who cleave to His laws, are firm in His Faith, loyal to His Covenant, and constant in worship.” Attributed to Bahá’u’lláh in MF 39. May be written as Darwesh or Darvesh in Persian.
Darya Daryá Pers. a sea, ocean; a river; (in the language of mysticism) pure, uncreated, divine essence
Daryay-i-Nur (Daryay-i-Noor) Daryáy-i-Núr Pers. the Sea of Light or the Ocean of Light—the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh.
Name of the famous and largest pink cut diamond (≈182 carats, from India), the colour is a very rare pale pink.
See Kúh-i-Núr.
Daryun (Dariun), Daryan (Darian) Dáryún (Dáríún), Dáryán (Dáríán)) city (29.563709, 52.931288; 35 km east of Shíráz) in the Central District of Shíráz County, Fárs Province;
city (38.216401, 45.628214; 60 km WNW Tabriz) in East Azerbaijan; village (35.145114, 46.315736) 1 km SE of the Daryan Dam in Kirmánsháh Province.
An area (32.677209, 51.707902) in Iṣfahán (5 km NE of city centre).
Daryush (Dariush, Darioush) Dáryúsh Pers. (“Dáriúsh”, Darioush) a common Persian male given name.
Old Persian Dárayavush = Dáraya- [hold] + vush (wash) [good], i.e. “holding firm the good”.
Historically it has been translated into English and Latin as “Darius”.
Dáryúsh Dahmúbidí..
Darz, Duruz Darz, pl. Durúz seam, hem; suture
Darzi Darzí Pers. a tailor
Dasht Dasht Pers. a desert, plain without water; a burial-ground; a chess-board; dry musk
Dashtan shtan Pers. to have; to hold; to possess; to profess, maintain
Dast, Dast ba Dast Dast, Dast bá Dast Pers. the hand; the forearm; a cubit. dast bá dast, hand in hand; very near; agile, quick, speedy.
Dast, Dust Dast, pl. Dusút place of honour, seat of honour, seat of office; council; dast al-ḥukm (a ruler’s) throne
Dastan Dastán Pers. history, romance, fable; song, melody, trill, shake; the key of a musical instrument; foolish, idle talk; fraud, imposture, stratagem
Dastjird Dastjird (Dastjerd) city 60 km WSW of Qum, Írán
Dastjirdan Dastjirdán people of Dastjird
Dastmal-Girih-Zan Dastmál-Girih-Zan Pers. literally “handkerchief-knot-woman”
Dastmal, Dast-mal Dast-mál, Dastmál Pers. rubbing the hands; a towel; a handkerchief; a kettle-holder; dinner-plate; easy, smooth; bare; a prisoner; wealth
Dastur, Datwar, Dasturan Dastúr, pl. Dasátír or Dastúrán Pers. (borrowed from Arabic dustúr) leave, permission, licence; congé; a prime minister, vazír, senator, councillor of state; a confidential person; a model, exemplar, rule, basis, foundation, canon, original of a book, record, formula, or any writing of authority to which people have recourse; custom, mode, manner, fashion; constitution, privilege; a customary fee, tax, or percentage; fulfilment of a promise; a bolt, bar; a large log laid across a ship as ballast; a high Zoroastrian priest; a powerful man; in India a Pársí priest. See dustúr.
Dasturi Dastúrí Pers. perquisites paid to servants by one who sells to their master, fees; leave; custom; anything thrown in, or placed upon another (as if one should buy a pound of sugar, and an apple should be put on the top)
Dawachi (Davachi) Dawachí an old district of Tabriz to the north of the city centre
Dawla (Daula, Daulih, Dawlih), Duwal Dawla[h or t], pl. Duwal originally: alternation, rotation, cycle, change; change of time, period of rule. Used in particular by the early Abbasid caliphs to denote “the time of their success”, i.e. the period of their rule, and soon became associated specifically with the ruling house and acquired the connotation of “dynasty”. Since 19th century: dynasty; state or government, country; power, empire. e.g. Dawlat-Ábád and Dawlat-Ábádí. Pers. also dawlih.
Dawli (Dauli), Duwali Dawlí state (adjective); duwalí international
Dawr (Daur), Adwar Dawr, pl. Adwár Pers. (Ar. influence) time, age; a revolution, period of years; a period of 360 solar years; evil times; days of oppression; a state of poverty; the world, fortune; the repetition of a lesson; a cup handed round by the guests; intelligence which spies transmit to the court of their sovereign;—pl. orbs, orbits, revolutions, circles; periods, ages
Dawr (Dur, Daur), Adwar Dawr, pl. Adwár round (of a patrol; in sports); role, part (played by someone or something); film role, stage role; periodic change, rotation, alternation; crop rotation; period; (one’s) turn; phase, stage, step, degree, station; epoch, age, era, cycle; fit, attack, paroxysm (of a disease); floor, story; musical composition; number, single performance (within a program)
Dawr an-Nabawi, Dur-i-Nabuwwat Dawr an-Nabawí, Dur-i-Nabuwwat Prophetic Cycle
Dawra (Daura, Zorah), Dawrat Dawra[h or t], pl. Dawrát urn, revolution, gyration, rotation; circulation; cycle; circuit; round, patrol; procession (Christian); round trip; tour (in general, of an artist or performer); detour; period (also electricity); session (of parliament); course (of instruction). ad-Dawra is a neighbourhood of southern Baghdád.
Dawran (Dauran), Dawaran Dawrán, Dawarán Pers. (Ar. influence) a revolution, period, circle, cycle; time, an age; fortune, vicissitude; rolling round.
Daws (Daus) Daws treading, trampling, tread, step
Dawud (Davud), Da’ud (Daoud) Dáwud, Dáwúd, Dá’úd David. Hebrew Daoud. Other variants: Daut, Dawood and Davut. Abú Dáwud Sulaymán ibn al-Ash‘ath al-Azdí as-Sijistání, commonly known simply as Abú Dáwúd, was a Persian scholar of prophetic ḥadíth who compiled the third of the six “canonical” ḥadíth collections recognized by Sunní Muslims.
Dawudi (Daoudi), Daiudi Dáwúdí, Dá’údí of David. Followers (Daoudis) of David, a small sect of Islám. Dr ‘Alí Murád Dávúdí (1922–1979)
Day (Dai) Day Pers the 10th month of the Persian solar year
Dayf (Daif), Duyuf, Adyaf, Difan Ḍayf, pl. Ḍuyúf, Aḍyáf, Ḍífán guest; visitor
Daylam Daylam Old Province SW cnr Caspian Sea (now Gílán)
Dayr (Dair), Adyar, Adyira, Duyura Dayr, pl. Adyár, Adyira, Duyúra (“deir”) monastery, convent, cloister
Dayyan (Daiyan) Dayyán pious, godly, devout, religious, a requiter (rewarder) of good and evil; metaphorical accountant who rewards people for their deeds on the Day of Resurrection: hence an epithet of God; a conqueror, a subduer; a judge, umpire, administrator. Mirza Asadu’lláh was given the title Dayyán (Judge) by the Báb and “the third Letter to believe in Him whom God shall make manifest” by Bahá’u’lláh.
Dha Kifl, Dha’l-Kifl (Dha’u’l-Kifl) Dhá Kifl, Dha’l-Kifl (Dhá’u’l-Kifl) or dhú Kifl, Dhu’l-Kifl (Dhú’u’l-Kifl) “Possessor of the Fold”. Kifl occurs in Qur’án 21:85 and 38:48. Name believed to be Elijah, Joshua, Zachariah or Ezekiel. Sometimes zul, dhul, etc. are used.
Dhabih, Dhaboha, Dhaba’ih Dhabíḥ, fem. Dhabíḥa[h or t] pl. Dhabíḥíyún fem. pl. dhabá’iḥ. sacrifice or slaughtered. fem. slaughter animal; sacrificial victim, blood sacrifice; sacrifice, immolation; offering, oblation. Pers. zabíḥ. Ḥájí Muḥammad Ismá‘íl was known as Dhabíḥ. The name Ismá‘íl in Bábí-Bahá’í history is associated with the soubriquet ‘Dhabíḥ’. Ismá‘íl (Ishmael), the son that Abraham had by Hagar, and according to the Qur’án, it was Ishmael whom Abraham offered to sacrifice—hence the association of the name Ismá‘íl with Dhabíḥ. (Balyuzi, E. G. Browne) Azízu’lláh Dhabíhíyán, martyred in Yazd in 1980.)
Dhabih Allah, Dhabihu’llah Dhabíḥ Alláh, Dhabíḥu’lláh “Sacrifice of God”, reference to Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice His eldest and patient (Qur’án 37:101, 21:85) son, Ismá‘íl (Ishmael).
Dhahab Dhahab (m. and f.), pl. Dhiháb gold; gold piece, gold coin; having the eyes dazzled at the glare of gold, or on entering suddenly into a glittering mine; the yolk of an egg
Dhahaba, Dhahab, Madhhab (Mazhab) Dhahaba (Dhaháb, Madhhab) to go (to); to betake oneself, travel (to); to go away, leave, depart; to disappear, vanish, decline, dwindle; to perish, die, be destroyed; with to carry something off, take something away, abduct, steal something, sweep something or someone away, annihilate, destroy something or someone
Dhahabi Dhahabí golden, of gold; precious, excellent, apposite (e.g., advice, saying, etc.)
Dhahabiya, Dhahabiyyat Dhahabíya[h or t], pl. Dhahabíyát Pers. (English dahabeah) a long, light-draft houseboat, used on the Nile. Pers. dhahabiyya[h]. adh-Dhahabiyya, Shí‘í Ṣúfí order in Írán.
Dhaka’, Dhuka’ Dhaká’ acumen, mental, acuteness, intelligence, brightness, cleverness;—dhuká’, may have the same meaning and “the sun”
Dhaka’i, Dhuka’i Dhaká’í adjective form of Dhaká’; intelligent or clever
Dhakawa (Dhakava, Zakawa) Dhakáwa[h or t] brightness of genius, wit, intelligence, sharp-mindedness
Dhaki Dhakí Pers. acute; strong, diffusive musk
Dhakir, Dhakirin Dhákir, pl. Dhákirín Pers. rememberer; a praiser of God
Dhakira Dhákira memory
Dhakiy, Adhkiya’ Dhakíy, pl. Adhkiyá’ person of discernment, penetration, or understanding; acute, witty
Dhanb, Dhunub Dhanb, pl. Dhunúb offence, sin, crime, misdeed
Dhaqa, Dhawq (Dhauq), Madhaq Dháqa, (Dhawq, Dhawáq, Madháq) to taste, sample (food, etc.); to try, try out, test (something); to get a taste (of something), experience, undergo, suffer (something), go through something; form IV to have (someone) taste or sample (something), give (someone something) to taste; form V to taste (something) slowly, repeatedly, thoroughly; to get a taste (of something); to sense, perceive (something); to enjoy thoroughly, savour, relish (something); to derive pleasure (from)
Dhar’ Dhar‘ (verbal noun of dhara‘a) power, ability, capability (to do something)
Dhara’a Dhara‘a (verb) to measure (something); to take the measure or measurements (of something); to cover (a distance); to cross, travel (a country), travel through; to intercede, intervene, mediate, put in a word (for someone, on behalf of someone, with someone else)
Dhariyatun, Dhariyat Dháriyatun, pl. Dháriyát quick-scattering wind; that which scatters, that which blows away
Dharr (Zarr), Dharra (Zarra), Dharrat Dharr, fem. Dharra[h or t] (fem. pl. Dharrát) strewing, scattering, sprinkling; (collective) tiny particles, atoms, specks, motes. Fem. atom; tiny particle; speck, mote.
Root word dharra has another derivative, dhurríya, so dharr can be understood as “seeds”, as in progeny.
See dhurríya.
Dharrati (Zarrati), Dharratiyan Dharratí, pl. Dharrátíyán belonging to a particle
Dharw Dharw scattering, dispersing, the act of blowing away
Dhat, Dhawat, Dhatan Dhát, pl. Dhawát (fem. of dhú) being, essence, nature; self; person, personality; the same, the self-same; adh-Dhawát people of rank, people of distinction, notables; dhátan personally. Examples: dhátu’ṣ-ṣadr, dhátu’l-‘amúd, (Pers.) dháti sharíf.
Dhatiya, Dhatiyat Dhátíya(h or t), pl. Dhátíyát personality; subjectivism (philosophy); identity (of a person)
Dhawq (Dhauq), Adhaq Dhawq, pl. Adhwáq gustatory sense; taste (for; also, e.g., literary taste); perceptivity, responsiveness (for); sensitivity, sensitiveness; savoir-vivre, suavity, urbanity, tact; liking, inclination; taste, flavour (of food, etc.)
Dhawqi (Dhauqi) Dhawqí of taste, gustative, gustatory. Form V “of sensing, perceiving”—see Dháqa
Dhi’b, Dhi’ab, Dhu’ban Dhi’b, pl. Dhi’áb, Dhu’bán wolf, jackal. Bahá’u’lláh named Shaykh Muḥammad Báqir (1819–1883) the “Wolf” and his son, Shaykh Muḥammad-Taqíy-i-Najafí (1846–1914), Ibn-i-Dhi’b (“Son of the Wolf”). The son forbade people from chanting the Muslim Pre-Dawn Prayer because of its mentions of Bahá’.
Dhi’l-Hijjih Dhi’l-Ḥijjih Pers. Twelth month in Islamic calendar
Dhi’l-Jawshan Dhi’l-Jawshan Ar. “clad in armour”. Term applied to Mullá ‘Abdu’lláh the arch-killer of Imám Ḥusayn
Dhi’l-Qa’dih Dhi’l-Qa‘dih Pers. Eleventh month in Islamic calendar
Dhibh Dhibḥ sacrificial victim, blood sacrifice
Dhikr, Adhkar Dhikr, pl. Adhkár recollection, remembrance (e.g of God), reminiscence, memory, commemoration; reputation, repute, renown; naming, stating, mention(ing), quoting, citation; report, account, narration, narrative; invocation of God, mention of the Lord’s name; (in Sufism) incessant repetition of certain words or formulae in praise of God, often accompanied by music and dancing. A name of the Qur’án.
Dhikra, Dhikayat Dhikrá, pl. Dhikrayát remembrance, recollection, memory;—pl. reminiscences, memoirs
Dhikran Dhikrán remembrance
Dhikriya, Dhikriyya (Dhikriyyih) Dhikríya, Pers. Dhikriyya remembrance
Dhikru’llah (Dhikr Allah, Zikhru’llah) Dhikru’lláh (Dhikr Alláh) “Remembrance of God” (Pers. Zikru’lláh), an early title used by the Báb.
Zikru’lláh Khádim (Zikrullah Khadem, 1904–1986) Hand of the Cause of God.
Dhikru’llah-i-A’zam Dhikru’lláh-i-A‘ẓam “Greater remembrance of God”, term used by Siyyid Káẓim to refer to the Báb.
Dhimmi, Dhimmiyun Dhimmí, pl. Dhimmíyún a non-Muslim, but follower of another religion mentioned in the Qur’án, who lives as a protected subject in an Islamic state
Dhira’, Adhru’, Dhur’an Dhirá‘, pl. Adhru‘, Dhur‘án arm; forearm; connecting rod; cubit
Dhu, Dhi, Dha, Dhat, Dhawu, Ulu, Dhawat Dhú gen., Dhí accus., fem. Dhá, Dhát pl. masc. Dhát, Dhawú, Ulú; pl. fem. Dhawát (with following genitive) possessor, owner, holder or master of, endowed or provided with, embodying or comprising something. ulú’l-amr (“ulu’l-amr”), the companions of Muhammad; also their followers in learning and authority. ulú’l-‘azm (“ulu’l-‘azm”), those resolved to obey the commands of God (Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Muhammad); those with constancy and patience (Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses, David and Jesus). See Dhát for fem. examples: dhú aḍ‘áf, dhú’l-jalál, dhú’n-najmat.
Dhu’l-Awtad Dhu’l-Awtád is variously rendered by translators of the Qur’án as The Impaler, The Contriver of the Stakes, The Lord of a Strong Dominion, The One Surrounded by Ministers, etc.
Dhu’l-Faqar (Zulfiqar, Dhulfiqar) Dhu’l-Faqár “that which possesses a spine”. The name of the well-known sword of Muḥammad and Imám ‘Alí. So named because it had projections and jags, like the spinal cord, on its back.
Dhu’l-Faqar Khan Dhu’l-Faqár Khán Fort in “vicinity” of Sháhrúd. Possibly Qal‘ah Naw-Rúz Khán (36.405557, 54.965566), Sháhrúd.
Dhu’l-Hijjah, Dhu’l-Hijjih Dhu’l-Ḥijjah (Pers. Dhu’l-Ḥijjih) twelfth month of Islamic calendar (the one of pilgrimage or “Possessor of the Pilgrimage”)
Dhu’l-Qa‘da Dhu’l-Qa‘da Eleventh month of Islamic calendar (the one of truce/sitting)
Dhu’l-Qarnayn, Dhu’l-Qarnain Dhu’l-Qarnayn a prophet in Qur’án 18:83–101—”the one with two horns (of the world)” or “He of the Two Ages”. In traditional scholarship, the character is usually identified as Alexander the Great. See Sikandar.
Dhu’n-Nun, Dha’n-Nun Dhú Nún (Dhú’n-Nún) fem. Dhá Nún (Dhá’n-Nún) (“dhu’l-nun”, “dha’l-nun”, “dhul-nun”, “dhal-Nun”, “zu‘l-nun”, “zul-nun”, “thulnoon”, etc.) “him of the fish” or “one with a fish”, the Prophet Jonah. Dhú’n-Nún Abú’l-Fayḍ Thawbán bin Ibráhím al-Miṣrí (d. Giza 245/CE 859 or 248/CE 862), often referred to as Dhú’l-Nún al-Miṣrí or Zúl-Nún al-Miṣrí, was an early Egyptian Muslim mystic and ascetic.
Dhughal, Shugal, Zugal Dhughál, Shugál, Zugál Pers. charcoal
Dhurriya, Dhurriyat, Dharariy Dhurríya, pl. Dhurríyát, Dharáríy progeny, descendants, children, offspring.
See root Dharra
Didan, Didam Dídan Pers. to see, look, observe; to perceive, feel; to expect, hope for; to visit (modern colloquialism).Dídam, saw.
Dídam ín Bahá’u’lláh ast, “I beheld the countenance of Bahá’u’lláh in Him”.
Didha (Deza, Dezah, Dizah, Dizeh) dha (d-dh-h) Pers. a horse or mule of an ash-colour; a dark colour; a fortress
Dighth, Adghath Ḍighth, pl. Áḍgháth a handful of herbs partly green and partly dry. Also translated as “a handful of worldly goods”. Word used in Qur’án 38:44.
Dih (Deh), Dihak Dih, pl. Dihák village, country
Dih-Bala Dih-Bálá (Deh-i-Bala) common place name in Írán (GPB p. 298)
Dih-Chah (Deh Chah) Dih-Cháh a village ((29.367806, 54.464782)) 23 km NNE Nayríz
Dih-Mulla (Deh-Mulla) Dih-Mullá Pers. a small village (36.272722, 54.755498) in Semnan Province
Dihi Díhí peasant, villager
Dihqan, Dahaqina, Dahqin, Duhqan Dihqán, pl. Daháqina, Daháqín man of importance, one who plays an important role, leading personality; grandee (in ancient Persia). Pers.: also duhqán (from Per. dih-khán or dihgán), chief man or magistrate of a village, prince or head of the farmers (among the Persians); a husbandman, cultivator of the ground; a historian; a minstrel, bard.
Dihqani, Dahqani Dihqání, Dahqání (Ar. element) tillage, husbandry; a husbandman
Dil Dil Pers. the heart, mind, soul; marrow; pith of a tree; trunk of a tree; the centre; the eye; a dot; an enigma; cote (animal shelter)
Dil-Dari Dil-Dárí Pers. demonstrations of love; comfort, consolation
Dil-Gusha (Dilgusha) Dil-Gushá Pers. exhilarating; “expansion” or “delight” of the heart
Dilaram (Dil-aram) Dilárám Pers. quieting the mind; heart-approving; a lovely woman, sweet-heart; anything admired or wished for
Dili-‘Abbas Dilí-‘Abbás (Delli Abbas) a small town 12 km NW of al-Miqdádiyah and 90 km NE of Baghdád, in ‘Iráq
Dilir Dilír Pers. brave, valiant, intrepid; audacious, fearless, insolent, bold
Dimagh (Damagh), Admigha Dimágh (Pers. Damágh) pl. Admigha[h or t] brain. Pers. also the palate; the nose; pride, haughtiness, consequential airs.
Dimashq (Damashq), Dimishq Dimashq, Dimishq Damascus, capital of Syria, colloquially known in Syria as ash-Shám and titled the “City of Jasmine” (Madínat al-Yásamín)
Dimashqi (Damashqi), Dimishqi Dimashqí, Dimish of Damascus, e.g. Damashqí Gate, the city gate facing Damascus near a mosque in ‘Akká, or the gate on the NW side of old Jerusalem
Din al-Qayyin ad-Dín al-Qayyim True Religion (Qur’án 30:30
Din-i-Ilahi Dín-i-Iláhí (The Divine Faith)
Din-Muhammad-Vazir Dín-Muḥammad-Vazír
Din, Adyan Dín, pl. Adyán religion, creed, faith, belief. Suffix in proper names, i.e. Salah ad-Dín, Pers. Salah-ud-Dín.
Dinar, Dananir Dínár, pl. Danánír (originally dinnár), a coin; a gold coin, a ducat, a dinar; a weight of gold (variously stated); (metaphorically) the sun
Dini Díní religious; spiritual
Dinur, Dinwar (Dinyar) Dínúr, Dínwar (Pers. with Ar. influence) religious, faithful; who knows the law
Dirakh (Derakh) Dirakh Pers. (for dirakht), a tree; a beam
Dirakhshani (Derakhshani) Dirakhshání Pers. name
Dirbas, Darabis (Pers. Zarrabis) Dirbás, Darábís bolt, door bolt
Dirham, Darahim Dirham, pl. Daráhim dirhem, drachma; a weight; money, cash. Dirham = 6 dániq = 12 qíráṭ.
Disatir (Desatir) Disátír Pers. is a literary forgery with Sufi leanings published in Bombay in 1818 from an Iranian manuscript
Disciples of ‘Abdu’l-Baha Disciples or Heralds of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá Designated by Shoghi Effendi: Dr John Ebenezer Esslemont, Thornton Chase, Howard MacNutt, Sarah Farmer, Hippolyte Dreyfus-Barney, Lillian Kappes, Robert Turner (first Afro-American Bahá’í in America), Dr Arthur Brauns, W. H. Randall, Lua Getsinger (née Louisa Aurora Moore—Livá (banner)), Joseph Hannan, Chester I. Thatcher, Charles Greenleaf, Mrs J. D. Brittingham, Mrs Thornburgh, Helen S. Goodall, Arthur P. Dodge, William H. Hoar and Dr J. G. Augur.
Diwan (Daywan, Divan), Dawawin Díwán (Díván), pl. Dawáwín Pers. origin, loaned to Ar. Original meaning was “bundle (of written sheets)”, hence “book”, especially “book of accounts”, and hence “office of accounts”, “custom house”, “council chamber”. The meaning of the Engliah divan, “long, cushioned seat” is because such seats were placed along the walls in Middle Eastern council chambers. A royal court; tribunal of justice or revenue; a council of state, senate; account books of the treasury (in older Islamic administration); collection of poems by an author; governmental office, administrative office; chancellery, office, bureau, secretariat; council or state, cabinet; council, consultative assembly, board of advisers, executive committee; government; hall. Used in titles, as in Amír-Díwán, Head of the Court, or Prime Minister.
Diwan-Khanih, Divan-Khanih Díwán-Khánih Court
Diya (Deya), Dia, Ziya, Zia Ḍiyá’ (ضياء), Ḍíyá’ (ضيىاء) light, brightness, glow. Transcriped as ḍiyá’ (dictionaries, elsewhere also with ẓ instead of ḍ) or ḍíyá’ (Shoghi Effendi). The same issue with the “íyá” letter combination also occurs with díyár.
Diya Baghdadi Ḍíyá’ Baghdádí Dr Zia (Ḍíyá’) Baghdádí (1882–1937). Named Ḍíyá’ and Afandí by Bahá’u’lláh (He also called him Mabsúṭ Afandí, “the happy one”)
Diya’ ad-Din, Diya’u’d-Din Ḍiyá’ ad-Dín, Ḍiyá’u’d-Dín light of faith or light of religion
Diya’i Ḍíyá’í of Ḍíyá’. Nuṣratu’lláh Ḍíyá’í
Diya’iya (Ziaiya, Zia’iya), Diya’iyyih Ḍíyá’íya[h or t] radiant, bright. (Iṣfahání Pers. Ḍíyá’iyyih (“Ziaiyyih” or “Zia’iyyih”)). Ḍíyá’íyyih Khánum, eldest daughter of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and mother of Shoghi Effendi.
Diya’ ad-Din, Diya’u’d-Din Ḍiyá’ ad-Dín, Ḍiyá’u’d-Dín light of faith or light of religion
Diya’u’l-Hajiyyih Ḍíyá’u’l-Ḥájíyyih title of ‘Udhra Khánum
Diya’u’llah Ḍíyá’u’lláh light of God (Zíá’u’lláh or Ziaoullah). Mírzá Ḍíyá’u’lláh—a son of Bahá’u’lláh
Diyafa Ḍiyáfa(t) hospitable reception, entertainment as guest, accommodation; hospitality; “feast”
Diyala, Sirwan Diyálá (in ‘Iráq), Sírwan (in Írán) 445 km tributary of Tigris River in eastern ‘Iráq, flowing on east side of Baghdád and joining the Tigris River to the south side of the city. Given incorrectly as Dajli in Star of the West.
Diyar-Bakr (Diar-Bakr) Diyár-Bakr (Diyár Bakr or Diyárbakir, “land of Bakr” tribe) city (37.925386, 40.205236) in SE Türkiye, 630 km NW of Baghdád. Transcribed Díyár-Bakr by Shoghi Effendi. Arabic: ديار بكر (Diyár Bakr). Renamed Diyabakir (Turkish, “land of copper”) by Atatürk in 1931. See Ma‘dan-i-Mis.
Diyar-i-Khatt Díyár-i-Khaṭṭ “domain of writing” or “realm of calligraphy”. Verse inscribed by Nabíl when asked by Mishkín-Qalam: Dar díyár-i-khaṭṭ sháh-i-ṣáḥib-‘alam Bandiy-i-báb-i-Bahá, Mishkín-Qalam.”
“In the realm of calligraphy, the king who possesses the Banner, is the servant of the gate of Bahá [the Báb], Mishkín-Qalam.”
Diz-Abad, Dizabad Díz-Ábád (Dízábád) a village (34.490278, 49.181111) in Markazi Province. A village (36.423725, 52.806759; “Dízvá” (“Dizva”); 1.3 km south of the Shrine of Shaykh Ṭabarsí) in the Central District of Qaem Shahr County, Mazandaran Province.
Dizful (Dezful) Dizfúl a city and capital of Dezful County, Khuzestan Province, Írán. 120 km NNW of Ahváz.
Dizij Abad (Dizaj Abad) Dízij Ábád village (36.628908, 48.595490) 11 km ESE of the centre of Zanjan
Dolgorukov (Dolgorouki) Dolgorukov Prince Dimitri Ivanovich Dolgorukov (1797–1867) was a Russian career diplomat born into one of the most prominent Russian families. He held a number diplomatic posts: Constantinople and Madrid (1826–1830); The Hague (1832–1837), Naples (1838–1842), and again in Constantinople (1842–1845). He was the Russian Minister in Írán (1845–1854).
Droshky (Doroshky, Durushkih) Droshky, Pers. Durushkih a low four-wheeled open carriage once used in Russia
Du, Do Dú, Du, Do Pers. two
Du’a’ Du‘á’, pl. Ad‘iya(h or t), Pers. Ad‘iyyih call; invocation of God, supplication, prayer; request, plea; good wish; imprecation, course. Prayer (supplication) for certain occasions and requirements.
Du’a’ al-Baha’ Du‘á’ al-Bahá’ (also known as Du‘á’ as-Saḥar, “Supplication of pre-dawn”) is a prayer recommended to Muslims to recite during the pre-dawns of Ramaḍán. The prayer contains the names (and in the same order), which refer to attributes of God, of the months adopted by the Báb for the Badí‘ calendar. This prayer also gives precedence to the name Bahá’ (4 times in the first verse), which apparently does not appear in the Qur’án. “I beseech Thee by Thy Splendour (Bahá’) at its most splendid (abhá’) for all Thy Splendour (Bahá’) is truly resplendent (bahíy). I, verily, O my God! beseech Thee by the fullness of Thy Splendour (bahá’). See Shaykh Bahá’í.
Du’ab (Doab) Dú’áb Pers. “two” + “water”, water-rich tract of land lying between two converging, or confluent, rivers. Village (36.017927, 53.046496) in Mazandaran Province.
Dudman Dúdmán Pers. a great tribe, family, illustrious house; generation, race; fragrance; dynasty
Dugh Dúgh Pers. a mixture of yoghurt and water, to which mint salt and pepper may be added.
Dugh-Abad (Dughabad) gh-Ábád village (35.085454, 58.854295) in Razavi Khorasan Province, Írán. It is 150 km SW of Mashhad. Named Fúrúgh by Bahá’u’lláh.
Duhan, Duha, Zuha, Zuhwat Ḍuḥan, Ḍuḥá, Pers. Ḍuḥwat Forenoon, luncheon-time
Dukhan Dukhán (Dukkán), pl. Adkhina smoke, fume, vapour; tobacco
Dukht Dukht Pers. a daughter; a virgin; ability, strength; contempt and hatred
Dukhtar, Dukhtaran Dukhtar, Pl. Dukhtarán Pers. a daughter; a girl; a virgin; power, strength
Duldul, Daladil Duldul and Duldúl, pl. Daládil porcupine; the name of a mule gifted to Muḥammad by al-Muqawqis, probably the governor of Egypt. See Ya‘fúr.
Dumit (Domat, Domet, Doumit) Ḍúmiṭ (ضومط) Lebanese surname. ‘Azíz Sulaymán Ḍúmiṭ (a fanatical Protestant Christian) who spelt his name “Asis Domet” (Cairo 1890– Berlin 1943). He was an Arabic-German writer and poet who lived in Jerusalem and Haifa. His wife was Adelheid Domet Köbhe. He owned a house in Haifa on the eastern side of the Pilgrim House near the Shrine of the Báb. Shoghi Effendi added a bright light on the Shrine of the Báb in 1923. Some years later He erected a large illuminated cross on the roof of his house. Shoghi Effendi purchased and demolished the house in 1935.
Dunam Dunam Ottoman Turkish origin. Modern metric unit is 0.1 ha of land (about 0.25 acre).
Durar al-Baha’iya, Durar’u’l-Baha’iya ad-Durar al-Bahá’íya Pers. Duraru’l-Bahá’íyyah (or -ih) or ad-Durar al-Bahiyyah (Dorar-ul-Bahiyyih) “The Brilliant Pearls” by Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl, translated into English and published as Miracles and Metaphors.
Durr Durr (collective) pearls
Durra, Durar, Durrat Durra[h or t], pl. Durar, Durrát (fem.) pearl, e.g. Durratu’l-Bahá’íyya
Durri, Darri, Dirri Durrí, (Pers. Darrí, Dirrí) glittering, twinkling, brilliant (star), a sparkling star glittering like a gem
Durud Durúd (Dorud) place 260 km NW of Iṣfahán
Durukhshan, Derakhshan Durukhshán Pers. (pronounced Derakhshan) shining, flashing
Durzi, Darzi, Duruz Durzí, Darzí, pl. Durúz Druze. The name is derived from the name of Muḥammad bin Ismá‘íl Nashtakín ad-Darazí (from Persian darzí, “tailor”) who was an early preacher. However, the people prefer the name al-Muwaḥḥidún (“Unitarian” or “people of monotheism”)
Dust (Dost), Dustan Dúst, pl. Dústán Pers. friend; lover; mistress, sweetheart. Dúst Muḥammad, friend of Muḥammad, town (31.145648, 61.791519) in eastern Írán, and 16th century Persian painter of miniatures, calligrapher, and art historian.
Dusti (Dosti) Dústí Pers. friendship; love, affection. Insán-dústí, “love of humankind in general” or philanthropy.
Dustur, Dasatir Dustúr, pl. Dasátír Pers. (Ar. influence) a note or common-place book; a senator, grandee; a pillar; a canon, copy, exemplar, model
Dustur, Dasatir Dustúr, pl. Dasátír statute; regulations; by-laws; (basic) constitutional law; constitution (politics);—(colloquial) dastúr permission
Dusturi Dustúrí constitutional
Dusturiyya Dustúríyya(h) constitutionality
Duwaliya Duwalíya internationality; internationalism; the International ...
Duz (Doz) Dúz Pers. (in compound word) sewing
Duzd, Duzdan Duzd, pl. Duzdán Pers. A thief, robber, assassin; theft
Duzdab Duzdáb Pers. “water thieves”, renamed Záhidán (pl. “pious”) late 1920s, capital of Sístán, Írán
Duzdgah (Duzd-gar) Duzdgáh Pers. home or hiding-place of thieves
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
E
Eirene, Eirenion Eiréné (Greek) one, peace, quietness, rest. Greek goddess of peace (Roman counterpart is Pax). The Eirenion Hall was built in 1897 on the Green Acre property and was used as a lecture hall during the summer lecture series at Green Acre. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá gave a number of talks in the hall in 1912.
El El Hebrew אֵל (e-l), a god, supreme deity.
Elders Elders ‘Abdu’l-Bahá has named 20 of the 24 elders of Revelation 4:4 and 11:16: the Báb, the 18 Letters of the Living, and Ḥájí Mírzá Muḥammad Taqí, a cousin of the Báb.
Erzurum Erzurum city in eastern Turkey (“Erzeroum”). Known as Theodosiopolis in Roman times. Neighbouring city of Artsn (Arzan) was destroyed 1048–49 and citizens moved to Theodosiopolis and called it Artsn Rum (Arzan of the Romans). Muslim citizens changed it to Arzan ar-Rúm (or Arz ar-Rúm) and then to Erzurum.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
F
Fa Fa (conjunction, often as a prefix, e.g. fatabayyanú) then, and then; and so, thus, hence, therefore; but then, then however; for, because; (with subjective) so that
Fa’id, Fa’ida, Fawa’id (Fava’id) Fá’id, fem. Fá’ida[h or t], pl. Fawá’id utility, avail, benefit, advantage; gain, profit; interest (on money); useful lesson, moral; use (e.g. of a medicine). The Qur’án forbids usury, not reasonable interest. See riban.
Fa’il, Fa’ilun, Fa’ala Fá‘il, pl. Fá‘ilún, Fa‘ala effective; efficacious, efficient; (with pl. fá‘ilún) doer, actor, perpetrator; (with pl. fa‘ala) worker, workman, labourer; active subject of a verbal clause (grammar). See maf‘úl, manṣúb and marfú‘
Fa’iq (Faeg) Fá’iq superior; surpassing, excellent, exquisite, first-rate; outstanding, remarkable, striking; pre-eminent; exceeding, extraordinary; going far beyond (a restriction, etc.); awake, waking, wakeful. Aḥmad Fá’iq Afandí (Armenian) rebelled against the leadership of Shoghi Effendi.
Fa’iz, Fa’iza, Fa’izun Fá’iz, fem. Fá’iza, pl. Fá’izún successful, victorious, triumphant; victor, winner; reaching, attaining. Fá’izih (Pers. variation)—name given to Gulsurkh Bagum by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Fad-dan Fad-dán (feddan) about an acre in size
Fada, Fayd, Fayadan (Fayazan) Fáḍa (Fayḍ, Fayaḍán) to overflow, flow over, run over; to inundate, flood, flood, inundation, deluge
Fadak Fadak a large, formerly Jewish owned oasis region (25.978874, 40.470053) south of the city of al-Ḥá’iṭ, and 122 km ENE of Khaybar. See Taymár’ and Wádí al-Qurá’.
Fadhlaka Fadhlaka brief summary, résumé, survey, outline, abstract, epitome
Fadil (Fazil), Fawadil, Fadilun, Fudala Fáḍil, pl. Fawáḍil, Fáḍilún, Fuḍalá Ar. (Fazel is an old Persian form) remaining, leftover, left, surplus, exceeding, in excess; (pl. fawáḍil) remainder, remnant, residue, rest, leftover, surplus, excess;—(pl. fáḍilún, fuḍalá) outstanding, eminent, very good, first-rate, superior, excellent, distinguished, deserving; learned; man of culture and refinement. Persian (ẓ may be used instead of ḍ): fáḍil, fem. fáḍilat, fáḍila, pl. fáḍilát.
Fadil (Fazil), Fadila, Fudala, Fada’il Faḍíl, fem. Faḍíla[h or t], pl. Fuḍalá’ (fem. pl. Faḍá’il) outstanding, eminent, very good, first-rate, excellent; distinguished, deserving; learned, erudite. As the day of the Badí‘ week, Faḍíl: grace, favour. Fem. moral excellence, excellent quality, virtue; merit, advantage, excellence, exquisiteness.
Fadil-i-Furughi Faḍíl-i-Furúghí Pers. savant of Furúgh. See Furúghí
Fadil-i-Qa’ini Fáḍil-i-Qá’iní the Learned One of the Qá’in. A district in the province of Khurásán
Fadil-i-Yazdi Fáḍil-i-Yazdí “scholar of Yazd”. Fáḍil-i-Yazdí (‘Alí Muntazi‘ of Nadúshun) was a poet, religious scholar, and a devoted servant of Bahá’u’lláh.
Fadilabad (Fazelabad) Fáḍilábád 28 km ENE of Gurgán (SE corner of the Caspian Sea), Írán
Fadl (Fazl), Fudul, Afdal Faḍl, pl. Fuḍúl, Afḍál surplus, excess, superfluity, overflow; leftover, remainder, remnant, rest; matter of secondary importance, subordinate matter;—pl. fuḍúl that which is superfluous, redundant or in excess, a surplus, superfluity; waste, refuse; droppings, excrement;—pl. afḍál merit, desert (on behalf of, with respect to), credit (for, in), service(s) (to); benefit, favour, gift, present. Persian: ẓ may be used instead of ḍ.
Fadla, Fadalat Faḍla[h or t], pl. Faḍalát (fem. of faḍl) remnant, remainder, residue, leftover, rest, surplus; waste, scrap, discard, offal, waste product; pl. excretions (physiology), excrements. Persian: ẓ may be used instead of ḍ.
Fadlu’llah (Fazlu’llah), Fadl Khuda Faḍlu’lláh, Faḍl Alláh (Faḍlalláh) Grace or bounty of God. Pers. Faḍl Khudá
Fahandizh Fahandizh Pers. a family name
Fahd, Fuhud, Afhud Fahd, pl. Fuhúd, Afhud lynx (also the term for cheetah and panther)
Fahima, Fahm, Faham Fahima, Fahm, Faham to understand, comprehend, realize (something); to note (something), take note, take cognizance (of something); to hear, learn (of something from), be informed (of something by)
Fahm, Afham Fahm, pl. Afhám understanding; comprehension, grasp; perceptive faculty, perceptivity; brains, intellect; discernment, acumen, penetration, insight, intelligence
Fahnih (Faneh), Panah, Dakhin Fahnih (also known as Panáh and Ḍakhín) is a small village 72 km SSWchán in Razavi Khorasan Province, Írán. See Panábandán.
Fajr Fajr dawn, daybreak, morning twilight; dawn (figurative), beginning, outset, start; morning prayer (Islamic Law)
Fakara, Fakr Fakara (Fakr) to reflect, meditate, cogitate, ponder, muse, speculate (on), revolve in ones mind, think over, contemplate, consider (something) form V to reflect, meditate, cogitate, ponder, muse, speculate (on), revolve in ones mind, think, over, contemplate, consider (something); to think (of) forms V & VIII to remember, recall, recollect (someone, something)
Fakhkhar Fakhkhárár (fired) clay; earthenware, crockery, pottery. Tel ‘Akká (inaccurately also called Tel al-Fakhkhár (Hill of Shards) or “Napoleon’s Hill”. See Tall al-Fakhkhár
Fakhm Fakhm stately, imposing, splendid, superb, magnificent, grand, grandiose
Fakhr Fakhr glory, pride; honor; vainglorious poetry (as a literary genre)
Fakhru’d-Dawlih Fakhkhru’d-Dawlih (MF)
Fakhru’d-Din Fakhru’d-Dín (Fakr ed Din)
Fakhru’sh-Shuhada’ Fakhru’sh-Shuhadá Pride of Martyrs. Note final Hamza. See Áqá Buzurg-i-Níshápúrí.
Fakhura khúra pottery, earthenware manufactory
Falah Faláḥ thriving, prosperity; salvation; welfare; success
Falaj, Aflaj Falaj, pl. Aflaj split into parts. The irrigation system (see qanáh) in Oman and UAE that conducts underground water into channels that is then evenly divided between farms.
Falak al-Buruj Falak al-Burúj the celestial spheres
Falak, Aflak Falak, pl. Aflák celestial sphere; celestial body, star; circuit, orbit (of celestial bodies). Hence, falak al-burúj (the celestial spheres);
falak al-manázil (the celestial stations);
falak az-zuḥal (the sphere of Saturn);
falak al-mushtarí (the sphere of Jupiter);
falak al-mirrikh (the sphere of Mars);
falak ash-shams (the sphere of the Sun);
falak az-zuhrah (the sphere of Venus);
falak ‘uṭárid (the sphere of Mercury);
falak al-qamar (the sphere of the moon)
Falaki, Falakun, Falakiya, Aflakiya Falakí, pl. Falakún, Falakíya, Aflákíya astronomic(al); astrologic(al), ie. astronomical or related to the heavens;—pl. astronomer, astrologer; astronomical or heavenly things.
Aflákíya extends the concept to refer to multiple celestial or heavenly entities, i.e. heavenly bodies or celestial objects
Falaq Falaq daybreak, dawn
Falaqa (Falaka, Falakih) Falaqa[h or t] a device (pole, stick) to hold the feet of a person when the bastinado is given. A rope is fixed to the ends of the stick to form a loose loop. The feet are passed through the loop and two men turn the stick to tighten the rope, and then lift the stick. A third man strikes the soles of the person’s feet with a cane.
Falasifiyya sharq Falásifiyya sharq “philosophers of the East”. See Faylasúf
Fallah, Fallahun, Fallaha Falláḥ, pl. Falláḥún, Falláḥa[h or t] tiller of the soil, husbandman; peasant, farmer, fellah
Fallscheer Fallscheer Dr Josephina Therese Fallscheer-Zürcher (1866–1932), a Swiss physician who lived in the Middle East for many years, including Haifa (1905-1912). Dr Fallscheer served as physician for the family of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and was a confidant of the women of the household of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Married Heinrich Samuel Fallscheer (b. 1872) in 1899. Daughter Gerda Margarethe Sdun-Fallscheer (1901–1990).
Falsaf, Falsafa Falsaf, fem. Falsafa[h or t], pl. Falsafát to philosophize; philosophy
Falsafat al-Ilahiyat al-Falsafat al-Iláhíyat Pers. Falsafa-yi-Iláhíya, divine philosophy in the sense of al-Falsafat al-Rúḥíyat, spiritual philosophy
Falsafi Falsafí Pers. philosophical; a philosopher.
Shaykh Áqá Muḥammad Taqí (1908–1998), known as Falsafí, strongly campaigned against the Baháʼí Faith in the mid 1950s.
Fam Ghadir Fam Ghadír (“Fama Ghadir”) Fam Ghadír (Khumm), i.e. the mouth or orifice of the pool (ghadír). Symbolically, talk or speech.
Fam, Afwah Fam, pl. Afwáh mouth; muzzle; orifice, aperture, hole, vent; mouth (of a river), head (of a canal, etc.)
Fana’ Faná’ passing away, perish, cessation of being; perdition, ruin, destruction, annihilation; evanescence, vanishing, termination, extinction; exhaustion; non-being, non-existence, non-entity; extinction of individual consciousness, recedence of the ego, obliteration of the self (mysticism)
Fana’ Fi’lláh Faná’ Fí’lláh the annihilation of self in God (Scholl, Remembrance of God, p. 5)
Fana’ wa Baqa Faná’ wa Baqá’ annihilation and subsistence (Scholl, Remembrance of God, p. 5)
Fana’yan (Fana’ian, Fanaian, Fanaiyan) Faná’yán (Faná’íyán) Mírzá Faraju’lláh Faná’yán (Junún) (CE 1871–1945)—a shoemaker, Bahá’í and poet
Fanan, Afnan Fanan, pl. Afnán bough or twig. Afnán used to denote those indirectly related to the Báb (there were no surviving children), specifically of His three maternal uncles and His wife’s two brothers. Family name of Ṭúbá Khánum (daughter of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá) who married Mírzá Muḥsin. Children: Rúḥí, Suhayl, Fu’ád and Thurayyá.
Fani, Faniyat (Faniyyat) Fání, pl. Fáníyát (Fániyyát) frail, transitory, perishable, inconstant; tottering (old man); (in the parlance of the Sufis) one who has reached the state of faná’, or annihilation
Fanin Fánin evanescent, transitory, transient, ephemeral, vain; exhausted; far advanced in years, very old
Faniya, Fana’ Faniya (Faná’) to pass away, perish, cease to exist, come to nought; to come to an end, cease, wane, dwindle, evanesce, vanish; to be extinguished, become extinct; to be exhausted, be consumed, be spent; to undergo obliteration of the self; to become totally absorbed (by). See Baqá’
Fann, Funun, Afnan, Afanin Fann, pl. Funún, Afnán, Afánín kind, specimen, variety;—pl. Afánín various sides (of something), diversity;—pl. Funún sciences, arts; modes, ways, manners; tricks, artifices; arts and sciences or technology. Thamarát al-Funún (1875–1908) “The fruits of the arts”, first Syrian Islamic newspaper.
Fannan (Fananan), Fannana, Fannanun Fannán, fem. Fannána, pl. Fannánún artist. Khazeh Fananapazir (Khaḍih Fannánpazír)
Faqa, (Fawq, Fawaq) Fáqa (Fawq, Fawáq) to surpass, excel, overtop (someone, something), tower (above); to be superior (to someone); to outweigh, outbalance; to transcend, exceed (something)
Faqara, Faqar Faqára[h or t], pl. Faqár back joint or vertebra
Faqih, Fuqaha Faqíh, pl. Fuqahá’ legist, jurisprudent (and theologian), expert of fiqh
Faqir, Fuqara’ Faqír, pl. Fuqará’ poor, poverty-stricken; poor man, pauper; mendicant dervish, Sufi mendicant
Faqnas Faqnas phoenix
Faqr Faqr poverty; need, lack, want
Far, Farr Far, Farr Pers. beauty, comeliness, ornament, elegance, decoration; light, splendour, brilliancy, lustre; voice, sound; a feather; a torrent of water; justice; government; infliction of punishment; magnificence, glory, power, dignity, dominion, pomp, state
Far’, Furu’, Afru’ Far‘, pl. Furú‘, Afru‘ twig, branch, bough, limb, (also colloquial) branches, twigs; derivative; section, subdivision; branch office, subsidiary establishment, branch; branch line, feeder line; branch wire (electricity); a fundamental institution or doctrine. al-farú‘ or ‘ilm al-farú‘ the doctrine of the branches, i.e., applied fiqh, applied ethics (consisting in the systematic elaboration of canonical law in Islam)
Farab Fáráb land watered by irrigation. There are a number of places with this name: a village 60 km south of Ardabíl, Írán; Fáráb (Farap) a town in Turkmenistan adjacent to Alat (Olat), Uzbekistan; Farob a town in western Tajikistan.
Farabi Fárábí Abú Naṣr Muḥammad ibn Muḥammad al Fárábí (known in West as Alpharabius). Renowned Arab philosopher and jurist. Possibly born in Fáráb or Fáryáb, which one?
Faraburz, Fariburz Faráburz, Faríburz Pers. glorious and mighty. Name of a mighty champion and minister of Írán.
Farada, Faruda, Furud Farada and Faruda (Furúd) to be single, be alone; to be singular, be unique;—farada (furúd) to withdraw, retire, segregate (from)
Faraghih (Farugh) Farághih (Faraghe, Faragheh) village 160 km SW Yazd
Farah-Abad Faraḥ-Ábád “The Fair Abode of Joy”, palace near Tehran that was built by Muẓaffari’d-Dín
Farah, Afrah Faraḥ, pl. Afráḥ joy, gladness, glee, gaiety, hilarity, mirth, exhilaration, merriment, happiness; wedding;—pl. feast of rejoicing, celebration, festival, festivity; wedding (feast).
Farahan Faráhán merry, gay, cheerful, joyful, glad, delighted, happy. County in Markazí Province, Írán.
Farahangiz (Farahangise) Faraḥángíz (Faraḥ+ángíz) Faraḥángíz (Faraḥ) Khánum (1894–1967) was a niece of Fáṭimah Naḥrí (Munírih Khánum), sister of Dr Amínu’lláh (Amín) Faríd (their father was Mírzá Asadu’lláh-i-Iṣfahání), she married Sydney Sprague (1875–1943). All (including the father) were Covenant-Breakers. She owned a small piece of land in the area of the International Bahá’í Archives Building and resisted all efforts to purchase it for over 30 years—expropriated by the government in 1954. Sydney changed his mind in 1937, and eventually returned to the Bahá’í Faith in 1941.
Farahmand, Farhmand, Farhamand Farahmand, Farhmand, Farhamand Pers. intelligent, wise; near
Faraj, Faraja Faraj, fem. Faraja[h or t] freedom from grief or sorrow, release from suffering; joy; relaxation; relief, ease, repose, pleasure, comfort; happy ending
Faraju’llah Faraju’lláh God’s relief or rescue
Faraju’llah Dhaki al-Kurdi Faraju’lláh Dhakí al-Kurdí (not Zakí) Shaykh Faraju’lláh Dhakí al-Kurdí, a religious student at al-Azhar University who became a Bahá’í; and later an editor and publisher in Cairo
Faraju’llah Tafrishi Faraju’lláh Tafrishí Ḥájí Faraju’lláh Tafrishí (from Tafrish)
Faramarz Farámarz Pers. keeper of a citadel or fortress; name of the son of Rustam
Faramush Fáramúsh Pers. forgotten, forgetfulness
Faramush-Khanih Farámúsh-Khánih Pers. house of oblivion, Freemasonry headquarters, a corruption of franc-maçonnerie (Freemasonry)
Faran Fárán (from Hebrew ) desert, mountain, wilderness, etc.
A small village in Ardistán (32.989358, 52.624571).
See Párán.
Farang, Firing Farang (hence Farangí), Firing Pers. from old French word franc (“Frank”), an Italian, European; a Christian; all nations that wear short garments; ruddy, of pleasing aspect; a galley.  See afranj and ifranjí
Farangis Farangís Pers. character in Sháhnáma, daughter of Afrásyáb, married to Siyáwush and mother of Kay Khusraw.
Faraqlit Fáraqlíṭ (Fáriq + líṭ) Arabic rendering of the Greek Paráklétos (Paraclete). “The Comforter”; defender, deputy, or intercessor; a distinguisher between truth and error. Bahá’u’lláh claimed to be the Father foretold by Isaiah and the Comforter covenanted by Jesus. (SLH p. 63)
Farash, Farasha, Farashah, Farashun Farásh, fem. Farásha[h or t] (Pers. “Farásháh”) moth; butterfly; flighty, fickle person. Farásháh (now Islámiyih, Eslamiyeh) is a town SW of Yazd, Írán. pl. faráshún, fem. faráshát.
Faraz Faráz Pers. above, up, upon, on, upwards, aloft, on the top; above and below, up and down; back, behind; after, hereafter
Farazistan Farázistán “The heavenly world”, title of a volume by Muḥammad Ismá‘íl Khán
Fard, Afrad, Furada Fard, pl. Afrád, Furádá alone, single; sole, only; solitary, lone, lonely; singular, unique, matchless, unrivaled, peerless, incomparable; one, a single one, a single thing, a single person, individual; odd, uneven (number)
Fard, Furud Farḍ, pl. Furúḍ notch, incision; duty, precept, injunction, order, decree, ordinance, command; religious duty (Islamic Law); statutory portion, lawful shore (Islamic Law); assumption, supposition, presupposition, premise, postulate, hypothesis
Farda Fardá Pers. tomorrow. A reply sometimes given to creditors since it never arrives
Farda Farda[h or t] (fem. of Fard) one part, one half, one of a pair
Farhad Farhád Pers. elation, happiness. A deserted village 12 km SSW of Níshápúr (36.113013, 58.741850), in the Central District of Nishapur County, Khorasan Province, Írán. Farhád is a famous character in Persian literature and Persian mythology. The story of his love with Shírín is one of the most famous love stories in Persian culture.
Farhan Farhán joyful, joyous, glad, happy; saucy
Farhand Farhand Pers. an excavation formed by a torrent; an artificial canal newly dug; a ditch; a stream above ground flowing from one spot to another; a subterraneous canal which works its way from one well to another; anything falling to pieces from age.
Farhang Farhang Pers. good-breeding; greatness; excellence; gravity; wisdom, science; jurisprudence, a dictionary, lexicon, vocabulary, glossary; a vine-branch bent under ground, so that the other extremity shoots up at a distance from the other trunk; a subterraneous canal
Farhangi Farhangí Pers. a preceptor, tutor, teacher, instructor; a man learned in the law.
Farhumand (Fahomand, Farhoumand) Farhúmand Pers. virtuous and enlightened
Fariba Faríbá Pers. charming, attractive, fem. name
Fariburz (Fariborz, Faribarz) Faríburz Pers. name of the son of Kay Káwús
Farid Fáriḍ old, advanced in years. ‘Umar ibn ‘Alí ibn al-Fáriḍ (1181–1234) was an Arab poet.
Farid, Farida, Fara’id Faríd, fem. Farída[h or t], pl. Fará’id alone, one, lonely, solitary; singular, unique, incomparable, matchless, peerless, unrivalled, incomparable; bright, glittering (sword); a precious gem, pearl, especially one of a larger size, or a bead of gold placed alternately between smaller ones in a necklace or bracelet. Kitábu’l-Fará’id (Book of peerless gems) by Mírzá Faḍl. Fará’id as-Simṭayn (“Two chains of pearls (on the virtues of ‘Alí, Fáṭima, the Imams and their descendants) i.e. two vols) by Ibráhim bin Muḥammad al-Ḥamawí al-Juwayní (1246–1322), mostly hadiths that are also found in Shi’ite sources.
Farida, Fara’d Faríḍa(h), pl. Fará’ḍ religious duty (Islamic Law); divine precept, ordinance of God (Islamic Law); obligatory prayer (Islamic Law);—pl. distributive shares in estate (Islamic Law)
Faridu’d-Din ‘Attar Farídu’d-Dín ‘Aṭṭár Great Persian mystic poet “the druggist”
Fariq, Fawariq Fáriq, pl. Fawáriq distinguishing, differential, distinctive, discriminative, separative;—pl. a separating or distinctive factor; distinctive characteristic, criterion; difference, distinction, dissimilarity, disparity
Faris, Farisa, Farisat, Fursan, Fawaris Fáris, pl. Fursán, Fawáris (fem. Fárisa, pl. Fárisát) mounted upon any solid-hoofed animal; a horseman, a cavalier (hence, a knight), rider; a lion; the Persians; Persia (also balad Fáris—land of Persia);—pl. cavalry. Shoghi Effendi used various terms for “Knights (Fárisán) of Bahá’u’lláh”: “Fárisán-i-Maydán-i-Iláhí”, the similar “Fárisán-i-Miḍmár-i-Iláhí” (“The knights of the divine arena”); “Fárisán-i-Jaysh-i-Iláhí” (“The knights of the divine army”), “Fárisán-i-Dilír-i-Ḥaḍrat-i-Bahá’u’lláh” (“The valiant knights of Bahá’u’lláh”), etc.
Farisi Fárisí Persian; a Persian
Farkhunda (Farkhundih) Farkhunda Pers. fem. happy; fortunate, prosperous
Farma Farmá One who issues orders. From the infinitive Farmúdan (to bid, to order), but never used alone, i.e. Farmán-Farmá, the one who establishes order; the Governor.
Farma Farma Pers. violet
Farmahin, Farahan Farmahín, Farahán Farmahín is in Farahán County and is 40 km north of Arák, Írán
Farman-Farma Farmán-Farmá the one who establishes or issues the order; the commander or governor. Title of Prince Ḥusayn ‘Alí Mírzá, grandson of Fatḥ-‘Alí-Sháh
Farman, Firman, Faraman Farmán, Per. also Firmán, pl. Farámán Royal decree, command, order or edict. Ar. plural also Faramát or Farámín
Farmaniyyih Farmáníyyih (“Farmanieh”) once a garden named after Prince Ḥusayn ‘Alí Mírzá, now a district in NE of Teheran
Farnaz Farnaz Old Pers. fem. name = far+náz: “the most beautiful”, “the most elegant”, “the most charming”
Farnush Farnúsh Pers. fem. name
Farrash-Bashi Farrásh-Báshí chief or head of the servant
Farrash, Farrashun Farrásh, pl. Farráshún one who spreads the carpets; servant, attendant; house servant, valet; office boy, errand boy
Farrukh Farrukh Pers. Beautiful-faced; happy, fortunate
Fars Fárs Pers. Persia, Parthia. Párs is the proper and original name of Írán, Arabs, who do not have the letter p in their language, replaced it by an F: Fárs. Also the name of a southern province.
Farsakh, Farasikh Farsakh, pl. Farásikh Ar. a farasang, a league; an hour; a long time; an interval; a chink, cleft; quiet, repose; perpetual; much. See farsang.
Farsang, Farsang-ha Farsang, pl. Farsang-há Pers. a historical Persian unit of distance; a parsang, league; the distance a laden mule can travel in an hour, which varied according to terrain and the speed of travel (about 4.8 to 5.6 km); 6.23 km in 19th century Persia; and 10 km in modern Írán and Türkiye. Derived from the Persian parsang (sang, “stone”, for stone markers (sára) placed by the road).
Farsh, Furush Farsh, pl. Furúsh furnishing; furniture, household effects; mat, rug, carpet; anything spread on the ground as bedding; foundation (architecture)
Farsi, Farsiyan Fársí, pl. Fársiyán modern (or new) Persian, also known by its endonym Fársí, has been “enriched by the wealth of Arabic, far more expressive, far more mellifluous than its Pársík forbear”. Muḥammad and the Course of Islám, p. 232 See Pársí and Pahlawí.
Fars-Namah (Farsnamah), Fars an-Nama Fárs-Námih (Ar. Fárs an-Náma) “The Book of Fárs”. A Persian-language history and geography of the Fars province, written between 1105 and 1116 during the Seljuk period.
Faruhar Farúhar Pers. possibly a form of Furúhar (same consonants)
Faruq (Faroogh) Fárúq very timorous. al-Fárúq “he who distinguishes truth from falsehood” (epithet Caliph ‘Umar ibn al-Khaṭṭáb (2nd)). A village (29.965218, 53.046784) in Fars Province.
Farwardin (Farvardin) Farwardín Pers. first month of the Persian solar year; the 19th day of every month
Faryab, Faryaw, Firyab Fáryáb, Fáryáw Pers. ground watered by irrigation. Fáryáb (also Fíryáb), a village 140 km NE of Bandar Abbas, Írán; and another 195 km SW of Balkh, Afghánistán.
Farzad Farzád Pers. Far+zád (“greatness” or “majesty” + “born”), a male name “born into a great family”
Farzam Farzám Pers. worthy, suiting, befitting. Dr Arbáb Farzám
Farzan Farzán Pers. science, learning; strength, constancy; wise, learned
Farzanih-Mu’ayyad Farzánih-Mu’ayyad Manúchihr Farzánih-Mu’ayyad, martyred 1982
Fas, Fez or Fes Fás a city in northern inland Morocco. It is the second largest city in Morocco after Casablanca. For the fez (hat), see ṭarbúsh.
Fasa Fasá village (28.948488, 53.637617) SW Nayriz.
Fasaha Faṣáḥa(h) purity of the language; fluency, eloquence
Fashar, Fishar Fashar, Fishár Pers. a scattering; diffusion; compression, constriction, squeezing; the piercing of one thing with another
Fasih, Fusaha’, Fisah, Fusuh Faṣíḥ, pl. Fuṣaḥá’, Fiṣáḥ, Fuṣuḥ pure, good Arabic (language), literary; skilful in using the correct literary language; clear, plain, distinct, intelligible (language, speech); fluent, eloquent
Fasiq, Fasiqun, Fussaq, Fasaqa Fásiq, pl. Fásiqún, Fussáq, Fasaqa godless, sinful, dissolute, wanton, licentious, profligate, vicious, iniquitous, nefarious; trespasser, offender, sinner; fornicator, adulterer; a person not meeting the legal requirements of righteousness (Islamic Law)
Fasl al-Khitab, Faslu’l-Khitab Faṣl al-Khiṭáb, Pers. Faṣlu’l-Khiṭáb “sound or unmistakable judgement” (Fassl-ul-Khitab).  The Conclusive Proof or The Decisive Decree by Mírzá Faḍl
Fasl, Fusul Faṣl, pl. Fuṣúl parting, disjunction, detachment, severance, sunderance, cutting off; separation; division, partition; discharge, dismissal.—plural: section, part; chapter; act (of a play); movement (of a symphony, etc.); article (in a newspaper); class, grade (school); season.
Fass, Fusus Faṣṣ, pl. Fuṣúṣ stone of a ring; clove (of garlic); segment (of an orange); lobe (anatatomy, botanical); joint; essence
Fassala, Fussila Faṣṣala, Fuṣṣila to detail, to enumerate; to expound, to elucidate, to explain; to make understandable, to clarify; to be made distinct
Fata Fatá’ youth, boy, adolescence; a young man; a man-servant
Fata’ Fata’ forgetting; desisting
Fata’l-Malih Fatá’l-Malíḥ handsome young man
Fata’l-Qazvini Fatá’l-Qazvíní youth of Qazvín
Fatah, Fatayat Fatáh, pl. Fatayát (young) girl, young woman
Fataha Fataḥa to open (something); to turn on (a faucet); to switch on, turn on (an apparatus); to dig (a canal); to build (a road); to open, preface, introduce, begin (something); to conquer, capture (something); to reveal, disclose (to someone or something); to grant victory or success (to someone over or in something; of God).
Fatama, Fatm Faṭama, Faṭm to wean (an infant or a young animal
Fath-‘Ali Fatḥ-‘Alí Fatḥ-‘Alí Sháh Qájár (1772–1834), father of Muḥammad Sháh
Fath-al-Futuh Fatḥ-al-Futúḥ Victory of Victories
Fath-i-A’zam Fatḥ-i-A‘ẓam (“Fatheazam”) “supreme victory”. Hushmand Fatheazam [Húshmand Fatḥ-i-A‘ẓam] (1924–2013), member of the Universal House of Justice for 40 years (1963 until he retired in 2003).
Fath, Futuh, Futuhat Fatḥ, pl. Futúḥ, Futúḥát opening; introduction, commencement, beginning;—(pl. futúḥ, futúḥát) conquest; victory, triumph;—pl. futúḥát alms; donations, contributions
Fatha Fatḥa(h or t) the vowel point, the short vowel a (grammar). See ḍamma and kasra
Fathu’llah Fatḥu’lláh (Fatḥ+Alláh) “God’s opening" or “God’s conquest”
Fathu’llah-i-Hakkak Fatḥu’lláh-i-Ḥakkák
Fathu’llah-i-Hakkak-i-Qumi Fatḥu’lláh-i-Ḥakkák-i-Qumí
Fathu’llah-i-Qumi Fatḥu’lláh-i-Qumí
Fatih, Fatiha (Pers. Fatihih), Fawatih Fátiḥ, fem. Fátiḥa[h or t], pl. Fawátiḥ opener; beginner; conqueror, victor; light (colour). Feminine: start, opening, beginning, commencement, inception, incipience; introduction, preface, preamble, proem. al-Fátiḥa (or as-Sab‘a al Mathání (the seven oft-repeated) since the verses of al-Fátiḥa must be read in every prayer) is the first surah (with 7 verses) of the Qur’án. See Qur’án 15:87. According to a ḥádíth and Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, this súra was revealed twice—in Mecca and Medina—as was the Preamble to Lawḥ-i-Ishráqát. Iṣfahání Pers. Fátiḥih. See Ḥurúf Muqaṭṭa‘át.
Fatim, Fatima (Fatimih), Futum Faṭím, fem. Fáṭima[h or t], pl. weaned. Fem. a woman who weans her child; a female proper name.
Fáṭima bint Muḥammad (CE 605 or 15–632), commonly known as Fáṭima az-Zahrá’, was the daughter of Muḥammad and wife of the Imám ‘Alí.
Fáṭimih-Bagum was the mother of the Báb.
Fáṭimih Khánum (b. 1828, m. 1849, d. 1904; referred to as Mahd-i-‘Ulyá), was the second wife of Bahá’u’lláh. Her children were: Ṣamadíyyih (daughter), and sons Muḥammad, Ḍíyá’u’lláh and Badí‘u’lláh.
See umm al-Kitáb.
Fatima-i-Ma’sumih (Fatima Masumeh) Fáṭima-i-Ma‘ṣúma sister of the eighth Imam. Pers. Fáṭimih-i-Ma‘ṣúmih. DB p. 224 is incorrect.
Fatimi, Fatimiya Fáṭimí, pl. Fáṭimíya(h or t) Fatimite, a dynasty that reigned in Egypt from 908 to 1171
Fatimi, Fatimiyun Fáṭimí, pl. Fáṭimíyún Fatimid (adj. and n.); al-Fáṭimíyún, the Fatimids
Fatiq Fatíq unstitched, ripped, ripped open, slit, rent, torn; sharp, shining (dawn), eloquent
Fatir Fáṭir originator or creator. al-Fáṭir, the Creator (God)
Fatra, Fatarat Fatra, Fatarát lassitude, languor, listlessness, slackness, weakness, feebleness, debility; tepidity, indifference, coolness (of a feeling); (pl.) interval of time, intermission, pause; period, spell, while
Fattah Fattáḥ an opener (of the gates of profit, of sustenance; a conqueror; a judge, an arbiter; one of the names of God (al-Fattáḥ)); name of a bird. Derived from Fataḥa.
Fattuh (Fattouh, Fatou, Fatoo) Fattúḥ little conqueror; diminutive of Fattáḥ
Fatwa (Fatva), Fatwin, Fatawa Fatwá, pl. Fatáwin, Fatáwá formal (possibly non-binding) legal opinion (Islamic law), a judgement or sentence made by a recognized authority, a qualified jurist (muftí), in response to a question posed by a private individual, judge or government. The stature of a muftí, and hence of their fatwá, derives from their reputation for scholarly expertise and upright character.
Fawa’id al-Hikmiyyah al-Fawá‘id al-Ḥikmiyyah (written by Shaykh Aḥmad-i-Aḥsá’í) observations in wisdom
Fawj (Fauj, Fouj, Fuj), Afwaj, Afwajan Fawj, pl. Afwáj group, crowd, troop, band; detachment; party; shift (in a mine); battalion; regiment. Afwájan in droves, in crowds.
Fawj-Dar (Fuzdar) Fawj-Dár (“Fúzdár”) Pers. (Fauj-dar, Fouj-dar, Foj-dar, Fuj-dar, Fauz-dar, Fouz-dar, Foz-dar, Fozdar, etc.). A police or military officer; a criminal judge.
Fawq Fawq being above, superior to (one’s fellows); superiority, excellence; the top, upper part; above, more than, beyond; besides, except. az fawq ámadan, Bahá’í expression for “come from on high” (i.e. from Haifa, or Shoghi Effendi, etc.)
Fawwar Fawwár boiling up, ebullient; effervescent, fizzing; bubbling (spring, etc.); foaming, frothy; hot-headed, irascible
Fawz (Fauz, Faouz) Fawz success, triumph, victory; obtainment, attainment, achievement, accomplishment; escape
Fawzi (Fauzi, Faouzi) Fawzí triumphal, triumphant
Fayd (Faid, Faiz), Fayz, Fuyud, Fiyud Fayḍ, Pers. Fayẓ, pl. Fuyúḍ, Fiyúḍ flood, inundation, deluge; emanation; superabundance, plenty, copiousness, abundance;—pl. stream.—pl. Fayúdát (Fayudat) emanations, bounties.
Fayd-i-Aqdas Fayḍ-i-Aqdas (“most holy outpouring”) Signifies revelation in the realm of absolute divine unity itself.
Fayd-i-Muqaddas Fayḍ-i-Muqaddas (“holy outpouring”) and “most holy outpouring” (fayḍ-i-aqdas), as symbols of differential stages of divine revelation (as discussed in The Kitáb-i-Íqán), may also be inferred from the title of The Kitáb-i-Aqdas. Fayḍ-i-Muqaddas signifies revelation and manifestation of the divine in the realm of creation. See Fayḍ.
Faydi (Faidi, Faizi), Fayzi Fayḍí, Pers. Fayẓí e.g. Afnán Fayḍí
Faydu’llah (Fazu’llah) Fayḍu’lláh abundance from God
Faylasuf (Failasuf), Falasifa Faylasúf, pl. Falásifa philosopher
Fayruz (Fairuz), Fayruzaj (Fairuzaj) Fayrúz and Fayrúzaj turquoise. In Egypt, the Sinai Peninsula (a modern name) is called Arḍ al-Fayrúz (“the land of turquoise”). The ancient Egyptian name was Ta Mefkat (“Land of turquoise”, ‘Ard al-Fayrúz in Arabic)
Fayruzabadi (Fairuzabadi, Firuz Abadi) al-Fayrúzábádí Muḥammad ibn Ya‘qúb al-Fayrúzábádí (1329–1414) was a lexicographer and the compiler of a comprehensive Arabic dictionary, al-Qámús, that was one of the most widely used for nearly 500 years
Faysal (Faizal) Fayṣal decisive criterion; arbitrator, arbiter. Fayṣal bin ‘Abdu’l-Ázíz, King of Saudi Arabia (1964 to 1975).
Fayyad Fayyáḍ overflowing, effusive, exuberant; elaborate, exhaustive (speech); munificent, bountiful, liberal, generous
Fi (preposition) in; at; on; near, by; within, during; among, in the company of, with; about, on; concerning, regarding, with reference to, with regard or respect to, as to dealing with, treating of, consisting in (in book titles); for the sake of, on behalf of, because of, for; according to; in proportion to.
Fi Khalali and Fi Khilali Khalali and Fí Khiláli during; in the course of, within, in a given period of
Fi’l Fi‘l, pl. Af‘ál, Afá‘íl activity, doing, work, action, performance; function;— (pl. af‘ál, fi‘ál) deed, act, action; effect, impact;— (pl. af‘ál) verb (gram.);—pl. afá‘íl great deeds, exploits, feats; machinations
Fi’s-Suluk Fi’s-Sulúk I and II “On the Virtuous Journey” by the Báb [elided form of: fí as-Sulúk]
Fida’ Fidá’ redemption, ransoming; ransom; price (one has to pay for something), sacrifice (one makes for something).
Fida’i, Fida’iyan Fidá’í, pl. Fidá’iyán one who sacrifices himself (especially for his country); especially the plural. Fadá’íyán-i-Islám: “Fedayeen of Islam” or “Devotees of Islam” (literally “Self-Sacrificers of Islam”) is a Shí‘a fundamentalist group in Írán with a strong activist political orientation. An alleged terrorist organization that sought to purify Islám in Írán by assassinating ‘corrupting individuals’.
Fidal Fiḍál grace, favour. Name given to Tuesday in Badí‘ calendar. See Faḍíl
Fidda, Fiddih (Fizza) Fiḍḍa[h or t] (Pers. fem. Fiḍḍih) silver. Name of the maid of the wife of the Báb. Pers. may be written as Fiẓẓa.
Fidya, Fidayat, Fidan Fidya[h or t], pl. Fidayát, Fidan ransom; redemption (from the omission of certain religious duties, by a material donation or a ritual act—Islamic law)
Fihris, Fihrist, Faharis Fihris and Fihrist, pl. Faháris table of contents, index; catalogue; list. al-Fihrist or Kitáb al-Fihrist by Muḥammad ibn Isḥáq. See Isḥáq.
Fikr Fikr meditation or reflection
Fikum Fíkum Fí+kum, on you
Fil, Fiyala, Fuyul, Afyal Fíl, pl. Fiyala, Fuyúl, Afyál (ivory) elephant; bishop (chess)
Fin Fín Pers. city (27.632331, 55.886223) and capital of Fín District in southern Írán. Bagh-i-Fín, a very old recreational garden (33.946123, 51.372367) with many water features fed by a spring, in southwestern Káshán, Írán. To the east is the former village of Fín-i-Buzurg (33.953073, 51.403053).
Findarisk, Galand, Garland Findarisk or Garland Pers. a small village (37.032943, 55.030977) west of the small city of Daland (60 km NE of Gúrgán and 12 km SW of Ázádshahr) in Golestan Province, Írán.
Findariski Findariskí of or from Findirisk. Abu’l-Qásim Findiriskí, known as Mír Findiriskí (b. ~1562–d. ~1640), was a philosopher and a scholar of Iṣfahán in the Safavid period.
Findik Findík Turkish “hazelnut”
Fiqh Fiqh understanding, comprehension; knowledge. Islamic jurisprudence
Fir’awn, Fara’ina Fir‘awn, pl. Fará‘ina[h or t] Pharaoh
Firaydan (Faridan, Feredan) Firaydán (alt. pronunciation Farídán) Pers. county in Iṣfahán Province. The capital of the county is Dárán (or Dárún).
Firaydani (Faridani, Feredani) Firaydání person from Firaydán
Faridun, Firidun, Afridun Farídún, Firídún, Afrídún Pers. also Faraydún, Firaydún (Fereydun, Fereidun, Firaydun, Fraydun, Freydun) an ancient and celebrated Persian king (mythical?), the commencement of whose reign is placed about 750 BCE. His sons were sons Túr (Túraj), Salm and Íraj.
Firayjat Firayját was a place on the banks of the Tigris River in what is now the Baghdád neighbourhood of al-Ṣáliḥíyah.
Bahá’u’lláh stayed seven days in this area after leaving the Baghdád Riḍván Garden. It is about 5 km ENW of the garden.
Firdaws-i-A’la Firdaws-i-A‘lá “Supreme Paradise”
Firdawsi (Firdausi, Ferdowsi) Firdawsí paradisiacal, heavenly. Abu’l-Qásim Firdawsí Ṭúsí (c. 940–1020), or Ferdowsi (“Firdusi, Firdosi”) was a Persian poet and the author of Sháhnámah. Ferdowsi is celebrated as the most influential figure in Persian literature and one of the greatest in the history of literature.
Firdawsiyah (Ferdowsieh) Firdawsíyah Pers. paradise. Iranian city (35.602251, 51.063356) in Tehran Province.
Firishta, Firishtagan Firishta, pl. Firishtagán Pers. an angel; a messenger, apostle. Pers. form Firishtih (Fereshteh). See Ar. Mal’ak/Malak
Firman Firmán Pers. See Farmán
Firq Firq part, portion, division, section, unit; band, company, party, detachment, troop, group; herd, flock
Firqa, Firaq Firqa(h or t), pl. Firaq part, portion, division, section, unit; band, company, party, detachment, troop, group; class; grade, class (in school); pupils or students of a course; troupe, ensemble; team, crew; division (military); sect
Firush (Firosh), Firushan Firúsh, pl. Furúshán Pers. selling, a seller.
Often added or hyphenated after another word indicating what type of goods are sold, e.g. dhughál-furúshán (“charcoal sellers”).
Firutan (Firotan), Furutan Firútan, Furútan Pers. lowly; humble, depressed; submissive.
‘Alí-Akbar Furútan (1905–2003), educator, author and Hand of the Cause of God.
Firuz (Firoz), Piruz (Piroz) Fírúz, Pírúz Pers. victorious, triumphant, prosperous, successful; victory; prosperity; the third of the five supplemental days added to the Persian year;
name of several Persian kings.
See Ẓáfir
Firuzabad (Fayruzabad) Fírúzábád (Fayrúzábád) city (28.845032, 52.571049) 85 km south of Shíráz
Firuz-Kuh, Firuzkuh Fírúz-Kúh or Fírúzkúh city (35.759529, 52.775432) 125 km east of Teheran
Firydunkinar (Fereydunkenar) Firaydúnkinár (Firaydún Kinár) also known as Qaşabih, is a city (36.684245, 52.524089) and capital of Fereydunkenar County, Mazandaran Province. It is a Caspian Sea resort.
Fishar-i-Qabr Fishár-i-Qabr Pers. constriction in the grave. Promised after death tortures leading to a fear of being squeezed in the grave.
Fisq Fisq sinfulness, viciousness, moral depravity, dissolute life
Fitna, Fitan Fitna[h or t], pl. Fitan temptation, trial; charm, attractiveness; enchantment, captivation, fascination, enticement, temptation; infatuation; intrigue; sedition, riot, discord, dissension, civil strife. Occurs when a Manifestation appears. See also Imtiḥán.
Fitr Fiṭr breaking fast, alms giving at ‘Íd al-Fiṭr (a Muslim festival marking the end of Ramaḍán)
Fitr, Aftar Fitr, pl. Aftár small div (the space between the end of the thumb and the end of the index finger when extended); corner
Fitra, Fitar Fiṭra(t), pl. Fiṭar creation; idiosyncrasy; tendency; wisdom, sagacity; deceit, trick; religion; the power of the Creator;—(pl.) nature, (natural) disposition, constitution, temperament, innate character, instinct
Fitrat Fitrat Ar. There are several meanings: original Reality, creating, and gap. Also the interval between two prophets, or the time between the martyrdom of the Báb and the rise of Bahá’u’lláh. (The Bahá’í Proofs, p. 66)
Fizan (Fezan), Fizzan (Fezzan, Fazzan) Fízán (Turkish), Fizzán (Ar.) “rough rocks”, a large south-western region (one of three) of modern Libya. It is largely desert, but broken by mountains, uplands, and dry river valleys (wadis) in the north, where oases enable ancient towns and villages to survive deep in the otherwise inhospitable Sahara Desert. The capital (near the centre) is Sabhá.
Friedberg Friedberg Beyle Friedberg (1864,–1944), a Russian-Jewish novelist, poet, and dramatist; better known by the pen names Isabella and Isabella Arkadevna Grinevskaya. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá sent a Tablet to her.
Fu’ad (Fuad), Fu’ada, Af’ida Fu’ád, fem. Fu’áda[h or t], pl. Af’ida[h or t] heart. Shoghi Effendi described the Shrine of the Báb as being the “Heart” of Mt. Carmel.
Fu’adiya, Fu’adiyya (Fu’adiyyih) Fu’ádíya, Pers. Fu’ádiyya Fu’ádíyyih, daughter (died in infancy) of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Munírih Khánum
Fuhayra Fuhayra(h) ‘Ámir ibn Fuhayra (586–625) (also known by the kunya Abú ‘Amr) was a companion of Muḥammad. Of African ancestry, he was born a slave. He became a Muslim in Mecca and later was bought and manumitted by Abú Bakr. When Abú Bakr and Muḥammad escaped from Mecca in 622, ‘Ámir grazed Abú Bakr’s flocks by day, then brought them at evening to the cave on Mount Thawr (5 km south of Mecca) where Abú Bakr and Muḥammad were hiding, presumably so that the sheep would cover the tracks of Abú-Bakr’s son, ‘Abdu’lláh, who stayed near the cave overnight. When they left the cave to travel to Medina, ‘Ámir accompanied them.
Fujita Fujita Mr Saichirō Fujita (1886–1976), a native of Yamaguchi Prefecture, was the second Japanese to become a Baháʼí. He was also distinguished by serving at the Baháʼí World Centre for ʻAbdu'l-Bahá, Shoghi Effendi, the Custodians, and the Universal House of Justice.
Fulad Maḥallih (Foulad-Mahalleh) Fúlád Maḥallih a village (36.060963, 53.707101) in Semnan Province
Fulad, Fuladi Fúlád, adj. Fúládí and Fuládí steel, of steel, made of steel; steely, steel-like, steel-hard
Fulan, Fulana Fulán, fem. Fulána (substituting for an unnamed or unspecified person or thing) so and so
Fulk Fulk (m. and f.) ship, (also collective) ships; Ark (as in Noah’s)
Funduq, Funduqa (Findik) Funduq, Funduqa Pers. hazelnut of filbert-nut; a nut good against the sting of a scorpion; a ball for cannon, musketry, or cross-bow. Ar. Bunduq, Turk. Findík
Furat Furát Pers. very fine, sweet water or waters; the river Euphrates; the sea
Furqan Furqán proof, evidence, discriminator, distinguishing; whatever discriminates between truth and falsehood, the Qur’án, any sacred book. An important attribute of al-Qur’án (see 2:185) is that of distinction (furqán), for the word Qur’án describes how al-Qur’án is recited, whereas the word Furqán describes the criterion that distinguishes between truth (ḥaqq) and falsehood (báṭil) (see 25:1). Name of sura 25.
Furs Furs Persia; the Persians
Fursi Fursí (Pers. Ar. influence) Persian
Furugh Furúgh Ar. emptiness, vacuity; vacancy; termination, expiration, exhaustion
Furugh Furúgh Pers. splendour, light, brightness, flame. Name given by Bahá’u’lláh to the remote village of Dúghábád. See gh-Ábád
Furughi Furúghí (Forooghy) the erudite Mírzá Maḥmúd Mírzá Maḥmúd Furúghí came from the village of Dúghábád. That is why Mírzá Maḥmúd is known as Furúghí. Faḍíl-i-Furúghí—the Savant of Furúgh—is also an appellation by which he is remembered. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá described him as a leader of the legion of the believers. Eminent Bahá’ís in the Time of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 157, 164. See jaysh ‘aramram.
Furughiyyih Furúghíyyih name of a daughter of Bahá’u’lláh
Furuhar, Farawahar (Faravahar) Furúhar, Farawahár classical Pers. matter, essence (distinguished from accident). The new Persian reading of Furúhar (FRWHR فروهر) is Farawahár, Faravahár, Forouhar. The Farawahár, also known as Farr-i-Kiyání (فرکیانی) or Ashu Farúhar, is one of the best-known symbols of Írán. It symbolizes Zoroastrianism and Iranian nationalism. The Farawahár is the most worn pendant among Iranians and has become a secular national symbol, rather than a religious symbol. It symbolizes good thoughts (pindár-i-nik), good words (speech) (guftár-i-nik) and good deeds (kirdár-i-nik), which are the basic tenets and principles of Zoroastrianism. The winged-disc symbol (“guardian angel”) of Zoroastrianism is traditionally interpreted as a depiction of a frawashi—the Avestan language term for the Zoroastrian concept of a personal spirit of an individual, whether dead, living and yet-unborn.
Fustat, Fasatit Fusṭáṭ, pl. Fasáṭíṭ (large) tent made of haircloth; tent, pavilion, canopy; al-Fusṭáṭ ancient Islamic city 5 km south of present-day Cairo. It was the first capital of Egypt under Muslim rule. Built by the Muslim general ‘Amr ibn al-‘Aṣ immediately after the Muslim conquest of Egypt in 641, and featured the Mosque of ‘Amr, the first mosque built in Egypt and in Africa.
Fususu’l-Hikam Fuṣúṣu’l-Ḥikam The Bezels of Wisdom by Ibnu’l-‘Arabí. See Faṣṣ and Ḥikma
Futa, Fuwat Fúṭa(t), pl. Fuwat apron, pinafore; napkin, serviette; towel. Wrap-around male skirt worn by men in Yemen.
Futuh ar-Rasul Futúḥ ar-Rasúl “Victories of the Messenger”. It is possible the Báb travelled on a ship of this name from Búshihr to Jiddah in 1844.
Futuhat al-Makkiyah Futúḥát al-Makkiyyah Kitáb al-Futúḥát al-Makkiyyah, “The Book of Meccan Revelations” by Shaykh ibn ‘Arabí. See Fataḥa and Makkí.
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Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
G
Gabr Gabr Pers. (Persian ethnic slur for non-Muslims; also historically equivalent to the Arabic Majús) a guebre (also geubre, gabrak, gawr, gaur, gyaur, gabre) originally an ancient Persian (i.e. a Zoroastrian), one of the Magi of the sect of Zoroaster (a priest of the worshippers of fire); by the 13th century the word denoted a pagan, an infidel; a plant resembling ginger; a vest; a stone. After gabr came to have a pejorative implication, it was superseded in literature by the respectable Zartushtí (“Zoroastrian”). See gawr.
Gach Gach Pers. a kind of white earth of which lime is made of; a plaster of lime and gypsum mixed with sand and pounded marble.
Gaf Gáf Persian letter representing g—a form of the Arabic letter káf
Gah-bar, Gah.Barba, Gahanbarha Gáh-bár, Gáh-bárhá, Gáhanbárhá Pers. “proper season”, the six days or periods in which (according to the cosmogony of the ancient Persians) God created the world.
Gallipoli Gallipoli Italian form of the Greek Kallipolis (“beautiful city”), Turkish Gelibolu. Gallipoli is a coastal city on the Gallipoli peninsula, which was a district of the Rumelia province of the Ottoman Empire, later Turkey, and now Türkiye.
Ganavih (Genaveh) Ganávih Bandar (Port) Ganávih, or Ganávih, formerly Jannáb, is a city in and capital of Genaveh County, Bushehr Province, Írán. It is on the Persian Gulf coast 75 km NNW of Búshihr
Gand Gand Pers. anything fetid, bad smell, stink, funk. Can result from a mispronounciation of qand
Gandum Gandum Pers. wheat
Gandum-Pak-Kun Gandum-Pák-Kun Mullá Muḥammad Ja‘far—the first person in Iṣfahán to accept the Faith of the Báb
Ganj Ganj Pers. a store, hoard, (hidden) treasure; a magazine, granary, grain-market, storehouse; a mart; a case
Ganj Panhan, Ganj Pinhan Ganj Panhán Pers. “hidden treasure”. The Báb called Quddús a Ganj Pinhán Khudá (a “Hidden treasure of God”). Ganj-i-Pinhán by Hooshmand Dehghan.
Ganja, Ganjih, Ganjeh, Ganza, Gandzha Ganja city (40.691348, 46.376470; 3rd largest) in Ádharbayján. It was named Yelizavetpól (Elisabethpol) in the Russian Empire period. Under the Soviet Union (1920), the city regained its original name, then changed to Kirovabád in 1935. In 1989 the city regained its original name. Known as Gyandzha, Gandzak, and Ganjeh in Russian, Armenian and Persian, respectively.
Gar Gár Pers. a suffix that, subjoined to a word, denotes agency or possession
Garb Garb west; occident; vehemence, violence, impetuosity, tempestuousness; al-Garb—the West, the Occident
Garbi Garbí western, westerly; occidental, Western; European; an Occidental, a Westerner;—al-Garbíyún the Western Church (Christian)
Gardan Gardán Pers. turning, winding, changing, inverting, converting; one who turns or goes round; conjugation, inflexion; meat parboiled and roasted with spices
Gardanih-i-Asad-Abad Gardánih-i-Ásad-Ábád (Gardaneh-ye-Asadabad) a stopping place (34.812973, 48.162259) for Bahá’u’lláh during exile between Hamadán and Ásad-Ábád.
Gari Garí Pers. any standard of measure, whether for land, cloth, grain, liquids, or time; a measure of time, twenty-two minutes and thirty seconds; the itch, scab. Practice, trade, craft, office (when used as a suffix).
Garm Rud, Garmrud (Garmroud) Garm Rúd (or Garmrúd) village northern Írán (16 km SSE of Sárí). Pers.: warm or hot (garm) flowing water (rúd)
Garm-Siri Garm-Sírí “warm place”
Gawhar (Gohar, Gauhar, Guhar) Gawhar Pers. a gem, jewel, pearl, precious stone; lustre of a gem or sword; root, origin; of a noble family; essence, substance, form; offspring; any hidden virtue; intellect, wisdom; a substitute. See jawhar
Gawhar Khanum Gawhar Khánum third wife of Bahá’u’lláh (broke Covenant after the passing of Bahá’u’lláh)—her daughter is Furúghíyyih
Gawhar-Maliki Gawhar-Malikí Royal jewel
Gawhar-Shad Gawhar-Shád “joyful or shining jewel”. Name (“Gowharshad Begum”) of the wife of Sháhrukh, and a large congregational mosque in Mashhad (36.287504, 59.614551).
Gawhar, Gawharan Gawhar, pl. Gawharán Pers. (“Gohar”, “Gauhar”, “Guhar”) a gem, jewel, pearl, precious stone; lustre of a gem or sword; root, origin; of a noble family; element, essence, substance, form; offspring; any hidden virtue; intellect, wisdom; a substitute. See jawhar.
Gawhardasht (Gawhar Dasht) Gawhardasht (Gawhar + Dasht) (“Gohardasht”) formerly Rajá‘í Shahr, a neighbourhood (with prison, Gawhardasht Zindán) on north side of Karaj
Gawr (Gaur), Gawran (Gauran) Gawr, pl. Gawrán Pers. a pagan, infidel, guebre, or worshipper of fire
Gawr (Gavr), Gawur Gáwr, Gáwur Pers. (for gabr?), an infidel
Gaziantep, ‘Ayntab, Antep Gaziantep, ‘Ayntáb Turkish previously and still informally called Aintab or Antep, is a city (37.068339, 37.386658) in the westernmost part of Turkey’s South-eastern Anatolia Region.
Gha’i Ghá’í final
Gha’ib Ghá’ib invisible world; the invisible being, God, the Deity; (in grammar) the third person. See Ghayb.
Ghadanfar Ghaḍanfar lion
Ghadir Khumm Ghadír Khumm is a pool fed by a spring. Muḥammad gave a speech (during which he designated ‘Alí as the leader of the Muslim ummah) on 18th of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah AH 10 (CE 632) at Ghadír Khumm (22.739690, 39.137236), 4.5 km WNW of al-Juḥfah. See Juḥfa.
Ghadir, Ghudur, Ghudran Ghadír, pl. Ghudur, Ghudrán pond, pool, puddle; stream, brook, creek, river
Ghafara, Gafr, Maghfira, Ghufran Ghafara, Ghafr, Maghfira, Ghufrán to forgive (someone something), grant pardon (to someone for something), remit (something)
Ghaffar (“Gaffar”) Ghaffár readily inclined to pardon, much-forgiving (especially of God). ‘Abdu’l-Ghaffár is claimed to be the real name of Noah. See Núḥ.
Ghaffari Ghaffárí Pers. Iranian family name.
Ghafir Gháfir forgiving; merciful, compassionate
Ghafr, Ghufur Ghafr, pl. Ghufúr covering; pardoning (sins); laying up, enclosing in a case or in a repository; rankling, being raw (a wound); relapsing (a sick person); relapse; tingeing, dyeing (grey hair)
Ghafra Ghafrá forgiving. Abí Ghafráy-i-Ṭá’i‘. See SDC 48.
Ghafur Ghafúr readily inclined to pardon, much-forgiving (esp. of God)
Ghali Ghalí Pers. dear, highly-priced
Ghalib Ghálib overcoming, overpowering; prevailing, predominant; triumphant, victorious; a conqueror; Port Ghálib, Red Sea, Egypt.  Mírzá Asadu’lláh Baig Khán (1797–1869), was a prominent Urdu and Persian poet during the last years of the Mughal Empire. His pen names were Ghálib and Asad.  Honourifics: Dabíru’l-Mulk, Najmu’d-Dawla.
Ghalin, Ghula Ghálin, pl. Ghulá[h or t] expensive, high priced; valuable, costly; dear, beloved;—pl. adherent of an extreme sect; extremist; exaggerator, radical; fanatic adherent, fanatic. A Shí‘a term for theological extremists who go beyond what is considered reasonable in what they claim about Muḥammad and the Imams. The Shaykhis and Babis fall into this category.
Ghalwa, Ghalwat Ghalwa[h or t], pl. Ghalwát the shooting of an arrow as far as possible; bow-shot distance (≈230 m); the utmost stretch of a horse. See Manzil.
Ghamam, Ghamamun, Ghama’im Ghamám, pl. Ghamá’im clouds (collective noun Ghamámun)
Ghamim Ghamím milk thickened by boiling; sour, coagulated milk; Kurá‘u’l-Ghamím (Kurá‘ al-Ghamím), a valley NW of Mecca on the main route to Madínah
Ghani Ghaní rich, wealthy; independent, self-sufficient (able to do without, detached). Khájih Ghaní or ‘Abdu’l-Ghaní Baydún
Ghaní ad-Dahr Ghaní ad-Dahr the appreciative
Ghani, Ghunat Ghání, pl. Ghunát rich; able to do without, detached
Ghanim Ghánim Ar. successful
Ghanima, Ghana’im Ghaníma(h), pl. Ghaná’im spoils, booty, loot, prey
Ghannam Ghannám shepherd. House of Sulaymán-i-Ghannám in Baghdád. See Bayt-i-A‘ẓam
Ghar, Aghwar, Ghiran Ghár, pl. Aghwár, Ghírán cave, cavern
Gharb Gharb being hid; going, departing, going to a great distance or to one side; the place where the sun sets; sunset; the West; Africa; being shed (tears); the flowing of tears
Gharbi Gharbí west, western, westerly; exposed to the setting sun; e.g. Gaz-i-Gharbí, western Gaz, village located west of the village of Gaz, and south of Bandar-i-Gaz
Ghariq, Gharqa Gharíq, pl. Gharqá drowned; a drowned person; immersed, engrossed, absorbed (in). Abjad value of 1,310. Nabíl drowned in AH 1310—the year began 26 July 1892.
Ghars, Aghras, Ghiras Ghars, pl. Aghrás, Ghirás planted (abjad 1,260);—pl. plant, layer, cion, nursery plant, seedling
Gharsa (Gharasa, Gharasih) Gharsa[h or t] plant. Abjad value of 1,265
Gharsi Gharsí abjad value of 1,270
Ghashiya, Ghawashin Gháshiya(h or t), pl. Ghawáshin pericardium; misfortune, calamity, disaster; faint, swoon; insensibility, stupor; servants, attendants, retinue; a covering. al Gháshiyah, the overwhelming event, Súra 88.
Ghashiyatun, Ghawash Gháshiyatun fem., pl. Ghawash something that covers or overwhelms; a covering, an overwhelming calamity. Qur’án 12:107.
Ghasil Ghasíl washed; (dirty or washed) clothes, washing
Ghassan, Ghasasinah Ghassán prime; vigour (of youth); the impetuosity of youth. al-Ghasásinah (Ghassanids), also Banú Ghassán (“Sons of Ghassán”), were a pre-Islamic Arab tribe that founded an Arab kingdom. The Christian Ghassanid Dynasty were descendants of the al-Azd tribe from Yemen who migrated in the early 3rd century to the Levant region.
Ghataf Ghaṭaf comforts (of life); bigness of the eye; length of the eye-lashes
Ghatafan Ghaṭafán name of an Arab tribe
Ghawgha’ (Ghaugha’) Ghawghá’ (Pers. also Ghawghá) mob, rabble, riffraff, din, noise, clamour
Ghawr (Ghaur), Aghwar Ghawr, pl. Aghwár bottom; declivity, depression; depth (also figurative); al-Ghawr designates part of the Syrian Graben that constitutes the Jordan Valley (Ghawr al-Urdunn), usually considered to be the valley south of Tiberias.
Ghawth Ghawth call for help; help, aid, succour
Ghawthiya, Ghawthiyyih Ghawthíya[h or t], Ghawthiyyih The state or quality of a ghauth (ghauth), saintship, sanctity; devoteeism. Garden of Ghawthiyyih—riyáḍ al-ghawthiyya—(loosely) “Garden of Intercessory Sainthood”.
Ghayb (Ghaib) Ghayb, pl. Ghuyúb absence; hidden, concealed, invisible;—(pl.) that which is hidden, the invisible; that which is transcendental, the supernatural; divine secret. (invisible realm)
Ghayba (Ghaiba) Ghayba(t) absence; concealment, invisibility; occultation. State of being hidden from view. See Tablet of Aḥmad
Ghaybat al-Kubra al-Ghaybat al-Kubrá Major Occultation (c. AH 329/941–AH 1260/1844). See appended Occultation note.
Ghaybat as-Sughra al-Ghaybat aṣ-Ṣugh Minor Occultation (AH 260/CE 874–c. 941). The “Deputies” or “Gates” during the Minor Occultation: ‘Uthmán ibn Sa‘íd, his son Muḥammad ibn ‘Uthmán, Ḥusayn ibn Rúḥ and ‘Alí ibn Muḥammad Símarí. See appended Occultation note.
Ghaym (Ghaim), Ghuyum, Ghiyam Ghaym, pl. Ghuyúm, Ghiyám (collective) clouds; mist, fog
Ghaym ar-Raqiq Ghaym ar-Raqíq thin cloud
Ghayn Ghayn Arabic letter transcripted as gh
Ghayr (Ghair) Ghayr other than (with dependent genitive), different from, unlike, no, not, non-, un-, in-, dis-; (preposition) ghayra except, save, but
Ghayr (Ghair), Ghayra (Ghair) Ghayr other than (with dependent genititive), different from, unlike, no, not, non-, un-, in-, dis-; (preposition) ghayra except, save, but
Ghayr Mutashabih Ghayr Mutashábíh unambiguous
Ghayra (Ghaira) Ghayra[h or t] jealously; zeal, fervor, earnest concern, vigilant care, solicitude (for); sense of honour, self-respect. Ghayrah ar-Rabb (“zeal of the Lord”), Isaiah 9:7.
Ghayriya (Ghairiya) Ghayríya[h or t] altruism. Also change, alteration; strangeness, unreality; jealousy.
Ghayur (Ghayoor), Ghuyur, Ghayuran Ghayúr, pl. Ghuyur, Pers. Ghayúrán (very) jealous; zealous, fervid, eager (in, in the pursuit of), keen, eagerly intent (on), earnestly concerned (with), enthusiastic (for). A character, infamous for his moral laxity and indifference to honour and fidelity, mentioned in Ottoman Turkish sources.
Ghaz, Ghazat Gház, pl. Gházát gas; petroleum, oil (north African)
Ghazal Ghazal to sweet-talk, to flirt, to display amorous gestures; a poetic form consisting of rhyming couplets and a refrain, with each line sharing the same metre. See Ghazl.
Ghazal, Ghazala, Ghizla, Ghizlan Ghazál, fem. Ghazála[h] gazelle; a village near or now in Tús (see Ghazálí);—pl. Ghizla, Ghizlán
Ghazali Ghazálí a native of Ghazál. Abú Ḥámid Muḥammad ibn Muḥammad aṭ-Ṭúsí al-Ghazálí (c.  1058–1111), Persian, was one of the most prominent and influential philosophers, theologians, jurists, and mystics of Sunni Islám. His tomb is on the northern edge of Tús. Known in the West as Algazel.
Ghazi Ghází gaseous, gas-like. ghází a conqueror, hero, gallant soldier (especially combating infidels); a general, leader of an expedition; see Gházin.
Ghazin, Ghuzah, Ghazi Gházin, pl. Ghuzáh one who carries out a military expedition or a foray; raider, invader, aggressor, conqueror; al-ghází the war lord, warrior champion, ghazi
Ghazl, Ghuzul Ghazl, pl. Ghuzúl spinning;—pl. spun thread, yarn. Same Arabic letters as Ghazal.
Ghazna Ghazná or Ghazní “jewel”, city (historically known as Ghaznín or Ghazna(h)) in Afghánistán 128 km SW of Kabul
Ghazwa, Ghazawat Ghazwa(h or t), pl. Ghazawát military expedition, foray; raid, incursion, inroad, invasion, attack, aggression; conquest; campaign of conquest. See Mu’ta
Ghazwat al-Khandaq Ghazwat al-Khandaq “Battle of the Trench”, also known as the Battle of Khandaq (Ma‘rakah al-Khandaq) and the Battle of the Confederates (Ghazwat al-Aḥzáb), was a 30-day-long siege of Yathrib (now Medina) by Arab and Jewish tribes, Jan-Feb 627 (AH 5)
Ghazwat Khaybar Ghazwat Khaybar the Battle of Khaybar, fought in 628 between Muslims and the Jews living in the oasis of Khaybar, 140 km NNW of Medina
Ghazza Ghazza Gaza (seaport in the Gaza strip)
Ghazzi Ghazzí gauze
Ghifar Ghifár a helmet; father of the Banú Ghifár
Ghill, Aghlal Ghill, pl. Aghlál (used by Bahá’u’lláh) rancour, hatred, spite, malice. See ghull and mughill.
Ghina Ghiná being rich, riches, wealth. “Guinea” may be derived from a contraction of Balad al-Ghiná (“land of riches”)
Ghina’ Ghiná’ singing, vocal song without music
Ghirsh, Ghursh, Ghurush Ghirsh, Ghursh, pl. Ghurúsh silver coin, piaster
Ghita’, Aghitiya Ghiṭá’, pl. Aghṭiya(h) cover, covering, integument, wrap, wrapper, wrapping, envelope; covering (= clothing); lid
Ghiyath Ghiyáth help, succour. Abjad 1,511
Ghulam al-Khuld Ghulám al-Khuld Tablet of the Deathless Youth by Bahá’u’lláh
Ghulam-Ahmad Ghulám-Aḥmad Mírzá Ghulám-Aḥmad (1839–1908) of Qádiyán, India. Followers later split into Aḥmadíyyah and Qádiyáníyyah.
Ghulam-Husayn Ghulám-Ḥusayn
Ghulam-Rida Ghulám-Riḍá
Ghulam-Riday-i-Kuchik Ghulám-Riḍáy-i-Kúchik
Ghulam-Riday-i-Yazdi Ghulám-Riḍáy-i-Yazdí
Ghulam, Ghilman, Ghilma Ghulám, pl. Ghilmán, Ghilma[h or t] boy, youth, lad; slave; servant, waiter.
1. Slave-soldiers and/or mercenaries in armies by Islamic states from the early 9th century to the early 19th century.
2. The Qur’án 52:24 mentions ghilmán who are servant boys provided especially for believers in heaven.
Some suggest that in heaven the ghilmán might be the male equivalent of the beautiful female húr that the faithful marry in heaven.
Ghulaman, Gholaman, Qulaman Ghulámán, Qulámán is a village (38.057515, 57.141576) in Gholaman Rural District, Raz and Jargalan District, Bojnord County, North Khorasan Province, Írán (on the Turkish-Iranian border)
Ghulamu’llah Ghulámu’lláh servant of God. son of Javáv-i-Qazvíní
Ghull, Aghlal, Ghullun Ghull, pl. Aghlál, Ghullún burning thirst; (—pl. aghlál) iron collar; manacles, handcuffs;—pl. chains, shackles, fetters
Ghuluw Ghulúw exceeding of proper bounds, excess, extravagance; exaggeration
Ghuluww, Ghaliyya Ghuluww, Gháliyya exaggeration, extremism
Ghusl, Aghsal Ghusl, pl. Aghsál washing, ablution; the major ritual ablution, i.e., a washing of the whole body (Islamic Law); wash water
Ghusn-i-A’zam Ghuṣn-i-A‘ẓám Most Great or Greatest Branch, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Ghusn-i-Akbar Ghuṣn-i-Akbar Greater Branch, Mírzá Muḥammad-‘Ali. Later described as the Greater Firewood since his deeds demonstrated that a dead branch is worthy of a fire.
Ghusn-i-Anwar Ghuṣn-i-Anwar "the Most Luminous Branch", a title invented by Dr Khayr'lláh for Mírzá Badí'u'lláh.
Ghusn-i-Athar Ghuṣn-i-Aṭhar "Purest Branch" or "Purer Branch". Title given to Mírzá Mihdí by Bahá'u'lláh.
Ghusn-i-Mumtaz Ghuṣn-i-Mumtáz The Chosen Branch i.e. Shoghi Effendi
Ghusn, Ghusun, Aghsan Ghuṣn, dual Ghuṣún, pl. Aghṣán twig, bough, limb, branch. Aghṣán (branches) denotes the descendants of Bahá’u’lláh. Only two Aghṣán are mentioned in the Kitáb-i-‘Ahd: Ghuṣn-i-A‘ẓám (‘Abdu’l-Bahá) and Ghuṣn-i-Akbar (Mírzá Muḥammad-‘Ali)
Ghusniyyih Ghuṣniyyih Pers. followers of Mírzá Muḥammad ‘Alí, the “Ghuṣn-i-Akbar”, the half-brother of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Ghusnu’llahu’l-A’zam Ghuṣnu’lláhu’l-A‘ẓam “The Greatest Branch of God” BKG 250, 311, 420, 485
Ghusnu’llahu’l-Athar Ghuṣnu’lláhu’l-Aṭhar “The Purest Branch of God”
Gilan Gílán a northern province of Írán on the Caspian Sea.
Gilani Gílání Pers. a native of Gílán
Gilim (Kilim) Gilím Pers. (Turkish kilim, Azerbaijani kílím) a garment made of goats’ hair or wool; a carpet or rug to lie on; a blanket
Giltughi Giltúghí Ḥájí Káẓim Giltúghí
Giran (Garan) Girán Pers. heavy, weighty, ponderous; slow; great, important, difficult; precious, dear, valuable; gain, profit; penury
Gird Gird Pers. round; a circle, orbit, circumference, circuit; environs, parts adjacent; a collection, assembly; a host; a city; a tent, pavilion; (adverb) around
Girih Girih Pers. a knot, a knur (as in a thread or on wood), a knob, a joint; a button or anything for fastening garments; a gland; a kernel; a purse; an abscess; a knuckle; articulation; three finger-breadths; a difficulty; the seed of a thorny tree used for tanning; the heart
Gisu (Gesu), Gisuwan (Gesuwan) Gísú, pl. Gísúwán Pers. a ringlet of hair, a forelock, a sidelock, curl;—pl. hair, locks. Daughter of Dr Raḥmatu’lláh Muhájir.
Giwah (Givah, Giveh, Giwa) Giwah Pers. a soft, comfortable, durable and hand woven-top shoe common in several parts of Írán especially in rural and mountainous areas of Kirmánsháh Province.
Goumoens Goumoëns city in Switzerland. Austrian Captain Alfred von Goumoëns witnessed and reported on the attempted assassination of Náṣir ad-Dín Sháh on 15 August 1852. His 29 August 1852 letter was first published in German in the Austrian newspaper Oesterreichischer Soldatenfruend (“Austrian Soldier Friend”), 12 October 1852, vol. 123, p. 514.
Guardian Guardian Title given to Shoghi Effendi by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: “After the passing away of this wronged one, it is incumbent upon the Aghsán, the Afnán of the Sacred Lote-Tree, the Hands of the Cause of God and the loved ones of the Abhá Beauty to turn unto Shoghi Effendi—the youthful branch branched from the two hallowed and sacred Lote-Trees and the fruit grown from the union of the two offshoots of the Tree of Holiness,—as he is the sign of God, the chosen branch, the Guardian of the Cause of God [Walíy-i-Amru’lláh].... He is the Interpreter of the Word of God ....” (The Will and Testament, p. 11)
Guftar Guftár Pers. speech, conversation; a saying; a chapter
Guftgu Guftgú Pers. parley
Gugan (Gavgan (Gav-Gan), Gavkan) Gúgán village 50 km SW of Tabríz. Letters transcribe as “Gawgán”
Guhar (Gohar), Gawhar (Gauhar) Guhar, Gawhar Pers. a gem, jewel, pearl, precious stone; lustre of a gem or sword; root, origin; of a noble family; essence, substance, form; offspring; any hidden virtue; intellect, wisdom
Gul-i-Gulab Gul-i-Guláb red rose, literally, “the flower of the rose-water”. See Ar. Jull and Julláb
Gul-i-Mawla Gul-i-Mawlá “the master’s rose”. name given to Darvish Siḍq-‘Alí
Gul-Muhammad (Gulmuhammad) Gul-Muḥammad GPB p. 200
Gul-Muhammadi (GulMuhammadi) Gul-Muḥammadí Ar. Dhabíḥu’lláh Gul-Muḥammadí or Pers. Zabíḥu’lláh Gulmuḥammadí
Gul-Saba Gul-Sabá Pers. Sheba rose
Gul, Gulan, Gulha Gul, pl. Gulán (Gulhá) Pers. a rose; a flower; embers; a red colour. See Ar. Jull
Gulab Guláb Pers. rose water. gul (flower) + áb (water).
Guldan, Guldana (Guldanih) Guldán, fem. Guldána[h] Pers. gul (flower) + dán (suffix, holder, pot, vase). Guldánih ‘Alipúr
Gulistan (Golestan) Gulistán Pers. flower garden, rose garden; place where flowers grow. Gulistán-i-Sa‘dí, a celebrated Persian book (CE 1258) in prose and verse, by Abú-Muḥammad Muṣliḥ ad-Dín bin ‘Abdu’lláh Shírází (better known by his pen-name Sa‘dí) (1175–1291).
Book structure: Introduction and 8 chapters, each consisting of a number of stories and poetry:
1. The Manners of Kings;
2. On the Morals of Dervishes;
3. On the Excellence of Contentment;
4. On the Advantages of Silence;
5. On Love and Youth;
6. On Weakness and Old Age;
7. On the Effects of Education;
8. On Rules for Conduct in Life.
Kákh-i-Gulistán (Golestan Palace) is the former royal Qajar complex in Ṭihrán.
Gulistan-i-Javid Gulistán-i-Jávid Pers. “eternal garden”, name given to Bahá’í cemeteries in Írán
Gulmuhammadi Gulmuḥammadí Zabíḥu’lláh (Ar. Dhabíḥu’lláh) Gulmuḥammadí
Gulnar (Golnar) Gulnár (for gul+anár) pomegranate flowers; sour cherry. Gülnar (Azerbaijani, Turkish), pseudonym of Olga Sergeyevna Lebedeva (1854–193?), translator, linguist and Orientalist (first Russian woman) from the Russian Empire.
Gulpayigan, Gulpayagan (Gulpayegan) Gulpáyigán, Gulpáyagán, Gulpáygán Pers. (Bahá’ís use Gulpaygan) “fortress of flowers”, “land of red tulips” or “land of red flowers” (supposedly derived from sar-zamín-i-gul-háy-i-surkh, “land, tulips/flowers, red”). Gulpáyigán is a city (33.457344, 50.288305) in and the capital of Gulpáyigán County, Iṣfahán Province, Írán (about 160 km NW of Iṣfahán). See Abu’l-Faḍl.
Gulpayigani Gulpáyigání from or of Gulpáyigán. Siyyid Muḥammad-i-Gulpáyigání, pen-name Ṭá’ir, styled Fatá’l-Malíḥ by Ṭáhirih. Mullá Ibráhím-i-Gulpáyigání was martyred. See Abu’l-Faḍl and Kashf al-Ghiṭá’.
Gulshan (Golshan) Gulshán Pers. a rose or flower-garden; a bed of roses or flowers; a delightful spot; a place where a person enjoys himself; a pleasure-palace; florid, cheerful, agreeable. Former name of Ṭabas—city in South Khorasan Province, Írán.
Gulshani Gulshaní a Sufi order founded by Ibráhím al-Gulshaní, an influential Sufi shaykh from Azerbaijan
Gumruk, Gamarik Gumruk, pl. Gamárik customs; customhouse
Gunabad (Gonabad) Gunábád city 225 km SW of Mashhad, Khurásán province
Gundishapur, Jund-i-Shapur Gundíshápúr (Ar. Jundaysábúr) (“Gundeshapur”; Jund-i-Shápúr) city ruins (32.286493, 48.514108) of what was once a major city of the Persian empire, 2 km south of the village of Islámábád (Eslamabad, or Sháhábád), which is 12 km SE of Dizfúl (Dezful); in Khuzestan province.
Gunjishk Gunjishk Pers. a sparrow; a chick; any small bird. gáf or káf (kafara, “renounce”) + nún (nazih, “purify”) + jím (jánib, “draw back”) + shín (ush’kur, “thank”, “be grateful”) + káf (kafara)—see The Seven Valleys 1st edn.
Guran Gúrán Pers. the rendezvous of an army; an assembly-room; rice browned in the oven. A village (33.297500, 49.758333) in Lorestan Province, 174 km SW of Káshán.
Gurgin (Gurgan, Gorgan), Jurjan Gurgín or Gurgán, Jurján city near the Caspian Sea (formerly Astrabád or Astarábád), east of Sárí (36.844352, 54.442692)
Gurgin Khan Gurgín Khán Nephew and successor of Governor Manúchihr Khán in Iṣfahán.
Gusha Gushá Pers. opening, loosening, solving
Gusht, Gosht sht Pers. flesh, meat; pulp of fruit
Gushtasb, Gushasb Gushtásb, Gushásb (also Gushtásp) Pers. an ancient king of Persia (Darius Hystaspes)
Guzel (Guzal, Ghuzal) Güzel (Guzal) Turkish “beautiful” (Persian zíbá) Mírzá ‘Ádí-Guzal-i-Marághih’í, the messenger (Sayyáh) for the Báb, hence the title ‘Alíy-i-Sayyáḥ (Mírzá ‘Alíy-i-Sayyáḥ-i-Marághihí).
Gyawur-Kyuy Gyáwur-Kyuy probably the Turkish village of Güneyli Köyü (“Southern Village”), 11 km north of Gallipoli
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Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
H
Ha, Ha’at Há’, pl. Ha’át name of the thirty-first letter (ه) of the Arabic-Persian alphabet, it is a slight aspirate, like the h in “hope”
Ha, Had, Hadihi, Hadi, Ha’ula’i, Hadani look! there! há huwa look, there he is! há antum you there! as a prefix (mostly written defectively): hádá, f. hádihí, hádí,—pl. há’ulá’i, dual m. hádání, f. hátáni this one, this
Ha’ Ḥa’ name of the eighth letter (ح, transcripted as ḥ) of the Arabic-Persian alphabet, is a strong aspirate generated deep in the throat.
Ha’ik, Haka Ḥá’ik, pl. Ḥáka weaver; (Moroccan) an outer garment consisting of a long piece of white material, covering body and head
Ha’it (Hait) Ḥá’iṭ wall, enclosure, fence; a garden. al-Ḥá’iṭ (25.993191, 40.466906) is a city 191 km NNE of Medina and just to the north of the Fadak oasis.
Habash, Ahbash al-Ḥabash, pl. al-Aḥbash Abyssinia, Ethiopia;—pl. the Abyssinians, Ethiopians
Habashi Ḥabashí, pl. Aḥbásh Abyssinian, Ethiopian
Habb, Hubub Ḥabb, pl. Ḥubúb (collective; nomen unitatis ة) grains; seed;—pl. grain, cereals, corn; seed(s); grains, kernels; granules; pellets; pills, pastilles; berries; acne, pustules, pimple
Habba, Habbat Ḥabba(h), pl. Habbát (nomen unitatis; see also ḥabb) grain, granule; seed; kernel; pill, pastille; berry; pustule, pimple; triviality; a square measure
Habba, Hubb Ḥabba, Ḥubb to love, like; to evoke (in someone), love or a liking (for something or someone); to endear (something to someone), make (something) dear, lovable, attractive (for someone), make (something) palatable, acceptable (to someone); to urge (something on someone), suggest (something to someone)
Habib, Ahibba, Ḥabíb, pl. Aḥabbá’, Aḥibba[h or t] beloved, sweetheart, lover; darling; dear one, friend; dear
Habiba (Habibih, Habibeh), Haba’ib Ḥabíba[h or t], pl. Ḥabá’ib (fem. of ḥabíb) sweet-heart, darling, beloved woman
Habibi Ḥabíbi my love
Habibu’llah Ḥabíbu’lláh “beloved of God”
Habibu’llah-i-Afnan Ḥabíbu’lláh-i-Afnán, Ḥájí Mírzá
Habr, Hibr, Ahbar Ḥabr, Ḥibr, pl. Aḥbár a non-Muslim religious authority, learned man, scribe; bishop; rabbi.—ḥabr beautifying, adorning; putting ink into an inkstand; making glad; joy, gladness, cheerfulness;—ḥibr, ink; beauty; a sign; signs of joy.
Habs, Hubus Ḥabs, pl. Ḥubús (act of) holding or keeping back, obstruction, check, repression; blocking off, barring, confinement; damming up, staving off; safekeeping, custody, retention; imprisonment, arrest, detention, jailing;—pl. prison, jail
Hada, Hadihi, Hadi Hádá, fem. Hádihí, Hádí, pl. Há’ulá’i this one, this
Hada, Hadihi, Hadi, cont. Hádání dual m., f. Hátáni
Hada, Hadihi, Hadi, Ha’ula’i, Hadani Hádá (demonstrative pronoun) fem. hádihí, hádí, dual masc. hádáni, dual fem. hátáni (hatani);—pl. há’ulá’i: this one, this
Hadatha, Huduth Ḥadatha (Ḥudúth) to happen, occur, take place, come to pass. Root of ḥadíth
Hadba, Ahdab Ḥadbá’, fem. Aḥdab, pl. Ḥudb hunchbacked, humped. The historic Great Mosque of an-Núrí in Mosul is famous for its leaning minaret which gave the city its nickname “the hunchback” (al-Ḥadbá’). See root word Ḥadiba
Hadd, Hudud Ḥadd, pl. Ḥudúd (cutting) edge (of a knife, of a sword); edge, border, brink, brim, verge; border (of a country), boundary, borderline; limit (fig.), the utmost, extremity, termination, end, terminal point, terminus; a (certain) measure, extent, or degree (attained); (math.) member (of an equation), term (of a fraction, of a proportion); divine ordinance, divine statute (limit, prohibition or penalty fixed by God); legal punishment (Islamic Law)
Haddad Ḥaddád a smith, a worker in iron, ironsmith, blacksmith; a farrier. Anton F. Haddad (1862–1924) was a Lebanese Christian who became a Bahá’í. He emigrated to the United States in 1892 and was the first Bahá’í there. Haddad returned to Lebanon in later life where he reportedly became a Protestant Minister.
Hadha, Hadhihi, hadhi, Ha’ula’i dhá (demonstrative pronoun) fem. hádhihí, hádhí, pl. há’ulá’i, dual m. hádháni, fem. hátáni this one, this
Hadi, Hadiya Hádí, fem. Hádíya[h or t] a director, leader, guide; one who enjoys rest or peace; the neck; head or point of an arrow; an ox in the centre of a threshing-floor, round which the other oxen move when treading out the grain. ‘Alí ibn Muḥammad al-Hádí (829–868) was the tenth Imám. He is commonly referred to by the title al-Hádí (the guide to the right path) and sometimes as ‘Alí an-Naqí (the pure one).
Hadiba, Hadab Ḥadiba, (verbal noun Ḥadab) to be convex, dome-shaped, cambered, bent outward; to be hunchbacked; to be nice, kind, friendly
Hadid, Hada’id Ḥadíd, pl. Ḥadá’id iron;—pl. iron parts (of a structure); forgings, hardware, ironware
Hadid, Hidad, Ahidda Ḥadíd, pl. Ḥidád, Aḥiddá’, Aḥidda sharp (knife, eye, tongue, etc.), keen (mind)
Hadin, Hadinun, Huha Hádin, pl. Hádinún, Hudá(h) leading, guiding; leader, guide
Hadiqat, Hada’iq Ḥadíqa(h or t), pl. Ḥadá’iq an enclosed garden; an orchard, a palm-plantation
Hadiqatu’r-Rahman Ḥadíqatu’r-Raḥmán the “Orchard of the Merciful”. Name given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to the burial site (in Ábádah or Abadeh) of the heads (200?) of the martyrs of Nayríz. NW of the city and near the cemetary? Wrecked by a fanatical mob in 1955.
Hadir, Huddar, Hudur, Hadara Ḥáḍir, pl. Ḥuḍḍar, Ḥuḍúr, Ḥaḍara present; attending;—(pl. ḥuḍḍár, ḥaḍara) settled, sedentary, resident, village or town dweller, not nomadic. (pl. ḥuḍúr) presence; visit, participation, attendance. ḥáḍirihim (their present, hadirihim). See ḥáẓir
Hadith, Ahadith Ḥadíth, pl. Aḥádíth, Ḥádithán speech; chat, chitchat, small talk; conversation, talk, discussion; interview; prattle, gossip; report, account, tale, narrative; Prophetic tradition, ḥadíth, narrative relating deeds and utterances of the Prophet and his Companions. Root of ḥadíth is ḥadatha. Aḥádíth are the oral sayings of the Prophet Muḥammad and the Imáms. Two distinct types: al-Ḥadíth an-Nabawí and al-Ḥadíth al-Qudsí. The former (Prophetic or regular) being restricted to the sayings of Muḥammad (a ḥadíth where one of the Companions reports Muḥammad’s statements, his deeds, or things that happened in his presence and he approved of them), while the latter (Divine) pertains to the sayings of the Prophet through the medium of Divine inspiration. Note: الأحاديث is written al-aḥádíth.
Hadith, Hawadith Ḥádith, pl. Ḥawádith, also Ḥáwádithát occurring, happening, taking place; new, recent; fresh;—(pl.) occurrence, incident, event, happening; episode; case (jurisprudence) accident, mishap
Haditha, Hawadith Ḥáditha, pl. Ḥawádith occurrence, event, happening; plot (of a play); incident, episode; accident, mishap
Hadith-i-Jabir Ḥadíth-i-Jábir ḥadíth collection by Jábir ibn ‘Abdu’lláh ibn ‘Amr ibn Ḥarám al-Anṣárí, a companion of Muḥammad
Hadiya Ḥadiya to remain, stay (at a place), stick (to a place)
Hadiya, Hadaya Hadíya[h or t], pl. Hadáyá gift, present, donation; offering, sacrifice. Shaykh Aḥmad al-Aḥsá’í, the leader of the Shaykhís, died near or in Hadíyah (25.534381, 38.749422, about 145 km NW of Medina) while travelling on pilgrimage to Medina.
Hadiy-i-Dawlat-Abadi Hádíy-i-Dawlat-Ábádí
Hadiy-i-Nahri Hádíy-i-Nahrí Mírzá Hádíy-i-Nahrí, uncle of Munírih Khánum, married Shamsu’ḍ-Ḍuḥá (Khurshíd Bagum)
Hadiy-i-Qazvini Hádíy-i-Qazvíní
Hadj Ḥadj loading a camel (particularly with a ḥidj (litter); charging a man with fraud
Hadra (Hadrat), Hazrat, Hadarat Ḥaḍra[h or t], pl. Ḥaḍárát (Pers. also Ḥaẓrat) presence, threshold; dignity; majesty; dominion, power; an epithet often joined with the names of the Deity; also a title by which kings and great men are addressed, similar to majesty, highness, lordship, worship.
Used broadly by mystics as a synonym of ḥuḍúr, “being in the presence [of Alláh]”. Holiness (‘his excellency’ or ‘his honour’).
Placed before the name of the Manifestation or other figures with a high spiritual station.
Hadramawt (Hadramaut), Hadhramaut Ḥaḍramawt (Ḥaḍramút) a region in the south of the Arabian peninsula—part of Yemen (claimed burial place of Húd)
Hadrami, Hadarim Ḥaḍramí, pl. Ḥaḍárim man from Hadhramaut; Hadhramautian (adjective)
Hadrat-i-A’la or Hadrat-i-‘Ala Ḥaḍrat-i-A‘lá “His Holiness the Most Exalted One” (a designation of the Báb)
Hadrat-i-Ghusnu’llahu’l-Athar Ḥaḍrat-i-Ghuṣnu’lláhu’l-Aṭhar “His Holiness, the Most Pure Branch of God”. Title by A. H. Ishráq-Khávarí regarding Mírzá Mihdí (“Purest Branch”).
Hadrat-i-Mubashshir Ḥaḍrat-i-Mubashshir “His holiness the Herald”
Hadrat-i-Walidah Ḥaḍrat-i-Wálidah (Ḥaḍrat-i-Válidih) (her eminence, the Mother). Form of address used by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in His letters to His mother, Ásíyih Khánum.
Hadratu’llah (Hazratu’llah) Ḥaḍratu’lláh The Lord God
Hafid, Ahfad, Hafada Ḥafíd, pl. Aḥfád, Ḥafada(h grandson; descendant, offspring, scion.  Qur’án 16:74 sons (banín) and grandsons (ḥafadah) [male only]
Hafiz, Huffaz Ḥáfiẓ, pl. Ḥuffáz a keeper, preserver, guardian; a commander, governor; the Preserver of all things (God); gifted with a good memory; one who has by heart the whole Qur’án; a blind man (because such fall frequently under the preceding category); master of ḥadíth, known for the large quantity of ḥadíth expertly memorized; pen name of the greatest lyric, mystical poet of Persia, Khwája Shams ad-Dín Muḥammad Ḥáfiẓ-i-Shírází (1320–1390), author of odes in the ghazal form. The Tomb of Ḥáfiẓ and its associated memorial hall, the Ḥáfiẓih, are two memorial structures erected in the northern edge of Shíráz, in his memory.
Hafizu’llah Ḥáfiẓu’lláh “Remembrance of God”
Hafizu’s-Sihhih Ḥafiẓu’ṣ-Ṣiḥḥih Mírzá ‘Abdu’l-Rahím Khán Ḥafiẓu’ṣ-Ṣiḥḥih, Bahá’í World, vol. ix, pp. 613–4.
Hafs, Hafsa Ḥafṣ, fem. Ḥafṣa[h or t] collecting, gathering; throwing from the hand; a leathern sack with which they draw earth out of wells; a name given to ‘Umar ibn al-Khaṭṭáb by Muḥammad. Ḥafṣah bint ‘Umar, daughter of ‘Umar, married Muḥammad (625) after her husband was killed at Badr in 624.
Haft-Dast Haft-Dast Pers. seven hands
Haft-Sad (Haftsad) Haft-Ṣad Pers. (Ar. influence) 700
Haft-Vadi Haft-Vádí “Seven Valleys” by Bahá’u’lláh written in anwer to questions from Shaykh Muḥyi’d-Dín, the Qáḍí of Khániqayn
Hahut Háhút The essence of God unmanifested. The “Hidden Mystery” or the “Hidden Treasure”, the Absolute Unknown, the Primal Oneness. Realm of the “Absolute Unknown”, where God’s essence has been hidden from time immemorial and will continue to remain so for eternity.1 See Láhút, Jabarút, Malakút, and Násút.

Haja, Hajat, Hawa’ij Ḥája[h or t], pl. Ḥáját need; necessity, requirement, prerequisite; natural, bodily need; pressing need, neediness, poverty, indigence, destitution; object of need or desire; desire, wish, request; necessary article, requisite; matter, concern, business, job, work; thing, object;—pl. ḥawá’ij needs, necessities, necessaries; everyday objects, effects, belongings, possessions, stuff; clothes, clothing
Hajar Hájar Hagar, a former Nubian slave, and later a wife of Abraham and the mother of Ismá‘íl.
Shoghi Effendi lived with his nurse Hájar Khátún until he was about 10 years old.
Hajar al-Aswad al-Ḥajar al-Aswad Pers. al-Ḥajaru’l-Aswad. the Black Stone in the eastern corner of the Ka‘ba at Mecca. Size about 160 (6.3”) × 200 (7.9”) mm.
Hajar, Hijarat, Ahjar, Hijar Ḥajar, pl. Ḥijára(t), Aḥjár, Ḥijár stone; the philosopher’s stone; weight (placed as an equipoise on the scale of a balance)
Hajara, Hajr, Hijran Hajara, Hajr, Hijrán to emigrate; to dissociate oneself, separate, part, secede, keep away
Haji Abad, Hajiabad, Hajjiabad Ḥájí Ábád Pers. a small village (34.340598, 47.351340) 25 km east of Kirmanshah. This may be the meeting place (Tadj Abad) mentioned by A. L. M. Nicolas, Essai sur le Chéikhisme, I, p. 30, and DB, p. 13.
Haji Baba Afshar Ḥájí Bábá Afshár He was one of the first medical practitioners in Írán who studied modern medicine in Europe. Although he stayed for eight years in England, he did not receive a degree. Upon return to Írán in 1819 he was the court physician under the Crown Prince, who later became Muḥammad Sháh Qájár (r. 1834–1848). He may have been an inspiration for the best-selling novels, The Adventures of Hajji Baba of Ispahan (1824) and The Adventures of Hajji Baba of Ispahan in England (1828), by James Justinian Morier. See Ílchí.
Haji Shah-Muhammad Ḥájí Sháh-Muḥammad Sháh-Muḥammad Manshadí, Amín’l-Bayán (Trustee of Ḥuqúqu’lláh)
Hajib, Hujjab Ḥájib, pl. Ḥujjáb, Ḥajaba concealing, screening, protecting; doorman, gatekeeper; court official, equivalent to a chamberlain. Classical Arabic grammarian ‘Uthmán ibn ‘Umar ibn al-Ḥájib, author of grammars ash-Sháfíya and al-Káfíya.
Hajibu’d-Dawla (Hajibu’d-Dawlih) Ḥájibu’d-Dawla grand usher. Title given to the “bloodthirsty fiend” (GPB p. 83), Ḥájí ‘Alí Khán Muqaddam Marágha’í (1807–1867).
Hajipur Ḥájípúr (Ḥájí + Púr) Pers. Mr. Jamáli’d-Dín Ḥájípúr. Also name of city in Indian state of Bihar. It is to the north of Patna.
Hajir Hájir elegant, excellent (thing); delirious, speaking foolishly or deliriously; emigrating; name of a tribe
Hajiyyat Ḥájíyyát everyday commodities, utensils, utilities, necessaries, necessities
Hajj, Haji (Hajji), Hajja, Hajjaj, Hajij, Hajjat Ḥájj (Pers. Ḥájí), pl. Ḥujjáj, Ḥajíj pilgrim; hadji; Mecca pilgrim, honorific title of one who has performed the “greater” pilgrimage to Mecca. Fem. ḥájja[h or t], pl. ḥájját. Pers. also ḥájiya[h] (“ḥájíyyih”), pl. ḥájiyán.
Hajj, Hijja, Hijaj Ḥajj, fem. Ḥijja[h or t], pl. Ḥijaj the official “greater” pilgrimage to Mecca (performed over 5 days). English hadj. Yawm al-Ḥajj al-Akbar (the day of the greater pilgrimage) understood as being on the 9th (if the evening is considered to be the next day) and 10th of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah. In AH 9 (CE 631) Muḥammad sent Abú Bakr and ‘Alí to perform the first Islamic Ḥajj al-Akbar (see Qur’án 9:3). al-Ḥajj al-Aṣghar is the minor pilgrimage performed at any time of the year. Persians use the term Ḥajj-i-Akbar (“Most Great Hajj”) whenever the ‘Id-al-Adha (10 Dhu’l-Ḥijjah) falls on an Islamic Friday as occurred for the only pilgrimage of Muḥammad in AH 10 (Sunday 8 March 632) and for the Báb in AH 1260 (Friday 20 December 1844). There is an Islamic tradition that the Qá’im will appear in a year of the Ḥajj-i-Akbar. See Yawm, the Báb and ‘umra.
Hajjaj Ḥajjáj a litigious man, a squabbler; name of the celebrated governor of Arabia and Iraq, Abú Muḥammad al-Ḥajjáj ibn Yúsuf ibn al-Ḥakam ibn ʿAqíl ath-Thaqafí
Hajr Hajr abandonment, forsaking, leaving, separation; avoidance, abstention; separation from the beloved one; hottest time of the day. Variation hijr.
Hajr Ḥajr restriction, curb(ing), check(ing), obstruction, impeding, limitation, curtailing (of something); barring, closing, debarment, preclusion; detention; blocking, confinement, containment, suppression (as a protective measure); interdiction, prohibition, ban. Pre-Islamic name of modern Riyadh (ar-Riyáḍ), capital of Saudi Arabia.
Hakam, Hukkam Ḥakam, pl. Ḥukkám arbitrator, arbiter; umpire, referee
Ḥakamanish Ḥakámanish (Ḥaká + manish) Pers. Írándukht Ḥakámanish
Haka, Hikaya, Hikayat Ḥaká, fem. Ḥikáya[h or t], pl. Ḥikáyát to tell, relate (something), report, give an account (of); to speak, talk (Syr., Leb.); to imitate, copy (something); to resemble (someone, something). Fem. story, tale, narrative, account; (grammar) literal quotation (of the words of others).
Hakim Abu’l-Qasim Firdawsi Tusi Ḥakím Abu’l-Qásim Firdawsí Ṭúsí commonly referred to as Ferdowsi, is a revered Persian poet, the author of the epic of Shahnameh (Book of Kings)
Hakim-Bashi Ḥakím-Báshí Chief physician
Hakim-Ilahi Ḥakím-Iláhí the Divine Philosopher
Hakim, Hakimun, Hukkam Ḥákim, pl. Ḥákimún, Ḥukkam ruling, governing; decisive;—pl. ruIer, sovereign; governor; judge
Hakim, Hukama’ Ḥakím, pl. Ḥukamá’ wise, judicious; wise man, sage; philosopher; physician, doctor. al-Ḥakím, the divine name for the All-Wise.
Hakiman Ḥakímán Raḥmatu’lláh Ḥakímán
Hakkak Ḥakkák a jeweller; a polisher of precious stones; a borer of pearls; a lapidary
Hal, Ahwal Ḥál m. and f., pl. Aḥwál condition, state; situation; position, status; circumstance; case; present, actuality (as opposed to future); circumstantial expression or phrase (grammar);—pl. conditions, circumstances; matters, affairs, concerns; cases; ḥála (preposition) during; immediately upon, right after; just at; in case of ..., in the event of ..., ḥálan presently, immediately, at once, right away, without delay; now, actually, at present. Pers. Ḥal-i-Shumá, (pl.) Aḥwál-i-Shumá (How are you?)
Hala, Halat Ḥála[h or t] (fem. of Ḥál), pl. Ḥálát condition, state; situation; (possible, actual) case; ḥálata (preposition) during.—pl. states, fleeting and ephemeral, of the Ṣúfí spiritual journey
Hala, Halat Hála, pl. Hálát halo (around moon or sun, also, e.g., of a saint); ring around the eye; nimbus, aureole, glory; fem. name
Halab Ḥalab milk; milking; Aleppo in Syria
Halabi Ḥalabí belonging to a milch cow; native of Aleppo; white iron, tin-plate
Halaku, Hulagu Halákú, Pers. Hulágú Hulagu Khán (c. 1217–1265). Hülegü or Hulegu (Mongolian). Grandson of Genghis Khán, conquered Baghdád (1258) and Syria (1260)
Halal Ḥalál that which is allowed, permitted or permissible; allowed, permitted, permissible, allowable, admissible, lawful, legal, licit, legitimate; lawful possession
Halawa Ḥaláwa sweetness; candies, confectionery, sweetmeats; grace, gracefulness, charm, refinement, wittiness, wit; present of money; ransom
Halawi Ḥaláwí Ḥusayn-i-Ḥaláwí
Halih Halih Ya Bisharat Halih Halih Yá Bishárát “Hallelujah, Hallelujah, O Glad-Tidings” by Bahá’u’lláh (hallilúyá, hallelujah)
Halim, Halima, Hulama Ḥalím, fem. Ḥalíma(h), pl. Ḥulamá mild, mild-tempered, gentle; patient; forbearing. Ḥalímah was Muḥammad’s foster-mother until aged 6.
Hallaj Ḥalláj cotton ginner. Manṣúr al-Ḥalláj (Abú’l-Mughíth al-Ḥusayn bin Manṣúr al-Ḥalláj) (c. 858–922) was a Persian mystic, poet and Ṣúfí teacher. His most famous ecstatic utterance, Aná al-Ḥaqq (“I am the Truth”), was taken to mean that he was claiming to be God, since al-Ḥaqq (“the Truth”) is one of the Islamic names of God. See Ṭáwásín.
Halliluya Hallilúyá hallelujah (from Hebrew) or alleluia, praise (God). Hallilúyá (praise) ash-shukr (returning thanks (to God) Alláh (God)
Halqa, Halaqa, Halaq, Halaqat Ḥalqa(t), Ḥalaqa pl. Ḥalaq, Ḥalaqát ring (also earring, etc.); link (of a chain); circle (also of people); group of students studying under a professor, hence: lecture, course (e.g., at al-Azhar University); part of a sequence or series; ringlet; disk; decade; market
Halqat adh-Dhahabiyya al-Ḥalqat adh-Dhahabiyya the golden circle
Ham Ḥám Ham, son of Noah
Hama, Hamw Hamá, Hamw to flow; to pour forth
Hamad Ḥamád Pers. a village in Mahshahr County, Khúzistán Province, Írán (may no loner exist)
Hamadan Hamadán “quelled or subsided”. Hamadán city in Írán, 144 km NE Kirmánsháh. Originally Ecbatana of the ancient Medes.
Hamadani Hamadání Badí‘ az-Zamán (“The Wonder of the Age”) al-Hamadání (969–1007) was a medieval Arabo-Persian man of letters.
Hamam, Hamama, Hamamat, Hama’im Ḥamám, pl. Ḥamámát, Ḥamá’im Ar. dove, pigeon. nomen unitatis ḥamáma(h)
Haman Hamán Pers. only, solely; self-same, all one, one and the same, even that, that very; in this manner, exactly so, thus, equally; always, continually. Name of Abraham's brother; name of Pharaoh’s vizier; name of a place in Kirmán where Sháh Ni‘matu’lláh Walí is buried
Hamaza, Hamz Ḥamaza, Ḥamz to bite, or burn, the tongue (taste)
Hamaza, Hamz Hamaza, Hamz to prick; to drive, urge on, prod, goad on (someone, something); to spur (one’s horse); (gram.) to provide with hamza (a letter or word)
Hamd Ḥamd commendation, praise, laudation
Hamdan Ḥamdán praise, one who praises (God)
Hamdaniyun Ḥamdáníyún al-Ḥamdáníyún, the Hamdanid dynasty, was a Shí‘a Muslim Arab dynasty of northern Mesopotamia and Syria (890–1004); was founded by Ḥamdán ibn Ḥamdún ibn al-Ḥárith at-Taghlibí (flourished 868–895).
Hamdi al-Ḥamdí “praise be” to God
Hamdu li’llah al-Ḥamdu Li’lláh thank God!, praise be to God! or praised be the Lord! Alhamdulillah”.
A longer variant is al-ḥamdu li’lláhi rabbi al-‘álamín, meaning “all praise is due to God, Lord of all the worlds” (Qur’án 1:2)
Hamdu’llah Ḥamdu’lláh Praise of God
Hami Ḥámí a son or descendant of Ham, Hamitic
Hamid Ḥámid one who praises, a praiser
Hamid, Hamida (Hamidih, Hamideh) Ḥamíd, fem. Ḥamída(t) (Pers. Ḥamídih) praiseworthy, laudable, commendable; benign, harmless (disease)
Hamida Ḥamida to praise, commend, laud, extol (someone for something) Form II to praise highly (someone)
Hamidu’llah Ḥamídu’lláh praised by God
Hamma, Hammayat Ḥamma[h or t], pl. Ḥammayát fever or hot spring. al-Ḥamma was a Palestinian Arab village 12 km SE of Tiberias, famous for its hot springs (on the south side of the village), which are considered therapeutic due to their high sulphur content. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá visited the springs in 1914. The village was depopulated in July 1949. In 1977 the health resort of Hamat Gader, “hot springs of (the ancient city of) Gadara”, opened on the site of al-Ḥamma as-Súriyá (“the Syrian ḥamma”) hot springs (32.683087, 35.662995).
Hamma, Humma Ḥamma heat, make hot (something); passive ḥumma to be feverish, have a fever. Root of Ḥamma[h or t], Ḥumma[h or t].
Hammad (Hamad) Ḥammád much praising (God)
Hammal, Hammala Ḥammál, fem. Ḥammála[h or t] (pl. ḥammálún) a porter, carrier of burdens. Fem. (carrier) beam, girder, support, base, post, pier, pillar; suspenders.
Hammam Hammám careworn, worried; anxious, solicitous; eager, active, energetic
Hammam, Hammamat Ḥammám, pl. Ḥammámát (vulgate ḥamám) (warm or hot) bath; a Turkish bath; swimming pool; spa, watering place (public baths). Error: Bahá’í writings may omit the underdot.
Hamsaya (Hamsayih), Hamsayagan Hamsáya (Hamsáyih), pl. Hamsáyagán Pers. under the same shade, i.e. neighbouring, neighbour
Hamza, Hamazat Hamza(h or t), pl. Hamazát Arabic glottal stop consonant that is pronounced as an a. Since a hamza is not actually a letter, it is sometimes counted as an a, and sometimes it is disregarded. Thus, the abjad value of Bahá’ (the hamza is usually dropped) can be read as either eight or nine.
Hamza (Hamzeh) Ḥamza(h or t) the herb rocket. Muḥammad’s uncle, Ḥamzah ibn ‘Abdu’l-Muṭṭalib.
Hana Ḥaná to bend, curve, twist, turn; to lean, incline (toward someone); to feel for someone, sympathize (with someone), commiserate, pity (someone), feel compassion, feel pity (for someone)
Hana-Sab (Hina-Saz) Ḥaná-Sáb loosely, the “henna maker”, Ḥiná-Sáz. Muḥammad-i-Ḥaná-Sáb.
Hanbali, Hanabilat Ḥanbalí, pl. Ḥanábila(t) Hanbalitic, of or pertaining to the madhab of Aḥmad ibn Ḥanbal; puritanical, strict in religious matters. A system of traditional Sunní jurisprudence—smallest of the four (the Ḥanafí, the Ḥanbalí, the Málikí and the Sháfi‘í)
Hanafi, Hanafyun Ḥanafí, pl. Hanafyún, Ḥunafá’ orthodox. One of the four (the Ḥanafí, the Ḥanbalí, the Málikí and the Sháfi‘í) religious Sunní Islamic schools of jurisprudence (fiqh). It is named after the scholar Abú Ḥanífa an-Nu‘man ibn Thábit.
Hanafiya, Hanafiyya Ḥanafíya(t), Ḥanafiyya(t) true religion, orthodoxy
Hanbal Ḥanbal Aḥmad ibn Ḥanbal
Hani, Hani’a Háni’, fem. Háni’a(h) happy, delighted, glad; servant; fem. servant girl, maid
Hani’ Haní’ healthful, salutary, salubrious, wholesome, beneficial; pleasant, agreeable; easy, smooth, comfortable
Hanif, Hunafa’ Ḥaníf, pl. Ḥunafá’ true believer, orthodox; one who scorns the false creeds surrounding him and professes the true religion; true (religion)
Hanifa Ḥanífa(h) al-ḥanífa as-samḥá’ the true and tolerant (religion, i.e., Islám). Ḥanífih (Pers. form)
Hanifiya al-Ḥanífíya(h) the true (i.e., Islamic) religion
Hanza Hanzá village in Kirman Province, Írán (also known as Hamzá). About 110 km south of Kirmán.
Hanzal (Handal), Hanzala Ḥanẓal, fem. Ḥanẓala[h or t] (collective noun; nomen unitatis ة) colocynth (Citrullus colocynthis). Also called a wild gourd, bitter apple and bitter cucumber. Ḥanḍal and ḥanḍala are dialect variations. Ḥanḍala is the name given to a Palestinian cartoon defiance symbol. Pre-Islamic Christian, Ḥanẓala ibn Abí Ghafráy-i-Ṭá’i‘ (SDC pp. 48–51). Ḥanẓala ibn Abí ‘Ámir (c. 601–625), son of Abú Amír al-Asharí), a companion of Muḥammad, entitled Ghasíl al-Malá’ika (“the one cleansed by the angels”); father of ‘Abdu’lláh ibn Ḥanẓala. In the Lawḥ-i-Sarráj, Mírzá Yaḥyá, the “one time ‘Blessed Fruit’” (thamara ṭúba), whose rejection of Bahá’u’lláh is said have transformed him into a mere ḥanẓal.
HaParsim HaParsim Hebrew. Rechov HaParsim “Street of the Persians”. House of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is 7 Rechov HaParsim.
Haqiq, Ahiqqa’ Ḥaqíq, pl. Aḥiqqá’ worthy, deserving (of something), fit, competent, qualified; entitled (to)
Haqiqa, Haqa'iq, Haqiqatan Ḥaqíqa[h or t], pl. Ḥaqá’iq truth, reality (also philosophy); fact; the true state of affairs, the facts; true nature, essence; real meaning, true sense; the object of the mystic searcher (ṣúfí). ḥaqíqatan really, in reality, in effect, actually, in fact, indeed, truly, in truth.
Ḍíyá’u’lláh Ḥaqíqat (1928–1978), a Persian Bahá’í, born in the village of Khána Kahdán, and martyred in Jahrum.
Haqiqatu’l-Haqa’iq Ḥaqíqatu’l-Ḥaqá’iq reality of realities or truth of truths
Haqiqi Ḥaqíqí real, true; actual; proper, intrinsic, essential; genuine; authentic; positive
Haqq (Haq, Hagh), Huquq Ḥaqq, Pers. also Ḥaq, pl. Ḥuqúq truth; correctness, rightness; rightful possession; property; ones due; duty; proper manner; true, authentic, real; right, fair and reasonable; correct, sound, valid; al-Ḥaqq an attribute of God;—pl. right, title, claim, legal claim. Persian: name of a bird said to suspend itself by the claws at night and continually to cry ḥaq ḥaq.
Haqq, Haqqa Ḥáqq, fem. Ḥáqqa[h or t] middle of anything; that which sorts out truth from falsehood; that which is inevitable (an epithet of the Day of Judgement). Qur’án 69. The Sure Reality or the Reality
Haqqa Ḥaqqa[h or t] (fem. of ḥaqq) to be true, turn out to be true, be confirmed; to be right, correct; (also passive ḥuqqa) to be necessary, obligatory, requisite
Haq-guy (Haq-goy, Haqguy) Ḥaq-gúy (Ḥaqgúy) Pers. (Ar. influence) speaking truth (“truth speaker”); the essence of a thing; name of a bird that hangs by a tree and vociferates all night
Haq-shinas (Haqshinas) Ḥaq-shinás (Ḥaqshinás) Pers. knowing and performing one’s duty; rendering to everyone his due; able to appreciate; grateful (“truth-knower”)
Haqqa (Haqqah or Haqqat) Ḥáqqa[h] or Ḥáqqa[t] that which sorts out truth from falsehood; that which is inevitable (an epithet of the Day of Judgement). Qur’án 69. The Sure Reality or the Reality
Haqqan Ḥaqqan really, in reality, in effect, actually, in fact, indeed, truly, in truth; justly, rightly, by rights
Haqqani Ḥaqqání correct, right, proper, sound, valid, legitimate, legal
Haqqu’llah, Huququ’llah Ḥaqqu’lláh, pl. Ḥuqúqu’lláh “Right of God”
Hara Hará[h or t] Herat (city in NW Afghánistán)
Haraka, Harakat Ḥaraka[h or t], pl. Harakát movement, motion; commotion; physical exercise; stirring, impulse; proceeding, procedure, policy; action, undertaking, enterprise; military operation; continuation, progress; traffic (rail, shipping, street); movement (as a social phenomenon); vowel (grammar)
Haram ash-Sharif al-Ḥaram ash-Sharíf “the Noble Sanctuary” or Temple Mount in Jerusalem
Haram-i-Aqdas Ḥaram-i-Aqdas Most Holy Sanctuary or Precincts, i.e. the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh in the Jannat-i-Abhá (Abhá paradise) (according to Shoghi Effendi) and the surrounding gardens at Bahjí.
Haram-i-Fatimih-i-Ma’sumih Ḥaram-i-Fáṭimih-i-Ma‘ṣúmih Pers. form of Ḥaram (Shrine of) Fáṭima al-Ma‘ṣúma (34.641822, 50.879045), sister of Imám ‘Alí ar-Riḍá (8th Imám), in Qum, Írán. See Ma‘ṣúm.
Haram, Ahram Ḥaram, dual Ḥaramayn, pl. Aḥrám forbidden, prohibited, interdicted; taboo; holy, sacred, sacrosanct; something sacred, sacred object; sacred possession; wife; sanctum, sanctuary, sacred precinct; the two Holy Places, Mecca and Medina, and thálith al-ḥaramayn the third Holy Place, i.e., Jerusalem. The sacred sanctuary at Mecca where no blood may be spilled, and the four months with the same sanction in the Arabic calendar. Fort Antonia or “Temple Mount” in Jerusalem is also known by Muslims (in the belief that it is the site of the Jewish Temples) as al-Ḥaram ash-Sharíf, “the Noble Sanctuary”, or al-Ḥaram al-Qudsí ash-Sharíf, “the Noble Sanctuary of Jerusalem”. Compare with Ḥill.
Haram, Ahram Haram, pl. Ahrám, Ahrámát pyramid. al-Ahrám (“The Pyramids”) (5 August 1875–) is the most widely circulating Egyptian daily newspaper, and the second oldest after al-Waqá’i‘ al-Maṣriyyah. It is majority owned by the Egyptian government.
Haram, Hurum Ḥarám, pl. Ḥurum forbidden, interdicted, prohibited, unlawful; something forbidden, offense, sin; inviolable, taboo; sacred, sacrosanct; cursed, accursed. Ḥarám is a variation of Ḥaram.
Haramayn (Haramain) al-Ḥaramayn (dual pl. form of Ḥaram, sanctuary) “The Two Holy Places” or “The Two Sanctuaries”, traditional Islamic appellations of the two holy cities of Islam, Mecca and Medina. The “Twin Sacred Shrines” now refers to the places in Shíráz where the Báb was born (house of His uncle, Ḥájí Mírzá Siyyid ‘Alí) and where He made His public declaration (House of the Báb).
Harat (Herat) Harát city (30.055184, 54.372201) in Írán, 180 km ENE Shíráz. Also the third largest city in Afghánistán.
Harati Harátí from Harát (Herat), Írán
Harawi, Hirawi Harawí from Herat, Afghánistán
Harb, Hurub Ḥarb fem., pl. Ḥurúb war, warfare; fight, combat, battle; enemy, enemies
Harf-i-Baqa Ḥarf-i-Baqá “Letter of Eternity”
Harf, Hiraf, Huruf, Ahruf Ḥarf, pl. Ḥiraf, Ḥurúf, Aḥruf (cutting) edge (of a knife, of a sword); sharp edge; border, edge, rim, brink, verge;—(pl. ḥurúf, aḥruf) letter; consonant; particle (grammar); type (typography)
Harfi Ḥarfí literal
Hargah (Har-gah) Hargáh Pers. whenever, wherever; constantly
Harir, Hara’ir Ḥarír, pl. Ḥará’ir silk;—pl. silken wares, silks
Hariri Ḥarírí silken, silky, of silk. Abú Muḥammad al-Qásim ibn ‘Alí ibn Muḥammad ibn Uthmán al-Ḥarírí, popularly known as al-Hariri of Basra (1054–1122) was an Arab poet, scholar of the Arabic language and a high government official of the Seljuk Empire.
Harith, Haritha, Hurrath Ḥárith, fem. Ḥáritha[h], pl. Ḥurráth ploughman, cultivator, farmer. Banú al-Ḥárith Jewish tribe of Arabia. Naḍr-ibn-i-Ḥárith : religious leader during the time of Muḥammad. Ubaydah ibn al-Ḥárith (c. 562–624) was a cousin and a companion of Muḥammad. Zayd ibn Ḥárithah (c. 581–629) a companion of Muḥammad and adopted as his son. He is the only Muslim apart from Muḥammad who is mentioned by name (as Zayd) in the Qur’án (33:37).
Harj Harj excitement, agitation, commotion; disorder, muddle, confusion. Harj can be interpreted as “killing”.
Harra, Harrat Ḥarra[h or t], pl. Ḥarrát stony area; volcanic country, lava field. The Battle of al-Ḥarra (Yawm al-Ḥarra, “the day of al-Harra”) was fought between the Syrian army of the Umayyad caliph Yazíd I (r. 680–683) led by Muslim ibn ‘Uqba and the local defenders of Medina who had rebelled against the caliph. The battle occurred at the lava field of Ḥarrat Wáqim (Black stone land of Waqim to the east of Medina) in the northeastern outskirts of Medina on 26 August 683. Ḥarrat Raháṭ is a large volcanic lava field located south of Medina and extending 300 km south. It has a number of volcanic cones. In CE 1256 a lava flow travelled to within 4 km of Medina.
Harran, Harra, Hirar, Harara Ḥarrán, fem. Ḥarrá, pl. Ḥirár, Ḥarárá thirsty; passionate, fervent, hot (figurative). Ḥarrán (once the major ancient Parthian Empire city of Carrhae in Upper Mesopotamia; now Türkiye), 40 km SE of Urfa (officially Şanlıurfa, ancient Edessa) and 100 km north of ar-Raqqah (Syria). See Battání.
Harun, Arina (Arna) Hárún, fem. Arnína Aaron (Hebrew אהרון, Ahrwn); chief, leader; a messenger, courier; helplessness, indigence; astonishment; amazement. Fem. Arnína (ארנינה, Arnính), can be shortened to Arna.
Harun-Abad Hárún-Ábád now Islám-Ábád-i-Gharb, Írán
Harunu’r-Rashid Hárúnu’r-Rashíd Aaron the Just. Fifth Abbasid Caliph. See Zubayda.
Harut Hárút name of an angel, who, together with another named Márút (Qur’án 2:102), having severely censured mankind before the throne of God, was sent with him down to earth in human shapes to judge of the temptations to which man is subject. They could not withstand them: they were seduced by women, and committed every kind of iniquity; for which they were suspended by the feet in a well in Babylon, where they are to remain in great torment till the day of judgement. They are said to be teachers of magic to man. See Márút
Hasan-‘Ali Ḥasan-‘Alí Siyyid Mírzá Ḥasan-‘Alí, youngest maternal uncle of the Báb
Hasan-‘Amu Murtada Ḥasan-‘Amú Murtaḍá (MF)
Hasan-Abad (Hasanabad) Ḥasan Ábád an old and historical area (District 3) to the north side of Ṭihrán (35.769492, 51.432398). A town (also known as Ḥasanábád-i-Fasháfúyih) in Rayy County, Tehran Province (3rd stop from Ṭihrán for Bahá’u’lláh’s exile to Baghdád)
Hasan-i-‘Ammu Ḥasan-i-‘Ammú
Hasan-i-Hakim-Bashi Ḥasan-i-Ḥakím-Báshí
Hasan-i-Khurasani Ḥasan-i-Khurásání
Hasan-i-Mazindarani Ḥasan-i-Mázindarání
Hasan-i-Niku Ḥasan-i-Níkú
Hasan-i-Safa Ḥasan-i-Ṣafá
Hasan-i-Vazir Ḥasan-i-Vazír
Hasan-i-Zunuzi Ḥasan-i-Zunúzí
Hisan Ḥasan (حسان), pl. Ḥisán (masculine) beautiful, handsome, lovely; pretty, nice; good, agreeable; excellent, superior, exquisite. Ḥasan is the name of the second Imám. Compare Ḥassán.
Hasana, Hasanat Ḥasana[h or t] (حسنة), pl. Ḥasanát (feminine of Ḥasan) good deed, benefaction; charity, alms; pl. advantages, merits.
Hasani Ḥasaní of Ḥasaní, descendant of Ḥasan
Hasanzadih-Shakiri Ḥasanzádih-Shákirí (Ḥasan-i-Zádih-Shákirí)
Hashara, Hashr Ḥashara, Ḥashr 1. to gather, assemble, rally (people), raising from the dead; to cram, crowd, pack, jam (together); to squeeze, press, force, stuff. 2. migration, evacuation, exile.
Hashim shim breaker of bread into a broth; surname of an ancestor (Háshim ibn ‘Abd Manáf al-Mughírah, great grandfather) of Muḥammad, on account of his providing broth to the poor at the time of a great famine. The Banú-Háshim were Muḥammad’s ancestors, a tribal group in southern Arabia. From ‘hashama’, “to destroy or smash to pieces”.
Hashimi shimí, pl. Háshimíyún Hashemite, member of the Banú-Háshim
Hashish, Hasha’ish Ḥashísh, pl. Ḥashá’ish herbs, grasses; weeds; hay; hemp (Cannabis sativa), hashish, cannabis; stillborn child. Known by many names in Persia: ‘Parrot of all mysteries’, plain ‘Mysteries’; ‘Secrets’ or ‘Master Sayyid’—it being green, and the Sayyids, descendants of the Prophet, wear a turban as green as parrot feathers. An ode of Ḥáfiẓ which must have puzzled translators is addressed to hashish and begins, ‘O thou parrot, speaker of secrets, may thy beak never lack for sugar!’ Summon up remembrance, p. 87.
Hashishi, Hashishiyya, Hashishiyyin Ḥashíshí (e.g.) sap-green, reseda green (RGB 108, 124, 89; CMYK 13, 0, 28, 51)—a standard colour whose name derives from the colour of the leaves of Reseda odorata, commonly known as mignonette;—pl. Ḥashíshiyya or Ḥashíshiyyín (Pers. Ḥashashiyan) known in English (due to a mispronunciation) as the Assassins, and applied to a Nizárí Ismá‘ílí sect who lived in the mountains of Persia and Syria (1090–1275). See Asás.
Hashiya, Hawashin Ḥashiya, pl. Ḥawashin border; seam, hem; edge; margin (of a book); marginal gives; marginal notes; commentary on certain words and passages of a book, supercommentary; footnote; postscript; retinue, entourage, suite, servants; dependents;—pl. critical apparatus
Hashshash, Hashshashun, Hashshashin Ḥashshásh, pl. Ḥashsháshún smoker or chewer of hashish. hashish addict. Plural also Ḥashsháshín. See Asás.
Hasht Hasht eight
Hasht Bihisht Hasht Bihisht The eight paradises by Shaykh Aḥmad-i-Rúḥí
Hashtjird, Hashtgird (Savujbulagh) Hashtjird, Hashtgird city and capital of Sávujbulagh County in Alborz Province, Írán. 27 km NW of Karaj
Hashtrud (Hashtrood) Hashtrúd (also known as Ádharán, Saráskand, Sar Eskand, Sar Eskandar, and Sar Eskand Khan) is a city (93 km SE Tabríz) and capital of Hashtrud County, East Azerbaijan Province, Írán
Hasib, Husaba’ Ḥasíb, pl. Ḥusabá respected, esteemed; noble, of noble birth, highborn. Also a revenger or resenter of an injury; a reckoner (al-Ḥasíb a name of God).
Hassan Ḥassán (حسَّان) beautifier, doer of good, benefactor. Ḥassán ibn Thábit (c. 563–674) was an Arabian poet and a Ṣaḥába, hence he was best known for his poems in defence of Muḥammad. Compare Ḥasan.
Hast Hast Pers. is, exists, remains; existence, being. hastam (I am), hastí (you are), hast (he, she, it is), hastím (we are), hastíd (you are), hastand (they are)
Hasur Ḥaṣúr close, confinement, avaricious; chaste
Hasuri Ḥaṣúrí Rúḥu’lláh Ḥaṣúrí
Hatib Ḥátib wood cutter. Ḥáṭib ibn Abí-Balta‘ah was a ṣaḥábí (companion), a veteran of the Battle of Badr, who carried a letter to Muqawqis, an Egyptian Coptic Christian official. He returned (CE 628) with gifts, including two slaves, Máríah al-Qibṭíyah (see Qibṭí) and her sister Shírín. Muhammad married Máríah. The Maqawqis also sent a white mule, named Duldul, and a donkey named Ya‘fúr.
Hatif, Hawatif Hátif, pl. Hawátif shouting, calling loudly; (in earlier Sufism) invisible caller, voice;—pl. telephone; loudspeaker; exclamations, shouts, cries, calls. Siyyid Aḥmad Hátif Iṣfahání (d. 1783), a famous Iranian poet of the 18th century. He wrote: Split the atom’s heart, and lo! Within it thou wilt find a sun. Quoted by Bahá’u’lláh, The Seven Valleys and the Four Valleys in Call of the Divine Beloved, p. 8.
Hatim at-Ta’i, Hatim-i-Ta’i Ḥátim aṭ-Ṭá’í, Pers. Ḥátim-i-Ṭá’í Arab poet known for his generosity/liberality. Also transcripted as Ḥátim aṭ-Ṭáyy (“Hatim al-Tai” or “Hatim al-Taaey”), Ḥátim of the Ṭáyy or Ṭá’í tribe, but formally Ḥátim bin ‘Abdu’lláh bin Sa‘d aṭ-Ṭá’iyy. The nisba (patronymic) of Ṭayy is aṭ-Ṭá’í.
Hatim, Hatam Ḥátim, Pers. Ḥátam Arab poet known for his generosity/liberality. Also transcripted as Ḥátim aṭ-Ṭáyy (“Hatim at-Tai” or “Hatim at-Taaey”), Ḥátim of the Ṭáyy or Ṭá’í tribe, but formally Ḥátim bin ‘Abdu’lláh bin Sa‘d aṭ-Ṭá’iyy. The nisba (patronymic) of Ṭayy is aṭ-Ṭá’í.
Hatta Ḥattá (preposition) until, till, up to, as far as; (conjugated with perfect) until, so that; (with subjunctive) until, that, so that, in order that
Hattab Ḥaṭṭáb wood gatherer; wood-cutter, lumberjack; vendor of firewood
Hattin Haṭṭín Qurún Haṭṭín “The Horns of Hattin” (7 km west of Tiberias) is an extinct volcano with twin peaks overlooking the plains of Hattin, Israel. It is the “supposed” site of the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount. The Battle of Hattin (Ma‘rakah Haṭṭín or the Battle of the Horns of Hattin) on 4 July 1187, was between the Crusader states of the Levant and the forces of the Ayyubid Sulṭán Ṣaláḥ ad-Dín. The Muslim armies captured or killed the vast majority of the Crusader forces. As a result, Muslims again became the eminent military power in the Holy Land, re-conquering Jerusalem and many other Crusader-held cities. Two years later these Christian defeats prompted the Third Crusade.
Hawari, Hawariyyun (“Hawariyun”) Ḥawárí, pl. Ḥawáriyyún disciple, apostle (but not a Rasúl) (of Jesus Christ); disciple, follower. الْحَوَارِيُّونَ—the disciples in Qur’án 3:52.
Hawd (Haud), Ahwad, Hiyad Ḥawḍ, pl. Aḥwáḍ, Ḥiyáḍ basin; water basin; trough, tank, cistern, reservoir, container; basin of a river or sea; pool; (in the Egyptian irrigation system) a patch of land surrounded by dikes, flooded by high water of the Nile; pond; (garden) bed; dock; pl. (ḥiyāḍ) ground, area, domain (to be protected), sanctum
Hawda (Hauda) Ḥawḍa Pers. basin, a basin-shaped litter to ride in upon an elephant
Hawdaj (Haudaj, Houdaj) Hawdaj, pl. Hawádij camel litter or bed, howdah (from Hindi); sedan chair, litter. Carried by a camel, mule, horse or elephant for travelling purposes.
Hawl (Haul), Ahwal, Hu’ul Hawl, pl. Ahwál, Hu’úl terror, fright, alarm, shook, horror, dismay; power
Hawran (Hauran, Houran) Ḥawrán the Hauran, a mountainous plateau in SW Syria and N Jordan. The Druze of the area.
Hawz (Hauz), Ahwaz (Ahvaz) Ḥawz, pl. Aḥwáz, Pers. also Aḥváz possession, holding, tenure; obtainment, attainment, acquisition; taking possession, occupation, occupancy; (jurisprudence) tenancy;—pl. enclosed area, enclosure; precinct(s), boundary, city limits. al-Aḥwáz, city in south-west Írán, 460 km SE of Baghdád.
Hawza (Hauza) Ḥauza(h or t) possession, holding, tenure; property; area, territory
Hawzah ‘Ilmiyah Ḥawzah ‘Ilmíyah is a seminary where Shí‘a Muslim scholars are educated
Haya, Hayawat Ḥayá(h or t), pl. Ḥayawát life, existence; life-blood; liveliness animation
Hayat-i-Bagh Ḥayát-i-Bágh land was purchased in ‘Udláján district 12 of Ṭihrán (35.680768, 51.429470; east of the Gulistan Palace) in 1800 by Mírzá Buzurg-i-Núrí. A house completed in 1802 was called Saráy-i-Naw Sákht (“The newly built House”). It was later known as Ḥayát-i-Bágh (“Garden life”) and the House of Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’u’lláh’s father later added six more houses. He was forced to sell them about 1835. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá later purchased an enclave of Bahá’í homes around a large garden (same?) and it was named Ḥayát-i-Bágh.
Hayat-Quli Khan Ḥayát-Qulí Khán Governor of Karand and a member of the ‘Alíyu’lláhí, a sect that equates Imám ‘Alí with God.
Hayawan, Hayawanat Ḥayawán, pl. Ḥayawánát animal, beast; (collectively) animals, living creatures. Alternative spelling: ḥaywán (haiwan), etc.
Hayawaniya Ḥayawáníya(h or t) bestiality; animality, animal nature. Alternative spelling ḥayawán (haiawan).
Haydar (Haidar) Ḥaydar Pers. a lion; a proper name
Haydar-‘Ali Ḥaydar-‘Alí, Ḥájí Mírzá noted early Bahá’í, born into Shaykhí family of Iṣfahán. Known as the “Angel of Carmel”.
Haydari Ḥaydarí Pers. of or belonging to Ḥaydar; an adherent of Quṭb ad-Dín Ḥaydar, the founder of the Ḥaydaríya mystic sect.
Haydariya (Haydariyya) Ḥaydaríya Persian Sufi mendicant, mystical order known for their celibacy and mortification of the flesh through piercing their bodies with iron rings (cannabis was used to deaden the pain). Compare with the Ni‘matu’lláhí sufi order.
Hayf (Haif) Ḥayf (pun on the name Haifa) Pers. practising injustice; injustice, violence, oppression; revenge; a pity; alas! what a pity
Hayfa’ (Haifa’) Ḥayfá’ Haifa. Hefa or Hepha in Hebrew.
Hayiya, Hayya, Yahya Hayiya, Ḥayya, Yaḥyá (Ḥayáh) to live; ḥayya to live to see, experience, witness (something), live (through a time)
Haykal (Haikal), Hayakil Haykal, pl. Hayákil temple; large building, edifice; altar; skeleton; framework (of a structure), frame; chassis (of an automobile); colossal, gigantic, huge. Broader definition from: a figure, image, face, form, stature or shape of the body; a long or tall horse; anything large-sized; a giant; a tall plant; a temple of idolaters; a palace, stately edifice; a Christian church; a monastery; an amulet or talisman inscribed with magic figures, hung round the body, as a defence against fascination or misfortune. The haykal (as used by the Báb) represents the temple of a human being, the Perfect Man (the Manifestation of the names and attributes of God). Hence, men are called the “possessors of the pentagram (haykal)” because the Manifestation of the names and attributes of God is enshrined within the heart of each individual. See dá’ira.
Haykalu’t-tawhid Haykalu’t-tawḥíd “posture of unity”, or freely translated as cross-legged
Hayra (Haira) Ḥayra(h or t) confusion, perplexity, bewilderment, embarrassment, helplessness, embarrassed, at a loss, helpless
Hayran (Hairan), Hayara, Huyara Ḥayrán, f. Ḥayrá, pl. Ḥayárá, Ḥuyárá confused, perplexed, startled, dismayed, disconcerted, baffled, Nonplused, bewildered, appalled, taken aback, stunned; embarrassed, at a loss, at one’s wit’s end; uncertain, helpless, sheepish (smile, etc.), confused, incoherent (words, and the like)
Haytham (Haitham) Haytham young eagle. Abú ‘Alí al-Ḥasan ibn al-Ḥasan ibn al-Haytham (c.  965–c.  1040), Muslim Arab scientist, mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher. Known in the West as Alhazen or Alhacen. Author of Kitáb al-Manáẓir (The Book of Optics).
Hayula, Hayyula Hayúlá, Hayyúlá primordial matter; matter; substance
Hayy Ḥayy, pl. Aḥyá’ living, live, alive; lively, lusty, animated, active, energetic, unbroken, undaunted, undismayed; living being, organism; tribe, tribal community; block of apartment houses; section, quarter or neighbourhood (of a city). al-Ḥayy, divine name the Ever-Living. e.g. al-Ḥayy al-Manyal (El Manial district) of Cairo.
Hayyan Ḥayyán lively, energetic. Abú Músá Jábir ibn Hayyán (Geber)
Hazar (Hizar), Hazaran Hazár, pl. Hazárán Pers. a thousand; a bird called the thousand voices, having an uncommon variety of melodious notes, a species of nightingale; a term employed in the game of nard. Hazár dara (“thousand valleys”), a barren area of conical hillocks to the east of Iṣfahán.
Hazara (Hizara, Hizarih) Hazára Pers. a double flower; a divided stream or water jet; name of a tribe of Afghans.
Hazir, Haziran Ḥáẓir, pl. Ḥáẓirán present, at hand, ready, prepared; at the service of, willing, content; (in grammar) the present tense; the second person; a large tribe;—pl. the people present, the audience. See ḥáḍir
Hazira, Haza’ir Ḥaẓíra[h or t], pl. Ḥaẓá’ir enclosure, railing, fence, palisade, hedge; compound, yard, pound, pinfold; corral, pen, paddock, coop; hangar, shed; field, domain, realm (figurative). Pers. a city, a fixed residence.
Haziratu’l-Quds, Haza’iru’l-Quds Ḥaẓíratu’l-Quds, pl. Ḥaẓá’iru’l-Quds Sacred Fold or Paradise. al- used in transcription, but not in Persian script. Title (sometimes shortened to Ḥaẓíra) given to Bahá’í administrative headquarters owned by the Bahá’ís—local, regional and national. If rented it is a Bahá’í Centre.
Hiba, Hibat Hiba(t), pl. Hibát gift, present, donation, grant
Hibatu’llah Hibatu’lláh gift from God
Hibb, Ahbab Ḥibb, pl. Aḥbáb, Ḥababa[h or t] darling, dear, dearest (one), lover, friend
Hidayat (Hedayat) Hidáya[t] guidance, showing the way and guiding in the right path to the goal of perfection. Riḍá Qulí Khán Hidáyat (1800–1871), Persian literary historian, administrator, and poet of the Qájár period.
Hidayatu’llah Hidáyatu’lláh Guidance of God
Hidayatu’t-Taliban (Hidayatu’t-Talibin) Hidáyatu’ṭ-Ṭálibán Pers. “Guidance for students”, by Ḥájí Mírzá Muḥammad Karím Khán Kirmání
Hidj, Huduj, Ahday Ḥidj, pl. Ḥudúj, Aḥdáj load, burden, encumbrance; a camel’s litter in which women ride
Hifz Ḥifẓ preservation; maintenance, sustentation, conservation, upholding; protection, defense, guarding; custody, safekeeping, keeping, storage; retention; observance, compliance (with); memorizing, memorization; memory; (jurisprudence) discontinuance, stay, suspension (of legal action, of a judicial investigation); expert mastery of ḥadíth (including expert memorization of a large number thereof. See ḥáfiẓ.
Hija’i Hijá’í alphabetical; satiric. Modern dictionaries and other reference books use the hijá’í order of the letters where the Arabic letters are partially grouped together by similarity of shape.
Hijab Ḥijáb, pl. Ḥujub, Aḥjiba cover, wrap, drape; curtain; woman’s veil, head scarf; screen, partition, folding screen; barrier, bar; diaphragm. A veil that covers the head and chest.
Hijaz Ḥijáz prohibiting, keeping asunder; a barrier, or anything similar, by which two things are separated; a rope; one of the principal musical modes or styles of the Persians. al-Ḥijáz (Hejaz, “the barrier”) is a region in the west of present-day Saudi Arabia. It is bordered on the west by the Red Sea, on the north by Jordan, on the east by Najd, and on the south by Asir.
Hijazi, Hijazun Ḥijází, pl. Ḥijázūn of or pertaining to Hejaz; an inhabitant of Hejaz; the 7th century dialect of Arabic of the Hejaz was selected as the basis of classical or Qur’anic Arabic. The mother tongue of the Prophet Muḥammad was Arabic, and He spoke using the dialect of the Quraysh tribe, the people of Makkah in the Ḥijáz region.
Hijr Ḥijr forbidden, interdicted, prohibited; northern wall of the Ka‘ba; lap; mare. Name of chapter 15 of the Qur’án (from 15:80, which refers to the rocky country of the Thamúd tribe to the north of al-Madínah) and translated as “rocky tract”. For al-Ḥijr, see Madá’in Ṣáliḥ
Hijra Hijra(h) departure, exit; emigration, exodus; immigration to; al-Hijra (the Hegira), the emigration of the Prophet Muḥammad from Mecca to Medina in AD 622 and start of Islamic calendar (assumed to be 15 July 622).
Hijri Hijrí of the Hegira pertaining to Muḥammad’s emigration in CE 622. A year (sana) of the Hegira, a year of the Muslim era (beginning with Muḥammad’s emigration. Muslim lunar calendar.
Hijriya Hijríya Muslim era, after the Hegira, until the end of the time of the Imams in CE 873 (AH 260), i.e. 260 years
Hikaya, Hikayat Ḥikáya[h or t], pl. Ḥikáyát story, tale, narrative, account; (grammar) literal quotation (of the words of others)
Hikma, Hikam Ḥikma[h or t], pl. Ḥikam prudence and wisdom, philosophy
Hikmat-i-Ishraqi Ḥikmat-i-Ishráqí (Hekmat-i-Eshrakieh)—a system of old philosophies
Hila, Hiyal, Ahayil Ḥíla, pl. Ḥiyal, Aḥáyíl artifice, ruse, stratagem, manoeuver, subterfuge, wile, trick; device, shift; a means to accomplish an end; expedient, makeshift, dodge, way-out; legal stratagem (for the purpose of in fraudem legis agere (in circumvention of the rules of law)
Hilal, Ahilla, Ahalil Hilál, pl. Ahilla(h), Ahálíl new moon; half-moon, crescent; parenthesis; any crescent-shaped object
Hilali Hilálí lunar; crescent-shaped, lunate, sickle-shaped
Hill Ḥill Pers. being lawful; a lawful thing; the dissolution of an oath; doffing the pilgrim’s garb; a butt or mark for archers
Hill, Hillin Ḥill, Ḥillin he was free to ..., he was at liberty to ...; he had free disposal of .... The unprotected area (outside the Sanctuary) and the unprotected months. Compare with Ḥaram.
Hilla, Hillih Ḥilla[h or t] wway station, stopping place, stop, stopover; encampment; absolution (Christian); dispensation (Christian). al-Ḥillah (or al-Ḥilla) city (32.474383, 44.423853) in central ‘Iráq on the river Euphrates, 100 km south of Baghdád. Iṣfahání Persian Ḥillih.
Hilm, Hulum, Ahlam Ḥilm, pl. Ḥulúm, Aḥlám gentleness, clemency, mildness; forbearance, indulgence; patience; insight, discernment, understanding, intelligence, reason
Hilmi Ḥilmí
Hiltit, Haltit, Hiltith, Angizha Ḥiltít, Ḥaltít, Ḥiltíth, Pers. Anguzha asafoetida or asafetida (Ferula assafoetida) hard, aromatic, resinous gum that is extruded from the rhizome or tap root of several species of Ferula, large perennial herbs of the Apiaceae or umbelliferae family. The pungent odour of this resin-based spice dissipates upon cooking, where it delivers a smooth flavour reminiscent of leeks or other onion relatives. The Báb banned its use.
Himar, Hamir, Humur, Ahmira Ḥimár, pl. Ḥamír, Ḥumur, Aḥmira donkey, ass
Himma, Himam Himma[h or t], pl. Himam endeavor, ambition
Himmat-Abad (Hemat Abad) Himmat-Ábád city in Raḍawí Khurásán Ústán Province, Írán. A village (29.757615, 52.174587) 44 km NW of Shíráz.
Himmis, Hammas, Hummus, Nukhud Ḥimmiṣ, Ḥimmaṣ, Pers. Nukhúd (ḥummuṣ (collective; nomen unitatis ة)) chickpea; dried pea unit of weight ≈ 0.2 gm, Pers. a vetch [a legume], pulse [e.g. dried beans, chick peas and lentils].
Hims Ḥimṣ Homs, city in Syria 140 km north of Damascus. Previously known as Emesa or Emisa (Greek).
Himyar Ḥimyar place and tribe of Yemen (Himyartes)
Himyari Ḥimyarí of Ḥimyar. Ḥarbí al-Ḥimyarí was an Arab scholar from Yemen
Hin, Ahyan, Ahayin Ḥín, pl. Aḥyán, Aḥáyín time, an age; propitious time, good time, opportunity; the day of judgement. Abjad value of ḥín is 68. Hence, Shaykh Aḥmad’s “year of Ḥín” refers to AH 1268 or CE 1851–1852. Hin is an ancient Hebrew liquid measurement (mentioned in the Bible) of 3.8 to 6 litres.
Hind, Hindat Hind, pl. Hindát India; the (East) Indians; fem. name (in particular Hind bint ‘Utbah, a wife of Abú Sufyán, and the mother of Mu‘áwiyah I)
Hindi, Hunud Hindí, pl. Hunúd Ar. Indian
Hindiya (Hindiyyih) al-Hindiya(h) (Pers. Hindíyyih 1. city (on the Euphrates River, 20 km se Karbilá) and district in the Karbilá Governorate. The city used to be known as Ṭuwaíríj. 2. Saddat al-Hindíya(h) is a city on the Euphrates River in Iraq, 25 km NE of Karbilá and 8 km south of Musayyib (المسيب). Name derived from the Arabic word for “Indian”, in reference to the dozens of Indian manual labourers imported to the area by the British post World War I, to work on the cities vast agricultural lands.
Hindiyan (Hindian, Hinijan) Hindíyán (Hindíján) (Hendijan, Hendian) a city in and the capital of Hendijan County, Khuzestan Province, SW Írán
Hindu, Hinduwan Hindú, pl. Hinduwán Pers. Indian; black; servant; slave; robber; infidel; watch-man
Hindustan Hindústán Pers. India
Hinna’ (Hina) Ḥinná’ (vulgate Ḥiná) henna, a reddish-orange dye contained in the leaves. The leaves are crushed (to release the chemical lawsone) and sold as a powder. The skin and hair is dyed by the application of freshly soaked powder. Muḥammad Ḥiná-Sáz. Pers. ṣifat-i-ḥiná-i-sáz is a manufacturer of henna (a job done by a “mázár”).
Hiqf, Ahqaf Ḥiqf, pl. Aḥqáf wavy heap of sand;—pl. hills of sand extending a great way; name of a large district in Arabia formerly inhabited by the people of ‘Ád. Qur’án 46: al-Aḥqáf “The Wind-curved Sand Hills” or “The Winding Sand-tracts”
Hira Ḥirá’ Ghár Ḥirá’ (the Cave of Hira, 21.457561, 39.859395) is located at the western end (6.3 km from the centre of Mecca) of Jabal Ḥirá’ (Mount Hira). The “mountain” was renamed Jabal an-Núr after Muḥammad’s revelation in the cave. See Jabal an-Núr.
Hirah, Hirih Ḥíra(h), Ḥíri(h) al-Ḥírah was an ancient city (31.887078, 44.4804) in Mesopotamia. Located in the modern city of al-Ḥírah, it is 18 km SSE of al-Kúfah.
Hirat Hirát Pers. good fortune; a man of good fortune. Herat, Afghánistán, was once in Greater Khurásán, a historical eastern region in the Iranian Plateau between Western and Central Asia.
Hirawi Hirawí Pers. a native of Herat
Hirbud Hirbúd [Herbod or Herbud]—the mystics and holy people
Hirman Ḥirmán deprivation, bereavement, dispossession (of someone, of something) debarment, exclusion, preclusion (from); excommunication (Christian); privation
Hirz (Harz), Ahraz Ḥirz (Ḥarz), pl. Aḥráz a fortification; garrison town, castle; an amulet or charm against fascination or enchantment. Ḥirz Alláh, protection of God.
Hisa’, Ahsa’ Ḥisá’, pl. Aḥsá’ aaccumulated sand with an impermeable layer underneath. Rain will soak through the sand, be protected from evaporation by the upper sand, and be retained by the base layer, forming an aquifer. Wáḥat al-Aḥsá’ (25.429444, 49.621944) is largest oasis (also known as Wáḥat al-Ḥasá’ or Ḥadjár (locally Wáḥat al-Aḥasá)) in the world, largest date production, and birthplace of Shaykh Aḥmad al-Aḥsá’í. al-Hufúf (al-Hufuf) is the major urban centre in the oasis. It is in eastern Saudi Arabia, about 125 km SW of Bahrain. See Qurayn.
Hisab, Hisabat Ḥisáb, pl. Ḥisábát arithmetic, reckoning, calculus; computation; calculation, estimation, appraisal; accounting, settlement; consideration; caution;— (pl.) bill, invoice; statement of costs (bank) account
Hisan, Husan, Ahsina Ḥiṣán, pl. Ḥuṣun, Aḥsina horse; stallion; Ḥiṣán al-baḥr: hippopotamus (Ancient Greek, Hippos, Aramaic, Sussita, names of ancient city east side Sea of Galilee)
Hisar Ḥiṣár block, blockage, barrier; blockade; siege. A town in Khurásán province.
Hisham Hishám Pers. beneficence, liberality. Hishám ibn ‘Abdu’l-Malik, 10th Umayyad Caliph
Hishma Ḥishma[h or t] (fem.) shame, bashfulness, timidity, diffidence; modesty; decency, decorum
Hishmat Ḥishmat decorum, chastity, bashful, modesty (fem.)
Hishmatu’d-Dawlih Ḥishmatu’d-Dawlih
Hishmatu’llah Ḥishmatu’lláh “chaste one of God”
Hisn, Husun Ḥiṣn, pl. Ḥuṣún fortress, fort, castle, citadel, stronghold; fortification, entrenchment; protection
Hitta Ḥiṭṭa(t) remission of sins (pardon), taxes, or burdens; a prayer for a remission (of sins); alleviation, relief, mitigation; abasement, debasement, demotion, degradation (in rank, dignity, prestige); humiliation, insult, indignity
Hizam, Hizamat, Ahzima, Huzum Ḥizám, pl. Ḥizámát, Aḥzima, Ḥuzum belt, girth; girdle; cummerbund, waistband (worn over the caftan to fasten it); sword belt
Hizar (Hezar) Hizár joking, jesting, fun-making. Used in Persian with the same meaning as Hazár. A village (29.886533, 52.518113) in Fars Province.
Hizar Dastan Hizár Dastán Pers. “thousand songs”
Hizavih Hizávih (Hazaveh, Hazareh, Hizaveh, and Hizawah) village 17 km NW of Arák (Sulṭán Ábád), Markazi Province, Írán
Hizb ash-Shaytan Ḥizb ash-Shayṭán “Party of Satan” Qur’án 58:19
Hizb, Ahzab Ḥizb, pl. Aḥzab group, troop, band, cohort, gang; associates, auxiliaries, confederates; arms, armour; party (politics); a 60th part of the Qur’án
Hizbu’llah (Hezbollah, Hizbullah) Ḥizbu’lláh “Party of Allah” or “Party of God”. Name of a Shí‘a Islamist political party and militant group based in Lebanon. In Írán, Ḥizbu’lláh, not a reference to the Ḥizbu’lláhíyún, but rather to the idea that the divisiveness of political parties has no place among Muslims who all belong to the “Party of God”.
Hizbu’llahi, Hizbu’llahiyun Ḥizbu’lláhí, pl. Ḥizbu’lláhíyún ollowers of the party of God. Iranian movement formed at the time of the Iranian Revolution to assist [‘Áyatu’lláh] Rúḥu’lláh Khumayní and his forces in consolidating power. The “Ḥizbu’lláh” was/is not a tightly structured independent organisation, but more a movement of loosely bound groups, often the lúṭíyún that were historically controlled by the local ‘ulamá’.
Hizqil Ḥizqíl Pers. Ezekiel
Hubal (Hobal) Hubal a god worshipped in pre-Islamic Arabia, notably by Quraysh at the Ka‘bah in Mecca. His idol was a human figure, believed to control acts of divination, which was in the form of tossing arrows before the statue. The direction in which the arrows pointed answered questions asked of the idol.
Hubb Ḥubb love; affection, attachment. ḥubbu’l-waṭan, love of one’s country, patriotism. ḥubbu’l-waṭani mina’l-i’mán, love of country (is an article) of religion (a Muslim saying) (cited by Bahá’u’lláh, Gleanings, p. 95).
Hubbu’llah Ḥubbu’lláh Love of God
Hubur Ḥubúr joy. Ḥubúr (Hobour) Khánum
Hud Húd a prophet sent to the tribe of ‘Ád. He is a descendant of Noah.
Huda Hudá guiding, showing the right way, right guidance
Hudaybiyyah (Hudaibiyyah, Hudaybiyah) Ḥudaybiyya(h) Treaty of Ḥudaybiyyah (Ṣalaḥ al-Ḥadaybiyyah), in 628 (AH 6), at al-Ḥudaybiyyah spring 20 km WNW of Mecca on the Old Mecca-Jiddah Road. This was a pivotal treaty between Muḥammad, representing the state of Medina, and the Quraysh tribe of Mecca. The ruins of an old mosque marking the site is at 21.441960, 39.625601. Sometimes written as Ḥudaybiya and Ḥudaybíyya.
Huduri Ḥuḍúrí ḥuḍúrí (presence of) aḥkám (judgements)—judgements delivered in the presence of the litigant parties after oral proceedings. Imám’s knowledge is inspired since it is obtained “in the presence of” (ḥuḍúrí) God.
Huduth Ḥudúth setting in (of a state or condition), occurrence, incidence (of a phenomenon); occurrence, incident, happening; appearing; being new, fresh, young; novelty, originality, invention (creation). “originated nature”—contrast with Imkán (Gate of the heart, p. 189)
Hujaja’l Bahiya al-Ḥújaja’l-Bahíya (Pers. al-Ḥújaja’l-Bahiyyih) beautiful proofs, translated as The Bahá’í Proofs, by Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl
Hujja, Hujaj Ḥujja(h or t), pl. Ḥújaj argument; pretense, pretext, plea; proof, evidence; document, writ, deed, record; authority. A term used in Shí‘í terminology meaning “proof [implied: proof of God]”. It is usually used to refer to a single individual in any given human era who represents God’s “proof” to humanity. The ḥujja is a prophet or an Imám who possess a relationship with God that is greater than anyone else. “Ḥujahs” in The Promised Day is Come, p. 97 should be Ḥújaj.
Hujja ala al-kull ḥujja alá al-kull “proof for all”. The Báb’s praise for Qurratu’l-‘Ayn
Hujjat’u’llah Ḥujjat’u’lláh the proof of God. The last Imám is known as the Proof of God. Title given to an aspiring mujtahid.
Hujjatiya (Hojjatieh) Ḥujjatíya(h) Ḥujjatíyya Society, Írán, was started by Shaykh Maḥmúd Ḥalabí to persecute and harass the Bahá’ís. Ánjuman Khayríya Ḥujjatíyah Mahdíyah (“Charitable Society of Allah’s Proof Over Creation”). The Hojjatieh Society (1953–1983), Írán, was a traditionalist Iranian Shi’a lay religious organization that promoted orthodoxy through non-violent evangelism. Both groups aimed to counter the proofs offered by the Bahá’í Faith.
Hujjatu’l-Islam Ḥujjatu’l-Islám Proof of Islám. Mullá Muḥammad-‘Alí of Zanján was called Ḥujjatu’l-Islám. The Báb called him Ḥujjatu’l-Zanjání.
Hujr, Hajara, Hijr, Hujr, Hijran, Hujran Ḥujr, Ḥajara to deny access (Ḥajr, Ḥijr, Ḥujr, Ḥijrán, Ḥujrán)
Hujra, Hujarat, Hujar Ḥujra, pl. Ḥujarát, Ḥujar Ar. room; cell; (railroad) compartment; chamber
Hujrat (Hujrih), Hujra, Hujarat Ḥujrat, Ḥujra, pl. Ḥujarát Pers. a chamber, closet, cell; a box in a theatre, circus
Hujwiri al-Hujwírí Abu’l-Ḥasan ‘Alí bin ‘Uthmán bin ‘Alí al-Ghaznawí al-Jullábī al-Hujwírí (c. 1009–1072/77), known reverentially as Shaykh Sayyid ‘Alí al-Hujwírí by Muslims of South Asia, was an 11th-century Sunní Muslim mystic, theologian, and preacher from Ghaznavid Empire.
Hukm, Ahkam Ḥukm, pl. Aḥkám (logic) judgement, valuation, opinion; decision, (legal) judgement, verdict, sentence; condemnation, conviction; administration of justice; jurisdiction, legal consequence of the facts of a case (Islamic Law); regulation, rule, provision, order, ordinance, decree; judiciousness, wisdom, judgeship, command, authority, control, dominion, power; government, regime;—pl. statutes, by-laws, regulations, rules, provisions, stipulations, principles, precepts
Hukuma, Hukumat Ḥukúma(t), pl. Ḥukúmát government
Hulayfa Ḥulayfa(h) a name of a medicinal seed. Dhu’l-Ḥulayfah (now a suburb), 5 km SW of the centre of Medina one of several Mawáqí (places where the iḥrám is put on) for Muslims on pilgrimage to Mecca for ‘Umrah or Ḥajj. Ritual established by Muḥammad in 628, when He and about sixteen hundred men set out on pilgrimage to Mecca.
Hulul Ḥulúl stopping, putting up, staying; descending, coming on, befalling, overtaking; incarnation; setting in, advent, arrival (of a time, of a deadline), beginning, dawn; substitution (for someone). In the sense of incarnation: the descent of God or the spirit of God into a person.
Huma (Homa) Humá Pers. a bird of Eastern fable, supposed to fly constantly in the air without touching the ground, and looked upon as a bird of happy omen, prognosticating a crown to every head it overshades; a bird of paradise, phoenix, large royal eagle, or pelican. Fem. name.
Humay Humáy Pers. a queen of Persia, grandmother to Dáráb II; name of a sister of Isfandyár; name of a daughter of Bahman; name of a daughter of the Emperor of Constantinople married to Bahrám Gúr; name of the lover of Humáyún; a standard bearing a figure of the bird humá.
Humayun Humáyún Pers. blessed, sacred, fortunate, august, royal, imperial; name of several kings; name of the mistress of Humáy
Humaza Humaza(h or t) one who defames or reproaches (especially a person present)
Humazatun Humazatun one given to backbiting, defamer, slander-monger
Humma, Hummayat Ḥumma[h or t] fem., Ḥummayát blackness, swarthiness, dark colouration; fever.
Hums Ḥums al-Ḥums is the name traditionally given to the inhabitants of the ḥaram of Mecca at the time of Muḥammad’s appearance, in so far as they were distinguished by special customs during the iḥrám from the other tribes who were together known as al-Ḥilla.
Hunar Hunar Pers. skill, science, knowledge, ingenuity, art, industry, excellence, virtue; profession; a bill of exchange
Hunayn (Hunain) Ḥunayn Battle of Ḥunayn (Qur’án 9:25) in a valley (21.523122, 40.141720) between Mecca and the city of Ṭá’if to the east of Mecca
Huquq Ḥuqúq rights
Hur-i-‘Ujab Ḥúr-i-‘Ujáb “The Wondrous Maiden” by Bahá’u’lláh
Hurayra (Huraira), Hurayrih Hurayra(h), Pers. also Hurayrih a little cat or kitten. Spelling variations of i or y, and endings of “ah” or “ih”.
Surname given to Abú Hurayrih ‘Abdu’r-Raḥmán bin Sakhr (a companion of Muḥammad) because he carried a kitten with him.
A village (33.669543, 36.120067) 24 km NW of central Damascus, Syria.
Huriy, Huri, Hur (“Huris”), Huran Ḥúríy (Pers. Ḥúrí), pl. Ḥúr Pers and Turkish short form for houri (“huri”).
Plural ḥúr also used as sing. with plural ḥúrán.
See fem. ḥúríya and Ghulám.
Huriya, Huriyat, Hur Ḥúríya[h or t] (fem.), pl. Ḥúríyát, Ḥúr houri (a beautriful young woman), virgin of paradise; nymph; young locust.
Adjective, literally, “white one”. Assumed meaning attached to a number of verses in the Qur’án where “Companions” in Paradise, those with “with large and beautiful eyes” or biḥúrin (“fair ones (with) large eyes”) are mentioned.
“Most Great Spirit” symbolized by the “Maiden” (Bahá’u’lláh);
formerly the “Sacred Fire” (Zoroastrian),
“Burning Bush” (Mosaic),
“Dove” (Christian) and
“Angel Gabriel” (Islam).
See aḥwár.
Hurmuduk (Hurmuzak) Húrmudúk Hormodok, small village 55 km SW of Yazd. 5.5 km by road from the village of Sakhvíd (Sakhoid) (to the NW)
Hurmuz (Hormuz), Hurmuzd (Hormuzd) Hurmúz, Hurmúzd Pers. name of an angel; the first day of the solar month; the planet Jupiter; name of the grandson of Isfandíyár; Strait of Hurmúz (Tang-i-Hurmúz) between Írán and Oman
Hurmuzan (Hormuzan, Hormazdan) Hurmuzán was an Iranian aristocrat who served as the governor of Khúzistán, and was one of the Sasanian military officers at the Battle of al-Qádisiyyah. He was later taken prisoner by the Muslims after the fall of Shúshtar in 642.
Hurqalya, Havarqalya Húrqalyá, Havarqalyá (speculative Pers.) intermediary world between the physical and spiritual worlds. Everything in the physical world has its counterpart in the world of Húrqalyá. Each individual human being has two bodies, one of which exists in the physical world and one in Húrqalyá. The occulted but living twelfth Imám and the cities of Jábulsá and Jábulqá, where he is supposed to live, all exist in the realm of Húrqalyá. Introduction to Shi‘i Islam, Moojan Momen, p. 227. From Hebrew רָקִיעַ (firmament, sky, ductile, heaven, expanse, canopy).[1]

1See www.scribd.com/document/ 21263244/HURQALYA-HAVARQALYA and The development of Shaykhí thought in Shí‘í Islam, pp. 106–7
Hurr, Ahrar, Hara’ir Ḥurr, pl. m. Aḥrár, f. Ḥará’ir noble, free-born; genuine (jewels, etc.), pure, unadulterated; free; living in freedom; freeman; independent; free unrestrained; liberal. al-Ḥurr ibn Yazíd bin an-Nájiyah at-Tamímí al-Yarbú‘í ar-Riyáḥí was the general of the Umayyad army dispatched from Kúfa, ‘Iráq to intercept al-Ḥusayn ibn ‘Alí ibn Abú Ṭálib.
Hurriya al-‘Ibada Ḥurriya al-‘Ibada freedom of worship
Hurriya al-Fikr Ḥurriya al-Fikr freedom of thought
Hurriya al-Kalam Ḥurriya al-Kalam freedom of speech
Hurriya an-Naṣr Ḥurriya an-Naṣr liberty of the press
Hurriya, Huriyat Ḥurriya, Pers. Ḥurriyyah, pl. Ḥurriyát freedom, liberty; independence, unrestraint, licence (e.g., poetic)
Huruf al-Hayy, Huruf-i-Hayy Ḥurúf al-Ḥayy, Pers. Ḥurúf-i-Ḥayy Letters of the Living. Supposedly 18 in Islam: Muḥammad, Fáṭimah, 12 Imams, and 4 gates. The 18 Bábí “Letters of the Living” (see the table towards the end of this document), were the “first Letters generated from the Primal Point” (the Báb, who is not a “Letter of the Living”). The abjad value of Ḥayy is 18, hence Ḥurúf al-Ḥayy refers to the number 18. See Muḥammad Afnán, “Number of the Letters of the Living”. Lights of Irfán, Vol. 5, p. 217. https://bahai-library.com/afnan_number_letters_living. See Ḥarf and Sábiq.
Huruf Muqatta’at Ḥurúf Muqaṭṭa‘át (or just Muqaṭṭa‘át) “disjoined letters”, “disconnected letters”, and also “mysterious letters” are combinations of one to five Arabic letters following the Bismi’lláh at the beginning of 29 suras of the Qur’án. The Arabic text of the Qur’án is written with full diacritical marks. However, the disconnected letters are written together without diacritical marks and are pronounced individually. The letters are also known as fawátiḥ or “openers” as they form the opening verse of their respective suras. Four suras are named for their muqaṭṭa‘át: Ṭá’ Há’, Yá-Sín, Ṣád and Qáf. See Muqaṭṭa‘ and Fátiḥa.
Huruf Qamariya al-Ḥurúf al-Qamaríya(h) (Pers. Ḥurúfi Qamaríyya(h)) the moon letters (grammar) (to which the l of the definite article “al” does not assimilate
Huruf Shamsiya al-Ḥurúf ash-Shamsíya(h) (Pers. Ḥurúfi Shamsíyya(h)) the solar (sun) letters (grammar) which assimilate the l of the definite article “al”
Hurufat-i-‘Alin Ḥurúfát-i-‘Álín The Exalted letters by Bahá’u’lláh. See Ḥarf
Hurufi Ḥurúfí (Pers. with Ar. influence) a relator of traditions, a traditionist. See singular Ḥarf
Hurufiyyya Ḥurúfiyyya Hurufism, Sufi doctrine. Not ḥurúfís (MCI , p. 403)
Husam (Hisam) Ḥusám (Ḥisám) (sharp) sword, sword edge
Husam-i-Din, Hisam-i-Din Ḥusám-i-Dín (Ḥisám-i-Dín) sword of faith
Husamu’s-Sultana, Hisamu’s-Saltanih Ḥusámu’s-Sulṭana (Ḥisámu’s-Salṭanih) “Sword of the sovereign”. Title of Prince Sulṭán Murád Mírzá, son of ‘Abbás Mírzá and grandson of Fatḥ-‘Alí Sháh.
Husayn Ḥusayn (diminutive form of Haṣan “Good”) Name of the third Imám, Ḥusayn. Khawlí bin Yazíd al-Aṣbaḥí al-Iyádí ad-Dárimí and Ḥumayd bin Muslim az-Azdí took Ḥusayn’s head to Ibn Ziyád
Husayn-‘Ali Ḥusayn-‘Alí
Husayn-‘Aliy-i-Isfahani Ḥusayn-‘Alíy-i-Iṣfahání
Husayn-‘Aliy-i-Jahrumi Ḥusayn-‘Alíy-i-Jahrúmí
Husayn-‘Aliy-i-Nur Ḥusayn-‘Alíy-i-Núr (GPB p. 338)
Husayn-‘Aliy-i-Nuri Ḥusayn-‘Alíy-i-Núrí Ḥusayn-‘Alíy-i-Núrí, Mírzá Bahá’u’lláh
Husayn-Abad Ḥusayn-Ábád
Husayn-Aqa Ḥusayn-Áqá (MF)
Husayn-Aqay-i-Tabrizi Ḥusayn-Áqáy-i-Tabrízí (MF)
Husayn-i-Ashchi Ḥusayn-i-Áshchí
Husayn-i-Bushru’i Ḥusayn-i-Bushrú’í Muḥammad-Ḥusayn-i-Bushrú’í, Mullá From Bushrúyih, Khurásán
Husayn-i-Kashani Ḥusayn-i-Káshání
Husayn-i-Kashi Ḥusayn-i-Káshí
Husayn-i-Shiraziy-i-Khurtumi Ḥusayn-i-Shírázíy-i-Khurṭúmí
Husayn-i-Turshizi Ḥusayn-i-Turshízí
Husayn-i-Yazdi Ḥusayn-i-Yazdí
Husayn-ibn-Ruh Ḥusayn-ibn-Rúḥ (one of “Four Gates”)
Husayn-Khan Ḥusayn-Khán (the Mushiru’d-Dawlih)
Husayni Ḥusayní of Ḥusayn
Husayniya, Husayniyyih Ḥusayníya, Pers. Ḥusayniyyih a congregation hall for Shí‘a Muslims to hold commemoration ceremonies to mourn the death of Imám Ḥusayn
Husaynzada Ḥusaynzáda Pers. (Ḥusayn+záda), a surname
Husban Ḥusbán calculation, reckoning, accounting; computation. bi-Ḥuṣbán “By final calculation”
Hush sh Pers. understanding, judgement, intellect; the mind, the soul; destruction, perdition, ruin, death
Hushang (Hoshang) Húshang Pers. name of the second king of Persia, of the Peshdadian dynasty; wisdom, prudence, intellect. “The first emanation, intelligence”
Hushidar (Hoshidar) Hushidár Pers. (or Úshídar) attend, be careful, warning. One who increases holiness or promotes righteousness; name of a future saviour (the Báb). Zoroastrian origin. See Úshídar-Máh.
Hushmand shmand Pers. wise
Husn Ḥusn beauty, handsomeness, prettiness, loveliness; excellence, superiority, perfection
Husn al-Madkhal Ḥusn al-Madkhal good manners, good conduct
Husni-Farang Ḥusní-Farang Pers. white, as the complexion of Europeans
Husniya, Husniyyih Ḥusniya[h or t] fem., Pers. Ḥusníyyih possessing beauty
Huss Ḥuṡṣ saffron. See za‘farán
Huwa (Pers. Huva), Hum Huwa, pl. Hum he; it (3rd pers. m. sing. of the pers. pronoun); God (or “the Most Great Name of God” according to the Báb). Huwa (“he” or “he is”) in the context of “‘He is’ God” is often incorrectly understood (as in the definition) to be the name of God. In the Bible it is represented in Hebrew by the tetragrammaton “YHWH”, sometimes pronounced as Yahweh. However, the Jews were forbidden to utter the name of God, and as ancient Hebrew script did not use vowels, it is not known how YHWH would have been pronounced, if it was permitted. If we say “yá huwa” in Arabic in reference to God, it means “O He is ...”. Since Hebrew and Arabic are sister languages, it is not surprising that “yá huwa” sounds like Yahweh, which has commonly been represented by Jehovah. (In some European languages the “J” is pronounced as “Y”, “V” as “U”, and “W” as “UU”.) See note under Bahá’.
Huwa’llah Huwa’lláh “He is God” (Huwa + Alláh). Replacement phrase for the Islamic “There is none other God but God” in this dispensation (removal of the negation) (see Lawḥ-i-Salmán I). The command confirming the removal of the letter of negation, as described in the Tablet of Salmán I, is believed to be in the Kitáb-i-‘Ahd, the Will and Testament of Bahá’u’lláh, that established the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh and appointed its Centre, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Huwayda (Huwaida, Hoveida) Huwaydá Pers. clear, evident, open, manifest, conspicuous; pale; clearly, publicly. Amír ‘Abbás Hoveyda (1919–1979) was an Iranian economist and politician. He was tried by the new (1979) Revolutionary Court and executed.
Huwaydar, Huvaydar Huwaydar, Pers. Huvaydar village north of the city Ba‘qúba, which is 60 km NE of Baghdád
Huwaydar, Huvaydar Huwíya[h or t], Huwiyya[h or t] essence, nature; co-essentiality, consubstantiality; identity; identity card; “Essence of Divinity”; ipseity, selfhood. Iṣfahání Pers. Huviyyih.
Name given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to Inez Cook (later Greeven) (1889–1983).
Also name of one of four daughters of ibn-i Aṣdaq and Ḍiyá’u’l-Ḥájiyyih.
Huzn, Hazan, Ahzan Ḥuzn, Pers. Ḥazan, pl. Aḥzán grief, sadness, affliction, sorrow
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Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
I
I‘tidal I‘tidál moderation
I’jam I‘jám marking a consonant (Arabic) with diacritical points
I’jaz I‘jáz inimitability, wondrous nature (of the Qur’án—I‘jáz al-Qur’án). See ahdá
I’qilhá wa tawakkal I‘qilhá wa tawakkal Tie up (your camel) and trust (in God)—in Tirmidhi’s collection of traditions
I’rab (“a’rab”, “A’rabs”) I‘ráb manifestation, declaration, proclamation, pronouncement, utterance; expression (of a sentiment); desinential inflection (grammar: inflectional endings (nom., accus. and gen,). However, also more broadly defined as speaking or reasoning in Arabic; inflecting, declining in an Arabic noun or verb; the vowels and diacritical points in Arabic.
I’rab (A’rab) I‘ráb manifestation, declaration, proclamation, pronouncement, utterance; speaking, reasoning in Arabic; inflecting, declining in an Arabic noun or verb; the vowels and diacritical points in Arabic. An Arabic term for the system of nominal, adjectival, or verbal suffixes of Classical Arabic. Literally means “making [the word] Arabic”, “making a thing expressed, disclosed or eloquent” (variation IV of ‘Arab).
Grammatical cases: the nominative (al-marfú‘); the accusative (al-manṣúb); the genitive case (al-majrúr). For fully declined nouns the case endings are -u, -a, -i (nominative, accusative, and genitive case respectively), with the addition of a final “n” (nunnation, or tanwín) when the word is indefinite. Also applies to feminine nouns ending in ة (tá’ marbúṭah) (i.e. “-a” or “-at)and ء (hamzah), but for these, ا (alif) is not written in the accusative case. When the noun is made definite, such as by adding the definite article (al-) to it, then there is no nunation, that is, without the “n” at the end of the suffix.
The masculine plural endings are: -ún, -án and -ín.
Feminine plural endings are generally -át.
I’tidad (I’tizad, E’tezad) I‘tiḍád begging assistance; taking or putting under the arm
I’tidad as-Saltana (E’tezadol-Saltaneh) I‘tiḍád as-Salṭana honorary title, one given to ‘Alí Qulí Mírzá Qájár (1822-1880), a son of Fatḥ-‘Alí Sháh. Chancellor of the Dár’u’l-Funún (“polytechnic”) school, he established the Iranian Ministry of Science in 1855 and he was first minister of Science for its first 22 years. He was also the Minister of Telegraphic Industries and served as head of Persia’s printing office a number of times.
I’tikaf I‘tikáf continuing in prayer, remaining constantly in the mosque; retirement, seclusion (in a place of worship); restraining one’s passions from religious motives; constant devotions.
I’timad, I’timadat I‘timád, pl. I‘timádát reliance, dependence (on), confidence, trust (in); confirmation; sanction, approbation, authorization; accreditation (of diplomats);—(pl.) credit, loan
I’timadu’d-Dawlih I‘timádu’d-Dawlih “Trusted of the state”. Mírzá Áqá Khán-i-Núrí, the I‘timádu’d-Dawlih, chief minister of state at time of the attempt on the Sháh’s life by a crazed Bábi, August 1852.
I’timadu’t-Tujjar I‘timádu’t-Tujjár
I’tiqad, I’taqadat I‘tiqád, pl. I‘tiqádát (firm) belief, faith, trust, confidence, conviction;—pl. (religious) creed, faith; article of faith; principle of faith, tenet; doctrine; dogma
I’tiraf, I’tirafat I‘tiráf, pl. I‘tiráfát recognition, acceptance; acknowledgment, avowal, admission, confession; (Christian) confession
I’tisam (E’tisam) I‘tiṣám clinging, adherence (to), maintenance, preservation, guarding, safeguarding
Ibada, ‘Ibadat ‘Ibáda(t), pl. ‘Ibádát worship, adoration, veneration; devotional service, divine service (Christian);—pl. acts of devotion, religious observances (Islamic Law)
Ibadu’llah ‘Ibádu’lláh worshippers of God
Ibaha, Ibahih Ibáḥa(h), Pers. Ibáḥih divulgence, disclosure (of a secret); permission, authorization; licentiousness. “Permission” or abrogation of Islamic law on return of the Hidden Imám.
Ibda‘ Ibdá‘ creation, fashioning, shaping; a marvellous, unique achievement; uniqueness, singularity, originality; creative ability
Ibda’i Ibdá‘í romantic (literally)
Ibda’iya Ibdá‘íya romanticism (literally)
Ibdal Ibdál exchange, interchange, replacement (by), substitution (of); change; phonetic change.
Iblis (Eblis), Abalisa Iblís, pl. Abálisa devil, Satan. A figure often occurring in the Qur’án, regarded by many classical scholars as an angel, but as a jinn in most contemporary scholarship.
Ibn ‘Arabi Ibn ‘Arabí ʻAbd Alláh Muḥammad ibn al-ʻArabí aṭ-Ṭá’í al-Ḥátimí (1165–1240), nicknamed al-Qushayrí and Sulṭán al-‘Árifín (‘Sultan of the Knowers’), was an Arab Andalusian Muslim scholar, mystic, poet, and philosopher. He was extremely influential within Islamic thought.
Ibn, Abna’, Banun, Bani, Banin, Banu Ibn, (colloquial bin), pl. Abná’, Banún son; descendant, scion; offspring, son (of a nation or people). Use ibn at the start of a name, not bin. Other plurals: baní, banín and banú. Sometimes bin is contracted as “b.”. Usually lowercase used in names. Turkish oğlu (son (of), ughlú, “oghlu”, “oghlou”, is also used as a suffix). In Persian also púr (“pur”), e.g. púri Síná. See ‘Amm.
Ibna, Bint, Banat Ibna(t) (colloquial bint), pl. Banát feminine of ibn. daughter; bint girl. Usually lowercase used in names. See ‘Amm.
Ibnu’l-, Ibn-i- Ibnu’l-, Pers. Ibn-i- elided forms of ibn
Ibnu’l-Alusi Ibnu’l-Álúsí the chief jurisconsult [muftí] of Baghdád—one of the five sons of the famous Shaykh Maḥmúd al-Álúsí. Probably one of the three eldest: ‘Abdu’lláh, Bahá’u’d-Dín; ‘Abdu’l-Baqí‘; and Siyyid Na‘mán, Khayru’d-Dín.
Ibrahim Ibráhím (Abraham) Patriarch of the people of Israel. Variations: ibráhim, ibráhum, ibráham, or ibráhúm.
Ibrahim-i-Isfahani Ibráhím-i-Iṣfahání
Ibrahim-i-Khalil Ibráhím-i-Khalíl
Ibrahim-i-Khayru’llah Ibráhím-i-Khayru’lláh Syrian doctor, the first Bahá’í teacher in America, and later joined forces with Muḥammad-‘Ali, the half-brother of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. His English wife, Miriam, remained loyal to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, and later they were divorced. Refer to Balyuzi: Edward Granville Browne and the Bahá’í Faith, pp. 114–117.
Ibrani Ibrání Hebrew, Hebraic; a Hebrew
Ibtihaj Ibtiháj joy, rejoicing, delight (at)
Ibtihaju’l-Mulk Ibtiháju’l-Mulk Ibtiháju’l-Mulk of Gílán
Id (Eid), ‘Ayad ‘Íd, pl. ‘Ayád anything which returns (of care, grief, or sickness); a solemnity, feast, festival, holiday;—pl. manners, customs, habits
Id al-Adha ‘Íd al-Aḍḥá the Feast of Immolation (see Aḍḥan), or Greater Bayrám, on the 10th of Dhu’l-Ḥijjah
Id al-Fitr ‘Íd al-Fiṭr Feast of Breaking the Ramaḍán Feast, or Lesser Bayrám, celebrated on the 1st of Shawwál
Id al-Mab’ath ‘Íd al-Mab‘ath Feast of Resurgence commemorating revelation of first verses to Muḥammad in 10 August CE 610, celebrated on 27 Rajab
Idafa (Izafa, Izafe, Ezafe, Izofa) Iḍáfa[h or t] Arabic (إِضَافَة): addition, apposition; annexation, appending, attachment, augmentation, supplementation; assignment, allocation; ascription, attribution (to); genitive construction (grammar) mostly used to indicate possession. In Persian (اضافه, literal meaning “extra” or “added”), it is a grammatical particle (also Persian influenced languages, e.g. Turkish), that links two words together. In Persian it consists of the unstressed short vowel “-e-” or -i- (“y-e” or y-i- after long vowels)1 between the words it connects and often approximately corresponds to the English preposition “of”. The iḍáfah is generally not indicated in Persian script, which is also normally written without short vowels. Possessive: barádar-i-Maryam “Maryam’s brother” (it can also apply to pronominal possession, barádar-i-man “my brother”. Adjective-noun: barádar-i-buzurg “the big brother”. Given name/title of family name: Muḥammad-i-Muṣaddiq; Ágháy-i-Muṣaddiq, “Mr Mosaddeq”. Linking two nouns: Khíyábán-i-Tiḥrán “Tehran Avenue” or “Road to Tehran”.

1   “We feel that the effect on the average reader of spelling ‘Alíy-i-Kaní as ‘Alí-yi-Kaní might be to cause him to stress the ‘yi’ unconsciously.” Universal House of Justice, Memorandum, 13 October 1978.
Idafiya (Idafiyyah) Iḍáfíya(h) relativity or correlational (philosophical)
Idal ‘Idál justice. See ‘adl
Idbar Idbár flight, retreat; “turn around”
Idda (‘Iddah, ‘Iddat) ‘Idda number; several, numerous, many. ‘iddat, legally prescribed period of waiting during which a woman may not remarry after being widowed or divorced (Islamic Law)
Idha Idhá 1. (introducing a nominal clause the subject of which may he expressed by ب ("b") with following genitive) and then, and all of a sudden; (with noun in nominative case or with ب) there was ... and all of a sudden there was ...; 2. (conjunction) when; if, whenever; whether, if (introducing indirect questions)
Idhn Idhn permission, authorization
Idris (Edris) Idrís Idris. Islamic Prophet typically identified as Enoch (akhnúk), but Bahá’u’lláh identifies him with Hermes. Mentioned in Qur’án 19:56 (Rodwell 19:57) and 21:85. See Urmus
Idrisiyah Idrísiyah Imárah ‘Asír Idrísiyah (the Idrisid Emirate of Asir) was a state located on the Arabian Peninsula. See ‘Asír.
‘Iffatiya, Iffatiyyah ‘Iffatíya[h or t], Pers. ‘Iffatiyyah place of chastity, used in the sense of ‘Iffatíyah school for girls. See ‘Affa.
Iflat Iflát (“Aflát”) escape
Ifranj al-Ifranj Ar. the Franks, the Europeans
Ifranj, Afranj al-Ifranj, Pers. Afranj the Franks, French; the crusaders; the Europeans
Ifridaws al-Ifrídaws Garden of Innermost Paradise (Gate of the Heart 60)
Ifrit (‘Afrit), ‘Afarit ‘Ifrít, pl. ‘Afarít a giant, demon, any fancied spectre of a horrible appearance, a fright; powerful, independent; one who does a thing in a careful and masterly way, skilful, clever. ‘ifrít, ‘afrít, a sly, dangerous, inhuman man (Qur’án 27:39).
Iftar Ifṭár fast breaking; breakfast; first meal after sunset during Ramaḍán
Ihata Iḥáṭa encirclement, encompassment; comprehension, grasp, understanding, knowledge, cognizance (of something), acquaintance, familiarity (with); information, communication
Ihram Iḥrám state of ritual consecration of the Mecca pilgrim (during which the pilgrim, wearing two seamless woollen or linen sheets, usually white, neither combs nor shaves, and observes sexual continence); garments of the Mecca pilgrim
Ihsan (Ehsan) Iḥsán beneficence, charity, almsgiving, performance of good deeds
Ihsanu’llah Iḥsánu’lláh beneficence of God
Ihtifal, Ihtifalat Iḥtifál, pl. Iḥtifálát celebration, ceremony, festival, festivities
Ihtiraq Iḥtiráq burning, combustion; fire, conflagration
Ihtisham Iḥtishám being ashamed; bashfulness, chastity, modesty, decency, decorum; having many dependants, followers, or domestics; pomp, retinue, magnificence, grandeur, state. See Taḥashshum
Ihtisham ad-Dawla, Ihtisham-i-Dawlih Iḥtishám ad-Dawla (Pers. Iḥtishám-i-Dawlih) “The modesty of the state”
Ihtiyaj, Ihtiyajat Iḥtiyáj, pl. Iḥtiyáját want, need, requirement, (pre)requisite, necessity;—pl. needs, necessities, necessaries
Ihtiyat, Ihtiyatat Iḥtiyáṭ, pl. Iḥtiyáṭát caution, cautiousness, prudence, circumspection, carefulness; provision, care, attention, precaution, prevention; (pl.) precautionary measures, precautions
Ihya’ Iḥyá’ animation, enlivening; revival, revitalization, revivification; arranging, staging, conducting, putting on, holding (of a celebration)
Ijaba Ijába[h or t] answer(ing), reply(ing), response, respondence; compliance; fulfilment, granting (of a request); accession, consent, assent
Ijad Íjád creation, procreation, production, origination; procuring, procurement, furnishing, supply; calculation, computation, evaluation
Ijadiyah (Ijadiyyah) Íjádíya(h) an islamic school of mystical philosophy—creationists or transcendentalists, who believe in a God separate from His creation
Ijaza (Ijazih), Ijazat Ijáza(h), Pers. also Ijázih, pl. Ijázát licence or diploma bestowed by higher-ranking members of the ulama on those deemed knowledgeable in particular aspects of Islamic sciences
Ijl, ‘Ujul, ‘Ijala ‘Ijl, pl. ‘Ujúl, ‘Ijala calf (e.g. the golden calf, al-‘ijl adh-dhahabí)
Ijma’ Ijmá‘ agreement, unanimity; unanimous resolution; (Isl. Law) consensus (of the authorities in a legal question; one of the four uṣúl of Islamic Law)
Ijtihad Ijtihád effort, exertion, endeavour, pains, trouble; application, industry, diligence; (Islamic Law) independent judgement in a legal or theological question, based on the interpretation and application of the four uṣúl, as opposed to taqlíd; individual judgement. The power of a Shí‘ih divine to issue ex cathedra decrees and judgements.
Ijtihadi Ijtihádí term sometimes used for the Uṣúlí school in Shi’ism.
Ijtima’, Ijyima’at, ijtima’yya Ijtimá‘, pl. Ijtimá‘át meeting; get-together, gathering, assembly; reunion; rally; convention; conjunction, constellation (astron.); confluence (of rivers); life in a social group, community life, social life
Ijtima’i Ijtimá‘í community, group (used attributively); social; socialist(ic); sociological. ijtimá‘íya(h) socialism
Ikhlas Ikhláṣ purifying, rendering sincere; purity, sincerity, candour; affection, pure friendship, sincere attachment; loyalty, fidelity; intimacy; show or pretence of friendship
Ikhtisas Ikhtiṣáṣ distinguishing; peculiarity, speciality; appropriation
Ikhtiyar, Ikhtiyarat Ikhtiyár, pl. Ikhtiyárát choice; election (pl. also politics); selection; preference (to); option; free will (philosophy)
Ikhwan as-Safa Ikhwán aṣ-Ṣafá The Brethren of Purity, The Brethren of Sincerity. A secret society of Muslim philosophers in Baṣra, ‘Iráq, in the 8th or 10th century CE.
Ikram Ikrám honour, respect, deference, tribute; hospitable reception, hospitality; kindness; honorarium
Ikrima (‘Akrima, ‘Akrama) ‘Ikrima[h or t] a female dove. ‘Ikrima ibn Abí Jahl Amr ibn Hishám (598–634 or 636) was a leading opponent-turned companion of Muḥammad. ‘Ikrima’s father was Amr ibn Hishám ibn al-Mughíra. See Abú Jahl.
Iksir Iksír elixir, the philosopher’s stone; alchemy
Il-Khan or Ilkhan Íl-Khán or Ílkhán Pers. a commander; a title of the Mogul emperors
Il, Ilat Íl, pl. Ílat Turkish. tribe (especially nomadic)
Ilah, Ilaha (Elahe), Aliha, Ilahat Iláh, fem. Iláha[t], pl. Áliha, fem. Ilahát a god, deity, godhead. Dual iláhayn. Normally, if the dual form is used, the word for “two” (ithnán) is implied and is not added. However, in Qur’án 16:51, not only is the word for “two” included, but it itself is used in its dual form: “iláhayn ithnayn”. This emphasizes the prohibition of worshipping “more than one deity”—i.e., anything but the One God (Alláh).
Ilahi (Alahi), Ilahiya, Ilahiyat Iláhí, fem. Iláhíya[h or t], pl. Iláhíyát divine, of God; my God; theological; (Ar. influence) referring or belonging to God. Bashír-i-Iláhí
Ilahiya, Ilahiyat Iláhíya[t], pl. Iláhíyát divinity, deity, divine revelation; theophany (Christian). al-iláhíyát theological, spiritual concerns. ‘ilm al-iláhíyát theology.
Ilan Ílán a village 60 km NE of Qazvín and another 70 km SW Shíráz
Ilchi Ílchí Turkish, an envoy. Mírzá Abu’l-Ḥasan Khán-i-Ílchí, Persian envoy to Britain, original for a character in The Adventures of Hajji Baba of Ispahan. See Ḥájí Bábá Afshár.
Ildirim Íldirím from Turkish yıldırım (lightning or thunderbolt). Íldirím (Yıldırım) Báyizíd Mírzá, younger brother of Muḥammad Mírzá (later Muḥammad Sháh Qájár) and Khánlar Mírzá, all were sons of ‘Abbas Mírzá (1789–1833) and grandsons of Fatḥ-‘Alí Sháh Qájár. Íldirím Mírzá died as a result of torture ordered by Khánlar Mírzá.
Ilhad Ilḥád apostasy; heterodoxy, heresy
Ilham, Ilhamat Ilhám, pl. Ilhámát inspiration; instinct; divine revelation
Iliya’ Íliyá’, Ílíyá’ Elia
Ilkhani Ílkhání Pers. belonging or referring to an Íl-khán; the leader of an army. Bagh-i-Ílkhání, garden described as being “next” to the modern (in the Atábak Garden, since 1915) Embassy of Russia (35.698626, 51.414187), which is nearly 2 km NW of the old city Shimran Gate, and 2.2 km NNW of the Golestan Palace. It was the garden where Ṭáhirih was martyred between August and October 1852..
Ilkhchi Ílkhchí is a town and capital of Ílkhchí District, East Azerbaijan Province, Írán.
Illa Illá (= ل نا in lá) unless if not; except, save; (after negation) only, but, not until
Illa, ‘Illat, ‘Ilal ‘Illa(t), pl. ‘Illát, ‘Ilal illness, sickness, disease, malady; deficiency, defect, weakness; weakness, defectiveness (of a letter or word; grammar); a cause, reason; metrical variation or irregularity (prosody);—(pl. ‘Ilal) cause, reason, occasion; excuse, pretence, pretext, plea. Aristotle claimed that there are four causes (or explanations) needed to explain change in the world: ‘illat al-máddí, material cause, matter of which a thing is made; ‘illat aṣ-ṣúrí, formal cause, i.e. that form in which the essence of a thing consists; ‘illat al-fá‘ilí, notional or efficient cause (as the maker, if the work of man); and ‘illat agh ghá’í, final cause for which it was made.
Illa’llah Illa’lláh “but God” or “save God”
Illiyun or ‘Illiyyun ‘Illíyún or ‘Illiyyún (plural form of ‘ulúw or ‘illiyy) high, sublime; high places or the persons who sit in high places; the upper apartments of heaven; a place in the seventh heaven, where the records of men’s actions are laid up; the books themselves; a ledger for the righteous deeds. See Qur’án 83:18–20. The opposite of sajín.
Ilm adh-Dhawqi al-‘Ilm adh-Dhawqi intuitive insight (Remembrance of God, p. 5, Scholl)
Ilm al-Ilahi ‘Ilm al-Iláhí theology
Ilm al-wujudi ‘ilm al-Wujudi existential knowledge
Ilm Ilahiyat, ‘Ilm Ilahiyun ‘Ílm Iláhíyat, pl. ‘Ílm Iláhíyún theologian
Ilm-al-Yaqin ‘Ilm-al-Yaqín “certain knowledge” or knowledge that is impossible to deny or disprove
Ilm, ‘Ulum ‘Ilm, pl. ‘Ulúm knowledge, learning, lore; cognizance, acquaintance; information; cognition, intellection, perception, knowledge; (pl.) science; al-‘ulúm, the (natural) sciences
Ilmi ‘Ilmí scientific; erudite (book); learned (society)
Ilmiya, ‘Ilmiyyyih ‘Ilmíya[t], Pers. also ‘Ilmiyyih learning, scholarship
Ilmu’t-Tajwid ‘Ilmu’t-Tajwíd al-‘Ilmu’t-Tajwíd or ‘Ilmu’l-Qira’ah—the science of reading the Qur’an correctly.
Iltibas Iltibás confusion, tangle, intricacy, obscurity, ambiguity, dubiousness, doubt. Also veiled or disguised.
Ilya Ílyá Elia is a name which may be a variant of the names Elias, Elijah, Eli or Eliahu
Ilyas, Alyas (Alyaz) Ilyás, Alyás Hebrew ליהו, Eliahu or Eliyahu, “One whose God is the Lord”; English Elijah (alternative spelling: Elyas, Ilias, Eliasor, Elias, Eliahu, Elyahu, Eliyahu)
Ilzam Ilzám coercion, compulsion
Ilzami Ilzámí forced, compulsory, obligatory, required. As a philosophical term, “necessary” may give a clearer meaning of the word.
Imad, Amad ‘Imád, pl. ‘Amad support, prop, stay (also figuratively); bracket, buttress, post, pole, pillar. Mír ‘Imád famous calligrapher.
Imadi’d-Dawlih ‘Imádi’d-Dawlih “the Mainstay of the State”
Imadu’d-Din Imádu’d-Dín pillar of the Faith
Imam, A’imma Imám, pl. A’imma[h or t] pillar of the Faith Imam, A’immaImám, pl. A’imma[h or t] imam, prayer leader; leader; master; plumb line. The person who leads the congregation in the mosque, in prayer (hence, “prayer leader”). The A’imma are called the “Kindred of God”, “Suns of immaculacy and Moons of majesty” by Bahá’u’lláh (Pen of Glory, p. 27). Imáma[h or t] (English imamah), function or office of the prayer leader; imamate; leading position; precedence.
Imam-Husayn Imám-Ḥusayn the third Imám. One wife, Shahrbánú, was a daughter of Yazdigird III
Imam-Jum’ih Imám-Jum‘ih Pers. (Imam-Jom’a or Imam Jomai) The leader of the Shí‘ah Friday prayers in the mosque of a city or town.
Imam-Zada, Imam-Zadagan Imám-Záda, pl. Imám-Zádagán Pers. (“Emamzadeh”, “Emamzadegan”) descendant of an Imám; son of a priest; term for a shrine-tomb of the descendants (not the Imám) of Imams, who are directly related to Muḥammad. There are many Imám-Zádagán shrines in Qum. Pers. imám-zádih.
Imam-Zadih Ma’sum Imám-Zádih Ma‘ṣúm also known as the Shrine of ibn Bábuyyih (Babawayh) in the ibn Bábuyyih Cemetery, south of Ṭihrán. Place where the Báb’s body was kept at the instruction of Bahá’u’lláh. Nabil suggests the Shrine of Imám-Zádih-Ḥasan.
Imama Imáma(h or t) function or office of the prayer leader; imamate; leading position; precedence
Iman Ímán faith, belief
Imanu’llah Ímánu’lláh Faith of God
Imara Imára(h) position or rank of an emir; princely bearing or manners; principality, emirate; authority, power
Imara, Imarat ‘Imára(h or t), pl. ‘Imárát, ‘Amá’ir building, edifice, structure; real estate, tract, lot
Imarat-i-Khurshid ‘Imárat-i-Khurshíd structure of the sun or sun room. Name of private house in Iṣfahán of the Mu‘tamidu’d-Dawlih (Manúchihr Khán) where the Báb stayed for four months.
Imda’ Imḍá’ realization, execution, accomplishment, completion; signing, signature
Imkan, Imkanat Imkán, pl. Imkánát power, capacity, capability; faculty, ability; possibility. “inherent contingency”—contrast with Ḥudúth (Gate of the heart, p. 189)
Imkani Imkání possible, potential; contingent
Imma Immá if; be it — or, either — or
Imra’, Imru’, al-Mar’ Imra’ and Imru’ (with definite article, al-mar’) a man; person, human being; al-mar’ frequently for son, human being; al-mar’ frequently for English “one”, as yaẓunnu’l-mir’ “one would think”. See Rajul.
Imra’a, al-Mar’a, Niswa, Niswan, Nisa’ Imra’a[h or t] (pl. Niswa[h or t], Niswán, Nisá’), fem. of Imra’. With definite article, al-mar’a[h or t]. A woman, lady, a wife. Nisá’ Khánum was a younger sister of Bahá’u’lláh.
Imran (Omran) ‘Imrán (Amran in Bible, and Joachim is known as ‘Imrán in the al-Qur’án); prosperity; father of Moses, Mary and of Abú Tálib
Imru’ al-Qays (Imru’u’l-Qays) Imrú’ al-Qays ibn Ḥujr al-Kindí 6th century Arab poet
Imruz Imrúz today or this day. See yúm
Imtihan, Imtihanat Imtiḥán, pl. Imtiḥánát test, experiment; examination. Tests occur when a Manifestation appears. See also Fitna.
Imtiyaz, Imtiyazat Imtiyáz, pl. Imtiyazát distinction, (mark of) honour; advantage, benefit, merit; difference, distinction, differentiation, discrimination; special right, privilege; concession, patent, permit, license, franchise; (oil) concession; prerogative, priority right
In Ín Pers. this, the demonstrative pronoun for the nearer object; doubt; irresolution
Inab, Inabun, A’nab ‘Inab (coll.; n. ‘Inabun), pl. A‘náb grape(s). Not ‘Anab as in PUP 248.
Inayatu’llah ‘Ináyatu’lláh (Enayet’o’llah) meaning or care of God. Male given name and surname. ‘Ináyatu’lláh Ishráqí. Mírzá ‘Ináyatu’lláh Khán, the son of Ḥájí Mullá Ismá‘íl (martyred at Shaykh Ṭabarsí)
Infi’al, Infi’alat Infi‘ál, pl. Infi‘álát (state of) being affected, acted upon, or influenced, passivity; stimulation, irritation (biology);—pl. agitation, excitement, excitation, commotion
Infi’ali Infi‘álí excitable, irritable, susceptible (biology); caused by affect, affective (philosophy)
Infisal Infiṣál separation; disengagement, dissociation, withdrawal; secession; interruption
Infitar Infiṭár being split, cleft, riven
Inhitat Inḥiṭáṭ decline, fall, decay, decadence; inferiority
Inja Ínjá Pers. this place; here
Injil, Anajil Injíl, pl. Anájíl (Gk. Evangel) gospel. Injíl occurs twelve times in the Qur’án (as Gospel in English) and refers to the book given to Jesus by God. It is believed to be the true lost original Gospel promulgated by Jesus.
Inkar Inkár denial, disavowal, negation, contestation; refusal, rejection, non-acceptance, e.g. of Imám ‘Alí
Ins Ins (colloquial) man, mankind, human race
Insaf Inṣáf justice, equity
Insan-i-Kamil Insán-i-Kámil perfect human being
Insan, Insana Insán, fem. Insána[h or t] man (in general), human being. Insán al-‘ain pupil (of the eye). See gender based words: rajul, imra’.
Insani Insání human; humane; humanitarian, philanthropist
Insaniya Insáníya(h or t) humanity, humaneness; politeness, civility; mankind, the human race
Insha’ Inshá’ creation; origination; bringing about; setting up. Establishment, organization, institution; formation; making, manufacture, production; erection; building, construction; founding, foundation; installation; composition, compilation, writing; letter writing; style, art of composition; essay, treatise.
Insha’allah Inshá’alláh (’in shá’a lláhu) literally “If God has willed (it)”, “God willing” or “if it is God’s will”; it is to be hoped; I hope; we hope so. The phrase comes from a Quranic command (Qur’án 18:23–4) that commands Muslims to use it when speaking of future events.
Inshaqqa Inshaqqa (verb, form VII intransitive of Shaqqa) to split up, to crack, be cleft; to split, crack, burst; to split off, separate, segregate, secede, break away (Qur’án 54:1)
Inshaqqu’l-Qamar ’Inshaqqu’l-Qamar splitting, cleaving or cracking the moon. A miracle or “an impossible act”. Refer to Qur’án 54:1.
Inshiqaq Inshiqáq separation, segregation, dissociation, spilt; schism (Christian); dissension, discord, disunion
Inshirah Inshiráḥ relaxedness, relaxation, joy, delight, glee, gaiety
Insi Insí human; human being
Intifada Intifáḍa(h) (nomen vicis, single instance), (derived from Nafaḍ), shiver, shudder, tremor. A key concept (as a rebellion, uprising or a resistance movement) in contemporary Arabic usage referring to a legitimate uprising against oppression.  In the Palestinian context, the word refers to attempts to “shake off” the Israeli occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip in the First and Second Intifadas, where it was originally chosen to connote “aggressive non-violent resistance”.
Intizam Intiẓám (a variation of niẓám), being arranged, strung in a line; arrangement, regulation, disposition, order, method, system; plan, scheme; administration, government
Intizar Intiẓár waiting, wait; expectation
Iqab ‘Iqáb infliction of punishment, punishment; penalty. Translated by Shoghi Effendi as “retribution” in The Hidden Words #93 (Persian). Mistaken for “eagle” in an early translation. See ‘uqáb
Iqal, ‘Uqal ‘Iqál, pl. ‘Uqul cord used for hobbling the feet of a camel; a headband made of camel’s hair, holding the kúfíya (headdress) in place
Iqan Íqán being sure, knowing for certain; certitude
Iqbal (Eqbal) Iqbál drawing near, advance, approach; coming, arrival, advent; turning, application, attention, response, responsiveness.
Sir Muhammad Iqbal (1877–1938), widely known as Allama Iqbal, was a poet, philosopher and politician, academic, barrister and scholar from the Punjab (now part of Pakistan). He had close contact with Bahá’ís and was influenced by them.
‘Abbás Iqbál Ashtiyání (1896/97–1956) was an Iranian literary scholar, historian, translator, and an attacker of the Bahá’í Faith.
Iqbal-i-Dawla (Iqbal-i-Dawlih) Iqbál-i-Dawla (Iqbál-i-Dawlih) “Fortune of the state”
Iqd, ‘Uqud ‘Iqd, pl. ‘Uqúd chaplet, necklace
Iqlim, Aqalim Iqlím, pl. Aqálím climate; area, region; province, district; administrative district.
Iqrar Iqrár establishing, fixing (in a place); promise, agreement, assurance, pledge; consent, acquiescence, acceptance; confirmation, ratification, affirmation, attestation, declaration; settlement, compact, bargain; confession, acknowledgment.
Iqtidar, Iqtidarat Iqtidár, fem. pl. Iqtidárát might, power, strength, potency; ability, capability, faculty, capacity, efficiency, aptitude. Iqtidárát wa chand lawḥ-i-dígár ḥaḍrat-i-Bahá’u’lláh (Magnificences and select other Tablets of His Holiness Bahá’u’lláh)—a compilation of Tablets by Bahá’u’lláh.
Iqtiran Iqtirán connection, conjunction, union, association, affiliation; link, connectedness, simultaneous interaction; conjunction (astron.); new moon (as an astronomical aspect); marriage, wedding
Irada (Iradih), Iradat Iráda(h), (Pers. Irádih), pl. Irádát will, volition; wish; desire;—(pl.) irade (a decree of an Islamic ruler), decree (of a ruler); will power
Iraj (Iradj, Eraj) Íraj Pers. the sun; name of the youngest son of Farídún; name of a king of Babylon. Dih Íraj, a village, near Nayríz.
Iram (Erum, Errum, Eyrom), Aram Iram (Arim), pl. Árám Pers. heaven, paradise; stone placed in the desert to guide travellers. Iram of the Pillars (Iram dhát al-‘imád), also called “Aram”, “Irum”, “Irem”, “Erum”, or the “City of the tent poles”, is a reference to a lost city, country or area mentioned in Qur’án 89:7. Fabulous gardens said to have been devised by Shaddád bin ‘Ad in emulation of the gardens of Paradise. Bághi Iram, “heaven on Earth”, the “terrestrial paradise”, fabulous gardens said to have been devised by Shaddád bin ‘Ad to emulate and out compete with the heavenly gardens of Paradise. Bágh Baḥru’l-Arim (≈500 m dia., centre 36.531656, 52.676842), a famous Persian “island-garden”, set in the Baḥru’l-Arim (“Sea of Paradise”), a lake (≈1 km dia., centre 36.532487, 52.675997), now reclaimed, in Bárfurúsh. Now the campus of the Babol University of Medical Sciences.
Iran Írán Iran; “land of the Aryans”, derived from 3rd-century Sasanian Middle Persian érán (“of the Iranians”); a region in southwestern Asia—the Islamic Republic of Írán managed to hold on to most of it. Formerly known in the west as Persia until 21 March 1935 when Muḥammad Riḍá Sháh Pahlaví requested it be called Írán.
Irandukht Írándukht Írán + dukht
Irani, Iranun Írání, pl. Íránún Iranian, Persian;—(pl.) a Persian, an Iranian
Iranzad Íránzád Pers. son of Írán
Iraq al-‘Iráq Iraq
Iraq al-‘Ajam ‘Iráq al-‘Ajam, ‘Iráq-i-‘Ajam Persian ‘Iráq. ‘Iráq between the 11th to 19th centuries consisted of two neighbouring regions: Arabic ‘Iráq (‘Iráq al-‘Arab) and Persian ‘Iráq (‘Iráq al-‘Ajam). Arabic ‘Iráq = ancient Babylonia (now central-southern ‘Iráq), and Persian ‘Iráq = ancient Media (now central-western Írán). The two regions were separated by the Zagros Mountains.
Iraq al-‘Arab ‘Iráq al-‘Arab, ‘Iráq-i-‘Arab Arabic ‘Iráq. See ‘Iráq al-‘Ajam.
Iraq al-A’zam ‘Iráq al-A‘ẓam, ‘Iráq-i-A‘ẓam historical region (Media or Mád) of western Írán, once incorrectly known as Persian ‘Iráq (‘Iráq-i-‘Ajamí). It consisted roughly of a triangle formed by the ancient cities of Ecbatana (believed near Hamadan), Rhagae (southern Ṭihrán) and Aspadana (Iṣfahán).
Iraqan (Iraqain, Iraqayn) al-‘Iráqán, Pers. al-‘Iráqayn cities of Baṣra and Kúfa. Shaykhu’l-‘Iráqayn (Mujtahid Shaykh ‘Abdu’l-Ḥusayn-i-Ṭihrání) opposed Bahá’u’lláh when He was in ‘Iráq.
Iraqi, Iraqun ‘Iráqí, pl. ‘Iráqún Iraqi, Iraqian;—(pl.) an Iraqi
Irbil Irbíl (“)Erbil) capital of ‘Iráqí Kurdistán
Irfan ‘Irfán cognition, knowledge, perception; recognition, acknowledgment; gnosis, mystic knowledge, true or spiritual understanding
Irhaq Irháq pressure, oppression; suppression; heavy load (e.g., of work)
Irhas, Irhasat Irháṣ, pl. Irháṣát “laying a foundation”; term used for any miracle performed by a prophet before his assumption of the prophetical office.
Irivan, Iravan Iriván, Iraván (Azerbaijani) Yerevan, Erivan or Erevan (40.166688, 44.510875), capital of Armenia, west of Lake Sevan
Irshad al-‘Awamm, Irshadu’l-‘Avam Irshád al-‘Awámm, Pers. Irshádu’l-‘Avám “Guidance unto the ignorant” by Hájí Muḥammad-Karím Khán
Irshad, Irshadat Irshád, pl. fem. Irshádát guidance; a conducting, showing the way (to); guiding hand; care; spiritual guidance; instruction; direction; directive; information; advising, advice;—pl. directives, directions, instructions, advice
Irtidad Irtidád retreat, withdrawal; retrogression; renunciation, desertion; apostasy (withdraw from Islam)
Irtifa’ Irtifá‘ rise (e.g., of prices); elevation; increase; height, altitude (e.g., of a mountain). The Báb uses irtifá‘ to simultaneously have two meanings: one is negation, abrogation or cancelation, and the other is exaltation and elevation; this is in relation to the abrogation of a former Dispensation and its fulfilment and exaltation by a new Dispensation. “Each Revelation, in simultaneously abrogating and exalting the previous Dispensation, is the return of the previous Revelation in the station of its perfection.” Gate of the heart, p. 277.
Irtiqa’ Irtiqá‘ climbing, mounting; ascension; ascent; progress, rise, progressive development; “evolution”
Isa ‘Ísá Jesus. See Yasú’
Isam, A’sima, ‘Usum ‘Iṣám, fem. ‘Iṣámí, pl. A‘ṣima, ‘Uṣum (“Essam”) strap, thong. Also safeguard. Male given name and surname. Derived from ‘Iṣma.
Isawi ‘Ísáwí Christian
Isfahan Iṣfahán Pers. city 340 km south of Ṭihrán (sometimes given as Iṣfáhán, Ispáhán and Ṣifáhán). Called the land of Ṣád by the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh. Described as Iṣfahán niṣf-i-jáhán ást, “Isfahan is half (of) the world”.
Isfahani Iṣfahání of or from Iṣfahán. Ḥájí Mírzá Ḥaydar ‘Alíy-i-Iṣfahání (b. Iṣfahán, 1834; d. Haifa, 1920). Bahá’u’lláh gave him the titles “The Angel of Carmel” and “Sulṭán-i-Mu‘allimún” (The king of teachers). Author of Bihjatu’ṣ-Ṣudúr (Delight of Hearts)
Isfand Isfand Pers. a species of rue; a province of Nishábúr; 12th month of Persian solar calendar
Isfandabad (Esfandabad, Isfand-Abad) Isfandábád (Esfand Abad) village between Yazd and Shíráz (30.918674, 53.434260)
Isfandiyar Isfandíyár Pers. Esfandiyár, Sepandiár, Sepandiyar, Esfandyar, Isfandiar, Isfandiyar or Esfandiar. Legendary Iranian hero. (“Created holy and pure”) Name of loyal servant of Bahá.
Isfiya ‘Isfiya is a Druze-majority town (32.717905, 35.064655) on Mount Carmel, to the south of the highest point. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá owned land in the area.
Isha Íshá (for íshán) Pers. they.  An honorific form of Persian pronoun for the third person singular.  Íshá, a designation (also Jináb Íshá, derived from Ṣúfí usage) by which Bahá’u’lláh was known: “When the followers of the Báb gathered under special circumstances at Badasht, it was there that everyone received a new name. It was then that they knew this shining diadem of majesty and might found its eternal manifestation, not on the forehead of one who was clad in the garments of the learned; but shone instead on that of a Youth who was majestic in appearance, glorious in gait and manners, and-godly in every atom of His being. So exalted was He in the eyes of the people, so highly respected and adored, that out of sheer homage and love they did not dare to mention His name. Instead He was referred to as ‘Íshá’.” (Abu’l-Qasím Fayẓí, An Explanation of the Greatest Name, p. 9)
Isha’ ‘Ishá’ evening; (feminine) evening prayer (Islamic Law)
Ishan, Ishanan Íshán, pl. Íshánán Pers. they (rational beings)
Ishaq Isḥáq Isaac; becoming threadbare; shrinking after milking (the teats); drying up. Muḥammad ibn Isḥáq ibn Yasár ibn Khiyár; according to some sources, ibn Khabbár, or Kúmán, or Kútán, or simply ibn Isḥáq (“the son of Isaac”) (d. 767) was an Arab Muslim historian and hagiographer. Abú al-Faraj Muḥammad ibn Isḥáq an-Nadím; ibn Abí Ya’qúb Isḥáq ibn Muḥammad ibn Isḥáq al-Warráq and erroneously known as ibn an-Nadím (ca. 932–995 or 998). Isḥáq an-Nadím was a 10th-century Arab Muslim bibliographer of Baghdád who compiled the bibliographic encyclopaedia Kitáb al-Fihrist (“The Book Catalogue” of all books in Arabic). His epithets were an-Nadím (“the Court Companion” and al-Warráq (“the copyist of manuscripts”.
Ishara, Isharat Ishára[h or t], pl. Ishárát sign, motion, nod, wink, wave; gesture; signal; indication; allusion, hint, intimation; symbolic expression; (silent) reminder; advice, counsel, suggestion; instruction, order, command
Ishq, ‘Ishiqa ‘Ishq, fem. ‘Ishqa[h or t] love, ardour of love, passion. e.g. ‘Ishqábád is also known as ‘Ishq.
Ishqabad (‘Ishq-Abad) ‘Ishqábád Pers. “City of Love”. Now Ashgabat (Turkmen: Aşgabat; Ashkhabad “city of tears” before 1991), is the capital and largest city (37.954001, 58.374044) of Turkmenistan. The first Bahá’í Mashriqu’l-Adhkár was completed in 1908 (possibly 37.944962, 58.384192), it was totally expropriated by the Soviet authorities in 1938, damaged beyond repair by an earthquake that devastated the city in 1948, and demolished in 1963.
Ishqi ‘Ish belonging to love
Ishqiy-i-Qarn-i-Bistum ‘Ishqíy-i-Qarn-i-Bístum “‘Ishqí of the twentieth century” (abjad value 1342 (AH 1342 or CE 1923.). See Arches of the Years, p. 257.
Ishraq, Ishraqa, Ishraqatt Ishráq, fem. Ishráqa[h or t], pl. Ishráqát radiance; radiation, eradiation, emanation; illumination; Pers. rising (the sun); sunrise, morning; splendour, lustre, beauty. Tablet of Ishráqát (Splendours) by Bahá’u’lláh published in Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, pp. 99–134. Ishráq Khávarí ‘Adbu’l-Ḥamíd.
Ishraqi Namaz Ishraqi, Ishraqiyun (Pers. with Ar. influence) of or pertaining to sunrise; eastern, oriental; having the splendour of the East
Ishraqi, Ishraqiyan, Ishraqiyun Ishráqí, pl. Ishráqiyán, Ishráqiyún a Persian mystical order, the Iranian school of Illuminationism, which is an important school in Islamic philosophy. Founded by Shaháb ad-Dín Yaḥyá ibn Ḥabash Suhrawardí (“Shaykh al-‘Ishráq”) (c. 1155–1191), a Persian theologian and philosopher. The “light” in his Philosophy of Illumination is the source of knowledge. al-Ishráqíyún the Illuminists, adherents of Illuminism.
Ishraqiya (Ishraqiyyih), Ishraqiyun Ishráqíya[h or t], pl. Ishráqíyún (Iṣfahání Pers. Ishráqiyyih) a Persian mystical order founded by Shaháb ad-Dín Yaḥyá ibn Ḥabash Suhrawardí (c. 1155–1191), a Persian theologian and philosopher. Ideas arose out of perpatetic philosophy.
Ishraqu’llah Ishraqu’lláh “light or radiance of God”
Ishrun, Bist ‘Ishrún, Pers. Bíst twenty
Ishti’al Ishti‘ál ignition, inflammation, combustion, burning. Name/pen name Ishti‘ál (“aflame” or “blazing fire”) ibn-i-Kalantár given to Ali-Kuli Khan by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Ishtihard (Eshtehard) Ishtihárd a village (35.721649, 50.368472) 69 km SE of Qazvín and 54 km SW of Karaj
Iskaf (Uskaf), Iskafi Iskáf and Iskáfí, pl. Asákifa shoemaker. Iskáf (33.110695, 45.015302) was an ancient and medieval city on the Nahrawan Canal, about 65 km ESE of Baghdád. Abú ‘Alí Muḥammad bin Aḥmad bin al-Junayd al-Kátib al-Iskáfí, known as Ibn al-Junayd al-Iskáfí, was an Imámí scholar of jurisprudence and theology in the tenth century. See Yanbú‘.
Iskandar, Askandar Iskandar, Askandar Greek (iskandarús, garlic) Alexander, said to be the son of Dárá (Darius, the last king of the Kayanian dynasty), who married Náhíd, daughter of Fílqús (Philippus). On account of her fetid breath, her husband sent her back to her father, who cured her by the use of iskandarús, Garlic, whence her son’s name.
Iskandariya al-Iskandaríya Alexandria, Egypt (sixteen cities of this name are ascribed to Alexander)
Iskandaruna Iskandarúna[h or t] Turkish city of İskenderun (36.584676, 36.174635) on the Turkish coast north of Syria. Original settlement in the area named Alexandretta (“Little Alexandria”) by Alexandria the Great in 333 BCE.
Iski-Shahr Iskí-Shahr Turkish eski şehir or eski+shahr, “old town”. “Old” Chihríq?
Islah, Islahat Iṣláḥ, pl. Iṣláḥát restoration, restitution, redressing, reparation; improvement, amelioration, betterment, mending, correction; reconstruction; reconditioning, repair; renovation, refurbishing; adjustment, settling, remedying, removal, elimination; restoration of order, establishment of peace, happiness and order; reformation, reform; reclamation, cultivation (of land); (re) conciliation, settlement, compromise, peace making. “he who is the possessor of armaments (iṣláḥát) arose to redress the wrongs [asliḥa]” play on words in a Tablet of Bahá’u’lláh.
Islam Islám submission, resignation, reconciliation (to the will of God in every age); or the total surrender of oneself to God. Titled “Perspicuous Religion” and “Well-established Path”. Redefined by the Báb as “Verily, the essence of religion is none other than submission unto This Remembrance [the Báb].” Root is as-Silm rather than as-Salima or as-Salám.
Islamabad Islámábád (Islám Ábád) Pers. & Urdu “city of Islam”, capital city of Pakistan
Islami Islámí Islamic (no accents for the English Islamic). Muslims object to the English words Muhammadan and Muhammadic because they imply Islam is the religion of Muḥammad.
Islamiya Islámíya(h or t) the idea of Islám, Islamism; status or capacity of a Muslim
Islamshahr (Eslamshahr, Islam-Shahr) Islámshahr city on SW side of Ṭihrán
Ism al-A’zam, Ism-i-A’zam al-Ism al-A‘ẓam, Pers. Ism-i-A‘ẓam The Greatest Name (of God), the 100th, is Bahá’. There is a Sufi tradition that the 99 names of God point to a mystical “Most Supreme and Superior Name” (al-Ismu’l al-A‘ẓam). A ḥadíth narrated by ‘Abdu’lláh ibn Masúd states some names of God have been hidden from mankind (they are not in the Qur’án). See Asmá’u’l-Ḥusná and Ism Alláh al-A‘ẓam.
Ism al-Abha, al-Ismu’l-Abha al-Ism al-Abhá, al-Ismu’l-Abhá “the most beautiful name” or “the most splendid name”
Ism Allah al-A’zam Ism Alláh al-A‘ẓam The Greatest Name of God
Ism, Asma, Asamin Ism, pl. Asmá’, Asámin name; appellation; reputation, standing, prestige
Isma adh-dhatiyya al-‘Iṣma adh-Dhátiyya Essential infallibility
Isma as-sifatiya al-‘Iṣma aṣ-Ṣifátíya Conferred infallibility (bestowed rather than innate). Immunity from error and infallibility of judgement—not freedom from sin, sinlessness or immaculateness.
Isma (Asmat, Esmat), ‘Isam ‘Iṣma(h or t), pl. ‘Iṣam hindering, hindrance, prevention, obviation; preservation, guarding, defending, safeguarding; keeping back (from sin or danger); a defence, guard; protection; chastity, purity, modesty, virtuousness; impeccant, sinlessness; a necklace, collar, belt. A male and female given name meaning purity, chastity or modesty and in classical Arabic infallibility, immaculate, impeccability, faultlessness. ‘immunity from sin and error’, (from ‘aṣama, ya‘ṣimu = to protect, to save from)
Isma’il Ismá‘íl Ismael (Ishmael in Hebrew, “God listens or hears”), the son of Abraham and the Egyptian Hagar, who was considered to be the forerunner of the desert Arabs.
Isma’il-i-Kashani Ismá‘íl-i-Kashání
Isma’il-i-Kashi Ismá‘íl-i-Káshí
Isma’il-i-Zavari’i Ismá‘íl-i-Zavari’í
Isma’ili, Isma’iliyyun al-Ismá‘ílí, pl. al-Ismá‘íliyyún disciple, follower, Ismaelite; descendant of Ismá‘íl
Isma’iliya, Isma’iliyya, Isma’iliyyun Ismá‘ílíya[h or t], pl. Ismá‘íliyyún Pers. Ismá‘íliyya[h or t] (“Ismá‘íliyyih”) Isma’ilism—branch of Shí‘a Islam that followed the Imam succession through the eldest son (he died before his father) of Ja‘far aṣ-Ṣádiq. A Shí‘a sect of great intellectual significance whose adherents believe that Ismá‘íl, eldest son of the sixth Imam, was the rightful seventh Imam (and last, hence called Seveners), and who diverge from the more numerous Twelver Shí‘a. Their imamate continues to the present day, running in the line of the Áqá Kháns. al-Ismáʻílíyah (30.596618, 32.271465) is a city in north-eastern Egypt.
Ismat Khanum ‘Iṣmat Khánum ‘Iṣmat Khánum Ṭihrání, Bahá’í, journalist, feminist, known as Ṭá’irih (“Bird”)
Ismatu’l-Kubra, Ismat-i-Kubra al-‘Iṣmatu’l-Kubrá, Pers. ‘Iṣmat-i-Kubrá “the Great or Most Great Infallibility” of the Manifestation of the Names and attributes of God, doctrine enunciated by Bahá’u’lláh
Ismu’l-Azal Ismu’l-Azal Name of Eternity (Mírzá Yaḥyá)
Ismu’llah Ismu’lláh “Name of God”
Ismu’llahi’l-A’zam Ismu’lláhi’l-A‘ẓam Name of God, Greatest
Ismu’llahi’l-Akhar Ismu’lláhi’l-Ákhar “The Last Name of God”. Name the Báb bestowed on Quddús.
Ismu’llahi’l-Akhir Ismu’lláhi’l-Ákhir The Last name of God”. Title given to Quddús by the Báb.
Ismu’llahi’l-Asdaq Ismu’lláhi’l-Aṣdaq “The Name of God, the Most Truthful”, name given to Mullá Ṣádiq-i-Khurásání (formerly known as Muqaddas).
Ismu’llahi’l-Fatiq Ismu’lláhi’l-Fatíq “In the Name of God, the Eloquent”
Ismu’llahi’l-Jamal Ismu’lláhi’l-Jamál “The Name of God, Jamál”. Name given to Siyyid-i-Mihdíy-i-Dahají by Bahá’u’lláh.
Ismu’llahi’l-Javad Ismu’lláhi’l-Javád “The Name of God, the All-Bountiful”. Title given to Muḥammad Javád-i-Qazvíní by Bahá’u’lláh.
Ismu’llahi’l-Jud Ismu’lláhi’l-Júd “The Name of God, the Bounteous” (name given to Muḥammad Javád-i-Qazvíní by Bahá’u’lláh)
Ismu’llahi’l-Mihdi Ismu’lláhi’l-Mihdí “The Name of God, Mihdí”. Name given to Siyyid Mihdíy-i-Dahají.
Ismu’llahi’l-Munib Ismu’lláhi’l-Muníb “The Name of God, the Patron”
Isnad, Asanid Isnád, pl. Asáníd ascription (of an Islamic tradition), the (uninterrupted) chain of authorities on which a tradition is based
Ispahan Ispáhán Middle Persian. Arabicized modern form is Iṣfahán
Isr, Asar Iṣr, pl. Áṣár covenant, compact,contract; load, encumbrance, burden; sin;—pl. bonds, ties
Isra’ Isrá‘ acceleration, speed-up; hurry
Isra’ Isrá’ nocturnal journey; al-Isrá’ (“the night journey”) of Muḥammad to al-Aqṣá [understood to be Jerusalem]
Isra’il Isrá’íl Israel. Banú Isrá’íl—the Israelites; Dawlat Isrá’ílíya[h or t] the State of Israel.
Isra’ili, Isra’iliya Isrá’ílí, fem. Isrá’ílíya[h or t] Israelitish (Jewishness); Israelite; Israeli (adjective, of or relating to the Israelites; Hebrew) and noun. Uncommon usage since the 1910s: Israelite, Israelitic.
Israfil Isráfíl “the burning one” (Israfel) seraph. The angel whose function is to sound the trumpet (ram’s horn) on the Day of Judgement. See ‘Izrá’íl.
Istahbanat (Estahbanat), Istahban Iṣṭahbánát, Pers. Istahbán Istahbán (pre-1970 name was Iṣṭahbánát, “Iṣtạh-bánát”), is a city (29.127187, 54.038803) 29 km WSW of Nayríz and 150 km ESE Shíráz) and capital of Estahban County, Fárs Province, Írán.
Istanbul, Islambul Istanbúl Istanbul, Constantinople. Islámbúl (“full of Islam”) appeared after Ottoman conquest in 1453. Modern Turkish, İstanbul.
Istanbuli Istanbúlí of Istanbúl
Isti’ara Isti‘ára(h) borrowing; metaphor
Istidlal Istidlál reasoning, argumentation, demonstration; conclusion, inference, deduction; proof, evidence (of)
Istidlaliya, Istidlaliyya Istidlálíya[h or t], Istidláliyya[h or t] testimony (book) or (book) of apologetics. Iṣfahání Pers. Istidláliyyih.
Istifham, Istifhamat Istifhám, pl. Istifhámát desiring to know or to be taught, informing oneself by asking questions; interrogation
Istiftah Istiftáḥ start, beginning, commencement, inception, incipience; asking assistance; opening; conquering
Istijlal Istijlál majesty
Istikhlaf Istikhláf appoint someone to be successor. In the Qur’anic context, appointing a trustee or vicegerent, or “Law of Succession of Prophets”.
Istilah, Istilahat Iṣṭiláḥ, pl. Iṣṭiláḥát being reconciled; phraseology, phrase, idiom; technical term, terminology; cant, slang.—pl. forms of speech; idioms; technicalities.
Istilahi Iṣṭiláḥí technical, conventional
Istiqama Istiqáma[t] straightness; sincerity, uprightness, rectitude, integrity, probity, honesty; rightness, soundness, correctness. Lawḥ Istiqámat, “Tablet of Constancy”, by Bahá’u’lláh.
Istiqbal, Istiqbalat Istiqbál, pl. Istiqbálát reception; opposition (astron.); full moon (as an astronomical aspect); the future
Istiqlal Istiqlál independence
Itabaki-A’zam Íṭábakí-A‘ẓam “the greatest tutor”. Probably should be Atábak-i-A‘ẓam
Itabaki-Chupan Íṭábakí-Chúpán probably should be Atábak-i-Chúpán (The Dawn-Breakers, p. 421)
Ithbat Ithbát establishment; assertion; confirmation; affirmation, attestation; demonstration; proof, evidence; registration, entering, listing, recording; documentation, authentication, verification
Ithna ‘Ashara, Ithnata ‘Ashrata Ithná ‘Ashara (fem. Ithnatá ‘Ashrata[h or t]) twelve
Ithna-‘Ashariya, Ithna-‘Ashariyya Ithná-‘Asharíya[h or t] (Pers, Ithná-‘Ashariyya[h or t]) “twelver”. The followers of the twelve Imams, the Twelvers, or the Twelver Shí‘í Muslims (also known as Imámíya[h or t] or the Imamites). It is the largest branch of Shí‘a Islám that believes 12 Imams (A’imma) succeeded Muḥammad.
Ithnan, Ithnatan Ithnán, fem. Ithnatán, dual Ithnayn two
Itmam Itmám completion; perfection; termination, conclusion; consummation, execution, fulfilment, realization, effectuation, accomplishment
Itmam-i-Ni’mat Itmám-i-Ni‘mat completion of favour
Itmi’nan (Itminan) Iṭmi’nán calm, repose, serenity, peace, peacefulness, tranquillity; reassurance, peace of mind, composure, calmness, equanimity; trust, confidence
Itmi’nan-i-Qalb (Itminan-i-Qalb) Iṭmi’nán-i-Qalb heart attaining tranquillity or composure of the heart
Itqan Itqán perfection; thoroughness, exactitude, precision; thorough skill, proficiency; mastery, command (e.g., of a special field, of a language)
Itr, ‘Utur, ‘Uturat ‘Iṭr, pl. ‘Uṭúr, ‘Uṭúrát perfume, scent; essence, fragrance, attar, attar (of roses). From the form II root عطّر. Pers. ‘Iṭr-sáz “perfume maker”. ‘Iṭr al-ward attar of roses, rose oil.
Itra, ‘Itrat ‘Itra[t] little balls formed of musk or other aromatics, and worn as a necklace; a progeny, family, near relations; a bit of pure musk; sweet marjoram;—‘Itrat an-Nabí “Family of the Prophet”
Itri ‘Iṭrí sweet-smelling, fragrant, aromatic
Ittaqa, Ittaqu’lláh Ittaqá, Ittaqú’lláh to beware, be wary (of), guard, be on one’s guard, protect oneself, make sure (against). Ittaqú’lláh, to fear God, is the command or imperative form of taqwá and Alláh. It is found in several Qur’anic verses. Variously translated as “fear God”, “keep your duty to God and fear Him”, “guard your duty to God”, “be careful of (your duty to) God”, “be pious to God”, “be aware of God”, and to “love and be faithful to God”.
Ittihad Ittiḥád oneness, singleness, unity; concord, accord, unison, harmony, unanimity, agreement; combination; consolidation, amalgamation, merger, fusion; alliance, confederacy; association; federation; union. Symbolically, the identification of man with God
Ittihadi, Ittihadiyyih Ittiḥádí, Pers. also Ittiḥádiyyih unionist; unionistic; federal
Ittila’, Ittila’a, Ittila’at Iṭṭilá‘, fem. Ittila’a[h or t], pl. Iṭṭilá‘át study, examination, inspection; perusal; information, intelligence, knowledge; notice, cognizance; acquaintance, conversance, familiarity
Iwil, Ivil Íwil, Ívil (“Ivel”, also known as Ídel) is a small village (36.240230, 53.677921) 12 km east of Kiyásar, 90 km SE of Sárí, 45 km west of Dámghán in Sari County, Mazandaran Province.
Iyala (Iyalih), Iyalat Iyála(h or t), pl. Iyálát province; regency; governing, administering; government, dominion
Izadi Ízadí Pers. God; an angel
Izar, Uzur Izár m. and f., pl. Uzur loincloth; wrap, shawl; wrapper, covering, cover
Izdiwaj (Izdivaj) Izdiwáj Pers. marrying; marriage, wedding
Izhaq (Azhaq) Izháq destroying, crushing
Izhar Iẓhár presentation, exposition, demonstration, exhibition, disclosure, exposure, revelation, announcement, declaration, manifestation, display; developing (photography)
Izmir (Smyrna) Izmír city in western extremity of Anatolia, Türkiye. Formerly ancient city of Smyrna
Izra’il ‘Izrá’íl Azrael (Israfel), the angel of death
Izz, ‘Izza ‘Izz, fem. ‘Izza[h or t] might, power, standing, weight; strength, force; honour, glory, high rank, fame, celebrity, renown; pride
Izzat ‘Izzat Pers. being great, powerful, rare, valuable; grandeur, glory, power, might; honour, esteem; rareness
Izzatu’llah ‘Izzatu’lláh Might or Power of God
Izzatu’llah Zahra’i ‘Izzatu’lláh Zahrá’í (Ezzat Zahrai)
Izziya ‘Izziya[h or t] mighty, strong. ‘Izzíya Khánum. See Kulthúm.
Izzu’d-Dawla (‘Izzu’d-Dawlih) ‘Izzu’d-Dawla (‘Izzu’d-Dawlih) “glory of the state”
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Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
J
Ja’ba, Ji’ab Ja‘ba(t), pl. Ji‘áb quiver; tube, pipe; gun barrel; a case, box, desk, a cabinet
Ja’far Ja‘far little river, creek (Djaffar). Abu’l-‘Abbás Aḥmad ibn Ja‘far (c. 842–892, r. 870–892), better known by his regnal name al-Mu‘tamid ‘alá ’lláh (“Dependent on God”), was the 15th Caliph of the (restored) Abbasid Caliphate.
Ja’far as-Sadiq, Ja’far-i-Sadiq Ja‘far aṣ-Ṣádiq, Pers. Ja‘far-i-Ṣádiq the Sixth Imám
Ja’far-i-Istarabadi Ja‘far-i-Istarábádí
Ja’far-i-Tabrizi Ja‘far-i-Tabrízí
Ja’far-i-Yazdi Ja‘far-i-Yazdí (MF)
Ja’far-Quli Ja‘far-Qulí
Ja’fari Ja‘farí Pers. the finest kind of gold (named after a celebrated alchemist); a kind of cupola; a sort of screen (the interstices of the frame being lozenged); lattice-work; name of a yellow flower; parsley; name of a fortress. Ja‘farí jurisprudence, derived from the name of the sixth Imám
Ja’fariya, Ja’fariyyih Ja‘faríya(t), Pers. Ja‘fariyya, Ja‘fariyyih followers of the Sixth Imám
Jabal al-Basit, Jabal-i-Basit Jabal al-Básiṭ, Pers. Jabal-i-Básiṭ “the Open Mountain”—Máh-Kú (same numerical value as Básiṭ, 72) al-Básiṭ “the one who expands or stretches”)
Jabal al-Lawz Jabal al-Lawz “Almond mountain” (light-coloured granite), a mountain located in NW Saudi Arabia (28.654166, 35.305833) 72 km south of the Jordan border and 51 km east of the Gulf of Aqaba, and elevation of 2,580 m. Logic suggests that this is the true Mountain of Moses or the biblical “Mt. Sinai” (a modern name), also known (in Exodus, Deuteronomy, 1 Kings 8:9 and 2 Chronicles 5:10) as Mount Horeb (Jabal al-Ḥúríb). See Jabal al-Maqlá, Ṭúr as-Síná, and Ṭúr.
Jabal al-Maqla Jabal al-Maqlá “burnt mountain” (dark-coloured hornfels), about 7 km to the south (28.596194, 35.334111), and slightly lower (2,326 m) than Jabal al-Lawz.
Jabal ash-Shadid, Jabal-i-Shadid Jabal ash-Shadíd, Pers. Jabal-i-Shadíd “the Grievous Mountain”—fortress of Chihríq
Kuh-i-Nur, Jabal an-Nur Kúh-i-Núr (Ar. Jabal an-Núr) Pers. (Koh-i-Noor, Kohinoor and Koh-i-nur) Mountain of Light—Shrine of the Báb.
Name of a famous colourless diamond (once 191 carats, from India).
See Daryáy-i-Núr.
Jabal Mar Ilyas Jabal Már Ilyás Mount Saint Elijah, Arabic name for Mt. Carmel
Jabal Qaf, Qaf-Kuh (Kaf-Qaf) Jabal Qáf, Pers. Qáf-Kúh, Kúh-Qáf Mount Qaf (Koh-Qaf, Qaf-i-Kuh, and Gapkuh “unknown mountain”) is a legendary mountain in the popular mythology of the Middle East. In Iranian tradition, the northern Caucasus mountains, and ancient lore shrouded these high mountains in mystery. In Arabian tradition, a mysterious mountain renowned as the “farthest point of the earth” owing to its location at the far side of the ocean encircling the earth. Also the mountains surrounding the terrestrial world. he name of the Caucasus mountains is said to have ultimately come from Kapkof or Kafkaz, corrupted variants of Gapkuh.
Jabal Sahyun (Jabal Sahioun) Jabal Ṣahyún Mount Zion. #1 the Lower Eastern Hill (southern end of the City of David), #2 the Upper Eastern Hill (“Temple Mount” to the north of the Jewish Temple site), and today #3 the Western Hill to the southwest of Old Jerusalem.
Jabal, Jibal, Ajbal Jabal, pl. Jibál, Ajbál mountain; mountains, mountain range
Jabalaq wa Jabalas, Jabulqa wa Jabulsa Jábalaq wa Jábalaṣ (Pers. Jábulqá wa Jábulsá, the west and the east) twin mythical cities (in Shí‘í ḥadíth), the dwelling place of the Hidden Imám (the Promised One), whence He will appear on the Day of Resurrection.
Jabalaq, Jabulqa Jábalaq, Pers. Jábulqá the east; name of another city, the limits of the world towards the east
Jabalas, Jabursa, Jabulsa Jábalaṣ, Pers. Jábursá, Jábulsá the west; name of a city in the west, beyond which there is no habitation.
Jabarut Jabarút omnipotence; power, might; tyranny.  ‘álami jabarút, “the highest heaven”, “the All-highest Dominion” or “the Empyrean Heaven”—realm of being. See Háhút, Láhút and Násút.
Jabaruti, Jabarutiya Jabarútí, fem. Jabarútíya[h or t] mighty; heavenly, celestial
Jabban Jabbán cheese merchant
Jabbani Jabbání Siyyid Jabbání
Jabbar, Jabbarun, Jababir, Jababira Jabbár, pl. Jabbárún, Jabábir, Jabábira giant; colossus; tyrant, oppressor; almighty, omnipotent (God); gigantic, giant, colossal, huge; Orion (astronomy)
Jabir Jábir bonesetter Jábir Ibn-i-Ḥayyán was a follower of Imám Ṣádiq who handed down his traditions.
Jabr Jabr setting (of broken bones); force, compulsion; coercion, duress; power, might; (predestined, inescapable) decree of fate. ‘ilm al-jabr—algebra
Jabr wa’l-muqabala Jabr wa’l-muqábala al-Jabr wa’l-muqábala (“completing” or “restoring”, and “simplifying” or “balancing”). Part of a book title from which the word “algebra” is derived. See Khwárizmí
Jabra’il (Jibra’il), Jibril Jabra’íl (Jibra’íl), Jibríl Gabriel
Jabri, Jabariyan Jabrí, pl. Jabariyán one who believes in predestination, a fatalist
Jabríya and Mujabbira Jabríya[h] and Mujabbira[h or t] “believers in forceful fate”, an early Islamic philosophical school that believes man has no free-will and are controlled by predestination. Mujabbira forced. See Qadaríya.
Jadal Jadal quarrel, argument; debate, dispute, discussion, controversy
Jadhb (Jazb) Jadhb attraction; gravitation; appeal, lure, enticement, captivation
Jadhba (Jazba), Jadhbat (Jazbat) Jadhba (Jaẓba), pl. Jadhbát (Jaẓbat) Pers. passion, rage, fury; strong desire, craving for
Jadhbatu’llah (Jazbatu’llah) Jadhbátu’lláh (Jaẓbátu’lláh) Pers. rages of God
Jadhib, Jadhiba, Jawadhib dhib, fem. Jádhiba[h or t] (fem. pl. jawádhib) attractive; magnetic (figuratively); winning, fetching, engaging; charming, enticing, captivating, gripping
Jadhib dhib attractive; magnetic (fig.); winning, fetching, engaging; charming, enticing, captivating, gripping
Jadhibiya, Jadhbiyyih dhibíya[h or t] gravitation; attraction; attractiveness; charm; fascination; magnetism (figuratively); lure, enticement. Iṣfahání Persian Jadhibíyyih..
Jadid, Jadida, Judud, Judad, Jadidan Jadíd, fem. Jadída(h), pl. Judud, Judad new, recent; renewed; modern; novel, unprecedented. al-jadídán (dual form) day and night. al-judayda
Jadidu’llah Jadídu’lláh “New one of God” Jadídu’lláh Ashraf
Jaffa, Jafaf, Jufuf Jaffa, Jafáf, Jufúf to dry, become dry; to dry out
Jafr Jafr Islamic science of the numerical values of 28 letters of the Arabic alphabet, ‘ilm al-ḥurúf; numerology. It is applied to words, phrases, and letters of the Qur’án, the prophetic traditions (ḥádith), and other sources considered divinely inspired. ‘ilm al-jafr (“science of jafr”): divination, fortune telling.
Jahada, Jahd Jahada (Jahd) to endeavour, strive, labour, take pains, put oneself out; to over-work, overtax, fatigue, exhaust (someone). Form III to endeavour, strive; to fight (for something); to wage holy war against the infidels. Form IV to strain, exert (something); to tire, wear out, fatigue (someone), give trouble (to).
Jahan (Jihan) Jahán (Jihán) Pers. the world; an age; worldly possessions
Jahangir Jahángír Pers. “conqueror of the world” Núri’d-Dín Muḥammad Salím (Mughal Emperor)
Jahansuz Jahánsúz Pers. Jahán+súz “the burning of the world”
Jahil, Jahala, Juhhal, Juhala Jáhil, pl. Jahala, Juhhal, Juhhál, Juhalá’ not knowing (something, how to do something); ignorant, uneducated, illiterate; foolish; fool
Jahiliya, Jahiliyyih Jáhilíya(h or t), Pers. Jáhilíyyih state of ignorance; pre-Islamic paganism, pre-Islamic times (before 610), often translated as “Age of Ignorance”. The dark age of ignorance among the Arabs before the appearance of Muḥammad.
Jahiz Jahíz running, flowing; fleet, agile; (Pers.) vestments and furniture of every kind which a bride brings to her husband’s house; a dowry. Also called jahízíya. it is separate from mahr.
Jahiz Jáḥiẓ one who has prominent eyes. Abú ‘Uthman ‘Amr ibn Baḥr al-Kinání al-Baṣrí, commonly known as al-Jáḥiẓ (The Bug Eyed, 776–c. Dec. 868/Jan. 869) was a prose writer and author of works of literature, theology, zoology, and politico-religious polemics.
Jahl, Jahal Jahl and Jahála ignorance; folly, foolishness, stupidity. Amr ibn Hishám, often known as Abú Jahl (556–624), was one of the Meccan polytheist pagan Qurayshí leaders known for his critical opposition towards Muḥammad and early Muslims in Mecca.
Jahrum (Jahram, Jahrom) Jahrum city (28.517094, 53.574092) and county 155 km SE of Shíráz
Jahsha, Jihash, Jihshan, Ajhash, Juhush Jaḥsh, fem. Jaḥsha pl. Jiḥásh, Jiḥshán, Ajḥásh young donkey;—(pl. Juḥúsh) trestle, horse
Jahul Jahúl ignorant; foolish, stupid. Jahúl (translated as “ignorant”) in Qur’án 33:72 is a different form of the word meaning “unknown” according to the Báb (see SWB, p. 70) and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (Má’idiy-i-Ásmání, vol. 2, p. 50). See ẓalúm.
Jajim Jájim, Jájím Pers. a fine bedding or carpet (often wool and with vertical stripes)
Jalal Jalál loftiness, sublimity, augustness; splendor, glory
Jalal Jalal important, significant, momentous, weighty
Jalal ad-Dawla, Jalalu’d-Dawlih Jalál ad-Dawla, Pers. Jalálu’d-Dawlih a title, “the glory of the state”
Jalal Khadih Jalál Kháḍih Jalál Kházeh (1897–1990) was a Hand of the Cause of God
Jalali Jalálí Ar.? great, illustrious, majestic, glorious; terrible, awe-inspiring; an era reckoned from Jalálu’d-Dín (Akbar Sháh), and beginning CE 1079
Jalaliya, Jalaliyyih Jalálíya[t], Pers. also Jaláliyyih name of a sect who worships the more terrible attributes of the deity; the followers of Jalál Bukhárí
Jalalu’d-Din Jalálu’d-Dín (or Jaláli’d-Dín or Jalála’d-Dín) “Glory of the Faith”
Jalalu’d-Din Rumi Jalálu’d-Dín Rúmí [or Jaláli’d-Dín Rúmí or Jalála’d-Dín Rúmí] (called Mawláná (“our Master”), is the greatest of all Persian Súfí poets, and founder of the Mawlaví “whirling” dervish order.)
Jalálu’d-Dín-Dawla, Jalálu’d-Dín-Dawlih Jalálu’d-Dín-Dawla (Pers. Jalálu’d-Dín-Dawlih) title, “Glory of the Faith of the State”. Seven Bahá’ís were executed on the order of the governor of Yazd, Ḥusayn Mírzá (name also given as Maḥmúd Mírzá), the Jalálu’d-Dín-Dawlih (the grandson of Náṣir ad-Dín Sháh and the son of Mas‘úd Mírzá, the Ẓillu’s-Sulṭán) in 1891. As a result, Baha’u’llah referred to him as the tyrant of the land of Yá (Yazd).
Jali, Jaliy Jalí, Jálí, Jalíy clear, plain, evident, patent, manifest, obvious, conspicuous; shining, polished. Loudly and publicly, as in prayers, etc.
Jalil-i-Khu’i Jalíl-i-Khu’í
Jalil-i-Tabrizi Jalíl-i-Tabrízí
Jalil, Ajilla’, Ajilla, Jala’il Jalíl, Ajillá’, Ajilla, Jalá’il great, important, significant, weighty, momentous; lofty, exalted, sublime; revered, honourable, venerable; glorious, splendid
Jalinus, Ghalinua, Isqinus Jálínús from Greek Galenus. Aelius or Claudius Galenus (CE 129–c. 200/ 216), commonly known as Galen of Pergamon, a very famous physician, surgeon and philosopher in the Roman Empire. Also from Greek, Ghálínús or Isqilínus.
Jallabiya, Jallabiyat, Jalalib, Jalabiya Jallábíya, pl. Jallábíyát, Jalálíb, Jalabiya (Egyptian) a loose, shirtlike garment, the common dress of the male population in Egypt. Gallábíya, pl. Gallábíyát, Galálíb, Galabiya
Jalwa, Jilwa Jalwa(t), Jilwa(t) bride to her husband adorned and unveiled; the meeting of the bride and bridegroom; the nuptial bed; the bridal ornaments. See jilwa
Jam Jam Pers. name of an ancient king of Persia, whom they confound with Solomon and Alexander the Great; a monarch, a great king; the pupil of the eye; pure, free, exempt; essence, nature, person. (Zend or Avestan: yima and Sanskrit: yama [“the twins”]. Yama became Jam). See Jamshíd
Jam, Jamat Jám, pl. Jámát cup; drinking vessel; bowl
Jami’, Jawami’ Jámi‘, pl. Jawámi‘ comprehensive, extensive, broad, general, universal; collector; compiler (of a book); compositor, typesetter;—pl. comprehensive, full; temples, mosques. Masjid jámi‘ great, central mosque where the public prayer is performed on Fridays. Jafr or Jafr al-Jámi‘ (“Universal Jafr”) is a collection of esoteric knowledge of an apocalyptic nature reserved to the Imams.
Jami’a, Jami’at Jámi‘a[h or t], pl. Jámi‘át (fem. of jámi‘) league, union, association; community; federation; religious community, communion; commonness, community of interests or purpose; university
Jami’i Jámi‘í academic, collegiate, university (adj.); university graduate
Jami’iya Jámi‘íya[h or t] universality, generality
Jam’, Jumu’ Jam‘, pl. Jumú‘ gathering; collection; combination; connection, coupling, joining; accumulation; (arithmetic) addition; union, merger, aggregation, integration (of) holding together (of divergent, separate things);—(pl.) gathering, crowd, throng; gang, troop
Jam’i Jam‘í a total, assembly, a many.
Jam’iya, Jam’iyat Jam‘iya(t), pl. Jam‘iyát club, association, society; corporation, organization; assembly, community
Jam’iyah al-‘Ilmiyyah wa al-Adabiyyah al-Jam‘íyah al-‘Ilmiyyah wa al-Adabiyyah “The Scientific and Literary Society” established in Cairo after the death of Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl Gulpaygání, by some of his pupils, with the approval of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. After some years, this society, under the leadership of Fá’iq (see Fá’iq entry), came into conflict with the Egyptian Bahá’í administration and Fá’iq was expelled
Jama’a, Jama’at Jamá‘a(h or t), pl. Jamá‘át group (of people); band, gang, party, troop; community; squad (military unit)
Jamad, Jamadat Jamád, pl. Jamádát a solid; inorganic body; mineral; inanimate body, inanimate being
Jamadiyu’l-Awwal (Jamadiyu’l-Avval) Jamádíyu’l-Awwal fifth month in Islamic calendar or Jamádíyu’l-‘Úla (both as transcripted in Bahá’í writings). See Jumádá al-Awwal.
Jamadiyu’th-Thani Jamádíyu’th-Thání sixth month in Islamic calendar or Jamádíyu’l-‘Ákhirah (both as transcripted in Bahá’í writings). See Jumádá ath-Thání.
Jamal Jamál beauty
Jamal Afandi (Jamal Effendi) Jamál Afandí (Effendi) name given to Sulaymán Khán-i-Tunukábání
Jamal-Abha Jamál-Abhá Abhá Beauty, a title of Bahá’u’lláh
Jamal-i-Burujirdi Jamál-i-Burújirdí
Jamal-i-Mubarak Jamál-i-Mubárak “The Blessed Beauty”. Title used by some Bahá’ís for Bahá’u’lláh.
Jamal-i-Qidam Jamál-i-Qidam Ar. The Ancient Beauty. A title of Bahá’u’lláh.
Jamal, Jimal Jamal, pl. Jimál, Ajmál camel. Qur’án 7:40 expresses an impossibility (“a camel passing through a needle’s eye”), and it is unlikely that al-jamal within the verse should be translated as “camel”. A better reading is obtained using jummal (“a thick rope” or “a twisted cable”). It is argued that God would not have coined such an inappropriate metaphor, whereas, “a twisted rope passing through a needle’s eye” has a relationship between the rope and needle. Source Imám ‘Alí. Muhammad Asad in The Message of the Qur’án, fn. 32, p. 292.
Jamali Jamálí (Ar. influence) amiable, lovable
Jamali’d-Din Jamáli’d-Dín Beauty of the Faith
Jamalu’d-Din-i-Afghani Jamálu’d-Dín-i-Afghání
Jami Jámí of or from Jámí (modern Ghor Province, Afghánistán) in Khorasan. Núr ad-Dín ‘Abd ar-Raḥmán Jámí, also known as Mawlaná Núr ad-Dín ‘Abd ar-Raḥmán or ‘Abd ar-Raḥmán Núr ad-Dín Muḥammad Dashtí, or simply as Jámí or Djámí (1414–1492), was a Persian Sunní poet who is known for his achievements as a prolific scholar and writer of mystical ṣúfí literature.
Jami’, Jami’ an-Nas, Jami’an Jamí‘ (with following genitive) total; whole, entire; all; entirety; e.g., jamí‘ an-nás all men, all mankind; al-jamí‘ all people, everybody; the public at large; jamí‘an in a body, altogether, one and all, all of them; entirely, wholly, totally
Jamil, Jamila, Jamilih Jamíl, fem. Jamíla(h), Pers. Jamílih beautiful, graceful, lovely, comely, pretty, handsome; friendly act, favour, service, good turn; courtesy
Jammal, Jammalun Jammál, pl. Jammálún camel driver. Gardens of Jammál are at the south entrance of the Mansion of Bahjí.
Jamra, Jamarat Jamra(t), Jamarát a live coal; gravel or small pebbles; heat from the ground; vapours, a sacred solemnity or peregrination performed in the valley of Miná, near Mecca, in which pilgrims defy and throw stones at a figure (3 pillars, now walls) representing the devil: Jamrat al-‘Aqaba (east, largest), Jarat al-Wusṭá (middle) and Jamrat aṣ-Ṣughra (west, smallest). See ramy and Aṣghar.
Jamshid Jamshíd (“Djemsheed”) mythical King in Iranian traditions and culture. A compound of Jam and shíd formed by changes to the original Avestran names.
Jamshid-i-Gurji Jamshíd-i-Gurjí (MF)
Jan Ján Pers. soul, vital spirit, mind; self; life; spirit, courage; wind; the mouth; arms; the father of demons; name of a race said to have inhabited the world before Adam; in modern conversation a word of endearment. See nafs
Jan Aqa Big Ján Áqá Big known as a Kaj Kuláh
Jan-i-Khamsih Ján-i-Khamsih
Janab (Jinab) Janáb (Jináb) side, margin, brink; an inner court, yard, vestibule; threshold; a place of refuge, hence, as a title of respect, your honour, excellency, majesty, etc.; power, dignity, dominion
Janami Jánamí you are my life and soul; you are close to me
Jandal, Janadil Jandal, pl. Janádil stone. Dúmat al-Jandal (“Dúmah of the Stone”, 29.8110412, 39.875476), also known as al-Jawf (“depression”, i.e. the Wádí Sirḥán), is an ancient city of ruins and town in north western Saudi Arabia. It is located 37 km SW of the city of Sakáká. Dúmah (Aramaic “silence”) was the sixth son (of 12) of Ishmael. August 626 Muḥammad led an expedition to Dúmat al-Jandal.
Jandaq Jandaq city 230 km north of Yazd and 178 km NE of Ná’ín, Írán
Jang Jang Pers. war, battle, combat, engagement, fight, skirmish, rencounter; brawling, squabbling, litigating
Jangal Jangal Pers. a wood, forest, thicket; a country overgrown with wood, reeds, or long grass; a jungle
Jangali Jangalí Pers. wild, untilled, jungle-like. Insult referring to uncultured people (raised in jungles)
Jani Jání Pers. soul; cordial, heartily loved, devoted. Title of a merchant of Kashán, Ḥájí Mírzá Jání, early historian of the Bábí Cause and a martyr.
Jani, Junat Jání, pl. Junát one who gathers fruit; sinning, a sinner
Janib, Jawanib Jánib, pl. Jawánib side; lateral portion; sidepiece; flank; wing; face (geometry); part, portion, partial amount; partial view, section (of a scene, picture or panorama); quantity, amount; a certain number (of), a few, some. “draw back”? Seven Valleys p. 43
Janna, Jannat (“Jinnat”), Jinan Janna(h or t), pl. Jannát, Jinán garden; paradise, heaven
Jarib Jaríb 10,000 sq metres
Jariya, Jariyat Járiya(h), pl. Járiyát, Jawárin girl; slave girl; maid, servant; ship, vessel. Ḥadíth al-Járiyah
Jarra (Jarrih), Jirar Jarra [جرة] a jar (earthenware or copper) water-vessel, ewer
Jarrah, Jarrahun Jarráḥ, pl. Jarráḥún surgeon
Jasad, Ajsad Jasad, pl. Ajsád body. Compare Jism
Jasb Jásb rural district, Markazí Province, Írán
Jashn Jashn Pers. A feast, social entertainment; convivial meeting; a solemn feast
Jashn-i-A’zam Jashn-i-A‘ẓam (the Greatest Festival because ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was known as the Ghusn-i-A’ẓám [the Greatest Branch])—Day of the Covenant
Jasim Jásim healthy, strong, powerful, good health. Bahá’u’lláh sent Ḥájí Jásim-i-Baghdádí to Sudan. Small city in southern Syria.
Jasim, Jisam Jasím, pl. Jisám great, big, large; voluminous, bulky, huge; vast, immense; stout, corpulent; weighty, most significant, momentous, prodigious
Jasus Jásús Pers. a spy; an emissary
Jathiya thiya fem., the kneeling or crouching one
Jatt (Jat) Jatt Muslim town nearly 50 km south of Haifa. Area is the source of strong atzmon or jatt stone used on the Bahá’í terraces.
Javad-i-Karbila’i Javád-i-Karbilá’í
Javad-i-Qazvini Javád-i-Qazvíní Muḥammad Javád-i-Qazvíní. He went to Adrianople in 1867 and worked for many years as one of Bahá’u’lláh’s amanuenses. Bahá’u’lláh gave him the title Ismu’llahu’l-Javad (The Name of God, the All-Bountiful). He later joined Mírzá Muḥammad ‘Alí in opposing ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Javad-i-Tabataba’i Javád-i-Ṭabáṭabá’í
Javahiru’l-Asrar Javáhiru’l-Asrár “Gems of Divine Mysteries” or “The Essence of Mysteries” by Bahá’u’lláh. See jawhar and sirr
Jaw’an (Jau’an), Jaw’a’ (Jau’a), Jiya’ Jaw‘án, fem. Jaw‘á’, pl. Jiyá‘ hungry, starved, famished
Jawab (Javab), Ajwiba, Jawabat Jawáb, fem. Jawába[h or t] (pl. Ajwiba[h or t], fem. Jawabát) answer, reply;—pl. jawabát letter, message
Jawad (Jaouad), Ajwad, Ajawid, Jud Jawád, pl. Ajwád, Ajáwid, Ajawíd, Júd openhanded, liberal, generous, magnanimous;—pl. jiyád, ajyád, ajáwíd race horse, racer; charger
Jawahiri Jawáhirí Pers. (Ar influence) a dealer in jewels, a jeweller
Jawan (Javan), Jawanan Jawán, pl. Jawánán Pers. young; young man, youth, lad
Jawanmardi Jawánmardí loosely translated as chivalry. See lúṭígarí.
Jawhar (Jauhar), Jawhara, Jawahir Jawhar, fem. Jawhara(h), pl. Jawáhir intrinsic, essential nature, essence; content, substance (as opposed to form; philosophy); matter, substance; atom; jewel, gem, pearl;—pl. jewellry. From Persian Gawhar
Jawhar (Jauhar), Jawahir, Jawwal Jawhar, pl. Jawáhir, Jawwál wandering, migrant, itinerant, roving; cruising; traveling; ambulant; traveler, tourist
Jawhara (Jauhara), Jawharat Jawhara(t), pl. Jawharát jewel, gem
Jawhari (Jauhari) Jawharí substantial (opposite to accidental); intrinsic, essential, inherent; fundamental, main, chief, principal; material; jeweler
Jawhariya (Jauhariya, Jawhariyyah) Jawharíya(h) substantiality, essentiality
Jawid Jáwid or Jáwíd Pers. eternal; eternity
Jawidukht, Javidukht Jáwidukht (Jáwid-ukht) sister of Jáwid. Jávidukht, wife of Dhikru’lláh Khádim (Khádem). See ukht
Jawsh (Jaush) Jawsh Pers. the breast; the middle of a man; midnight; a large section of the night, or the latter part of it; a march during the whole of the night. See jayb
Jawshan (Jaushan) Jawshan breast plate, steel plate or chain mail
Jawshan Kabir Jawshan Kabír long (“big”) Islamic prayer with 1,000 names and attributes of God that is Muḥammad’s “coat of amour” to protect Him from injuries
Jayb (Jaib), Juyub Jayb, pl. Juyúb breast, bosom, heart; hole, hollow, cavity, excavation, opening; pocket (Latin sinum, English sine in mathematics); purse
Jayhun Jayḥún Bactrus River (now the Balkháb or Balkh River)—it once flowed into the Oxus River
Jaysh ‘Aramram Jaysh ‘Aramram a numerous, huge army. See furúghí
Jaysh (Jaish), Juyush Jaysh, pl. Juyush army, troops, armed forces
Jaz Jaz Pers. An island; name of a country between Euphrates and Tigris (Mesopotamia, al-Jazírat)
Jazira (Jazirih), Jaza’ir, Juzur Jazíra[h or t], pl. Jazá’ir, Juzur island. Cizre (Kurdish), Jazírat ibn ‘Umar (Ar.), Jazírih (Pers.), town and district in SE Türkiye. NW or upper Mesopotemia became known as al-Jazíra after the Arab Islamic conquest of the mid-7th century CE.
Jazirat al-Bahr Jazírat al-Baḥr Name given to Búshihr by the Báb
Jazira al-Khadra, Jaziray-i-Khadra al-Jazíra al-Khaḍrá’ (Pers. Jazíray-i-Khaḍrá’) “The Verdant Isle” or “The Green Island”, a reference by the Báb to the forests of Mázandarán Province (Quddús and Mullá Ḥusayn), and Bahá’u’lláh to the Riḍván Garden of Na‘mayn near ‘Akká.
Jazzar, Jazzarun Jazzár, pl. Jazzárún butcher
Ji’rana (Jarana) Ji‘rána(h) al-Ji‘ránah (21.551166, 39.952983) is a town that Muḥammad returned to after the Battle of Hunayn. The booty and the prisoners taken at Ḥunayn were gathered together at al-Ji‘ránah. Masjid al-Ji‘ránah (on the north side) is one of the Míqát al-ḥájj rendezvous points.
Jibt Jibt sorcery, divination or any false belief. Name of a pagan idol (Qur’án 4:51).
Jidal, Mujadala, Mujadalat Jidál (m.), Mujádala (f.), pl. Mujádalát quarrel, argument; dispute, discussion, debate
Jidda Jidda(h) newness, novelty; modernity; rebirth, renaissance. Judda(h)—Jidda, seaport western Saudi Arabia.
Jiha, Jihat, Juhat Jiha (Pers. Jihat, Juhat), pl. Jihát side; direction; region, part, section, area; district, precinct, city quarter; agency, authority; administrative agency
Jihad Jihád fight, battle, combat; jihad (English), holy war (against the infidels, as a religious duty); a crusade; endeavour, effort. Literally means “striving” (see root jahada)—a witness or martyr. During and immediately after the time of Muḥammad, jihád was directed against pagans and idolaters—the polytheists—and was undertaken in defence of the realm of Islám. Two main forms:
1. jihádí aṣghar (the lesser warfare), war against infidels (which is further subdivided into jihád of the pen/tongue (debate or persuasion) and jihád of the sword);
2. jihádí akbar (fem. kubrá; the greater warfare, and more important), war against one’s own inclinations.
Shoghi Effendi used the expressions “Jihád-i-Kabír-i-Akbar” (“The supremely great crusade”) and “Jihád-i-Kabír” (“The great crusade”) in Persian for the “Ten Year Crusade”.
See Qitál
Jihadi Jihádí fighting, military; one who fights against the infidels, a crusader
Jihan Jihán Pers. world
Jihat-i-Mahiyyati Jihat-i-Máhíyyatí Pers. essential aspect
Jihat-i-Vujudi Jihat-i-Vujúdí Pers. existential aspect
Jihun Jíhún (from Gihon) Ar. for Oxus River
Jilard, Gilard (Jiliard, Giliard) Jílárd, Gílárd village 4 km SSW of Damávand. Ṭáhirih was a guest of Áqá Naṣru’lláh Gílárdí in Wáz-i-‘Ulyá, in 1849.
Jilf-ast Jilf-ast “he is a light-weight”
Jilf, Ajlaf Jilf, pl. Ajláf Ar. boorish, rude, uncivil. Pers. i) any empty vessel, pot or pan; an animal disembowelled, and skinned; anything empty in the middle; ii) silly, trifling
Jillabiya (Jilabiya, Jellabiya, Gallabiya) Jillábíya, pl. Jilábi galabia or galabieh, a loose, shirt-like garment, the common dress of the male population in Egypt, Sudan and Eritrea. Gallábíya, pl. Gallábíyát, Galálíb in Egyptian Arabic.
Jilwa Jilwa Pers, with Ar. influence; splendour; blandishment, loveliness; (metaphorically) the world. See jalwat.
Jim Jím Arabic letter (j)
Jinab-i Jináb-i (Janabe)
Jinab-i-‘Azim Jináb-i-‘Aẓím
Jinab-i-Amin Jináb-i-Amín
Jinab-i-Avarih Jináb-i-Ávárih (Unfolding Destiny, p. 13.)
Jinab-i-Fadil-i-Mazindarani Jináb-i-Fáḍil-i-Mázindarání (Jenabi Fazel)
Jinab-i-Husayn Jináb-i-Ḥusayn
Jinab-i-Ibn-‘Abhar Jináb-i-Ibn-‘Abhar (Jenabe Ayadi, Ibn Abhar)
Jinab-i-Ismu’llah Jináb-i-Ismu’lláh
Jinab-i-Ismu’llahu’l-Asdaq Jináb-i-Ismu’lláhu’l-Aṣdaq
Jinab-i-Khan Jináb-i-Khán
Jinab-i-Mirza Jináb-i-Mírzá
Jinab-i-Mishkin Jináb-i-Mishkín (MF p. 100)
Jinab-i-Muhammad-Taqi Jináb-i-Muḥammad-Taqí
Jinab-i-Mulla Jináb-i-Mullá
Jinab-i-Munib Jináb-i-Muníb (Memorials of the Faithful, GPB & Child of the Covenant 73)
Jinab-i-Munir Jináb-i-Munír Bahá’í exile who died at Smyrna en route to ‘Akká prison
Jinab-i-Nabil-i-Akbar Jináb-i-Nabíl-i-Akbar
Jinab-i-Quddus Jináb-i-Quddús
Jinab-i-Sayyah Jináb-i-Sayyáḥ (MF)
Jinab-i-Shaykh Jináb-i-Shaykh
Jinab-i-Tahirih Jináb-i-Ṭáhirih
Jinab-i-Varqa Jináb-i-Varqá
Jinab-i-Zayn Jináb-i-Zayn (Jinabi Zain)
Jinaza, Janaza, Jinazat, Janazat, Jana’iz Jináza[t], Janáza[t], pl. -át, Janá’iz bier; funeral procession. Pers. singular also jinázih.
Jinn (Djinn) Jinn (collective noun) jinn, demons (invisible beings, either harmful or helpful, that interfere with the lives of mortals). ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stated that jinn can be people whose faith or denial is veiled and concealed. He also said it refers to evil passions in man, such as lusts (Louis Gregory, A Heavenly Vista, p. 9) Others, including Sayyid Abul A‘lá Mawdúdí, state jinn can include foreigners from afar, or be those with hitherto unknown skills that appear magical to the uninitiated..
Jinni, Jinniya Jinní, fem. Jinníya[h or t] jinní, (demonic); jinni (demon); Jinníya (female demon)
Jins, Ajnas Jins, pl. Ajnás kind, sort, variety, species, class, genus; category; sex (male, female); gender (grammar); race; nation
Jirjis Jirjís Pers. George, particularly St. George of England; ranked among the prophets by Muslims.
Jism al-Kull Jism al-Kull the universal substance
Jism, Ajsam, Jusum Jism, pl. Ajsám, Jusúm body (also [new meaning] of an automobile); substance, matter; mass; form, shape. Compare jasad
Jisr as-Sirat, Pul-i-Sirat al-Jisr aṣ-Ṣiráṭ, Pers. Pul-i-Ṣiráṭ The Bridge on the Path or the Bridge of Sirat. The hair-narrow bridge (symbolic) that every person must cross on the Yawm ad-Dín (“Day of the Way of Life”, i.e. the Day of Judgement) to enter Paradise. It is said to be covered in hooks similar to the thorns (shawk) of as-Sa‘dán (a thorny tree).
Jisr, Ajsur, Jusur, Jusura Jisr, pl. Ajsur, Jusúr bridge; dam, dike, embankment, levee;—pl. jusúra(h) beam, girder; axle, axletree.
Jizya (Pers. Jizyah), Jizan, Jiza’ Jizya(h), pl. Jizan, Jizá’ tax; tribute; head tax on free non-Muslims under Muslim rule
Ju Jú‘ hunger, starvation
Ju‘an Jú‘án be hungry
Jubayl (Jubail, J(e)beil) Jubayl coastal city of Jubayl or Byblos in Lebanon, 30 km NNE of Beirut. A tradition states ‘Akká is on a plain between Mt. Carmel and Mt. Jubayl (location unknown)
Jubayr (Jubair) Jubayr Sa‘íd bin Jubayr (665–714), also known as Abú Muḥammad, was originally from Kufá. He was a leading Shí‘a jurist of the time.
Jubba, Jubab, Jibab, Jaba’ib Jubba(h or t), pl. Jubab, Jibáb, Jabá’ib a long outer garment, open in front, with wide sleeves. Pers. also Jubbih.
Jubbiy-i-Hizari’i Jubbiy-i-Hizári’í A type of overcoat
Jud Júd open-handedness, liberality, generosity, bounty
Judi al-Júdí Jabal al-Júdí, Türkiye (Cudi Daǧi in Turkish, 2,089 m peak, the Tigris River flows along its western side), mentioned in Qur’án 11:44 as the landing site for Noah’s ark. 134 km NW Mosul, 15 km WNW Silopi and 15 km ENE of Cizre. Modern Mt Ararat is 310 km ENE of Jabal al-Júdí.
Juhd Juhd strain, exertion
Juhfa, Jihfa (Jehfa) Juḥfa(h), Jiḥfa(h) al-Juḥfah (22.700209, 39.145654) is a small settlement 4.5 km SSE of Ghadír Khumm and 13 km from the Red Sea. It is 16 km SE of Rábigh and 158 km NNW of Mecca. Muḥammad stopped near al-Juḥfah during His flight from Mecca to Medina. It is now one of the five main meeting points (míqát, i.e. Míqát al-Juḥfah) for pilgrims before heading to Mecca. See Ghadír Khumm.
Juj (Jujih), Jawj (Jauj) Júj, Jawj Pers. a cock’s comb; a crest; a pennant, vane
Jujih Khanum Jújih Khánum The minuscule Leona Barnitz was called Jújih Khánum (Little Chick Lady) by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Juk Júk Jug-Basisht (Book of Juk), the Persian translation of the Yoga Vasistha, a syncretic philosophic text
Julab Juláb, Julláb rose water
Julfa (Jolfa) Julfá “new” Julfá (since CE 1606) is an Armenian-populated area (one of the world’s largest) of Iṣfahán, located south of the Záyandí-Rúd. The people migrated from the Armenian city of Julfá in Azerbaijan.
Juljul, Jalajil Juljul, pl. Jalájil (little) bell, sleigh bell; cowbell; jingle
Jull, Gul Jull, Pers. Gul rose
Jullah, Julah Julláh, Juláh Pers. a weaver. Yulláh may be a variation.
Jum’a, Jum’ih, Juma’, Juma’at Jum‘a(h), Pers. Jum‘ih, pl. Juma‘, Juma‘át week; Friday, gathering, “the gathering together of people”. See jam‘
Jum’a-Bazar, Jum’ih-Bazar Jum‘a-Bázár Pers. Friday Bazaar. The Friday market is a special market day in many towns and cities when the permanent traders are joined by many temporary traders. Iṣfahání Persian jum‘ih-bázár. Arabic súq al-jum‘a.
Jumada Jumádá dry. Name of the fifth and sixth months of the Muslim year
Jumada al-Awwal, Jumada al-Ula Jumádá al-Awwal “the initial Jumádá”, the fifth Islamic calendar month (the first of parched land). Also known as Jumádá al-‘Úlá (fem.) “the first Jumádá”.
Jumada ath-Thani, Jumada al-Akhir Jumádá ath-Thání “the second Jumádá”, sixth Islamic calendar month (the second/last of parched land). Also known as Jumádá al-Ákhir, “the last Jumádá”.
Jumhur, Jamahir Jumhúr, pl. Jamáhír multitude; crowd, throng; general public, public; a community; a republic
Jumhuriya, Jumhuriyat Jumhúriya, pl. Jumhúriyát republic
Jumad, Jumada Jumúd, fem. Jumúda[h or t] frozen state; solid, compact state, compactness, solidity; rigor, rigidity, stiffness; inorganic state; hardening, induration; hardness, inflexibility; deadlock, standstill; inertia, inaction, inactivity; lethargy, apathy, passivity, indifference
Juml, Jumal, Jummal Juml, Jumal a cable. Jumal, addition; the whole, aggregate, sum. Jummal, a cable; addition. All consist of the letters جمل.
Jumu’at al-Jumu‘at [a proper name] [the day of gathering, the day of congregating] Friday. Súra 62 named al-Jumu‘ah because verse 9 mentions the call for the 'Congregational Prayer on Friday”. See jum‘a
Junayd (Junaid) Junayd soldier or warrior
Junayn, Junayna, Junaynat Junayn, fem. Junayna[h or t], pl. Junaynát (“Junain”, “Junaina”) garden; little garden. Junaynih Garden (32.993857, 35.095354)—a garden NWM of Mazra‘ih, Israel. Pers. fem. also junaynih.
Jund, Junud, Ajnad, Junayd (Junaid) Jund m. and f., pl. Junúd, Ajnád soldiers; army. Junayd (a name, soldier or warrior) is a diminutive of jund. Abu’l-Qásim al-Junayd ibn Muḥammad ibn al-Junayd al-Khazzáz al-Qawárírí was a mystic and one of the most famous of the early Saints of Islam.
Jundab Jundab (born Jundab bin Junáda) Jundab bin Junáda bin Sufyán al-Ghifárí (590–653) known as Abú Dhar al-Ghifárí was one of the greatest companions of Muḥammad and a companion of Imám ‘Alí
Jundub, Jundab, Janadib Jundub, pl. Janádib grasshopper
Junun Junún possession, obsession; mania, madness, insanity, dementia; foolishness, folly; frenzy, rage, fury; ecstasy, rapture. Pen name of Mírzá Faraju’lláh Faná’yán, see Faná’yán.
Jurayn, Jurayna, Juraynat Jurayn, fem. Jurayna[h or t], pl. Juraynát (“Jurain”, “Juraina”) green. Pers. fem. also juraynih. Juraynah (31.766670, 35.799831) is a settlement in Jordan.
Jurj Jurj Pers. wallets; saddlebags. Jurjí Zaydán
Justan Justan Pers. to search, seek, inquire, ask for, examine, investigate; to heap up, accumulate; to find, acquire.
Juwayn, Juvayn Juwayn, Pers. Juvayn Joveyn, area about 50 km NNW of Sabzivár, Írán.
Juwayni Juwayní Imám al Ḥaramayn Ḍiyá’ ad-Dín ‘Abd al-Malik ibn Yúsuf al-Juwayní ash-Sháfi’í (1028–1085), abbreviated as al-Juwayní, was a Persian Sunní Sháfi'í jurist and mutakallim theologian
Juy (Joy) Júy Pers. (imperative and participle of justan), seek thou; seeking, desiring, wishing, asking. A running stream, rivulet; a canal or gutter cut for the purposes of irrigation; a groove in the back of a sword.
Juz’, Ajza’ Juz’, pl. Ajzá’ part, portion; constituent, component; fraction; division; section; a 30th part (of varying length) of the Qur’án (= 2 ḥizb), into which the Qur’án was divided due to printing costs in medieval times or to facilitate recitation of the Qurʼán in a month.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
K
Ka Ka (an inseparable adverb of similitude prefixed to Arabic nouns or particles, never to pronouns), as, like; as though
Ka’aba, Ku’ub Ka‘aba (Ku‘úb) (verb) to be full and round, be swelling (breasts) Form II to make cubic, to cube (something); to dice (something)
Ka’b-ibn-i-Ashraf Ka‘b-ibn-i-Ashraf a Jewish leader in Medina and a poet. He condemned by Muḥammad after the Battle of Badr (CE 624).
Ka’b, Ka’ba, Ka’aba, Ka’iba Ka’b, Ka’ba(h), Ka’ába(h), Ka’iba to be dejected, dispirited, downcast, sad
Ka’b, Ki’ab, Ku’ub Ka‘b, pl. Ki‘áb, Ku‘úb knot, knob, node (of cane); joint, articulation; ankle, anklebone; heel (of a shoe); ferrule; die; cube; high rank, fame, glory, honour
Ka’ba (Ka’bih), Ka’abat Ka‘ba[h or t] (Pers. Ka‘bih), pl. Ka‘abát cube, cubic structure; (figurative) shrine; object of veneration, focus of interest. The cubic building (al-Ka‘ba or al-Ka‘ba al-Musharrafah, “the exalted cube”) in the centre of the main Mosque in Mecca (Masjid al-Ḥaram) that contains the Black Stone (al-Ḥajar al-Aswad). The sanctuary is believed to have been originally built by Ibráhím (Abraham) and Ismá‘íl (Ishmael), and appointed by Muḥammad as the Qiblah (the Point of Adoration) to which people turn in prayer in Mecca. The structure is 13.1 × 11.03 × 12.86 m (H × W × D)
Kabab (Kebab) Kabáb fried or broiled meat; meat roasted in small pieces on a skewer; meatballs made of finely chopped meat (Syria, Egypt)
Kabara, Kabr, Kabri Kabara, Kabr to exceed in age (someone by), be older (than someone). Aqueduct from Kabrí (NE of Naháríya) to ‘Akká.
Kabir, Kibar, Kubara, Akabir Kabír, pl. Kibár, Kubará, Akabír great, big, large, sizable; bulky, voluminous, spacious; extensive, comprehensive; significant, considerable, formidable, huge, vast, enormous; powerful, influential, distinguished, eminent; important; old. e.g. Amír Kabír. Superlative form of kabura.
Kabira, Kabirat, Kaba’ir, Kubar Kabíra[h], pl. Kabírát, Kabá’ir, Kubur (fem. Kabír) great sin, grave offense, atrocious crime
Kabri Kabrí possibly derived from kabír refering to the plentiful water from the springs. al-Kabrí (33.015543, 35.150862) former Arab town 0.25 km south of kibbutz Kabri (centre 33.020988, 35.147014). Well known for its springs, including (NE to SW): Ein HaShayara (“the caravan”) or ‘Ayn Kabrí (33.015173, 35.151351—in al-Kabrí); Ein Tzuf (“nectar”) or ‘Ayn al-‘Asal (“honey”) (33.014761, 35.151093—in al-Kabrí); Ein Giah (or Gea) or ‘Ayn Fawwár (“effervescent”) 33.009398, 35.141897 (ENE of Tel Kabri); Ein Shefa (“abundance”) or ‘Ayn Mafshuh (33.008332, 35.138160—on Tel Kabri).1 The number of springs made al-Kabri the main supplier of water in the District of Acre. Ancient aqueducts supplied water from the springs to Acre, and two additional canals were built in 1800 and 1814.

Kabul Kábul capital of Afghánistán
Kabura Kabura to be or become great, big, large, to grow, increase
Kad-Khuda, Kad-Khudayan Kad-Khudá, pl. Kad-Khudáyán Pers. master of a family; a bridegroom, married man; anyone looked up to with reverence and respect; a magistrate; a king; an alderman, a sheriff (modern colloquialism); the soul; God; chief officer of a district; a mayor, magistrate, alderman or bailiff. Head man of a village, town, district or ward.
Kad, Kad-ha Kad, pl. Kad-há Pers. a house; beginning, first
Kadhdhab Kadhdháb liar, swindler; lying, untruthful; false, deceitful
Kadhub Kadhúb liar
Kaf Káf Arabic letter (k)
Kafan, Akfan Kafan, pl. Akfán shroud, winding sheet
Kafara Kafara to disbelieve (in), to close oneself off to; to be ungrateful; to disclaim association with, to renounce
Kaffara Kaffara(h) to cover, hide; to expiate, do penance, atone; to forgive, grant pardon; to make an infidel, seduce to unbelief; to accuse of infidelity, charge with unbelief. A religious donation of money or food, made to help those in need, when someone deliberately misses a fast or intentionally breaks their fast.
Kaffara, Kaffarih Kaffára(h), Pers. also Kaffárih penance, atonement (‘an for a sin), expiation (‘an of); reparation, amends; expiatory gifts, expiations (distributed to the poor at a funeral)
Kafi Káfí Pers. sufficient, enough; efficacious, effective; entire, perfect. Kitáb al-Káfí (The Sufficient Book) is a Twelver Shí‘í ḥadíth collection compiled by Muḥammad ibn Ya‘qúb al-Kulayní.
Kafir, Kafirun, Kuffar, Kafara, Kifar Káfir, pl. Káfirún, Kuffár, Kafara, Kifár irreligious, unbelieving; unbeliever, infidel, atheist; ungrateful
Kafiya Káfíya or Káfiya Pers. name of a celebrated grammatical work by al-Ḥájíb
Kafshgarkula, Kafshgar Kula Kafshgarkulá, Kafshgar Kulá (“Kafshgar Kola”, “Khafagarkolah”) 1) village 12 km south of Babol, in Babol County, Mázandarán Province. It is near and to the west of the Shrine of Shaykh Ṭabarsí. 2) Kafshgar Kulá-i-Áraṭah (also known as Kafshgar Kulá) is a village 8 km NE of Qá’im Shahr.
Kafur Káfúr (kafur) (a fountain intended to be drunk by the true and firm believers)—literally camphor, a medicine that is given as a soothing tonic in Eastern medicine. It is cool and it may have a good odour. Symbolically it is referred to as a spring in heaven or an added spiritual flavour etc. Used to denote whiteness—a compound of all colours
Kahf, Kuhuf Kahf, pl. Kuhúf cave, cavern; depression, hollow, cavity
Kahin, Kuhan, Kahana Káhin, pl. Kuhhán, Kahana diviner, soothsayer, prognosticator, fortuneteller; priest
Kahraba Kahrabá’ and Kahrabá amber; electricity
Kahraba’i, Kahrabi Kahrabá’í and Kahrabí electric(al); electrician. Áqá Muḥammad Ḥusayn ‘Alí Akbarúf (“Akbaroff”), known as Kahrubá’í because he worked on the electrical lighting of the holy shrines in Haifa and Bahjí.
Kahrabiya, Kahrabiya Kahrabá’íya and Kahrabíya electricity
Kahruba’i Kahrubáʼí Pers. electricity
Kaj Kaj Pers. crooked, curved, wry, distorted, bent, dislocated; a hook; a grappling iron; a kind of silk of little value. A dishonest person is described in Persian as “his hat is kaj”.
Kaj Kulah (Kaj-Kulah) Kaj Kuláh (or Kaj-Kuláh) Pers. a beau, literally “wearing the cap awry” or “skew cap”; a beloved object. A name given to Áqá Ján, a native of Salmás.
Kajawa (Kajawih, Kajavih, Kijawih) Kajawa, Kajáwa, Kazáwa Pers. a type of pannier, a less elegant form of a howdah or litter for women, placed on camels and mules. See hawdaj.
Kala Kalá Pers. a frog; potash
Kalam Kalám talking, speaking; speech; language, mode of expression, style; talk, conversation, discussion; debate, dispute, controversy; words, word, saying, utterance, statement, remark; aphorism, maxim, phrase, idiom, figure of speech; (grammar) sentence, clause. Described as “speculative theology” by Momen. In Islám “the term ‘theology’ has never been used. Instead, the term kalám (discourse on the divine) was coined because the term ‘theology’ was identified with the doctrine of the holy trinity.” Making the crooked straight, p. 786.
Ilm al-kalám (“knowledge of speech”), often shortened to kalám, is the scholastic, speculative, or philosophical study of Islamic theology (‘aqída, “creed”).
Kalantar, Kalantar-ha Kalántar, pl. Kalántar-há Pers. bigger, greater, larger; the chief man (especially for life) in a town, in whose name everything is done; sherrif—kalántarí shahr, mayor (of town). Ḥájí Ibráhím Kalántar Shírází (1745–1801), also known as I‘timád ad-Dawla. Lord mayor (kalántar) of Shíráz during the late Zand era, the first grand vizier (Ṣadr-i-A‘ẓam), and a major political figure of the Qájár period. See ‘umad.
Kalat-i-Nadiri Kalát-i-Nádirí Kalat Nader, city 80 km north of Mashhad
Kalb, Kilab Kalb, pl. Kiláb dog. The Banú Kalb (“Kalbites”) was an Arab tribe. Nisba Kalbí.
Kalbasi Kalbásí Ḥájí Muḥammad-Ibráhím-i-Kalbásí
Kaldah, Kalda Kaldah (Kaldih), Kalda Pers. dry, barren ground; a name. Mas’súd-Kaldih
Kalim, Kalma, Kulama Kalím two meanings: 1. wounded, injured; sore; (pl. kalmá). 2. person addressed; speaker, spokesman, mouthpiece (pl. kulamá’). Hence, “The Interlocutor” (i.e. Moses)—title of Mírzá Músá, Bahá’u’lláh’s faithful brother; also Áqáy-i Kalím, Master of Discourse, his usual full title.
Kalima, Kalimat, Kalim Kalima(h or t) fem., pl. Kalimát, Kalim (Kalim is the collective masc. pl.) word; speech, address; utterance, remark, saying; aphorism, maxim; brief announcement, a few (introductory) words; short treatise; importance, weight, influence, authority, ascendancy, powerful position
Kalimat al-Firdawsiyah Kalimát al-Firdawsíyah “The Words of Paradise” in Persian by Bahá’u’lláh. Pers. Kalimát-i-Firdawsiyah, Kalimát-i-Firdawsiyyah or Iṣfahání Pers. Kalimát-i-Firdawsíyyih (Kalimat-i-Firdawsiyyih).
Kalimat-i-Maknunih Kalimát-i-Maknúnih “The Hidden Words” by Bahá’u’lláh. Once (1858 to c. 1885) known as “Hidden Book of Fatimih” (Ṣaḥífiyyih-Maknúniyh-Fáṭimíyyih). Now also known as Ṣaḥífiy-i-Fáṭimíyyih (Book of Fatimih) and Muṣḥaf Fáṭimah (“Book of Fatimah”).
Kalimu’llah Kalímu’lláh “One who converses with God”. Title given to Moses in the Islamic Dispensation.
Kalisa Kalísá Pers. a church, synagogue
Kam Kam Pers. few, little; deficient, defective, mutilated, wanting, diminished, scarce, less (hence frequently imparting a negative sense); worse; poor, wretched; base; abandonment; deficiency, destitution; excellent, precious, glorious, honoured; the waist, side. Kam-kam, little by little
Kam, Chand Kam, Pers. Chand (interrogative and exclamatory particle with following noun in accusative) how much? how many! how much!
Kamal, Kamalat Kamál, pl. Kamalát perfection; completeness; completion, consummation, conclusion, termination, windup; maturity, ripeness
Kamana, Kamina, Kumun Kamana and Kamina (Kumún) to hide; to be hidden, concealed, latent; to have its secret seat (in); to ambush, waylay (someone) Form V to lie in wait (for someone), ambush, waylay (someone) Form X to hide, lie concealed
Kamil-Muqaddam Kámil-Muqaddam
Kamil, Kamila, Kamala Kámil, fem. Kámila, pl. Kamala[h or t] perfect, consummate; genuine, sterling; complete, full, plenary, full-strength; completed, concluded; whole, entire, total, integral. al-Kámil, the second commonest metre (after the aṭ-ṭawíl) used in pre-Islamic and classical Arabic poetry.
Kammun (Kumun, Kamoun) Kammún cumin-seed
Kamran Kámrán Pers. successful, blessed, fortunate
Kan Kán Pers. a sheath; a mine or quarry; digging, excavating
Kana (Kawn, Kun, Kiyan, Kaynuna) Kána to be (past tense); to exist; to happen, occur, take place. Kun be!, fiat!. Kuntu (I was). See Kawn, Kiyán, Kaynúna.
Kanad Kanád Pers. a turtle-dove
Kand (Kond-e-olya, Kond Sofla) Kand Ar. cutting. Pers. hemp; sugar; a wound; a pick-axe; flight. Kand-i-‘Ulyá (upper; 35.871498, 51.653033) and Kand-i-Suflá (lower; 35.866553, 51.645985) villages 32.5 and 33.5 km ENE from the centre of Ṭihrán.
Kandag Kandag Pers. a ditch, a moat. Middle Persian meaning “that which has been dug”. See Khandaq.
Kangavar Kangávar Persian town (34.502416, 47.960880) 50 km SW of Mt. Alvand (Qulla Alvand, 3,580 m) and 60 km SW of Hamadán.
Kani Kání Pers. mineral. Ḥájí Mullá ‘Alí Kání.
Kanisa, Kana’is Kanísa[h or t], pl. Kaná’is church (Christian); synagogue, temple (Judaism)
Kaniz Kaníz Pers. a female slave, maid-servant; a maid, virgin, girl
Kanz, Kunuz Kanz, pl. Kunúz treasure
Kar, Karat Kár, pl. Karát Ar. work, job, occupation, business; calling, vocation, profession, trade. e.g. Ustádhkár
Karaj Karaj becoming stale and mouldy (bread). Karaj is the capital of Alborz Province, Írán, and effectively a suburb on the NW side of Tehran.
Karam Karam noble nature; high-mindedness, noble-mindedness, noble-heartedness, generosity, magnanimity; kindness, friendliness, amicability; liberality, munificence. Muḥammad Mahdí ibn Karbalá’í Sháh-Karam
Karama (Kirama, Kiramat), Karamat Karáma(t), Karámát nobility; high-mindedness, noble-heartedness; generosity, magnanimity; liberality, munificence; honour, dignity; respect, esteem, standing, prestige; mark of honour, token of esteem, favour;—pl. miracle (worked by a saint)
Karand, Kirand (Kerand) Karand, Kirand a village about 100 km SE of Ṭihrán (35.231533, 52.339868), home of the ‘Alíyu’lláhí (an Islamic sect, followers of Imám ‘Alí).
Karb Karb pressing heavily, weighing down the spirits (grief); drawing tight (a fetter); ploughing; twisting a rope; being near setting (the sun), almost extinguished (fire); affliction, anguish, vexation, distress
Karbala, Karbila Karbalá’, Karbilá’, Pers. Karbalá, Karbilá Shi’ite holy city in ‘Iráq where the Ḥusayn ibn ‘Alí was murdered (AH 61/CE 680), along with most of his family and many companions, and is buried. Imám Ḥusayn said of the name: “Anguish and distress” (a combination of karb, the land that will cause many agonies; and balá’, afflictions). There are two villages of the same name in Fars and Zanjan Provinces. See Karb and Balá’
Karbala’i, Karbila’i Karbalá’í, Karbila’i prefixed title given to those performing/performed the pilgrimage to Karbalá. Karbalá’í Mihdí Mílání (Kerbelaiy Mehdi Milani). Ḥájí Sayyid Javád-i-Karbilá’í was given the title Sayyid-i-Núr (“Radiant Sayyid”) by Bahá’u’lláh. Abbreviation “Kal”.
Karama, Karamat Karáma, pl. Karámát nobility; high-mindedness, noble-heartedness; generosity, magnanimity; liberality, munificence; honor, dignity; respect, esteem, standing, prestige; mark of honor, token of esteem, favour;—pl. miracle wonders wrought by saints for the good of the people as well as in proof of their own saintship.
Karij Khárij outer, outside, outward, exterior; external, foreign; outside, exterior (noun); foreign country or countries; quotient (arithmetic)
Karim Khan Karím Khán Ḥájí Mírzá Muḥammad Karím Khán Kirmání (1810–1873), a Shí‘a scholar, a self-appointed leader of the Shaykhí community after the death of his mentor, Sayyid Kaẓím Rashtí, a writer described as “ambitious and hypocritical” (GPB 91), and condemned by Bahá’u’lláh for advocating the study of the science of metaphysical abstractions, of alchemy and natural magic, which Bahá’u’lláh described as “vain and discarded learnings”. He wrote a vicious attack on the Bábí Faith at the request of the Sháh. (GPB 91) He developed the doctrine of (and the claim to be) the Rukn ar-Rábi‘ (“the fourth pillar”) of Islám.
Karim, Kurama’, Kiram Karím, pl. Kuramá’, Kirám noble; distinguished, high-ranking, eminent; high-minded, noble-minded, noble-hearted; generous, liberal, munificent, hospitable, beneficent; benefactor; kind, kindly, friendly, amicable, obliging, gracious; respectable, honourable, decent; precious, valuable, costly; thoroughbred; “All-Bountiful”
Karima, Kara’im Karíma(h) (fem. of Karím), pl. Kará’im noble, precious thing, object of value, valuable; vital part (of the body; especially the eye); the hand; generous; a princess, lady
Karkh Karkh Pers. mansion, habitation, turreted building; al-Karkh is a quarter in Baghdád bounded by the west bank of the Tigris River. Bahá’u’lláh’s family moved to al-Karkh prior to His return from Kurdistan
Karkuk (Kirkuk) Karkúk city (35.466009, 44.380987) in northern ‘Iráq between Mosul and Baghdád
Karm, Kurum Karm, pl. Kurúm (collective) (Hebrew כֶּרֶם (k-r-m), plantation, etc.) vine, grapes, grapevines; vineyard; garden, orchard
Karmal, Karmil, Karmel (Carmel) Karmal, Karmil Hebrew karm+el “fresh (planted)” or “vineyard (planted)” of God (assumed). Karm+ suffix l may be used as the name for the scrubby woodland typical of the area. Mount Carmel (Har HaKarmel, Jabal al-Karmil) is defined as: 1. the 39 km long mountain range; 2. North-western 19 km of the mountain range; and 3. the headland at the north-western end of the range (Shoghi Effendi said the temple site (elev. 192 m) is the “Head” of Mt. Carmel and the Shrine of the Báb (elev. 134 m) is the “Heart” of Mt. Carmel). The highest point (32.741851, 35.048391) is 545.9 m. The Bahá’í terraces rise from 47 to 258 m over a length of 730 m, but the ridge above rises to 273 m. The description Jabal al-Quds (the Holy Mountain) in Miracles & Metaphors, p. 45, may refer to Mt. Carmel. See Jabal Már Ilyás and Muḥraqa.
Karmali Karmalí Carmelite. Carmelite Monastery (Kamalí Dayr)
Karwan (Karvan) Kárwán Pers. a caravan (derived from the Persian, as is “van”), a large company of travellers or merchants
Karwan-saray (Karvan-saray) Kárwán-saráy (Kárwánsaráy) Pers. “caravan” + “palace” or “building with enclosed courtyard”, a “caravan house”. Derivation of the English a caravanserai or caravansary (a roadside inn for travellers, often travelling together as a caravan for safety)
Kas Kas Pers. a man, person; one, anyone
Kasa (Kasih, Kase, Kasse) Kása Ar. to be smart, clever, intelligent; to be nice, fine, pretty, comely, handsome, attractive, chic. Pers. a cup, goblet; a plate, saucer, large or small, of brass, wood, or clay; porcelain; the body of a violin or guitar; a large drum; the firmament; the sun; the earth, world.
Kasagiran (Kasihgaran, Kasagaran) Kásagirán (Kása+girán) Pers. Madrasa Kásagirán is a school (built 1694) in the Grand Bazaar of Iṣfahán, Írán. Also “Kasegaran” and “Kassegaran”.
Kashan, Kashana (Kashanih) shán, fem. Káshána[h or t] Pers. a winter-habitation.
Fem. a bird’s-nest; a small house; a hall, dining-room, or parlour; a gallery, balcony, portico, lodge; a stove; a winter-dwelling.
shán is one of the oldest cities of Írán, located in north central Persia.
shánah (or Káshánih) name given by Persians to the town (Keşan, Türkiye) that Bahá’u’lláh passed through on His way to Gallipoli (100 km south of Edirne).
Arḍ-i-Káf, “Land of Káshán”.
Kashani shání from Káshán. Mullá Muḥsin Fayḍ Káshání, Kalimát al-Maknúnah (Hidden Words). Kamál ad-Dín Abú’l-Faḍl ʻAbdu’r-Razzáq ibn Jamál al-Dín Abú al-Gháním al-Káshání was a 13–14th-century Persian Shi‘ite Ṣúfí mystic and scholar. He wrote Risála fí al-qaḍá’ wa’l-qadar (“Treatise on predestination and destiny”).
Kashf al-Ghita’ Kashf al-Ghiṭá’ ‘an Ḥiyal al-A‘dá’ “Removal of the veil from the schemes of the enemies”, refutation of Nuqṭatu’l-Káf started by Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl-i-Gulpáygání and his notes used by nephew, Áqá Sayyid Mahdí Gulpáyigání, to complete it.
Kashf, Kushuf, Kushufat Kashf, pl. Kushúf, Kushúfát uncovering, disclosure; baring, exposure, unveiling; revelation, illumination (mysticism); investigation, inquiry, search, quest, study; examination, scrutiny; inspection; boy scout movement;—(pl.) report, account; statement, specification, enumeration; table, schedule, chart; list, roster, index, register, inventory;—(pl. kushúfát) discoveries
Kashfi Kash of or pertaining to boy scouts. The “Discloser” or “one who discovers and explains the divine secrets”.
Kashfiya Kashfíya alternative name for the Shaykhis because God lifted (kashf) from their intellect and from their vision the veil of ignorance and lack of insight into the Religion, and removed the darkness of doubt and uncertainty from their minds and their hearts. They are the ones whose hearts God illumined with the light of guidance. The development of Shaykhí thought in Shí‘í Islam, p. 48.
Kashghar shghar (Kashgar) part of Sinkiang, China
Kashi shí Pers. short form of Káshání
Kashif, Kashafa shif, pl. Kashafa uncovering, revealing, etc.; serving exploratory purposes, instrumental in reconnaissance, conducive to discovery, detection or disclosure; examiner, investigator, discoverer; supervisor, inspector
Kashifi (Kashefi) shifí (Pers. with Ar influence) revelation, manifestation
Kashk Kashk Pers. sour milk dried; a condiment made of butter-milk; a thick pottage made of wheaten flour or barley-meal with sheep’s milk, to which is added flesh or wheat; barley; barleywater
Kashkul Kashkúl beggar’s bag; scrapbook; album. Described as a globe-shaped alms-basket (originally made from a sea-coconut) carried by dervishes.
Kashmar (Keshmar), Turshiz shmar formerly Turshíz (Torshiz), Ṭuraythíth (Turaythith) or Sulṭánabád (Soltanabad); is a city (35.243022, 58.468591; 155 km SW Mashhad) and the capital of Kashmar County, in Razavi (Raḍawí) Khorasan Province, Írán.
Kashmir Kashmír cashmir—a soft, twilled woolen fabric. Jammu and Kashmír is a state in northern India.
Kashmiri Kashmírí a native of Kashmír
Kasr-i-Hudud Kasr-i-Ḥudúd lift or break bounds imposed by God
Kasr, Kusur Kasr, pl. Kusúr breaking, fracturing; shattering, fragmentation; (pl.) break, breach, fracture; crack, rupture; fracture of a bone
Kasra Kasra defeat, breakdown, collapse; the vowel point for the short vowel i (grammar); nook of the house. See ḍamma and fatḥa
Katama, Katm, Kitman Katama (Katm, Kitmán) to hide (something, from someone); to conceal, secrete, keep secret (something, from someone); to suppress, repress, restrain, check, curb, subdue (anger, passion); to hold (one’s breath); to lower, muffle (the voice); to stifle, smother, quench (fire)
Kathir, Kithar Kathír, pl. Kithár much, many, numerous, abundant, plentiful, copious; frequent; a large portion, a great deal, a great many, a lot
Kathiran Kathírán very, much, to a large extent; often, frequently
Kathiri Kathírí al-Kathírí, officially the Kathiri State of Seiyun in Hadhramaut (Arabic: as-Salṭanah al-Kathíríyah-Say’ún-Ḥaḍramawt) was a sultanate in the Hadhramaut region of the southern Arabian Peninsula, in what is now part of Yemen and the Dhofar region of Oman.
Kathr Kathr much; surplus
Kathra Kathra(t) large quantity, great number, multitude, abundance, copiousness, numerousness, frequency, multiplicity, plurality; majority, major portion (of)
Katibu’s-Sirr, Katib-i-Sirr Kátibu’s-Sirr, Pers. Kátib-i-Sirr private secretary
Katib, Katibun, Kuttab Kátib, pl. Kátibún, Kuttáb, Kataba writer; scribe, scrivener; secretary; clerk typist; office worker, clerical employee; clerk, registrar, actuary, court clerk; notary; writer, author. Kátib áyát, “verse writer” or amanuensis.
Katiba, Katibat Kátiba[h or t], pl. Katibát (fem. of kátib) woman secretary; authoress, writer
Katibpur-Shahidi Kátibpúr-Shahídí Ni‘matu’lláh Kátibpúr-Shahídí
Katurah Katúráh Abraham’s third wife
Kawih (Kavih) Káwih Pers. “Kaveh” in Iranian mythology is a blacksmith (Áhangar) from Isfahan. Pers./Kurdish Káwa. May mean strength, vigour. May have derived from the Ar. Qahwa.
Kawkab, Kawkaba, Kawakib Kawkab, fem. Kawkaba[h], pl. Kawákib (Kaukab, Kokab) star (also, figuratively, of screen, stage, etc.); group, troop, party; white opacity in the cornea of the eye. Name (Kawkab) given to Miss H. A. MacCutcheon.
Kawm (Kaum), Akwam, Kiman Kawm, pl. Akwám, Kímán heap, pile; hill;—pl. kímán especially garbage piles, refuse dump
Kawm as-Sa’ayidah, Kawmu’s-Sa’ayidih Kawm aṣ-Ṣa‘áyidah (“Kom al-Sa’ida”, Per. “Kawmu’ṣ-Ṣa‘áyidih”). A village or town (28.887858, 30.913262) 7.5 km WSW of the city of Bibá, Egypt. It is in Hayy al-Fuqqá‘í (district), Markaz Bibá (region), Muḥáfázah Baní Suwayf (governorate). A fierce attack on a small band of Bahá’ís in this village ended in being the “initial step”, Shoghi Effendi said, in “the eventual universal acceptance of the Bahá’í Faith, as one of the independent recognized religious systems of the world” (Bahá’í Administration, p. 101) by the Appellate religious court of Bibá, which delivered its judgement on 10 May 1925. (Priceless Pearl, p. 318). See entry for Bibá. See also The Bahá’í World, III:48–50, God Passes By, pp. 364–6.
Kawmu Kawmú gathering, assembly, group of people
Kawn (Kaun), Akwan Kawn, pl. Akwán being, esse; existence; event, occurrence, incident. al-kawn the existent, the existing, reality; the world; the cosmos, the universe. al-Kawn al-A‘lá, the Supreme Being, God. See kána.
Kawthar (Kauthar, Kawsar) Kawthar much, ample, abundant, plentiful, large quantity; al-Kawthar—name of a lake or river in Paradise (that Muḥammad saw on his mystic night journey, Qur’án 108:1) whence all the other rivers derive their source. See Tasním.
Kawus (Kavus) Káwús Pers. name of an ancient king of Persia; pure; elegant, graceful; radical; firm, constant; generous, noble; strengthened by divine aid; a subduer, conqueror; a spark; light, splendour, coruscation; swiftness, impetuosity.
Kay (Kai), Kayan Kay, pl. Kayán Pers. a star; the point made by the compasses at the centre of a circle; (pl.) great kings; the surname of the second dynasty of the Persian kings
Kayani, Kayaniyan Kayání, pl. Kayániyán Pers. of the Kayanian race; imperial, royal. Dynasty [time of Alexander the Great] of the Kayániyán (Keyanian) kings of Persia. See Kiyání.
Kayf (Kaif, Kief, Keef, Kif), Kuyuf Kayf, pl. Kuyúf state, condition; mood, humor, state of mind, frame of mind; pleasure, delight, well-being, good humor, high spirits; discretion, option, will;—pl. narcotic, opiate
Kayfa (Kaiyha) Kayfa (interrogative and exclamatory particle) how? how ...! The Arabic phrase bi-la kayfa, also bilá kayfa, is roughly translated as “without asking how”. It was a way of resolving theological problems in Islám over apparent questioning in áyát (verses of the Qur’án) by accepting without questioning. This becomes an impediment to free thought and speculation. al-Ash‘arí originated the use of the term in his development of the orthodox Ash‘arí school against some of the paradoxes of the rationalist Mu‘tazila.  This view was held by the vast majority of the early Sunní Muslims.
Kayfiya (Kayfiyya, Kaifiya) Kayfíya(t), Pers. also Kayfiyya(t) manner, mode, fashion; property, quality; nature, state, condition; particulars, particular circumstances (e.g., of an event); story, statement, account, relation; detailed circumstances, particulars, news
Kaykhusraw (Kaikhusraw) Kaykhusraw Pers. Also Kay Khusraw, Kay-Khusraw. Legendary Persian warrior
Kaynuna (Kainuna), Kaynunat Kaynúna[h or t], pl. Kaynúnát being, existing; happening, coming to pass
Kaysaniya, Kaysaniyya Kaysáníya, Kaysániyya Kaysanite, see Mukhtáriyya. Name may have been based on the kunya (surname) Kaysán, allegedly given to al-Mukhtár (see Mukhtár) by ‘Alí, or the name of a freed Mawlá of ‘Alí who was killed at the Battle of Ṣiffín called Kaysán. More likely named after Abú ‘Amra Kaysán, a prominent Mawlá and chief of al-Mukhtár’s personal bodyguard. The Kaysanites were also known as Ḥanafiyya (after Muḥammad ibn al-Ḥanafiyyah)
Kayumarth (Kayumart, Kayumars) Kayúmarth Pers. first of Adam’s offspring who ever exercised regal authority; he is generally considered as the first king of the Pishdádiyán dynasty, and is sometimes confounded with Adam and Noah. First mythical king mentioned at the beginning of the Sháhnáma.
Kaywan (Kaiwan, Kayvan) Kaywán the planet Saturn; like-wise his orbit; a bow; the seventh heaven
Kazim (Kadhim) Kaẓím filled with anger
Kazim (Kazem, Kadhim), Kazima Káẓim, fem. Káẓima[h or t] tolerant, forgiving, and having patience. “One who suppresses his passion or anger”. The title of the seventh Imám of Shí‘a Islám.
Kazim-i-Zanjani Káẓim-i-Zanjání
Kazimayn (Kadhimayn) Káẓimayn (“Kazemain”) dual of Káẓim, “Two who swallow their anger”, referring to “the two Kazims” (Músá ibn Ja‘far al-Káẓim (d. CE 799) and his grandson Muḥammad ibn ‘Alí al-Jawád (d. CE 835), the seventh and ninth A’imma respectively). al-Kaẓimayn Shrine (Ḥaram al-Káẓimayn), also known as Masjid al-Káẓimíyah, is a combined Shí‘a Muslim mosque and shrine built over their graves. It is now located in the al-Káẓimíyah suburb of Baghdád. The mosque is also known as Jámi‘ al-Yásín, al-Yassin Mosque.
Kazimi-Manshadi Káẓimí-Manshádí
Kazimiya (Kadhimiya) Káẓimíya[h or t] followers of Káẓim or “Kazimism”. al-Káẓimíyah was a city built around the shrines of two A’imma (al-Káẓim and al-Jawád), and is now a suburb of Baghdád (about 7 km north of the city centre). Pers. Káẓimiyya[h or t].
Kazimzada (Kazenzadeh) Káẓimzáda (Káẓim + záda) son of Káẓim (Pers. Bahá’í Káẓimzádih)
Kazirun, Kazrun Kázirún (Kazerun, Kázirán, Kázarún) also known as Kasrun, is a city (90 km west of Shíráz) and capital of Kazeroon County, Fars Province, Írán. See Darwáza Kázirún.
Kha Khá name of an Arabic letter. Land of Khá: reference to the Khurásán Province and neighbouring areas, including the city of ‘Ishqábád (Ashkhabad).
Khabar-Dar Khabar-Dár Pers. informed, appraised, certified; aware; careful, cautious; an informer, scout, spy; take care! beware! look out!
Khabar, Akhbar Khabar, pl. Akhbár news; information, intelligence: report, communication, message; notification; rumor; story; matter, affair. Traditions, sayings attributed to Muḥammad and to the Imams.
Khabir Khabír experienced, expert (in); familiar, conversant, well-acquainted (with), cognizant (of)
Khada (Khadih), Khawd, Khiyad Kháḍa (Khawḍ, Khiyáḍ) to wade (into water); to plunge, dive, rush (into something), tackle courageously (something), embark boldly (on). Pers. also kháḍih (“khadeh” or “khazeh”). Jalálu’lláh Kháḍih, last name also transcripted Kházih or Kházeh (1897–21 February 1990), a Hand of the Cause of God appointed by Shoghi Effendi in 1953.
Khadar Khaḍár green, greenness, green colour; greens, herbs, pot-herbs
Khadhala, Khadhl, Khidhlan Khadhala (Khadhl, Khidhlán) to leave, abandon, forsake, desert, leave in the lurch (or someone); to stay behind; to disappoint; pass
Khadi’, Khuda’, Khud’an, Khid’an Kháḍi‘ pl. Khuḍa‘, Khuḍ‘án, Khiḍ‘án submissive, humble; obedient, pliant, tractable; subject, liable, prone (to something). Pers. “Khádih”. Jalál Kháḍih, Hand of the Cause of God.
Khadi’i Kháḍi‘í [Doubtful Kháḍí’í in MUHJ 1963–86, p. 502.]
Khadij Khadíj premature child
Khadija, Khadijih Khadíja(h or t), Pers. Khadíjih Khadíjah bint Khuwaylid (555–619), Muḥammad’s first wife and first female follower of Muḥammad. Khadíjah was the daughter of Khuwaylid ibn Asad, a leader of Quraysh tribe in Mecca, and a successful businesswoman in her own right.
Khadijih Khanum Khadíjih Khánum Mother of Bahá’u’lláh. Children of second marriage—Daughters Sárih Khánum and Nisá’ Khánum. Sons Bahá’u’lláh, Mírzá Músá and Mírzá Mihdí.
Khadijih-Bagum Khadíjih-Bagum Khadíjih-Bagum (1820–1882) was the wife of her second cousin, the Báb. She was the daughter of Sayyid Mírzá ‘Alí, a merchant, the paternal uncle of the Báb’s mother. Her brother, Ḥájí Mírzá Abu’l-Qásim, was the father of Sayyid Muḥammad-Ḥusayn, the grandfather of Ḥájí Mírzá Hádí Shírází, and the great grandfather of Shoghi Effendi.
Khadijih-Sultan Khadíjih-Sulṭán
Khadim, Khuddam, Khudama Khádim, pl. Khuddám, Khudama (“Khadem”) domestic servant, help; manservant; woman servant; employee; attendant; waiter; deacon (Christian) (Dhikru’lláh Khádem (sic), appointed Hand of the Cause of God, 1957)
Khadimu’llah, Khadimatu’llah Khádimu’lláh, fem. Khádimatu’lláh “Servant of God” or “Maidservant of God”. Bahá’u’lláh gave this title to Mírzá Áqá Ján (1837–1901), the first believer in Him, his personal attendant, later also His amanuensis. He broke the Covenant after the death of Bahá’u’lláh.
Khadir Khaḍir green, verdant; verdure, greenery; young green crop (of grain)
Khadir, Khidir, Khidr al-Khaḍir, al-Khiḍir (al-Khiḍr) a well-known legendary figure (“The Green One”) or immortal saint. Identified as “One of our servants” Qur’án 18:65. His name is not mentioned in the Qur’án, but tradition gives it as Khiḍr. His knowledge is fresh and green, and drawn out of the living sources of life (Alláh). Equivalent in the Bible is considered to be Melchizedek. Bahíyya Khánum, p. 99 states the Cave of Khiḍr is the Cave of Elijah.
Khafid Kháfiḍ a depressor; one of the attributes of God (as depressing the proud)
Khafiy Khafíy hidden, concealed; secret, unknown; unseen, invisible; mysterious
Khafiya, Khafiyyih, Khafaya Khafíya(h), (Pers. Khafiyyih), pl. Khafáyá a secret, a secret affair. Quietly and privately, as in prayers, etc.
Khal-i-A’zam Khál-i-A‘ẓam “the Greatest Uncle”, Ḥájí Mírzá Siyyid ‘Alí, middle maternal uncle and guardian of the Báb
Khal-i-Akbar Khál-i-Akbar “the greater uncle”, Ḥájí Mírzá Siyyid Muḥammad, eldest maternal uncle
Khal-i-Asghar Khál-i-Aṣghar “younger or junior uncle”, Siyyid Mírzá Ḥasan-‘Alí, youngest maternal uncle of the Báb
Khal, Akhwal, Khu’ul, Khu’la Khál, pl. Akhwál, Khu’úl, Khu’úla (maternal) uncle;— (pl. khílán) mole, birthmark (on the face); patch, beauty spot
Khalaf, Akhlaf Khalaf, pl. Akhláf substitute; successor; descendant, offspring, scion
Khalaj Khalaj Pers. the aching of the bones from excessive labour. The Khalaj people (also spelt Xalaj or Khaladzh; Persian: Xalajhá) are primarily classified as a Turkic people likely of Indo-Iranian origin that speak the Khalaj language. Became largely Persianized in the mid-20th century.
Khalajabadi Khalajábádí (Khalaj + Ábádí) Pers. Kayván Khalajábádí
Khalal, Khilal Khalal, pl. Khilál gap, interval, interstice; cleft, crack, rupture, fissure; a defective, unbalanced state, imbalance; defectiveness, imperfection; fault, flaw, defeat, shortcoming; disturbance, upset, disorder; damage, injury, harm (that something suffers or suffered); khilála during; between; through
Khalaqa, (Khalq) Khalaqa (Khalq) to create, make, originate (something); to shape, form, mould (something)
Khaldi, Khaldun Khaldí, pl. Khaldún adjective eternity (from root khalada and noun khald). ibn Khaldún (1332–1406, “Ibn-Kaldoon”, “son of immortals”) is a famous Arab philosopher and historian.
Khali (Khalin) Khálí (Khálin) free, unrestrained, open, vacant (office, position), void; idle, unemployed; free (from), devoid
Khalid, Khwalid Khálid, pl. Khwálid everlasting, perpetual, eternal; immortal, deathless, undying; unforgettable, glorious;—pl. mountains
Khalidiya, Khalidiyyih Khálidíya(h), Pers. Khálidíyyih al-Khálidíya “belonging to Khálid”. Naqshbandíya Khálidíya, Khálidíya or Khálidí is the title of a branch of the Naqshbandíya Ṣúfí lineage, from the time of Khálid al-Baghdádí
Khalifa, Khulafa Khalífa(h or t), pl. Khulafá’, Khalá’if caliph, literally successor. The vicar, deputy, successor or representative of the Messenger of God. See Khiláfa.
Khalij, Khulj, Khuljan Khalíj, pl. Khulj, Khulján bay, gulf; canal; al-Khalíj—name of Cairo’s ancient city canal that was abandoned and leveled at the end of the 19th century. al-Khalíj Fársí, the Persian Gulf. Khalíj Gurgán, Gulf of Gorgon or Gorgon Bay, SE corner of the Caspian Sea.
Khalil Khalíl, pl. Akhillá, Khullán friend, bosom friend; lovers. al-Khalíl, the Friend, i.e. Abraham.
Khalil-i-Khu’i Khalíl-i-Khu’í
Khalilu’llah Khalílu’lláh the Friend of God (Abraham is known as)
Khaliq Kháliq creative; Creator, Maker (God). Used as a name, preceded by ‘Abd (servant)—‘Abdu’l-Kháliq “Servant of the Creator”.
Khalis, Khalisa, Khullas Kháliṣ, fem. Kháliṣa[h], pl. Khullaṣ clear; pure, unmixed, unadulterated; sincere, frank, candid, true; free, exempt (from); name of a stream in the east of Baghdád on the banks of which a castle of the same name is situated. In Persian, also government revenue department office; lands under government management.
Khalisizádih Kháliṣízádih itinerant traveller, Ákhúnd Turábí, Shaykh Muḥammad Kháliṣízádih
Khalji Khaljí ‘Alá’ud-Dín Khaljí (r. 1296–1316) was the second and the most powerful ruler of the Khaljí dynasty in India
Khalkhal, Khalakhil Khalkhál, Khalákhíl anklet. Azerbaijani Khálkhál; formerly and local Azerbaijani Híruw; Persian Híruwábád or Hírábád. A city and capital of Khalkhál County, in Ardabíl Province, Írán.
Khall Khall Ar. vinegar. See Pers. Sirka
Khalq Khalq creation; making; origination; something which is created, a creation; creatures; people, man, mankind; physical constitution. Khalqan a creation
Khalq-i-Jadid Khalq-i-Jadíd Pers. (spiritual) rebirth
Khalwa, Khalawat Khalwa(t), pl. Khalawát privacy, solitude; seclusion, isolation, retirement; place of retirement or seclusion, retreat, recess; secluded room; hermitage; religious assembly hall of the Druses; booth, cabin
Khamanih Khamaneh, Khameneh Khámanih, Kháminih Pers. (also Khamneh, Khumla and Khumna) is a town 60 km WNW of Tabríz.
Khaminiy (Khamenei) Kháminíy Pers. Sayyid ‘Alí Ḥusayní Kháminíy (family are from Kháminih, the h is silent in his name), known in the Western world as Ayatollah Khamenei (second “supreme leader” of Írán)
Khamir Khamír leavened (dough); ripe, mature, mellow; leaven; leavened bread
Khamis, Khamisa Khamís, fem. Khamísa[h] a fifth; the fifth day of the week (Thursday); a garment or piece of cloth of five cubits; anything consisting of five parts (especially an army composed of van, centre, rear, and two wings)
Khammar Khammár vintner, wine merchant, keeper of a wineshop
Khammar, ‘Udi Khammár, ‘Údí d. 1879. Previous owner of the House of ‘Abbúd, in ‘Akká. In 1870 he completed the restoration and expansion of the mansion at Bahjí as a summer palace. He placed the following interesting inscription over the mansion door: “Greetings and salutations rest upon this mansion which increaseth in splendour through the passage of time. Manifold wonders and marvels are found therein, and pens are baffled in attempting to describe them.” (Shoghi Effendi: recollections, p. 138). Grid co-ordinates 32.921563, 35.067297.
Khamsa, Khams Khamsa[h or t], fem. Khams five; the five fingers, the hand
Khamsih (Khamseh) Khamsih former name of Zanjan Province. Khamsih, “the five” tribes in an area that is now divided between the provinces of Fárs, Kirmán and Hurmuzgán.
Khamsun, Khamsin, Khamasin Khamsún (“chasin”, “hamsin”) fifty. Khamsín is derived from khamsún. ‘íd al-khamsín Whitsuntide, Pentecost; aḥad al-khamsín Whitsunday; ayyám al-khamásín the period of about 50 days between Easter and Whitsuntide; and khamsín and khamásín, khamsin (English), a dry, hot, sandy, southerly windstorm in Egypt—these windstorms blow sporadically over a fifty-day period in spring, hence the name. Similar winds in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula have local names, e.g. sharav in Israel.
Khamush Khámush Pers. silent; discreet; tame; dead; extinguished. Often used in connection with the dead.
Khamushi Khámushí Pers. silence, taciturnity. The dead are alluded to as being Khámush, i.e., silent.
Khan al-‘Umdan Khán al-‘Umdán “the Inn of the Pillars” (32.919986, 35.069020), large merchant’s inn, ‘Akká. Also known as Khán al-‘Avámíd, Khán al-Jurayní.
Khan al-Ifranj (Khan al-Franj) Khán al-Ifranj “the Franks (or Europeans) Inn” (32.921118, 35.069777), ‘Akká
Khan ash-Shawarda or Khan at-Tujjar Khán ash-Shawárda or Khán at-Tujjár “the Merchant’s Inn” (32.921852, 35.071308), ‘Akká
Khan ash-Shuna Khán ash-Shúna “the Granary Inn” (36.197565, 37.160959), oldest inn in ‘Akká
Khan-i-‘Arab Khán-i-‘Arab
Khan-i-‘Avamid Khán-i-‘Avámíd Inn of Pillars, ‘Akká. Also known as Khán-i-Jurayní, or Khán al-‘Umdán. See ‘Awámíd.
Khan-i-Ahi Khán-i-Áhí Mírzá Majíd Khán-i-Áhí, a secretary of Russian Legation
Khan-i-Kalantar Khán-i-Kalántar
Khan-i-Kashi Khán-i-Káshí
Khan-i-Khudi (Khankowdi) Khán-i-Khúdí small village (36.023428, 55.982993) in Semnan Province
Khan-i-Kirmani Khán-i-Kirmání Ḥaji Mírzá Muḥammad Karím Khán Kirmání (1810–1873), was a Shaykhi-Shí‘a Muslim scholar. He was the third leader of Kirmání Shaykhi community. He is believed to be among the first Shaykhí scholars to have rejected the messianic claims of the Báb. He wrote a dozen anti-Bábí books, one such being Risála izháq al-báṭil fí radd al-bábíya (“The Crushing of Falsehood in Refutation of Bábism”)
Khan-i-Larijani Khán-i-Laríjání
Khan-i-Nuri Khán-i-Núrí
Khan-i-Qazvini Khán-i-Qazvíní
Khan-i-Shavirdi Khán-i-Shávirdí (A caravanserai in ‘Akká)
Khan-i-Tanakabuni Khan-i-Tanakabuni (GPB) Khán-i-Tunukábúní, Sulaymán (MF)
Khan, Khana, Khanat, Khawanin Khán, fem. Khána[h or t] (pl. Kháwánín, fem. Khánát) hostel, caravanserai; inn, pub, tavern. Fem. column (e.g., of a newspaper); square (e.g., on a chessboard). Pers., originally from the Mongolian term for a ruler; a title meaning prince, chieftain, warrior or man of rank. The political entity ruled by a Khán is a Khánát or Khanate (Khaganate).
Khana (Khanih), Khana-ha Khána (خانه), pl. Khána-há Pers. a house, dwelling, habitation; a tent, pavilion; a receptacle; a drawer, partition, compartment; department; the arm from the shoulder to the elbow; a field; a woman; a page of paper; a heap of corn; a hillock of sand; verse, poetry
Khana Kahdan (Khanakahdan) Khána Kahdán a small village (28.932759, 53.310710) SW of the city of Kháwarán
Khanadan Khánadán Pers. a family; house; household; the court, king’s household; of noble blood; the master of a family
Khanadan (Khandan) Khánadán (Khándán) Pers. to echo; to obtain celebrity
Khanaqin (Khanaqayn) Khánaqín (Khánaqín-i-‘Iráqí) a town in ‘Iráq on the border of Írán, 143 km NE Baghdád and 155 km west of Kirmánsháh
Khandaq, Khanadiq Khandaq, pl. Khanádiq ditch; trench. Arabized form of kandag following suggestion of Salmán to build a trench north of Medina in December CE 626.
Khandil Khándil pronunciation of Turkish Kandil (candle or oil lamp). Arabic qindíl
Khangah, Khanagah Khan-gah, Khana-gah Khánagáh (Khángáh) Pers. khána-gah (khán-gah), a monastery for Sufis or Darwishes; a convent, chapel; a hospice. Also with “q” instead of “g”.
Khani Khání Pers. a fountain, pure water; a vessel in which water is cooled; a bath; gold; imperial rank
Khani Abad (Khan-i-Abad, Khaniabad) Khání Ábád Pers. a village “near” Ṭihrán may be: 35.663238, 51.409908 neighbourhood District 12, south of Gulistan Palace; 35.633734, 51.390302 North Khání Ábád, District 19; 35.619525, 51.394887 South Khání Ábád, District 19; or the village of village (35.568146, 51.526189) of Ghání Ábád (Khání Ábád).
Khaniq, Khawaniq Khániq, Khawániq choking, strangling; suffocating, asphyxiating, stifling, smothering; throttling, throttle (in compounds; tech.); (pl.) choke coil, reactor (radio); gorge, ravine, canyon
Khaniqiyi Khángiyí Pers. homemade
Khanjar, Khanajir Khanjar, pl. Khanájir dagger. Shaykh Khanjar was given the name Salmán by Bahá’u’lláh—thereafter known as Shaykh Salmán
Khanlar Khánlár name of a village in Írán and Azerbayjan
Khanlar Khánlar Khánlar Mirza (1812–1856) (royal title Iḥtishám-i-Dawla)
Khannas Khannás the devil; a wicked person; al-khannás epithet of the Devil (properly speaking, “he who withdraws when the name of God is mentioned”), i.e. “Evil Whisperer”
Khanum (Khanam) Khánum (Khánam) Pers. fem. lady, wife (placed after the proper name)
Khaqan, Khawaqin Kháqán, pl. Khawáqín overlord, ruler, sovereign, monarch, emperor
Khaqani Kháqání Imperial.
Afḍal al-Dín Badíl ibn ‘Alí ibn ‘Uthmán (commonly known as Kháqání; c. 1120–c. 1199) was a major Persian poet and prose-writer.
Khar Khar Pers. an ass; a stupid fool; black viscous clay; sediment; the bridge of a violin; the commonest, ugliest, largest, or coarsest of its kind
Kharab, Akhriba Kharáb, pl. Akhriba ruin, ruination; state of destruction or dilapidation; desolation;—pl. (site of) ruins
Kharaba, Kharabat, Khara’ib Kharába, pl. Kharábát, Khará’ib (fem. of Kharáb) disintegrating structure, ruin, ruins, desolation; destroyed, deserted, depopulated, spoiled; debauched; overcome by wine, drunk, intoxicated; reprobate; noxious, vicious; indecent; miserable. (Pers. with Ar. influence) Kharábát, a tavern; a gaming-house.
Kharaj Kharáj tax; land tax (Islamic Law)
Kharaja, Khuruj Kharaja, Khurúj to go out, walk out; to come out. An act of rebellion against authorities.
Kharand Kharand Pers. agricultural settlement (35.935449, 53.441426) in Seman Province
Kharash Kharash a wild ass. Shaykh al-Kharashí.
Kharazm (Khwarazm) Khárazm (Pers.) or Chorasmia, is a large (former) oasis region on the Ámú Daryá (river) delta in western Central Asia to the south of the (former) Aral Sea
Kharazmi (Khwarazm) Khárazmí from Khárazm (a Khorasmian). Muḥammad ibn Músá al-Khárazmí (Persian and a native of Baghdád) extended the work in astronomy of Muḥammad ibn Ibráhím al-Fazárí and produced the famous Astronomical Tables (Zíj). His work in the field of mathematics even more important. He who adopted Indian numerals and made use of zero. al-Khárazmí was also the originator of algebra whose name appeared in Europe as Algorism or Algorithm.
Kharazmshah (Khwarazmshah) Khárazmsháh Pers. generic title of the rulers of two dynasties who were based on Khárazm, especially of ‘Alá’ ad-Dín Muḥammad II (r. 1200–1220).
Kharif Kharíf autumn, fall
Khariji, Kharijiya, Khawarij Khárijí, fem. Khárijíya, pl. Khawárij outer, out- (in compounds), outside, outward, exterior, external; foreign; non-resident; a member of the al-Khárijíyat (the Kharijite sect), the first identifiable sect of Islam;—pl. dissenters, dissidents, backsliders, rebels, outsiders or seceders, especially those who rebelled against ‘Alí—the Kharijite sect (the oldest religious sect of Islam). al-khárijíya foreign affairs.
Khariq-i-‘Adat Kháriq-i-‘Ádat (Khareki-Adat) Things that are contrary, rend or change the habits of men. Hence, sometimes ‘miracles’.
Kharput Khárpút Harput/Khárpút, ancient fortress about 5 km NE of Elâziǧ, Türkiye
Kharras (Kharraz), Kharrasun Kharráṣ, pl. Kharráṣún liar, slanderer, calumniator
Kharrat, Kharratun Kharráṭ pl. Kharráṭún turner (of wood), lather; braggart, bluffer, storyteller. Ustád ‘Abdu’l-Karím Kharráṭ from Isfahan secretly and stealthily associated with Covenant-breakers, he was their spy in Palestine.
Kharrub, Kharnub, Khurnub Kharrúb (collective; nomen unitatis ة) carob, locust; carob bean, locust pod, St. John’s-bread. Also kharnúb, khurnúb.
Khartum, Kharatim Kharṭúm, pl. Kharáṭím proboscis, trunk (of the elephant); hose. al-Kharṭúm (Khartoum)—capital of Sudan.
Khasa’il-i-Sab’ih Khaṣá’il-i-Sab‘ih “The Seven Proofs or Qualifications” by the Báb
Khash Khásh city in SE of Írán
Khasilat, Khasa’il Khaṣílat, pl. Khaṣá’il Pers. manner, custom, usage, moral
Khasm, Khusum, Akhsam Khaṣm, pl. Khuṣúm, Akhṣám adversary, antagonist, opponent; opposing party (in a lawsuit)
Khass (Khas), Khassan Kháṣṣ, pl. Pers. Kháṣṣán special, particular; specific, peculiar; relative, relevant, pertinent (to), concerning (something); earmarked, designated, destined, set aside (for); especially valid or true (for), especially applicable (to), characteristic (of); distinguished; private; exclusive, not public;—pl. men of rank
Khassa, Khawass Kháṣṣa[h or t], pl. Khawáṣṣ exclusive property; private possession; specialty, particularity, peculiarity, characteristic, property, attribute; essence, intrinsic nature; leading personalities, people of distinction. al-kháṣṣa the upper class, the educated. cf. ‘Ámma.
Khassiya, Khassiyat, Khasa’is Kháṣṣíya, pl. Kháṣṣíyát, Khaṣá’iṣ Ar. specialty, particularity, characteristic, peculiarity, property, special attribute, feature, trait, qualification; prerogative, privilege; jurisdiction, competence
Khata Khatá Pers. region in Tibet known for musk production
Khata’i Khatá’í Pers. derived from Cathay, a name by which North China was known in medieval Europe. The word is derived from Khitay (or Khitan), the name of a semi-nomadic people who left south-eastern Mongolia in the 10th century CE to conquer part of Manchuria and northern China.
Khataba, Khatabat Khaṭába[h or t], pl. Khaṭábát preaching, sermonizing, oratory
Khatam al-Anbiya’, Khatam an-Nabiyyun Khátam al-Anbiyá’, Khátam an-Nabiyyún the Seal (of approval, i.e. that he fulfilled or confirmed the earlier Revelations) of the Prophets. Form used in Qur’án 33:40 is Khátama’n-Nabiyyína (accusative) or “the best of prophets” (khayr an-nabiyyín).1 Endings: -ún (nom.), -ín (gen.) and -án (accus.). Muḥammad was the last Manifestation to prophesy the coming of Bahá’u’lláh, and His Dispensation the last of the prophetic cycle of religion. The appearance of the Báb closed this cycle. The Báb’s Mission was to announce the Day of God, not to foretell it (Revelation of Bahá’u’lláh I:66) Umayyah ibn Abí aṣ-Ṣalt (a contemporary of Muḥammad) says Muḥammad was the one through whom “Allah sealed the prophets before him and after him”, thus clearly indicating an expectation of prophets after Muḥammad. See “A Bahá’í approach to the claim of finality in Islam”, Seena Fazel and Khazeh Fananapazir, Journal of Bahá’í Studies, 5:3, pp. 17–40; Islam and the Bahá’í Faith, Momen, chapter 3. Some adult sons of Prophets were also known as prophets, but Muḥammad had none (Qur’án 33:40). Zayd was an adopted slave and ‘Alí a son-in-law. Pers. see Muhr-i-Payámbarán.
Khatima, Khwatim Khátima(h or t), pl. Khawátim, Khawátím end, close, conclusion, termination; epilogue (of a book); final stage khawátím
Khatir, Khatirat Kháṭir, pl. Kháṭirát Pers. Whatever occurs to or passes in the mind; cogitation, thought, suggestion; memory, remembrance; mind, soul, heart; inclination, propensity; affection, favour; pleasure, will, choice; sake, account, behalf
Khatirat-i-Malmiri Kháṭirát-i-Málmírí Pers. Memoirs of Málmírí
Khatirat-i-Nuh-Saliy-i-‘Akka Kháṭirat-i-Nuh-Sáliy-i-‘Akká Pers. Yúnis Khán, Memories of Nine Years in ‘Akká
Khatm, Akhtam, Khutum Khatm, pl. Akhtám, Khutúm sealing;—pl. seal, signet, seal imprint; stamp, stamp imprint
Khatt-i-Murghi Khaṭṭ-i-Murghí writing or calligraphy in the shape of a bird
Khatt, Khutut Khaṭṭ (Pers. Khaṭ), pl. Khuṭúṭ line; stroke; stripe, streak; (railroad) line, line of communication; telephone line; frontline (military); furrow, ridge; handwriting; writing, script; calligraphy, penmanship
Khattab Khaṭṭáb a name derived from the word "sermon" (Khaṭíb) (literally book-narration). ʻUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭáb, c. 584–3 November 644, was one of the most powerful and influential Muslim caliphs in history.
Khatun Jan Khátún Ján wife of Hádíy-i-Qazvíní (MF)
Khatun, Khawatin Khátún, pl. Khawátín Pers. lady, matron, socially prominent woman; proper fem. name
Khatunabad Khátúnábád (Khátún ábád) Pers. a town (30.00805, 55.42111) 160 km WSW Kerman and 278 km ENE of Shíráz, in Kerman Province. Name is written in Persian as two words.
Khatunabadi Khátúnábádí (Khátún ábádí) Pers. of or from Khátúnábád. The Khátúnábádí family (i.e. khándán Khátún ábádí) was a well-known and influential scholarly family in Isfahan and Tehran. Its ancesters moved from Medina to Iṣfahán and Qum. After an outbreak of plague in Iṣfahán, the head of the family sought temporary refuge in the village of Khátúnábád.
Khawaja, Khawajat Khawája[h or t], pl. Khawáját sir, Mr (title and form of address, especially for Christians and Westerners, used with or without the name of the person so addressed), e.g. Khwája Naṣíru’d-Dín Ṭúsí.
Khawar (Khavar) Kháwar Pers. the west, but often used by poets for the east; the sun; a thorn. Pers. also Khávar.
Khwan Khwán Pers. a table, covered table, and the meat upon it; a spacious tray; household furniture; rubbish of sticks and straws; weeds, tares; (imperative of khwandan, in compounds) reading; a reader; asking, begging; a chanter; a crier, invoker, inviter. See khuwán.
Khwanda, Khwandagan Khwánda, pl. Khwándagán Pers. read, sung; called, invited; knowing how to read and write; a lecture or lesson; (in comp.) adopted;—pl. learned people, readers
Khwandagi Khwándagí reading, recital; invocation; calling; adoption
Khwandan, Khundan Khwandan, Khúndan Pers. to read, to recite; to invite, invoke, convoke, call; to sing, to chant; to decipher, to explain; to study
Khwani (Khani) Khwání Pers. reading. Note: since a و (wáw) after a خ (kh) may not be pronounced, it may be written as khání (see PDC p. 93).
Khwarazm (Chorasmia) Khwárazm a huge oasis region (centred on 42.189608, 59.326172) on the Ámú Daryá (Amu River, formerly the Oxus River) delta south of the (former) Aral Sea (45.338444, 59.946321; in Turkenistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan) in Turkmenistan. Near the centre of the oasis is Köneürgench (Turkmen), Kuhnah Gurgánj (Pers.), a city (42.322890, 59.168301) in north Turkmenistan. Near the southern end of the oasis is the site of the ancient town of Ürgenç (Urgench; 41.553738, 60.621765), which contains the ruins of the capital of Khwárazm. Oasis was part of the Achaemenid Empire from about 550 BCE to about CE 100.
Khwarizmi Khwárizmí Muḥammad ibn Músá al-Khwárizmí (c.  780–c.  850), a Persian scholar who produced works in mathematics, astronomy, and geography. “Algorithm” derived from Latin form of surname. His The Compendious Book on Calculation by Completion and Balancing (Arabic: al-kitáb al-mukhtaṣar fí ḥisáb al-jabr wa’l-muqábala; Latin: Liber Algebrae et Almucabola), also known as al-jabr. The Latin translation introduced his solution of quadratic equations and the codification of the various Indian numerals (including zero (ṣifr) and the decimal point) to the Western world.
Khwush-Amad Khwush-Ámad Pers. flattery; welcome; gratification
Khwush-Amadi (Khushamadi) Khwush-Ámadí Pers. flattery; assenting; you are welcome.
A blessed arrival?
Khwush-Qadam (Khush Ghadam) Khwush-Qadam (“Khush Ghadam”) Pers. a person who brings good fortune, welcome news, good omen (Maḥmúd’s Diary)
Khawaran Kháwarán Pers. east and west; a district in Khurásán.
City (28.937469, 53.314119) in Fars Province.
Khawari (Khavari) Kháwarí or Khávarí Pers. western; (poetical) eastern; the sun; surname of the poet Anwárí; from Kháwar.
‘Abdu’l-Ḥamíd Ishráq-Khávarí (1902–1972), a prominent Iranian Bahá’í scholar.
Khawf (Khauf), Khawfan (Khaufan) Khawf, Khawfan fear, dread (of); khawfan for fear (of), fearing (for). al-Khawf—mystical station of fear of the wrath and displeasure of God.
Khawli (Khauli, Khuli) Khawlí supervisor, overseer (of a plantation); gardener
Khawwam, Khavvam Khawwám, Pers. Khavvám a surname
Khaybar Khaybar The name of a famous oasis, and of its principle settlement, 138 km north of Medina. The Battle of Khaybar was fought in the year 628 between Muslims and the Jews living in the oasis of Khaybar.
Khayl (Khail), Khuyul Khayl, pl. Khuyúl (collective) imagining, thinking; horses; horsemen, cavalry; a tribe (especially of horsemen); horsepower (hp). When Zayda’l-Khayl of the tribe of Ḥátim accepted Islám, Muḥammad called him Zayda’l-Khayr—Zayd of Goodness (or Zayd the Good).
Khayli (Khaili) Khaylí Pers. many, very much; very long
Khayli Khub Khaylí Khúb Pers. (“Kheili Khoob”) very good, very well, all right
Khayli khush (khosh) amidad Khaylí khush ámadíd Pers. a very blessed/welcome arrival that can be translated as “your coming gives me most great pleasure and delight”. See Khwush
Khayma (Khaima), Khaymat Khayma, pl. Khaymát, Khiyám, Khiyam tent; tarpaulin; arbor, bower; pavilion
Khayr (Khair), Khiyar, Akhyar, Khuyur Khayr, pl. Khiyár, Akhyár good; excellent, outstanding, superior, admirable; better; best; (pl. Khuyúr) good thing, blessing; wealth, property; good, benefit, interest, advantage; welfare; charity
Khayriya (Khairiya) Khayríya charity, charitableness, benevolence, beneficence
Khayrkhah Khayrkháh Ibráhím Khayrkháh from Bábulsar
Khayru’l-Qura (Kheirol-Gora) Khayru’l-Qurá “best of villages”. Name given by Bahá’u’lláh to Zírak, a small village (33.811111, 57.306944) 13 km SW Bushrúyih. See Zírak.
Khayru’l-Ummah (Khairu’l-Ummah) Khayru’l-Ummah good people/community Qur’án 3:110
Khayru’llah (Khairu’llah) Khayru’lláh “God’s Blessing” (“Kheiralla”). Ibrahim George Kheiralla (1849–1929) [Ibrahim Jurj Khayru’lláh] (“PhD” was purchased)
Khayru’n Nisa’ (Khairu’n Nisa’) Khayru’n Nisá’ “The Most Virtuous among Women”—a title that Bahá’u’lláh gave to Khadíjih Bagum (wife of the Báb), and forbade all women, save Fáṭimih Bagum (the Báb’s mother) from adopting the title.
Khayyam Khayyám tentmaker
Khayyat, Khayyatun Khayyáṭ, pl. Khayyáṭún tailor
Khazan Khazán Pers. creeping, slow walk; reptiles; autumn. Khazán (also known as Khízu) is a village (62 km ENE of Birjand) in Shakhen Rural District, in the Central District of Birjand County, South Khorasan Province, Írán.
Khazana, Khazn Khazana (Khazn) to store, stock, lay up, hoard, amass, accumulate; to keep secret, keep (a secret) Form II and VIII to store, stock, lay up, warehouse (something); to store up, accumulate (something); to dam (something); to put in safekeeping, keep (something)
Khazar Khazar inhabitants of the shores of the Caspian; a member of a confederation of Turkic-speaking tribes that in the late 6th century CE established a major commercial empire covering the southeastern section of modern European Russia. Baḥr al-Khazar (the Caspian Sea).
Khazina (Khazinih), Khaza’in Khazína, pl. Khazá’in treasure house; public treasury, exchequer; treasury, treasury department (of an official agency), any office for the deposit and disbursement of funds; cashier’s office; vault, coffer, safe; cashbox, till (of a merchant). Persian also khazínih. Root khazana.
Khazmshahiyan (Khazmshahiyan) Kházmsháhiyán Kharazmian dynasty centred on Khárazm
Khazraj Khazraj Banú al-Khazraj, a tribe of Arabia up to the time of Muḥammad; renowned for their generosity and hospitality
Khidiw, Khidiwar, Khidaywi Khidíw (Khidív), Khidíwar, pl. Khidaywí “Khidiw, Khidiv, Khidaiwi”) Pers. Khidív (a king, great prince, sovereign; a benevolent, excellent man; master, possessor, rich man; a friend). Khedive (English, title of the viceroy of Egypt under Turkish rule), adjective Khidíwí (English khedivial) and plural Khidaywí (“ay” or “í” may better represent the ي after the letter d in the singular and plural forms)
Khidma, Khidam, Khidamat Khidma(t), pl. Khidam, Khidamát a service (rendered); attendance, service; operation; office, employment, occupation, job; work
Khil’a, Khila’ Khil‘a[h or t], pl. Khila‘ robe of honor; a honorific dress with which princes confer dignity upon subjects, consisting at the least of turban, robe, and girdle
Khilafa Khiláfa (h or t) vicarship, deputyship; succession; caliphate, office or rule of a caliph; (formerly) administrative department of caliphate
Khilqa, Khilaq Khilqa[h or t], pl. Khilaq creation; innate peculiarity of character, natural disposition, nature; constitution; physiognomy
Khilt, Akhlat Khilṭ, pl. Akhláṭ component of a mixture; ingredient;—pl. mixture, blend (Siyyid Muḥammad Akhláṭ)
Khirman, Kharman Khirman, Kharman Pers. the harvest; reaped corn, but unthreshed, and piled up in a large circular stack
Khirqat, Khirqa Khirqat, Khirqa Pers. a patch, rag; a garment made of shreds and patches; a religious habit
Khirqiy-i-Sharif Khirqiy-i-Sharíf al-Masjid the Mosque of the Prophets’ Cloak, Istanbul. See Khirqa
Khitab, Khitabat, Akhtiba Khiṭáb, pl. Khiṭábát, Akhṭiba public address, speech; oration; letter, note, message. Khiṭábát (Talks of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, corresponds to Paris Talks)
Khitabat dar Urupa va Imrika Khiṭábát dar Urúpá va Imríká Letters to Europe and America by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Khitam Khitám sealing wax; end, close, conclusion, termination. Qur’án 83:26. fí al-khitám, at the end, at last, finally, eventually.
Khitam al-Anbiya’, Khitam an-nabiyun Khitám al-Anbiyá’, Khitám an-Nabíyún the “last” of the Prophets
Khiva, Khivah, Khiwah Khiva, Khívah (Pers.) modern name for Khárazm. Xiva (Uzbek) and Khívah (Persian). Alternative or historical names include: Kheeva, Khorasam, Khoresm, Chorezm, Khárazm (Persian); Khwarezm, Khwárizm, Khwárazm, Khawárzam (“Arabic”).1 City in Uzbekistan (41.389706, 60.335722) located west of the Ámú (or Ámúya) Daryú (the ancient Oxus River).

1Khárazm is an example of a word where the “v” (váv, Persian) or “w” (wáw, Arabic) after the Khá’ is not pronounced and should not be included in the transcription. The same applies to al-Khárazmí, Khárazmsháh and Khárazmsháhiyán.
Khiyaban (Kheyaban, Khiaban) Khíyábán Pers. a parterre (formal garden), flower-bed; an avenue (modern meaning). Two central intersecting avenues in Mashhad (Bala-Khíyábán (upper) and Pa’in-Khíyábán (lower)—since renamed Shirazi Ave and Ayotolah Bahjet Ave resp.); a village in eastern Írán 200 km SE of Mashhad (34.739307, 60.580232).
Khu’i (Kho’i) Khu’í Pers. mood
Khub Khúb Pers. good; beautiful, elegant, pleasant, graceful, lovely, amiable, charming, excellent, gracious; beautifully, excellently; firm, strong
Khuda (Khoda), Khudayan Khudá, pl. Khudáyán Pers. master, prince, Lord, God, owner
Khuda Bakhsh (Khudabakhsh) Khudá Bakhsh (Khudábakhsh) Pers. “Gift of God”
Khudarahm Khudáraḥm Pers. compassion of God
Khudawand Khudáwand Pers. a king, prince; a lord, master; a possessor, man of great authority
Khudayar Khudáyár Pers. khudá + yár. Khudáyár Akhtarkhawárí (Akhtar + khawárí)
Khujand, Khuqand, Khukand Khujand, Khúkand city in Chinese Turestan about 110 km SSE Tashkent
Khujasta, Khujastah (Khujasteh) Khujasta (Khujastah) Pers. (ends with an “h”) happy, fortunate, auspicious, blessed; a flower yellow without and black within; a woman’s name.
Khul Khul Pers. bent, curved, crooked; mad; ashes; fundament. Possible word for ‘ashes’ in Arches of the years, p. 304.
Khulafa’u’r Rashidun al-Khulafá’u’r-Ráshidún The Rightly-Guided Caliphate—consisting of the first four caliphs in Islám’s history—was founded after Muḥammad’s death in 632. (sometimes al-Khulafá’a’r-Ráshidín, Khulafá’ Ráshidún or al-Khiláfah ar-Ráshidún). See Caliphs section below this list.
Khulasa, Khulasat Khuláṣa(t), pl. Khuláṣát excerpt; extract, essence; quintessence, substance, gist (of something); abstract, resume, summary, epitome; synopsis
Khuld Khuld infinite duration, endless time, perpetuity, eternity
Khulq, Khuluq, Akhlaq Khulq, Khuluq, pl. Akhláq innate peculiarity; natural disposition, character, temper, nature;—pl. character (of a person); morals; morality. Akhlaq is the practice of virtue, morality and manners in Islamic theology and falsafah (philosophy). Bahá’íy-i-bihi’l-akhláq (“a Bahá’í of high ethical standards”), can be used as a reference to Bahá’u’lláh.
Khulus Khulúṣ clearness, purity; sincerity, candor; frankness
Khulusiya Khulúṣíya(t) purity, candour, honesty.
Khumasi Khumásí fivefold, quintuple; consisting of five consonants (grammar)
Khumayn Khumayn Pers. (Khomein, Khomeyn, Khowmeyn, and Khumain) a city (28 km NW Gulpáygán) in and the capital of Khumayn County, Markazí Province, Írán
Khumayni (Khomeini) Khumayní Pers. of or from Khumayn. Sayyid Rúḥu’lláh Músaví Khumayní (1902–1989), known in the Western world as Ayatollah Khomeini (first “Supreme Leader” of Írán), was an Iranian politician and cleric. Succeeded by Ayatollah Khamenei. See Kháminíy
Khums, Akhmas Khums, pl. Akhmás one fifth. An additional religious tax (one-fifth) paid by Shí‘í Muslims to the Imám or his deputies
Khun Khún Pers. blood; bloody; killing; revenge; a shedder of blood; life, soul; selfishness; pride; a table; reading; singing
Khun-Baha Khún-Bahá blood price or value, “blood-money”. See Bahá’i Khun
Khuqan Khúqand Khánát Khúqand was a Central Asian polity (1709–1876) in eastern part of the Fergana (Firghána) Valley, Central Asia, within the territory of eastern Uzbekistan, modern Kyrgyzstan, eastern Tajikistan and south eastern Kazakhstan.
Khur Khur Pers. the sun
Khurasan (Khorasan, Korasan) Khurásán Pers. sunrise or east, “where the sun arrives from”. Province in the northeastern part of Írán until 2004—replaced by North Khurásán, South Khurásán and Raḍawí (Razavi) Khurásán (also called Markazí (Central) Khurásán) Provinces. The former Greater Khorasan (with 4 main and historical quarters: Nishapur, Merv, Herat, and Balkh) was a region that included parts that are today in Írán, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Arḍ-i-Khá’.
Khurasani Khurásání Mírzá Abu’l-Qásim-i-Khurásání caretaker of the Shrine of Bahá’u’lláh and the gardens
Khurdad (Khordad) Khurdád Pers. third month of the Persian solar calendar
Khuri, Khawarina Khúrí, pl. Khawárina(h) parson, curate, priest
Khuriyih (Khureyeh) Khúríyih Pers. two small agricultural settlements in Semnan Province: Khúríyih-Bálá (35.907770, 53.364087; “upper”) and Khúríyih-Pá’ín (35.890498, 53.309956; “lower”) on the Khúríyih Road.
Khurma Khurmá Pers. date (fruit)
Khurma’i Khurmá’í Mrs Írán Raḥímpúr (née Khurmá’í)
Khurramabad (Khorramabad) Khurramábád, Khurram-Abád Pers. a city (33.465808, 48.339875) in Loristan Province; a city (36.539747, 51.924426) in Tunikábun (Tonekabon) County (formerly Shahsawár), Mazandaran Province.
Khursand, Khursanda Khursand, Khursanda Pers. (Khursanda ends with an “h”) content, satisfied, pleased. Town 190 km west of Kirmán
Khurshid (Khorshid, Khurshed) Khurshíd Pers. a name; the sun; sunshine; radiant sunshine. See Áftáb.
Khurshid-i-Khawar Khurshíd-i-Kháwar Sun of the east, or sunrise. Name of Bahá’í magazine published in the early 20th century in Ishqábád. Contrast with Najm-i-Bákhtar.
Khuruj Khurúj exit; egression, emergence; departure; exodus; emigration; raid, foray, sortie (against), attack, assault (on)
Khusf (Khosf) Khúsf name of towns in South Khorasan Province (32 km WSW Birjand; Bahá’í martyrs; mentioned in The Bahá’í World : 32.778556, 58.887931) and Kerman Province (31.594244, 56.096502). It is possible that Khúsif in Bahíyyih Khánum should be Khúsf.
Khusha (Khosha) Khúsha Pers. a cluster or bunch of grapes or dates; an ear of corn; the constellation Virgo; gleaning; the rainbow. Khúshih-i-Há’í Az Kharman-i-Adab va Hunar “from the rich harvest of Persian culture and literature”, 20 volumes of scholarship in Persian, based on proceedings and papers from the Society of Persian Arts and Letters conferences (1989-2018).
Khushk Khushk Pers. dry, withered; useless, barren; pure, mere, genuine; avaricious, tenacious
Khushk-i-Nusrat (Khooshk Nosrat) Khushk-i-Nuṣrat a village between Ṭihrán and Qum (possibly 37 km north Qum and west of Ḥawḍ Sulṭán Salt Lake)
Khushkhu Khushkhú (Khwush-Khú) Pers. good-natured, of an excellent disposition
Khushnud (Khoshnud), Khushnudan Khushnúd Pers. content, pleased, happy;—pl. khushnúdán, happy people. Rúzbih Khushnúdán, born in Kázirún, Fars Province. Later known as Salmán al-Fárisí. A Zoroastrian who became a Christian and, being told a Prophet was about to arise in Arabia, journeyed there. He met Muḥammad at Qubá’ on His migration to Medina, recognized His station and became a Muslim (the first Persian). He became a Companion of Muḥammad and is credited with suggesting a trench be dug around Medina before it was attacked by non-Muslims in the Battle of the Trench.
Khusraw (Khusrav, Khusrau) Khusraw Pers. A celebrated Persian king (Khosrow, Khosroe, Khosru or Cyrus). Kay Khusraw Khudádád, believed to be the first to embrace the Faith of Bahá’u’lláh from the Zoroastrian community
Khusraw Parviz (Parvez) Khusraw Parvíz (Chosroes II), the Sasanian monarch
Khusrawjird Khusrawjird village 7 km west of Sabzivár
Khusus Khuṣúṣ specialness
Khutan (Khotan, Khoten) Khutan Pers. Ancient Buddhist city/region west of modern Hotan, Tibet, known for musk production
Khutba, Khutab Khuṭba[h or t], pl. Khuṭab public address; speech; lecture, discourse; oration; sermon, specif., Muslim Friday sermon, khutbah
Khutba, Khutbih, Khutab Khuṭba(t), Pers. Khuṭbih, pl. Khuṭab public address; speech; lecture, discourse; oration; sermon, specifically, Muslim Friday midday sermon
Khutbat at-Tutunjiya Khuṭbat aṭ-Ṭutunjíya[h] Ar. loosely “Sermon of the Gulf” or “Sermon of the Twin Gulfs”—a sermon or discourse attributed to Imám ‘Alí who delivered it between Kufah and Medina. Name derived from the occurrence (5x—in singular and dual forms) of the Arabic quadrilateral طتنج (Ṭ-T-N-J= ṭutunj) or تطنج (T-Ṭ-N-J = ṭatanj). Pers. Khuṭbih-i-Ṭutunjiyya or Khuṭbatu’l-Ṭutunjiyah.
Khutbat ash-Shaqshaqiy al-Khuṭbat ash-Shaqshaqíya (al-Khuṭbatu’sh-Shaqshaqíya, also al-Khuṭbat ash-Shiqshiqíya) “the roaring camel sermon” or the Shaqshaqiya sermon, a sermon preached by Imám ‘Alí (a favourite among Shí‘í Muslims because it is a rare statement by ‘Alí on the usurpation of the caliphate by Abú Bakr) that was interrupted by a member of the audience asking a question. When begged by Ibn ‘Abbás to continue his address, ‘Alí answered, “The shiqshiqa has roared and subsided”, meaning the inspiration of the moment has gone.
Khutbiy-i-Shahadat-i-Azaliya Khuṭbiy-i-Sháhádat-i-Azalíya Pers. “the sermon on the Eternal Witness” by Quddús
Khutbiy-i-Dhikriyyih Khuṭbiy-i-Dhikríyyih “Sermon of Remembrance” by the Báb. Also called Tafsír-i-Há’ (Interpretation of the Letter Há’) and Ṣaḥifiy-i-Ja‘faríyyih (Epistle of Ja‘far)
Khutbiy-i-Jiddah Khuṭbiy-i-Jiddah “Sermon of Jiddah” by the Báb
Khutbiy-i-Qahriyyih Khuṭbiy-i-Qahríyyih “Sermon of Wrath” by the Báb
Khutbiy-i-Salawat Khuṭbiy-i-Ṣalawát “Sermon of Salutations” by Bahá’u’lláh. “Extols the Cause of the Báb and encourages His followers to seek out and turn to the ‘countenance of light’.”
Khuwan, Khiwan, Akhwina, Akhawin Khuwán, Khiwán, pl. Akhwina, Akháwín table
Khuwar (“Khu’ar”) Khuwárr the lowing or mooing of oxen, bleating of sheep, goats, or fallow deer; the whiz of an arrow. Mullá Javád Qazvíní Baraqání (or Ghazvíní Baraghání) (cousin of Ṭáhirih), Mullá ‘Abdu’l-‘Alíy-i-Harátí and Mírzá Ibráhím-i-Shírází were expelled by the Báb (The Dawn-Breakers, p. 161). The first two were described by the Báb as “the Jibt and Tághút, the twin idols of this perverse people.” (The Dawn-Breakers, p. 162; see Qur’án 4:51) Nabíl-i-Zarandí likened all three to the lowing (khuwár) of the golden calf (al-‘ijl adh-dhahabí). Mullá Javád, in particular, is often referred to in Bábí and Bahá’í literature as “khuwár”. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá on the same topic includes other Covenant Breakers, such as Mírzá Yaḥyá. See Sámirí.
Khuwayt Khuwayt diminuitive of kut (“a fort”). al-Khuwayt or State of Khuwait.
Khuy (Khoy) Khuy Pers. manner, custom, mode, humour, habit, nature, disposition, temper, principles.
Capital city (38.546919, 44.956088; 93 km SSW of Máh-Kú) of Khoy County, West Azerbaijan Province, Írán.
Khuza’ Khuzá‘ name of a great man at the time of Iskandar
Khuza’i Khuzá‘í al-Khuzá‘í is the nisbah for a member of the al-Khuzá‘ah tribe founded by ‘Amr ibn Luḥay al-Khuzá‘í. Sa‘d bin Ḥárith al-Khuzá‘í (martyred 61/680 in Karbalá’), agent of Imám ‘Alí, the companion of Imám al-Ḥasan and Imám al-Ḥusayn. Brigadier-General Ḥusayn Khuzá‘í, army commander in Mashhad, 1924.
Khuzistan Khúzistán Iranian Province at the north end of Persian Gulf (Khuzestan)
Khuzzan, Khuzzanat, Khazazin Khuzzán, pl. Khuzzánát, Khazázín dam; reservoir; basin, sump, pool; storage tank (also for oil);—(pl. khuzzánún) storehouse man, warehouse man. Same root, khazana, as khazína.
Khwaja, Khawaja, Khwajah, Khwajih Khwája, Khwájah, Khwájih Pers. “master”, “lord”; honorific title, particularly for Sufi teachers. A man of distinction; a rich merchant; a doctor, professor, teacher, preceptor, school-master; a pedant; a venerable old man; lord, master, owner; honorific title of a wazír or other great dignitary; a eunuch; the master of a family; heart, soul. Khwája Naṣíru’d-Dín Ṭúsí. Qal‘ah-i-Khwájah (variation khájih, “khajih”) is a small village (29.177653, 54.330066) 2 km south of central Nayríz—site of the fort “outside of Nayríz” (The Báb, p. 179) that was “burned to the ground” (DB, p. 495). See Arabic Khawája.
Khwush, Khwash Khwush, Khwash Pers. good, sweet, excellent, beautiful, fair, charming, pleasant, delightful, agreeable, cheerful, amiable, lovely, delicate, tender, kind, gentle, humane, mild, meek, elegant; healthy, wholesome, temperate; happy, well, pleased; willingly
Kibdani (Kebdani) Kibdání Dar al-Kibdání, town in Morocco. Kibdání Muḥammad Muḥammad ‘Alí, Bahá’í arrested in Morocco, 1962.
Kifl, Kiflayn Kifl, dual Kiflayn part, portion, share. Also archaic Arabic “double” or “duplicate”, from a root meaning “to double” or “to fold”. Kifl can be interpreted as a prophet or Messenger of God. Kiflayn two share, double share or large share. Qur’án 57:28 can be understood as referring to two Messengers of God.
Kimiya’ Kímiyá’ chemistry, alchemy; the philosopher’s stone; al-Kímiyá’ alchemy
Kimiya’i, Kimawi, Kimiya’un Kímiyá’í, Kímáwí chemical;—pl. Kímiyá’ún chemist; alchemist
Kinan, Kinanat Kinán, pl. Kinánát, Akinna shed roof, pent roof, awning
Kinana, Kanan’in Kinána (Kinánih), pl. Kaná’in quiver (for arrows). The Banú Kinánah is a tribe south of Mecca.
Kinar Kinár Pers. the lap; the bosom; an embrace; dalliance
Kinar-Gird Kinár-Gird a small fortress (caravanserai 35.375999, 51.253600) and village about 40 km SSW of Ṭihrán on the old Iṣfahán road. The Báb paused (28 March 1846, before being moved to the village of Kulayn) in the village on His exile journey to Máh-Kú. Possibly the village of Kinár Gird-i-Pá’ín (Kenar Gerd-i-Pain, 35.368333, 51.269722), 4 km NW of the village of Kulayn.
Kinari Kinárí Pers. (gold or silver) lace
Kinya, Kunya, Kuna, Kaniy, Kani Kinya(t), Kunya(t), pl. Kuná, Kaníy, Kaní surname, agnomen (honourable adult nickname consisting of abú (father or ancestor, a patronymic) or umm (mother) followed by the name of the eldest child (often a son, a filionymic ) (Pers. also Kunyah, Kunyih, etc.). Calling or naming (anyone) by a word that has another meaning. By extension, it may also have hypothetical or metaphorical references, e.g. as a nickname or reference of an attachment (Abú Bakr, “father of the camel foal”, given because of this person’s love for camels), without literally referring to a son or a daughter.
Kirdar Kirdár Pers. work, business, continued labour; employment in which a man is constantly engaged; profession, trade, art, occupation; effect; manner, conduct; action (good or bad)
Kirin, Kirind Kirin, Kirind (southern Kurdish: Kirin, Persian: Kirind-i-Gharb (“Kerend-e Gharb”); also known as Kerend (“Krend”), Karand, and Karínd. A city 75 km west of Kirmánsháh in Kirmánsháh Province
Kirman (Kerman) Kirmán Pers. a castle; an emporium.
Capital city of Kirmán province, Írán.
Called the “Land of Káf and Rá’” by Bahá’u’lláh.
Kirmani Kirmání of or from Kirmán. Ḥájí Mírzá Muḥammad Karím Khán Kirmání (1810–1871), a polymath and polemical opponent of the Bábí‑Bahá’í religions. Regarded by a proportion of the Shaykhí admirers or followers of Shaykh Aḥmad and Sayyid Kazím Rashtí as the “third” Shaykhí leader and the first Kirmání Shaykhí leader.
Kirmanshah (Kermanshah) Kirmánsháh Province and city in western Írán.
Kisa’ Kisá’, pl. Aksiya garment; dress
Kishik Kishík Pers. a guards-man, a guard
Kishikchi Kishíkchí Pers. a sentinel, night watchman
Kishon Kishon River, Nachal HaKishon flows to the north side of Haifa into the Mediterranean Sea. Arabic Naḥr al-Muquṭṭa‘ (the river of slaughter or dismemberment) or al-Kíshwan.
Kisra, Akasira, Akasir Kisrá, pl. Akásira, Akásir Khosraw (Chosroes); designation of the Persian kings in general
Kiswa, Kusan, Kisan, Kasawin Kiswa, pl. Kusan, Kisan, Kasáwin clothing, clothes, apparel, attire, raiment; dress, garment; suit of clothes; uniform; draping, lining, casing, facing, panelling, wainscoting (e.g., of walls). Persian Kiswat (Kisvat), Kuswat, pl. Kusá
Kitab al-Asma’ Kitáb al-Asmáʼ Book of Divine Names (also known as the Chahár Sha’n, “The [Book of the] Four Grades”) written by the Báb in Arabic during his imprisonment in Máh-Kú and Chihríq in Írán (1847–1850). With over 3,000 pages, it is the largest revealed scripture in religious history.
Kitab al-Badi’, Kitab-i-Badi’ al-Kitáb al-Badí‘, Pers. Kitáb-i-Badí‘ “The Wondrous or Unique Book” by Bahá’u’lláh in 1867–68 in Adrianople. Written mainly in Persian, but it contains many passages in Arabic. Twice the size of the Kitáb-i-Íqán, it contains insights into the prophecies of the Báb concerning “Him Whom God shall make manifest” and was written in defence of the Bahá’í Revelation. Recipient was Mírzá Mihdíy-i-Gílání (a Bábí of “perfidy and hypocrisy”, Adib Taherzadeh).
Kitab al-Hayy al-Kitáb al-Ḥayy “The Living Book”, the Manifestation of God for the time being considered. An alternative exression is “The Speaking Book” (al-Kitáb an-Náṭiq). See al-Kitáb aṣ-Ṣámit.
Kitab al-Mubin al-Kitáb al-Mubín (Pers. Kitáb-i-Mubín) “the clear or perspicuous book”. Expression used in Qur’án 5:15, 6:59, 11:6. 12:1, 26:2, 27:1, 28:2, 34:3, 37:117, 43:2 and 44:2. Verses 12:1, 27:1, 28:2, 43:2 and 44:2 state that this expression refers to the Qur’án. Qur’án 3:7 states there are muḥkamát (“precise”) and mutashábihát (“allegorical”) verses.
Kitab al-Yawaqit Wa al-Jawahir al-Kitáb al-Yawáqít wa al-Jawáhir (Pers. Kitábu’l-Yawáqít-i-wa’l-Javáhir, also with v instead of w) by Siyyid ‘Abd al-Wahháb ibn Aḥmad ash-Sha‘rání (1492/3–1565, AH 898–973) was an Egyptian Sháfi‘í scholar and mystic, founder of an Egyptian order of Sufism, eponymously known as Sha‘ráwiyyah. Full title: Kitáb al-Yawáqít wa al-jawáhir fí bayán ‘aqá’id al-akábir (The book of rubies and jewels: an explanation of the tenets of faith of mystic luminaries).
Kitab as-Samit al-Kitáb aṣ-Ṣámit “The Silent Book” is the previous Manifestation of God for the time being considered. e.g. at the time of the Báb, Muḥammad and the Qur’án is His Mute Book (al-Kitáb al-Abkam)—it cannot be used to refute the “Living Book”, the Báb or now Bahá’u’lláh. See al-Kitáb al-Ḥayy.
Kitab-i-‘Ahd Kitáb-i-‘Ahd “Book of the Covenant” or Testament of Bahá’u’lláh written in Persian, designated by Him as His “Most Great Tablet” and alluded to by Him as the “Crimson Book” (once known as the “Red Epistle”), and the ‘word’ recorded in it is the power of the Covenant—the power for unity that the Covenant possesses and radiates.
Kitab-i-‘Ahdi Kitáb-i-‘Ahdí “Book of My Covenant” (a name that is sometimes used for Kitáb-i-‘Ahd)
Kitab-i-Haykal Kitáb-i-Haykal “Book of the Temple” by the Báb. Alternative name, Kitáb-i-Hayákil (Book of Temples or Talismans), or more loosely, as Kitábí dar Hayákil-i-Wáḥid (Book concerning the Temples (Talismans) of Unity). Information provided by Bahá’u’lláh “... serve to identify the work referred to by these varying titles as ... the final five sections ... of the” Kitáb-i-Panj-Sha’n, pp. 405–47. The sources for early Bábí doctrine and history, Denis MacEoin p. 89.
Kitab-i-Iqan Kitáb-i-Íqán “Book of Certitude” by Bahá’u’lláh
Kitab-i-Mubin Kitáb-i-Mubín Pers. form, “the clear book”, a selected compilation of Bahá’u’lláh’s Writings in the handwriting of his half brother, Mírzá Muḥammad-‘Alí. He was sent to Bombay to have the compilation printed, but He altered passages (easily exposed when compared with the originals) that alluded to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s exalted station. See The Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 130.
Kitab-i-Natiq Kitáb-i-Náṭiq “The Speaking Book”
Kitab-i-Panj-Sha’n Kitáb-i-Panj-Sha’n “Book of the Five Modes of Revelation” by the Báb
Kitab-Khana Kitáb-Khána Pers. a library; a study; a bookseller’s shop
Kitab, Kutub Kitáb, pl. Kutub piece of writing, record, paper; letter, note, message; document, deed; contract (esp. marriage contract); book. Kitábun, a book
Kitabu’l-Aqdas, Kitab-i-Aqdas al-Kitábu’l-Aqdas, Pers. Kitáb-i-Aqdas “The Most Holy Book” by Bahá’u’lláh in Arabic. The first authorised English translation was published in 1992 as The Kitáb-i-Aqdas: The Most Holy Book (the title is based on Persian pronunciation). The book in Arabic has been given in both forms. It is the main source of Bahá’í laws and practices, and is sometimes known as the “Book of Laws”.
Kitabu’l-Fara’id Kitábu’l-Fará’id Priceless Things” (by Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl)
Kitabu’l-Fihrist Kitábu’l-Fihrist “Indexical Tablet” by the Báb
Kitabu’l-Haramayn Kitábu’l-Ḥaramayn “Kitáb [Ṣaḥífa] bayn al-Ḥaramayn” (“The Book [Treatise] revealed between the Two Shrines [Mecca and Medina]”) written by the Báb.
Kitabu’l-Muqaddas al-Kitábu’l-Muqaddas The Most Holy Book
Kitabu’r-Ruh Kitábu’r-Rúḥ “Book of the Spirit” by the Báb
Kitman Kitmán Persian. The act of paying lip service to authority while holding personal opposition. Saying something that is not true. See Taqíya (Ar)
Kiya Kiyá Pers. a king, protector, defender; a hero, champion; a lord, master; a lord marcher, landgrave, margrave; a peasant; powerful; work, labour; the four elements; pure, clear, innocent; heat, cold, dryness, or moisture; the mouth; mastic. [MUHJ 521 has Kíyá]
Kiyan Kiyán (keyan) being, existence; essence, substance; nature.
Kiyani Kiyání, pl. Kiyániyán Khujastah Khursand (Khojasteh Khorshand) Kiyání (1917–2002) and Ḥusayn-Qulí (Hossein-Gholi) Kiyání. See MBW p. “141” (143) and Hugh C. Adamson, Historical Dictionary of the Bahá’í Faith, p. 276. Pers. also Kiyání. See Kayání.
Kiyasar Kiyásar (“Kiasar”, “Kíásar”, “Keyásar” and “Kíya Sar”) is a small city 57 km SE Sárí, in Sari County, Mázandarán Province
Kosher, Treyf (Taraf) Kosher, Ṭreyf (Ṭaraf) Yiddish kásh’r (“fit”, “proper”), kosher. Yiddish ṭreyf, derived from Hebrew “torn” (by wild animal), treyf (treyfe, treifa, treife, treif, trayf, traif, traife) or non-kosher.
Ku Pers. where? where is he gone? a broad street, square, market-place; a narrow street, an alley
Kub Kúb, pl. Akwáb drinking glass, tumbler, (‘Iráq) cup, or any vessel without spout or handle, an ewer
Kubidan Kúbídan Pers. to beat, strike, bruise, pound
Kucha (Kuchih) cha Pers. a narrow street; a lane, slum, row, passage; a street, square, market-place;—kúcha’i bázár, a street leading to the market; the market-quarter;—kúcha’i bágh, the street leading to the gardens; the quarter of the gardens.
Kuchak (Kuchik) Kúchak (also Kúchik) Pers. small, little; a musical mode or style; diminutive; younger, junior; a youngster, a child
Kucukcekmece (“Kuchik-Chakmachih”) Küçükçekmece Turkish “Small drawbridge”, now municipality and eastern suburb of Istanbul, 23 km west of the city centre, on the European shore of the Sea of Marmara, Türkiye. It is east of Büyükçekmece. Iṣfahání Persian phonetic form is Kúchik-Chakmachih.
Kuduk (Kodok, Kothok), Fashuda Kúdúk, Fashúda[h or t] Kúdúk is a town (9.892291, 32.108312; 9.848296, 32.019305) on the west bank of the White Nile in South Sudan. Known as Fashúda prior to 1904.
Kufa, Kufah, Kufih Kúfa(h), Pers. Kúfih a round tumulus of sand (especially red and mixed with gravel); a blemish. al-Kúfah, city on the west bank of the Euphrates River 110 km south of Baghdád. The Imám ‘Alí made it the centre of his operations, and was murdered in its mosque.
Kufi, Kufiyun Kúfí, pl. Kúfiyún of or from al-Kúfah. Kufic, Kufic writing—ancient Arabic letters. Kúfiyún (English Kufan, school of) grammarians. See Baṣrí
Kufiya, Kufiyat Kúfíya, pl. Kúfíyát English keffiyeh or kaffiyeh, square kerchief diagonally folded and worn under the ‘iqál as a headdress
Kufr, Kufran Kufr and Kufrán unbelief, infidelity
Kuh (Koh), Kuh-Ha Kúh, pl. Kúh-há Pers. a mountain, hill
Kuh-i-Nur, Jabal an-Nur Kúh-i-Núr (Ar. Jabal an-Núr) Pers. (Koh-i-Noor, Kohinoor and Koh-i-nur) Mountain of Light—Shrine of the Báb.
Name of a famous colourless diamond (once 191 carats, from India).
See Daryáy-i-Núr.
Kujur (Kojur) Kujúr a town 23 km south of the Caspian Sea in Mázandarán Province, Írán (36.384099, 51.729516)
Kulah Kuláh Pers. a conic hat of (usually) black lambskin worn by Muslim priests, dervishes, government employees and civilians; any head-gear, a Tartar cap, a turban; a mitre, tiara, fillet, wreath; a crown; a night-cap
Kulah Darrih Kulah Darrih Pers. (Kolah Darreh, Kaleh Darreh, Kolá Darreh, Kulah Darreh, “Kuldarih“) is a small village in Zahray-i-Pain (Zahráy-i-Páyín) Rural District, Qazvín Province.  17 km WNW of the village of Ishtihárd.
Kulah-i-Farangi Kuláh-i-Farangí (European hat—PDC p. 92)
Kulayn (Koleyn, Kolin, Kulin) Kulayn a village (35.340106, 51.298575) near Rey. 41 km SSW of Tehran. It was here that the Báb received some gifts and a message from Bahá’u’lláh. The Báb’s response described in GPB p. 68 and that in DB p. 228 regarding a physical meeting are not to be taken literally, but merely a way of describing events in human terms. See Kinár-Gird.
Kull Kull totality, entirety; everyone, each one, anyone; (with following definite noun) whole, entire, all; (with following indefinite noun) every
Kulli Kullí total, entire, all-round, overall, sweeping, comprehensive, complete; absolute, universal
Kulliya, Kulliyat Kullíya(t), pl. Kullíyát totality, entirety; integrity, wholeness, entireness, completeness;—pl. faculty, school (of a university); college; institute of higher learning, academy, secondary school
Kulliyya Kulliyya fem. totality, entirety; completeness, fullness, wholeness; universality, generality; integrity
Kullu-Shay’, Kull-i-Shay’ Kullu-Shay’, Pers. Kull-i-Shay’ “all things”, numerical value of 361 (19×19) and a time period of 361 years). See Váḥid (unity 19)
Kulthum Kulthúm full of flesh about the face and cheeks; an elephant; the silken pennant at the top of a standard.
Kulthúm Khánum-i-Núrí, third wife of Mírzá Buzúrg, father of Bahá’u’lláh. Her eldest daughter was Sháh-Sulṭán Khánum (also called ‘Izzíyih (‘Izzíya) Khánum), a supporter of Mírzá Yaḥyá, and presumed author of Tanbíh al-Ná’imín (“The Awakening of the Sleepers”). Alternatively, written by Shaykh Aḥmad-i-Rúḥí, a son-in-law of Mírzá Yaḥyá.
Kumayl Kumayl bin-i-Ziyád an-Nakha’í Companion of Imám ‘Alí. Known as Kumayl. It is also the name of a prayer that he wrote.
Kun Kun Pers. with Ar. influence (imperative Be!) be thou, the creative word.
The word kun contains the consonants káf and nún (káf wa nún), which in English, by happy circumstance, Shoghi Effendi was able to represent using the letters ‘B’ and ‘E’. The ‘B’ has been identified with the primal will and the ‘E’ with the divine purpose, which is the subsequent stage of unfoldment.
Alternatively, ‘B’ “means the creative Power of God Who through His command causes all things to come into being” and ‘E’ “the power of the Manifestation of God, His great spiritual creative force”.
Kun fayakun Kun Fayakún (Fa+ yakún) (God said) Be, and it was or it is (Qur’án 2:117; 3:47, 59; 6:73; 16:40; 19:35; 36:82 & 40:68).
Tablet of Visitation (Bahá’í Prayers pp. 230–3) uses “Be Thou”.
An older translation in Star of the West used “káf and nún” for “kun fayakún” (the first and last letters of the words).
Kunar Takhteh, Konartakhteh Kunár Takhta (Konar Takhteh) city on Búshihr-Shíráz road in Kazerun County, Fárs Province. 15 km NE Dálakí.
Kur Kúr Pers. blind; one-eyed; blind in a moral sense
Kur (Kor, Qor, Qur) Rúd Kur Pers. river runs NW to SE along the Zagros Mountains to the east of Shíráz. Possible water (Qor) mentioned by A. L. M. Nicolas, “Siyyid ‘Alí-Muḥammad dit le Báb”, p. 334.
Kura, Kurat Kura(h), pl. Kurát, Kuran globe, sphere; ball. Hence, kura al-athíríy (the ethereal globe); kura al-hawá (the atmospheric globe); kura al-má’ (the water globe); kura at-turáb (the earth globe)
Kura’ Kurá‘ sheep or cow shin; the rocky projection of a mountain; a troop of horses; the side or extremity of anything
Kurash (Kurush) Kúrash (Kúrush) Pers. Cyrus, king of Persia
Kurd al-Kurd the Kurds
Kurdi, Akrad Kurdí, pl. Akrád Kurdish;—pl. Kurd. Pers. kurdí a native of Kurdistán
Kurji, Gurji Kurjí, Pers. Gurjí Georgian (adj and n). al-Kurj the Georgians
Kurr Kurr sandy ground that filters and cleans water flowing through it; a well; a small cistern or reservoir; a Babylonian dry measure of six ass-loads (assumed to be 480 kg)—a volume of water that is considered pure in Islamic law
Kursi, Karasiy Kursí, pl. Karásíy, Karásin chair; throne; seat; professorial chair; base, pedestal, socle (architecture); bearing (technology). A low, square wooden table over which a large quilt is spread. Under the kursí is placed a brazier of charcoal fire covered with ashes. People sit on mattresses round the kursí and lean against cushions, their legs stretched under the kursí and covered with the quilt. Fire on the mountain-top, p. 71.
Kurur Kurúr return, comeback, recurrence; succession, sequence, order. A crore (10 million in India, 500,000 in Persia)
Kurush Kurush Cyrus II of Persia c. 600–530 BC, commonly known as Cyrus the Great. Koresh in the Bible.
Kush Kush Pers. A male; (imp. of kushtan (“kill”) in compound words) a killer, who kills, slays, murders, oppresses, as in azhdaha-kush, a dragon-killer
Kushk Kushk Pers. an upper chamber, gallery, or balcony on the top of a house; a hall, parlour
Kushk-i-Nusrat (Khooshk Nosrat) Kushk-i-Nuṣrat A very small village (35.109773, 50.896706) on the Tihran-Qom Old Rd
Kushtan Kushtan Pers. to kill, murder; to slay, sacrifice; to be killed, to beat, bruise; to extinguish (a fire or candle); to dilute (wine); to melt (metals)
Kusti (Kasti, Kushti, Koshti) Kustí Pers. wrestling; a belt or sacred cord worn by the Zoroastrians and Brahmins; also by the wrestlers of Khurásán. See ṣadrí
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
L
La La (intensifying particle) truly, verily; certainly, surely
La (particle) not, no!; (for laysa) it is not, there is no
La ilaha illa Huwa Lá iláha illá Huwa [10 letters] “There is no God but He”
La ilaha illa’llah Lá iláha illa’lláh [12 letters] “There is no God [Letters of Denial (5)] but/save God” [Letters of Affirmation (7)] or “There is none other god but God”. The shaháda, the Muslim profession of faith, starts with this phrase, and it contains the most fundamental truth upon which the religion of Islam is based. All else besides the Letters of Paradise is in Denial, while whatsoever appertaineth to the Letters of Paradise is Affirmation. Lá iláha illa’lláh, Muḥammadun rasúlu’lláh (“There is no God but God and Muḥammad is His Messenger”), the Shí‘a call to prayer (adhán) contains the additional statement: ‘Alíun valíu’lláh (“‘Alí is God’s friend, helper, defender and/or vice-gerent”). See Huwa’lláh.
La’ali al-Hikmat La’álí al-Ḥikmat “Pearls of Wisdom”
La’im, Luwwam, Lawwam, Luyyam Lá’im, pl. Luwwam, Lawwám, Luyyam censurer, critic, accuser, blamer, reprover
La’ima, Lawa’im Lá’ima[h or t], pl. Lawá’im (fem. of lá’im) censure, rebuke, reproof, blame, reproach
La’in and Mal’un, Mala’in La‘ín and Mal‘ún, pl. Malá‘ín cursed; confounded; damned; outcast, execrable; detested, abhorred, abominable
La’nat La‘nat imprecation, curse, anathema; objurgation, reproach
Labad Labád Pers. any outer wet weather garment
Labada (Labbadih) Labáda Pers. (for Arabic lubbádát) a rain cloak; a quilted cloak; a great-coat, pelisse; a wrapper
Laban, Alban, Liban Laban, pl. Albán, Libán milk; (Syrian) leban, coagulated sour milk;—pl. albán dairy products, milk products
Labba Labbá to follow, obey (a call, an invitation)
Labbad Labbád felt-maker; felt
Labbayka (Labbayk, Labbaika, Labieck) Labbayka (Labbá + ká) a phrase that can mean: “here I am!”, “at your service!”, “I am obedient to thee”, or “what is your command?”
Labib, Alibba’ Labíb, pl. Alibbá understanding, reasonable, sensible, intelligent. At the request of Shoghi Effendi, Effie Baker (1880–1968) and Muḥammad Labíb (1893–1981) toured Írán in 1930–1931, to take photographs for his translation of The Dawn-Breakers.
Labid Labíd Pers. boast, brag; a historian; a poet
Labs Labs proposing to anyone anything obscure or confused, mystifying; mixture, confusion, ambiguity
Ladan, Ladin (Laden) Ládan, Ládin laudanum
Ladud, Aladd, Ladda’, Lidad, Alidda’ Ladúd, Aladd, fem. Laddá’, pl. Ludd (other plurals: Lidád, Aliddá’) fierce, grim, dogged, tough. al-Ludd or the city of Lod 15 km SE Tel Aviv; formerly Lydda (Latin).
Ladun Ladun (preposition) at, by, near, close to; in the presence of, in front of, before, with; in possession of
Laduni Laduní (i.e. from near God) mystic; (from on high) inspired, infused (knowledge); “innate”; hidden (knowledge); ‘ilm al-laduní, “direct knowledge” (from God) or “divinely inspired knowledge” (from God)
Lafz, Alfaz Lafẓ, pl. Alfáẓ sound-group, phonetic complex; expression, term; word; wording; formulation; articulation, enunciation, pronunciation (of Qur’anic text)
Lafzi Lafẓí of or pertaining to words, verbal; literal; pronounced; oral
Lahab, Lahib, Luhab Lahab, Lahíb, Luháb flame, blaze, flare. Abú Lahab (the ‘Father of Flame’) is known for his hatred of his nephew, Muḥammad.
Lahay, Lahih Láháy, Pers. Láhih The Hague (city in SW Netherlands)
Lahijan Láhíján (láh+ján, “a place to obtain silk fibre”) Caspian sea resort (37.206573, 50.003119) and the capital of Láhíján County
Lahijani Láhíjání ‘Alí Ashraf Láhíjání (1853–1919), famous Bahá’í poet and known by his sobriquet, ‘Andalíb (“nightingale”)
Lahm, Luhum, Liham Laḥm, pl. Luḥúm, Liḥám flesh; meat
Lahut Láhút godhead, deity; divine nature, divinity.  (world of the Heavenly Court (‘álami láhút)—realm of being, “divinity”). See Háhút, Jabarút, Malakút, and Násút
Lahuti, Lahutiya Láhútí, fem. Láhútiya[h or t] theological, theologian; divine
Lahutiya Láhútíya[h or t] la-Láhútíya theology; “realm of the primal will”
Lakhm Lakhm a cutting, amputation; a box, a blow
Lakhmiyun al-Lakhmíyún Lakhmids or Lakhmid (“Lakhmite”) dynasty AD 300–602. Lakhmids (al-Lakhmíyún (اللخميون—“íwn” transcripted as “íyún”), in Arabic usually referred to as al-Manádhirah or Banú Lakhm) in southern ‘Iráq (capital al-Ḥírah, near modern al-Kúfah).
La-Madhhab Lá-Madhhab Persian without religion, non-religious, “atheist”
Lakin, Lakinna Lákin, lákinna however, yet, but
Lala (Lalih) Lala Pers. a mentor, a tutor. Riḍá-Qulí Khán-i-Lalih-Báshí.
Lala (Lalah, Laleh) Lála Pers. a tulip; any wild flower; a passionate lover; the lip of a mistress.
Lala-Rukh (Lalla Rookh) Lála-Rukn “Tulip-cheeked”. “Lalla Rookh” is an Oriental romance by Irish poet Thomas Moore, published in 1817.
Lam Lám Arabic letter transcripted as L
Lam’, Lam’a, Lama’an, Lama’at Lam‘ and Lama‘án, fem. Lam‘a[h or t] (pl. fem. lama‘át, splendours, effulgencies) lustre, sheen, shine; shimmer, gleam, glow, brightness, light
Lamha, Lamhat Lamḥa(t), pl. Lamaḥát quick, casual look, glance; wink; glow of light, light, brightness, flash (of lightning)
Lami, Lamiya (Lamiyya) Lámí, fem. Lámíya[h or t] lám-shaped, resembling the letter ل. Fem. a poem rhyming on the letter ل. Sharḥ al-Qaṣídah al-Lámíyah “Explanation of the Lámíya poem” by ibn Qá’id.
Lami’, Lami’a, Lawami’ Lámi‘, fem. Lámí‘a(h or t), pl. Lawámi‘ brilliant, lustrous, shining, gleaming, shimmering
Landan Landan London
Lang Lang Pers. lame; maimed; the halting of a caravan for a day or two
Laqab, Alqab Laqab, pl. Alqáb agnomen; cognomen; nickname; title, honourific; last name, surname, family name (as opposed to ism, given name, first name). The laqab is typically descriptive of the person.
Lar Lár city in province of Fárs
Larijan Láríján district of Mázandarán Province
Las Lás Pers. refuse of silk; coarse silk
Las-Furush Lás-Furúsh Pers. silk merchant. See Farsh
Lashkar-Nivis Lashkar-Nivís Paymaster-General
Lastu Lastu (from negative verb laysa), I am not
Latafa Laṭáfa[h or t] thinness fineness, delicateness; gracefulness, loveliness, charm; kindness, benevolence; friendliness; politeness, esprit, intellectual refinement, sophistication; suavity, urbaneness
Latif, Litaf, Lutafa’ Laṭíf, pl. Liṭáf, Luṭafá‘ thin; fine; delicate, dainty; little, small, insignificant; gentle, soft, light, mild; pleasant, agreeable; amiable, friendly, kind, nice; civil, courteous, polite; affable, genial; pretty, charming, lovely, graceful; intellectually refined, full of esprit, brilliant, witty; elegant; al-Laṭíf the Kind (one of the attributes of God)
Latifa (Latifih), Lata’if Laṭífa[h or t], pl. Laṭá’if (fem. Laṭíf) witticism, quip; joke, jest; subtlety, nicety. Name given to Helen Hotchkiss Lielnors by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Lavasan Lavásán affluent town in Shemiranat County, Tehran Province. 23 km NE of the centre of Tehran.
Law (Lau) Law (conjunction) if (as a rule, introducing hypothetical conditional clauses)
Lawh (Lauh), Alwah (Alavah), Alawih Lawḥ (Lauḥ), pl. Alwáḥ, Aláwíḥ (masculine) board, blackboard; slate; tablet, epistle; slab; plate, sheet; pane; plank, board, table; panel; small board, signboard; shoulder blade, scapula
Lawh Ahmad Lawḥ Aḥmad “Tablet of Aḥmad” in Arabic by Bahá’u’lláh. Revealed for Aḥmad-i-Yazdí.
Lawh al-Ayiy an-Nur Lawḥ al-Áyiy an-Núr “Tablet of the Verse of Light” by Bahá’u’lláh in Arabic. Also known as Tafsír al-Ḥurúfát al-Muqaṭṭa‘ih
Lawh al-Mahfuz, Lawh-i-Mahfuz al-Lawḥ al-Maḥfúẓ, Pers. Lawḥ-i-Maḥfúẓ Guarded or Preserved Tablet, a symbol for the knowledge of God Who “knoweth all things and is known of none”. Mentioned in Qur’án 85:22.
Lawh al-Ziyara li-Tumas Brikwul Lawh az-Ziyara li-Tumás Bríkwúl “Tablet of Visitation for Thomas Breakwell” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. The first English Bahá’í. Thomas Breakwell worked in a cotton mill in the south of the United States that was buttressed by child labour. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá advised him to resign. He did. He returned to Paris from ‘Akká and made it his home.
Lawh Basit al-Haqiqa Lawḥ Basíṭ al-Ḥaqíqa “Tablet of the Uncompounded Reality, of the Ground of Being” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-‘Abdu’l-‘Aziz-Va-Vukala Lawḥ-i-‘Abdu’l-‘Azíz-Va-Vukalá “Tablet to ‘Abdu’l-‘Azíz and ministers” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-‘Abdu’l-Vahhab Lawḥ-i-‘Abdu’l-Vahháb “Tablet to ‘Abdu’l-Vahháb” 0by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-‘Abdu’r-Razzaq Lawḥ-i-‘Abdu’r-Razzáq “Tablet to ‘Abdu’r-Razzáq” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-‘Ahd va Mithaq Lawḥ-i-‘Ahd va Mitháq (Imríká) “Will and Testament” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-‘Ammih Lawḥ-i-‘Ammih “Tablet to the Aunt” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-‘Ashiq-va-Ma’shuq Lawḥ-i-‘Áshiq va Ma‘shúq “Tablet of the Lover and the Beloved”, Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Aflakiya Lawḥ-i-Aflákíya • commonly known as the “Tablet of the Universe” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
(“Aflákíyyih” (Iṣfahání Pers.) used in Bahá’í Writings)
Lawh-i-Ahbab Lawḥ-i-Aḥbáb “Tablet for the Friends” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ahmad Lawḥ-i-Aḥmad “Tablet of Aḥmad” in Persian by Bahá’u’lláh. Written in honour of Aḥmad-i-Káshání.
Lawh-i-Amr Lawḥ-i-Amr “Tablet of the Command” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Amvaj Lawḥ-i-Amváj “Tablet of the Waves” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Anta’l-Kafi Lawḥ-i-Anta’l-Káfí “Tablet of ‘Thou the Sufficing’, known as the long healing prayer, Tablet of protection” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Aqdas Lawḥ-i-Aqdas “The Most Holy Tablet”, sometimes referred to as ‘Tablet to the Christians’ by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ard-i-Ba Lawḥ-i-Arḍ-i-Bá “Tablet of the Land of Bá” by Bahá’u’lláh. Tablet sent to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá while visiting Beirut (“Land of Bá”) 1–17 June 1880.
Lawh-i-Ashraf Lawḥ-i-Ashraf “Tablet for Ashraf (the Noble)” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ayat Lawḥ-i-Áyát “Tablet of the Verses” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-Ayiy-i-Nur Lawḥ-i-Áyiy-i-Núr “Tablet of the Light Verse” by Bahá’u’lláh written in response to questions from Mírzá Áqáy-i-Rikáb-Sáz. See Qur’án 24:35. Also known as Tafsír [Lawḥ-i] Ḥurúfát al-Muqaṭṭ‘ah.
Lawh-i-Baha Lawḥ-i-Bahá “Tablet of Glory” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Baqa Lawḥ-i-Baqá “Tablet of Eternity” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Basitatu’l-Haqiqih Lawḥ-i-Basíṭatu’l-Ḥaqíqíh “Tablet of the Uncompounded Reality, of the Ground of Being” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Bisharat Lawḥ-i-Bishárát “Tablet of Glad Tidings” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Bismilih Lawḥ-i-Bismilih “Tablet of ‘In the Name of God’” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Bulbulu’l-Firaq Lawḥ-i-Bulbulu’l-Firáq “Tablet of the Nightingale of Bereavement” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Burhan Lawḥ-i-Burhán “Tablet of the Proof” by Bahá’u’lláh addressed to Shaykh Muḥammad Báqir (the “Wolf”)
Lawh-i-Dr Forel Lawḥ-i-Dr Forel “Tablet to Dr Forel” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-Du-Niday-i-Falah va Najah Lawḥ-i-Du-Nidáy-i-Faláḥ va Najáḥ “Tablet of Supplication” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. More literally the Tablet of two Calls (the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh) for salvation and emancipation”
Lawh-i-Dunya Lawḥ-i-Dunyá “Tablet of the World” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Fitnih Lawḥ-i-Fitnih “Tablet of the Test” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Fu’ad Lawḥ-i-Fu’ád “Tablet to Fu’ád Páshá” by Bahá’u’lláh. Addressed to Shaykh Káẓim-i-Samandar of Qazvín, one of the apostles of Bahá’u’lláh. Its subject, the former Ottoman statesman Fu’ád Páshá, died in France in 1869, the Tablet was revealed soon afterwards. Tablet begins with the letters “Káf Ẓá’” for Káẓim.
Lawh-i-Ghulamu’l-Khuld Lawḥ-i-Ghulámu’l-Khuld “Tablet of the Deathless Youth, Eternal Youth, Youth of Paradise” by Bahá’u’lláh (Ar. Lawḥ Ghulám al-Khuld)
Lawh-i-Habib Lawḥ-i-Ḥabíb “Tablet of the Beloved” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Haft Sham’ Wahdat Lawḥ-i-Haft Sham‘ Waḥdat “Tablet of the Seven Candles of Unity” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-Haft-Pursish Lawḥ-i-Haft-Pursish “Tablet of Seven Questions” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Hajj Lawḥ-i-Ḥajj Tablet of Visitation to be recited at Baghdád, by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Haqqu’n-Nas Lawḥ-i-Ḥaqqu’n-Nás “Tablet of the Right of the People”, in Persian, by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Hawdaj Lawḥ-i-Hawdaj (or Lawḥ-i-Sámṣún) “Tablet of the Howdah” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Haykal Lawḥ-i-Haykal “Tablet of the Temple”, i.e. the body, by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Haykalu’d-Din Lawḥ-i-Haykalu’d-Dín “Tablet of the Temple of the Faith” by the Báb
Lawh-i-Hikmat Lawḥ-i-Ḥikmat “Tablet of Wisdom” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Hirtik Lawḥ-i-Hirtík “Tablet to Georg David Hardegg (Hirtík)” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Hizar Bayti Lawḥ-i-Hizár Baytí “Tablet of One Thousand Verses” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-Huriyyih Lawḥ-i-Ḥúríyyih “Tablet of the Maiden” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Hurufat Lawḥ-i-Ḥurúfát “Tablet of the Letters” by the Báb
Lawh-i-Husayn Lawḥ-i-Ḥusayn by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-ibn-i-Dhi’b Lawḥ-i-ibn-i-Dhi’b “The Epistle to the Son of the Wolf” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ishraqat Lawḥ-i-Ishráqát “Tablet of Splendours” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Istintaq Lawḥ-i-Istintáq “Tablet of the Interrogation” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ittihad Lawḥ-i-Ittiḥád “Tablet of Unity” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Jamal Lawḥ-i-Jamál Tablet to Áqá Jamál-i-Burújirdi, “Tablet of Beauty” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Karim Lawḥ-i-Karím “Tablet for Karím (the Noble)” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Karmil Lawḥ-i-Karmil “Tablet of Carmel” by Bahá’u’lláh (1891)
Lawh-i-Khurasan Lawḥ-i-Khurásán by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-Kullu’t-Ta’am Lawḥ-i-Kullu’ṭ-Ṭa‘ám “Tablet of All Food” by Bahá’u’lláh. Qur’án 3:93 is known as Kullu’ṭ-Ṭa‘ám, it begins with “All food …”. Error: Qullu’ṭ-Ṭa‘ám (“Qullu’t-Ta’am”)
Lawh-i-Lahih Lawḥ-i-Láhih “Tablet to the Central Organization for a Durable Peace, The Hague” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-Laylatu’l-Quds Lawḥ-i-Laylatu’l-Quds “Tablet of the Holy (Sacred) Night” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Madinatu’r-Rida Lawḥ-i-Madínatu’r-Riḍá “The City of Radiant Acquiescence” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Madinatu’t-Tawhid Lawḥ-i-Madínatu’t-Tawḥíd “Tablet of the City of Unity” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Mahfil-i-Shawr Lawḥ-i-Maḥfil-i-Shawr Tablet (or prayer) for spiritual assemblies, regarding gathering and consulting (by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá)
Lawh-i-Mahfuz Lawḥ-i-Maḥfúẓ Guarded or Preserved Tablet
Lawh-i-Malik-i-Rus Lawḥ-i-Malik-i-Rús “Tablet to the Czar Alexander III” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Malika (Lawh-i-Malikih) Lawḥ-i-Malika “Tablet to the Queen” of England (Victoria) by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Mallahu’l-Quds Lawḥ-i-Malláḥu’l-Quds “Tablet of the Holy Mariner” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Manikchi-Sahib Lawḥ-i-Mánikchí-Ṣáḥib “Tablet to Mánikchí-Ṣáḥib” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Maqsud Lawḥ-i-Maqṣúd “Tablet of Maqṣud (the Goal, the Desired One)” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Maryam Lawḥ-i-Maryam “Tablet to Maryam” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Mawlud Lawḥ-i-Mawlúd Tablet for the Birth of the Báb by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Mazzah Lawḥ-i-Mazzaḥ “Tablet of the Humorist” by Bahá’u’llá) Begins: “Bismilláhi’l-Mazzaḥ ...”
Lawh-i-Mubahilih Lawḥ-i-Mubáhilih “Tablet of the Confrontation or Execration” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Muhabbat Lawḥ-i-Muḥabbat “Tablet to Medina” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-Napulyun Lawḥ-i-Nápulyún I and II “Tablet to Napoleon III” (1868 and 1869) by Bahá’u’lláh. Can also be written as Lawḥ Málik Bárís.
Lawh-i-Naqus Lawḥ-i-Náqús “Tablet of the Bell” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Nasir Lawḥ-i-Naṣír Tablet to Ḥájí Muḥammad Naṣír of Qazvín by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Nikah Lawḥ-i-Nikáḥ Tablet on Marriage by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Nuqtih Lawḥ-i-Nuqṭih “Tablet of the Point” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Pap Lawḥ-i-Páp “Tablet to the Pope” (Pius IX) by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Pisar-‘Amm Lawḥ-i-Pisar-‘Amm “Tablet to the Cousin” in honour of Mírzá Ḥasan-i-Mázindarání by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Qad-Ihtaraqa’l-Mukhlisun Lawḥ-i-Qad-Iḥtaráqa’l-Mukhliṣún “The Tablet of the Faithful Ones (Mukhliṣún) have burned (qad iḥtaráq)”, based on the first line that Shoghi Effendi translated as “... the hearts of the sincere are consumed in the fire of separation.” Known in English as “The Fire Tablet” (see first and last lines) by Bahá’u’lláh. See Iḥtiráq
Lawh-i-Qarn Lawḥ-i-Qarn-i-Aḥabbáy-i-Sharq “Centennial [1844–1944] Tablet to the Beloved Ones [Bahá’ís] of the East” by Shoghi Effendi (1944)
Lawh-i-Qina’ Lawḥ-i-Qiná‘ “Tablet of the Veil” by Bahá’u’lláh. Addressed primarily to the “third” Shaykhí leader, Ḥájí Mírzá Muḥammad Karím Khán Kirmání (the first Kirmání Shaykhí leader). See Kirmání.
Lawh-i-Quds Lawḥ-i-Quds “Tablet of Holiness” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ra’is Lawḥ-i-Ra’ís “Tablet of the Ruler” (Tablet to Mehmed Emin ‘Alí Páshá) by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Rafi’ Lawḥ-i-Rafí‘ “Tablet of Elevation” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ram Lawḥ-i-Rám "Tablet of Rám" by Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’u’lláh addresses themes of divine guidance, spiritual transformation, and the relationship between God and humanity. The tablet emphasizes the importance of recognizing and adhering to divine teachings, and it often reflects on the nature of God's love and mercy. It serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for Bahá'ís, encouraging them to live in accordance with spiritual principles and to strive for personal and collective transformation. See Rám.
Lawh-i-Raqsha’ Lawḥ-i-Raqshá’ “Tablet to the She-Serpent” (Imám-Jum‘ih of Iṣfahán) by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Rasul Lawḥ-i-Rasúl “Tablet of the Prophet” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ru’ya Lawḥ-i-Ru’yá “Tablet of the Vision” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ruh Lawḥ-i-Rúḥ “Tablet of the Spirit” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Sahab Lawḥ-i-Saḥáb “Tablet of the Cloud” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Salah Lawḥ-i-Ṣaláh “Tablet of Obligatory Prayer” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Salman Lawḥ-i-Salmán “Tablet of Salmán” I–III by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Samsun Lawḥ-i-Sámsún (or Lawḥ-i-Hawdaj) “Tablet of Sámsún” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Sarraj Lawḥ-i-Sarráj “Tablet of the Saddler” by Bahá’u’lláh (a long and fairly weighty tablet) to ‘Alí Muḥammad Sarráj.
Lawh-i-Sayyah Lawḥ-i-Sayyáḥ “Tablet of Sayyáḥ (the Traveller)” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Shaykh-Fani Lawḥ-i-Shaykh-Fání Tablet to the Shaykh who has surrendered his will to God by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Siyyid-i-Mihdiy-i-Dahaji Lawḥ-i-Siyyid-i-Mihdíy-i-Dahají by Bahá’u’lláh. See Dahají
Lawh-i-Sultan Lawḥ-i-Sulṭán “Tablet to the King of Persia” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Tajalliyat Lawḥ-i-Tajallíyát “Tablet of Effulgences” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Tanzih va Taqdis Lawḥ-i-Tanzíh va Taqdís “Tablet of Purity” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-Tarazat Lawḥ-i-Ṭarázát “Tablet of Ornaments” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Tarbiyat Lawḥ-i-Tarbíyat “Tablet of Education” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Lawh-i-Tawhid Lawḥ-i-Tawḥíd “Tablet of Unity” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Tibb Lawḥ-i-Ṭibb “Tablet of Medicine” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Tuqa Lawḥ-i-Tuqá “Tablet of Virtue” by Bahá’u’lláh See Lawḥu’t-Tuqá
Lawh-i-Wasiya (Lawh-i-Wasaya) Lawḥ-i-Waṣíya untitled brief document by the Báb, the so-called “Tablet of the Will” or the “Will and Testament”, addressed to Mírzá Yaḥyá in which he is “enjoined to promote and protect the Faith and to invite people to follow what has been revealed in the Bayán.” (Research Dept. 28 May 2004)
Lawh-i-Yaquti Lawḥ-i-Yáqútí “The Ruby Tablet”
Lawh-i-Yusuf Lawḥ-i-Yúsuf “Tablet of Joseph” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Zaynu’l-Muqarrabin Lawḥ-i-Zaynu’l-Muqarrabín Tablet to Zaynu’l-Muqarrabín by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawh-i-Ziyarih Lawḥ-i-Ziyárih “Tablet of Visitation” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawha (Lauha), Lawhat, Alwah (Alvah) Lawḥa, pl. Lawḥát, Alwáḥ (fem.) board; blackboard; slate; tablet; slab; plate, sheet; pane; panel; plaque; plane, surface; screen; placard, poster; picture, painting. Sometimes singular transcripted as Lauḥ.
Lawhu’r-Ridvan Lawḥu’r-Riḍván “Tablet of Riḍván” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawhu’r-Ruh Lawḥu’r-Rúḥ “Tablet of Spirit” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawhu’t-Tuqa Lawḥu’t-Tuqá “The Tablet of Piety or the Fear of God” by Bahá’u’lláh
Lawlaka Lawláka Arabic “but for Thee”
Lawz (Lauz) Lawz, pl. Alwáz fleeing unto, taking refuge; escaping, saving oneself; an almond; a kind of sweetmeat
Layl (Lail), Layali Layl, pl. Layálí (usually m.) night-time, night (as opposed to nahár daytime);—pl. layálí (Syrian) a certain vocal style; laylan at night
Layla (Laila, Leila), Layali Laylá, pl. Layálí scent of wine, or the commencement of its intoxicating influence; a female proper name, in particular that of the celebrated mistress of Majnún in a Persian folktale
Layla (Laila), Layat, Layalin, Laya’il Layla[h or t], pl. Laylát, Layálin, Layá’il (feminine) (“Leila”) night; evening; soirée
Laylat al-Qadr, Laylatu’l-Qadr Laylat al-Qadr, Pers. Laylatu’l-Qadr Night of Power. The night in which, according to sura 97, the Qur’án was revealed, celebrated during the night between the 26th and 27th of Ramaḍán.
Laylat al-Quds, Laylatu’l-Quds Laylat al-Quds, Laylatu’l-Quds “Holy Night”, “Sacred Night”
Layli (Laili) Laylí nocturnal, nightly; of night, night- (in compounds); evening (adjective).
Laysa (Laisa) Laysa there is not; not; except
Lazat, Laz Lázat, pl. Láz Pers. a dress of red Chinese silk;—pl. soft, thin silk
li li 1. (preposition) for; on behalf of, in favor of; to (of the dative); because of; for the sake of; due to, owing to; for, for the purpose of; at the time of, when, as; by (designating the author or originator).
2. (conjunction with the subjunctive) that, so that, in order that, in order to
Li to me
li-Din li-Dín of/to God
li-Din Allah, li-Dini’llah li-Dín Alláh or li-Díni’lláh religion (or faith) of God
Libas, Libasal, Albisa Libás, pl. Libásál, Albisa clothes, clothing; costume; apparel; garment, robe, dress
Libs Libs a covering, especially that of the ka‘bah; the covering of a camel-litter; a kind of dress; the membrane of the brain
Lillah (li-llah) Lilláh “for/to/towards Alláh”, for the love of God, for God’s sake. The li- at the beginning is a prepositional prefix. Morphologically, it would normally be li-Alláh with an abjad value of 96. Since the á (dagger alif) represents a stressed “a”, and not an alif, the abjad value is 95. Compare al-Bayán.
Liman Límán, pl. Límánát harbour, port; penitentiary
Liqa’ Rabb, Liqa-i-Rabb Liqá’ Rabb, Pers. Liqá-i-Rabb “Visitation of God” on the Day of Qiyámah. Since God is sanctified from all material existence and He can never be seen by the material eyes, this means seeing and meeting a Manifestation of the Names and attributes of God.
Liqa’, Liqa’a Liqá’ (Pers. Liqá) encounter, battle; meeting; a visit, get together, interview (modern); reunion; what meets the eye, hence the Persian meaning of face, form, visage, countenance. liqá’a (preposition) in exchange for, in return for, for, on.
Liqa’i Liqá’í my meeting
Liqa’iya, (Laqa’iyya, Laqa’iyyih) Liqá’íya, Pers. Liqá’iyya Liqá’íyyih Khánum, second wife of Mírzá ‘Alí-Muḥammad-i-Varqá. Name of one of the four daughters of Ibn-i Aṣdaq and Ḍiyá’u’l-Ḥájiyyih. Pers. “Liqá’iyyih” or “Liqá’íyyih”.
Liqa’u’llah Liqá’u’lláh ‘attainment unto the Divine Presence’, resurrection
Liqa’u’llah (Laqa’u’llah) Liqá’u’lláh the meeting of God, resurrection. A reference to the Manifestation of God, i.e. Bahá’u’lláh.
Lisan, Alsina, Alsun Lisán, pl. Alsina(h), Alsun tongue; language; mouthpiece (figuratively).
Lisanu’l-‘Arab Lisánu’l-‘Arab The Arab tongue
Lisanu’l-Mulk Lisánu’l-Mulk “Tongue of the Empire”.Lisánu’l-Mulk-i-Sipihr (“Eloquent Tongue of the Empire”) of Káshán, 19th century Persian historian. See Sipihr.
Lisanu’llah Lisánu’lláh the word (or tongue) of God
Liss, Lusus, Alsas Liṣṣ, pl. Luṣúṣ, Alṣáṣ thief, robber
Litani River Liṭání Liṭání River
Liwa’ (Liva), Alwiya, Alwiyat Liwá’, pl.Alwiya, Alwiyát banner, flag, standard; brigade; major general; rear admiral (Egypt.); province, district (Írán). al-Liwá’ (“The Flag”) (1963–) is a Lebanese Arabic daily newspaper.
Lourenco Marques Lourenço Marques Portuguese explorer and pre-1975 name of Maputo, capital of Mozambique
Lu’lu’, La’ali, Lu’lu’un Lu’lu’ (Lúlú), pl. La’álí (collective; nomen unitatis Lu’lu’un) pearls; gems, jewels
Lubbada, Lubbadat Lubbáda, pl. Lubbádát horse blanket, saddle blanket;—(pl. labábíd) felt cap
Lubs Lubs putting on a garment; enjoying the company (of a wife, etc.)
Lugha, Lughat Lugha(h or t), pl. Lughát language; dialect; idiom; vernacular; lingo, jargon; word; expression, term; al-lughat al-‘arabíyat al-afṣaḥí, classical Arabic
Lughat Nama (Lughat Namih) Lughat Náma Pers. 15 volume “The Dehkhoda Dictionary” in Persian by ‘Alí Akbar Dihkhudá
Lujj, Lujja, Lujaj, Lijaj Lujj and Lujja, pl. Lujaj, Lijáj depth of the sea; gulf, abyss, chasm, depth
Lujjat, Lujja Lujjat, Lujja Pers. a large body, multitude; plenty (of water), the great deep, main, middle of the sea; an abyss; silver; a looking-glass, mirror
Lulin, Aftaba Lúlín Pers. a jug, flagon, or any similar vessel with a spout, and made of clay (those made of metal are called áftába).
Lum’a, Luma’, Lima’ Lum‘a[h or t], pl. Luma‘, Limá‘ shimmer, gleam, glow, flash, sparkle, glitter, brilliancy, radiance, beam; gloss, lustre, burnish, polish
Luqa Lúqá Pers. the evangelist Luke
Luqman Luqmán a famous legendary figure noted for his wisdom. Prophet in Qur’án.
Luqmat Luqmat, Laqmat, Luqma, pl. Luqam Pers. a mouthful, morsel; a kind of fritter
Luqmatu’l-Qáḍí Luqmatu’l-Qáḍí Pers. the choice morsel for the judge
Lur Lur Name of a warlike tribe living in Luristán.
Luristan (Lorestan) Luristán a province and an area in western Írán in the Zagros Mountains
Lut Lút Pers. naked, bare. Dasht-i-Lút, the “Emptiness Plain”, 51,800 km2, is a salt desert, one of the hottest and driest in the world, in Kirmán, and Sistán and Balúchistán Provinces.
Lut Lúṭ Lot
Lutf-‘Ali Luṭf-‘Alí Luṭf ‘Alí Mírzá Shírází (Mírzá, “Prince”), a descendant of the Afsháriyán royal dynasty, and a Bábí.
Lutf, Latafa, Altaf Luṭf, fem. Laṭáfa(h or t), pl. Alṭáf approaching, drawing near; being propitious, favourable, gracious; being small, slender, delicate; the grace or protection of God; gentleness, humanity, kindness, generosity, benevolence; piquancy, point, wit;
—fem. thinness fineness, delicateness; gracefulness, loveliness, charm; kindness, benevolence; friendliness; politeness, esprit, intellectual refinement, sophistication; suavity, urbaneness;
—pl. benefits, favours; kindnesses
Lutfi Luṭfí Pers. adopted, brought up in the family; an adopted child. ‘Umar Lütfí Páshá [Lüṭfí Paşa (Turkish)] (BKG p. 482)
Lutfu’llah (Lotfullah) Luṭfu’lláh favour or kindness of God
Luti, Lutiyun (Lutis) Lúṭí, pl. Lúṭíyún The people of Lot or Sodom; a sodomite; an impudent, forward fellow; a bravo, bully, ruffian, villain; a jester, buffoon, clown. A term used in the 19th century to refer to Robin Hood-type bandits and thugs, who sometimes challenged oppressive governors, provided strong-arm support for local secular and religious leaders and bullied their fellow townsmen.
Lutigari Lúṭígarí Pers. often used interchangeably with awbásh (see wabash). The lúṭígarí are groups of people organized around zúr-khánih (gymnasia) who professed certain ideals of jawánmardí (“chivalry”)—truthfulness, honesty, protecting the weak and oppressing the oppression. In practice the difference between “Robin Hood” and robber is not clear-cut. Lúṭígarí can sometimes refer to troupes of musicians and entertainers. 
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• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
M
Ma (interrogative pronoun) what
Ma, ila ma, bi’ma, li-ma, hatta ma Ma for what? after prepositions: ilá ma whereto? where? which way? whither? bi-ma with what? wherewith? li-ma why? wherefore? ḥattá ma how far? to which point?
Ma’, Miyah, Amwah Má’, pl. Miyáh, Amwáh water; liquid, fluid; juice. má’ al-ward (becomes máward), rose water. Hence, the name Máwardí.
Ma’ab (Maab), Ma’awib, Ma’awiba Ma’áb, pl. Ma’áwib, Ma’áwiba(t) a place to which one returns; “beautiful place of return” (“Paradise”, Qur’án 13:29); (used as verbal noun) return; a receptacle, repository, a place where anything centres, or in which it is contained. H. M. Balyuzi identifies Ma’áb with the Biblical kingdom of Moab, east of the Dead Sea in the area of Wádí al-Mújib, present day Jordan.
Ma’ad Ma‘ád lit. place or time of return. Day of Resurrection
Ma’adh Ma‘ádh (act or instance of) taking refuge; refuge, place of refuge, retreat, asylum, sanctuary
Ma’din, Ma’adin Ma‘din, pl. Ma‘ádin mine; lode; metal; mineral; treasure-trove, bonanza (figuratively). Panj-Ma‘ádin (Pers. “five mines”) may be located at 29.250012, 54.599990, 28 km ENE of Nayriz.
Ma’an (Maan) Ma‘án a stage, halting-place; “son” of Lot (Lúṭ); a city in southern Jordan, 218 km SW of Amman; a town in northern Syria, 25 km north of Ḥamáh and 70 km north of Homs
Ma’dan Ma‘dan (Syrian ma‘din) very good! bravo! well done!
Ma’dan-i-Mis Ma‘dan-i-Mis Pers. copper mine. Maden, town in Türkiye between Khárpút and Diyarbakir
Ma’dan-i-Nuqrih Ma‘dan-i-Nuqrih Pers. Keban (Turkish) is a town and silver mine. The town is about 1 km below the large Keban Dam on the Euphrates River.
Ma’dini, Ma’daniyat Ma‘diní, pl. Ma‘daníyát metallic, mineral; al-ma‘daníyát mineralogy
Ma’gul Ma‘qúl reasonable, sensible, intelligible, comprehensible, understandable, plausible, logical; rational; apprehensive faculty, comprehension, intellect, discernment, judiciousness, judgment; common sense
Ma’ida, Ma’idat Má’idat, Má’ida Pers. a table, especially one covered with victuals; a circle, circumference, circuit, orbit
Ma’ida, Mawaid Má’ida, pl. Má’idát, Mawá’id Ar. table
Ma’idi-yi-Asmani Má’idi-yi-Ásmání Pers. “Heavenly Banquet” or “The Heavenly Bread”, compilation of writings by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Ma’in, Mu’un Ma‘ín, pl. Mu‘un (water) flowing over the surface of ground. The Minaean people were the inhabitants of the kingdom of Ma‘ín in modern-day Yemen. Qarnáwu (16.128100, 44.815300), near al-Ḥazm, was a capital of Ma‘ín.
Ma’juj, Majuj Ma’júj, Májúj Magog, son of Japhet; Eastern Tartary. See Yá’júj (Gog) and mu‘ẓam.
Ma’mun Ma’mún reliable, trustworthy
Ma’mur Ma‘múr inhabited, populated, populous; frequented
Ma’mur Ma’múr commissioned, charged; commissioner; civil officer, official, especially one in executive capacity; the head of a markaz and qism (Egypt)
Ma’na, Ma’ani Ma‘ná, Ma‘ná(t), pl. Ma‘ání in Pers. also Ma‘nát. sense, meaning, signification, import, drift, reality; virtue, efficacy; the title or lettering of a book; spirituality; a thing; anything; a subject; a circumstance, an event.—pl. meanings or significances, significations, senses; imports; mental images; intrinsic qualities; qualities that are commended or approved, charms, graces; elegance of language; mystical meanings; sublime realities, spiritual matters. A reference to the Imams as the repositories of the inner Word of God. Baháriyyih Rúḥání Ma‘ání (Baharieh Rouhani Ma‘ani) author and translator. See ma‘nan
Ma’nan, Ma’anin Ma‘nan, pl. Ma‘ánin sense, meaning, signification, import; concept, notion, idea, thought; thematic purport (e.g., of a work of art, as distinguished from its form); a rhetorical, figurative, or allegorical expression. See ma‘ná
Ma’nawi (Manavi) Ma‘nawí relating to the sense or import (of a word or expression)
Ma’rab, Ma’rib Ma’rab the time or place for any necessary business. Ma’rib is the capital city of Ma’rib Governorate, Yemen. It is 122 km east of Sana’a. The ruins of Ma’rib, the capital of the ancient kingdom of Saba’ (unlikely to be that of Sheba), are 3.5 km south of the center of the modern city. The Sabaean kings built great irrigation works such as the Ma’rib Dam, whose ruins are still visible, is 3 km downstream of the modern dam and about 9 km NE of Ma’rib.
Ma’raj, Ma’arij Ma‘raj, pl. Ma‘árij place of ascent; (route of) ascent. See Mi‘raj
Ma’raka, Ma’ruka, Ma’arik Ma‘raka(h), Ma‘ruka(h), pl. Ma’árik battlefield; battle. See Mu’tah
Ma’rakat Balat ash-Shuhada’ Ma‘rakat Baláṭ ash-Shuhadá’ the Battle of the Highway of the Martyrs, the Battle of Tours or the Battle of Poitiers (10 October 732)—it was an important victory of the Frankish and Burgundian forces under Charles Martel over the raiding parties of the Umayyad Caliphate led by ‘Abdu’l Raḥmán al Ghafiqí (he died), Governor-General of al-Andalus.
Ma’rifa (Ma’rifat), Ma’arif Ma‘rifa(t), pl. Ma‘árif knowledge, learning, lore, information, skill, know-how; cognition, intellection, perception, experience, realization; gnosis; acquaintance, cognizance, conversance; an acquainted person, an acquaintance, a friend; (grammar) definite noun;—pl. al-Ma‘árif cultural affairs, education. Pers. definition: knowing; knowledge, science, learning; insight in divine matters or mysteries; art, skill, craft; account, reason, means; by means of, through
Ma’ruf Ma‘rúf known, well-known; universally accepted, generally recognized; conventional; that which is good, beneficial, or fitting, good, benefit; fairness, equity, equitableness; kindness, friendliness, amicability; beneficence; favour rendered, courtesy, mark of friendship; active voice (grammar)
Ma’shuq, Ma’shuqa Ma‘shúq, fem. Ma‘shúqa[h or t] lover, sweetheart; fem. beloved, sweetheart
Ma’sum, Ma’suma, Ma’sumun Ma‘ṣúm, fem. Ma‘ṣúma[h or t] (Pers. “Ma’sumih, Ma’sumeh”) inviolable, sacrosanct, protected by the laws of vendetta (Islamic Law); infallible, sinless, impeccant, impeccable; immaculate, morally infallible and rendered immune to error by God, infallible in judgements and decrees.—pl. Ma‘ṣúmún, Ma‘ṣúmát. Fáṭimah bint Músá al-Khádhim, sister of Imám ‘Alí ar-Riḍá (8th Imám), is commonly known in Írán as Fáṭima al-Ma‘súmih. The Shrine of Fatima Masumeh (Ḥarám Fáṭimah Ma‘ṣúmah) is in Qum. al-Ma‘ṣúmín al-Arba‘ata ‘Ashara, Pers. Chahárdah Ma‘ṣúm: the fourteen infallible ones—the prophet Muḥammad, his daughter, and the twelve Imams.
Ma’thara, Mathara, Ma’athir Ma’thara(t), Máthara(t), pl. Ma’áthir glory, nobility, greatness, hereditary honour.
Ma’u’l-Furat Má’u’l-Furát sweet waters (“the fresh and thirst-quenching waters”)
Ma’una, Ma’un Ma‘úna(h or t), pl. Ma‘ún help, aid, assistance, succour, relief, support, backing. Variously interpreted as assistance to neighbours in the form of lending household utensils; voluntary and obligatory alms; obedience to prescribed rules. Saríya Bi’r Ma‘úna refers to an event in 625 when a large number of Muslims were sent by Muḥammad to the tribes of Banú Sálim and Banú ‘Ámir. They were attacked by men of Banú-Sulaym at Bi’r Ma‘úna (Ma‘úna well or Aid well; location unknown, but about 80 km SE Medina) and all but two were killed.
Mab’ath, Maba’ith Mab‘ath, pl. Mabá‘ith sending, forwarding, dispatch; emission; awakening, arousal;—pl. cause; factor
Mabda’ Mabda’, pl. Mabádi beginning, start, starting point; basis, foundation; principle; invention;—pl. principles, convictions (of a person); ideology; rudiments, fundamental concepts, elements
Mabsut Mabsúṭ extended, outstretched; rim, spread out; extensive, large, sizeable; detailed, elaborate (book); cheerful, happy, gay; feeling well, in good health. Nickname “happy”: Dr Ḍíyá Mabsúṭ Baghdádí
Mada’in Salih Madá’in Ṣáliḥ Mada’in Saleh (“Cities of Saleh”), also called “al-Ḥijr” or “Hegra”, is an archaeological site 309 km NW of Medina. The site is thought to be near the ruins of the Thamúd.
Madad, Amdad Madad, pl. Amdád help, aid, assistance, support, backing, reinforcement;—pl. resources; auxiliaries. House of Ḥájí ‘Alí Madad, in Baghdád that Bahá’u’lláh and family first occupied on arrival. This is not the Bayt-i-A‘ẓam.
Madaha, Madh, Midha Madaḥa, Madḥ, Midḥa to praise, commend, laud, extol
Madan Madan extension, expanse, stretch, spread, compass, range, scope, space, latitude, reach; distance, interval, interspace; extent, degree, measure, scale, proportion; utmost point, extreme, limit; space of time, duration, period
Madani Madaní urban, urbanized, city-dwelling, town-dwelling; civilized, refined, polished; civilian (as opposed to military), civil, civic; secular; town dweller, townsman, city dweller, urbanite, citizen, civilian; of Medina, Medinan (adj. and n.)
Madaniya, Madaniyyah Madaníya[t], Pers. Madaniyyih civilization. Madaníyat al-Iláhíya, Divine Civilization.
Madar Mádar Pers. a mother
Madar, Madarat, Madariyan Madár, pl. Madárát orbit; circling, circuiting, circuit, revolution; axis; pivot; (figurative) that upon which something turns or depends, the central, cardinal, or crucial factor, the pivot; center; subject, topic, theme (of a conversation, of negotiations); scope, range, extent, sphere. Madáríyán two orbitals
Madda al-Kulliya al-Mádda al-Kullíya the universal matter
Madda, Mawadd Mádda(h), pl. Mawádd stuff, matter; material possession; substance; material; component, constituent, ingredient; fundamental constituent, radical, chemical element, base; subject, theme, topic; school subject, field of study; discipline, subject matter, curricular subject; article, paragraph (e.g., of a law, treaty or contract); stipulation, contractual term;—pl. material, materials; agents, elements
Maddi, Maddiyun Máddí, Máddíyún material; corporeal, physical; materialistic;—pl. materialist; objective
Madhhab-i-Ithna-'Ashariyyih Madhhab-i-Ithná-‘Asharíyyih Shí‘ah Muslims or “Church of the Twelve”.
Ar. Madhhab Ithná ‘Asharíya[h or t].
Madhhab, Madhhahib Madhhab, pl. Madhháhib going, leave, departure; way out, escape (from); manner followed, adopted procedure or policy, road entered upon; opinion, view, belief; ideology; teaching, doctrine; movement, orientation, trend (also politics); school; mazhab, orthodox rite of fiqh (Islamic Law); religious creed, faith, denomination. Schools of law—the four Sunní legal schools (sing. madhhab) are: (1) the Hanafíte school, founded by Abú-Ḥanífa (d. 767); (2) the Malakite school, founded by Málik ibn Anas (d. 795); (3) the Sháf’íte, founded by Sháf’í (d. 820); and (4) the strictest and most conservative Hanbalite school, founded by Aḥmad ibn Ḥanbal (d. 855). Actions that might be considered lawful or unlawful are divided into five categories: (i) obligatory, (ii) prohibited, (iii) recommended but not obligatory, (iv) indifferent, and (v) disapproved but not forbidden.
Madhkur Madhkúr mentioned; said, above-mentioned; celebrated
Madi (Mazi) Máḍí (Máẓí) Pers. passing away; past; dead; swift, fleet, expeditious; sharp, piercing (sword); the past-tense, preterite. Máḍíhim (Madihim) “their past”.
Madi Darad Maḍí Dárad Pers. a closing phrase
Madih, Mada’ih Madíḥ, pl. Madá’iḥ praise, laudation, commendation; panegyrical poem, panegyric; eulogy, encomium, tribute
Madina, Mudun, Mada’in Madína(h), pl. Mudun, Madá’in town, city; Medina (city in western Saudi Arabia). Citizens, al-Anṣár, of Madína, who assisted Muḥammad when obliged to flee from Mecca. Muḥammad migrated to Yathrib in 622 and it was renamed al-Madínat an-Nabí (later shortened to al-Madínah, Medina).—pl. cities; collective name of seven cities flourishing during the reign of Nushírwán; mostly applied to Ctesiphon, also called Madá’in Kisrá, the cities of Chosroes See Madá’in Ṣáliḥ.
Madinat an-Nabi al-Madínat an-Nabí City of the Prophet
Madinatu’l-Khadra Madínatu’l-Khaḍrá’ “the Verdant City”. Name given to Sabzivár by Bahá’u’lláh.
Madinatu’llah Madínatu’lláh City of God. A title of Baghdád and also a title given by Bahá’u’lláh to the Shrine of the Báb.
Madinatu’n-Nabi Madínatu’n-Nabí City of the Prophet (Medina)
Madinatu’s-Salam Madínatu’s-Salám the City of Peace (name given to Baghdád by ‘Abbásid Caliph al-Manṣúr) BKG 106.
Madinatu’t-Tawhid Madínatu’t-Tawḥíd (The City of Unity) by Bahá’u’lláh
Madkhal, Madakhil Madkhal, pl. Madákhil entrance; hallway, vestibule, anteroom; entrance hall, lobby, foyer; entrance (of a port, of a canal); anode (electricity); introduction (to a field of learning); behaviour, conduct;—pl. places of access, entrances; income, revenue, rent, receipts.
Madkhul, Madakhil Madkhúl, pl. Madákhíl sickly, diseased, abnormal; (mentally) disordered; of weak character, spineless;—pl. revenue, receipts, takings, returns.
Madrasa, Madaris Madrasa[h or t], pl. Madáris literally, “a place where learning and studying occur” or a “place of study”; a religious boarding school associated with a mosque; school. Pers. also madrasih, madrisih. Madrasah ‘Iffatíyah (or just ‘Iffatíyah), chaste school for girls.
Madrasah ‘Ilmiyat Ruhiya Madrasah ‘Ilmíyat Rúḥíya seminary school of spirituality. A seminary (36.548430, 52.682436) in Bárfurúsh. In front (36.548471, 52.682296) is marked as the site of the former Mírzá Zakí Seminary.
Madrasi, Madrasiya Madrasí, fem. Madrasíya[h or t] scholastic, school
Madrasiy-i-Daru’sh-Shafay Madrasiy-i-Dáru’sh-Shafáy Madrasiy-i-Dáru’sh-Shafáy-i-Masjid-i-Sháh. Hospital school at the Shah’s mosque. “Madrasi” (or “Madrisi”) probably represents Madrasih (or “Madrisih”) and should be “Madrasa”.
Madrisiyi-i-Sadr Madrisiyi-i-Ṣadr
Madyan (Midian) Madyan ancient archeological site (28.487858, 35.003229), in Saudi Arabia, with houses cut out of large rocks a short distance to the west; the place of Jethro, also called Shu‘ayb.
Maf’ul, Mafa’il Maf‘úl, pl. Mafá‘íl object (grammar);—(pl.) effect, impression, impact; effectiveness, validity. See fá‘il, manṣúb and marfú‘
Mafqud Mafqúd lost, missing, non-existent, absent, lacking, wanting; missing person
Maftun Maftún fascinated, captivated, infatuated, enraptured, charmed (by); enamored (of), in love (with); madman, maniac
Maghdub Maghḍúb object of anger
Maghfarat, Maghfirat Maghfara(t), Maghfira(t) (Magfaret) pardon, forgiveness, remission
Maghrib, Magharib Maghrib, dual Maghribán, pl. Maghárib place or time of sunset; west, either of the heavens or earth; the western countries; Occident; ṣalát al-maghrib, prayer at sunset (Islamic law). Dual: East and West. The “western countries” is normally understood to be the region of western and central North Africa, including Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisia. The Maghrib also includes the disputed territory of Western Sahara.
Mah, Mahiyan Máh, pl. Máhiyán Pers. the moon; a month, whether lunar or solar; name of the twelfth day of every solar month; name of the angel set over the moon, and any business transacted on the twelfth day of the month; a mistress
Mah-Ku Máh-Kú Pers. “Where is the moon?” Name given to the ruins of a four-towered fortress (Máh-Kú Qal‘a (39.300399, 44.512666) 650 m north of Zagros River in eastern Mákú (4 km from the new city centre), 14 km from the Turkish border and 51 km from Armenia), because the overshadowing cliff cuts off sight of the sky above the fort. It is in the NWghrús Mountains. Named by the Báb the Jabal-i-Básiṭ (the Open Mountain), the numerical values of Máh-Kú and Básiṭ is 72. See Mákú.
Mah-Ku’i Máh-Kú’í Pers. ‘Alí Khán-i-Máh-Kú’í (warden of the Castle of Máh-Kú)
Mah-Parih Máh-Párih [Mahpareh mah + pareh] = ‘a portion of the moon’
Mah-tab (Mahtab) Máh-táb (Mah-táb) Pers. moonlight, moonshine; the moon; the face of a mistress; breath, animal life
Mah-tabi (Mahtabi) Máh-tábí (Mah-tábí) Pers. lit by the moon; a balcony or terrace (to enjoy the moonlight); blue light; an open high terrace
Mahabad (Mah-Abad) Mahábád (Mah-Ábád) Pers. (Mehabad, Mihabad, Muhabad) is a town in and the capital of Mahábád County, West Ádharbayján Province. Mahábád is believed to be a pre-Zoroastrian prophet. He is also called Ádhar (Azar) Húshang, the Fire of Wisdom (see Ábádí).
Mahabb (Mahab), Mahabba Maḥabb, fem. Maḥabba[h or t] love; beloved; affection, attachment; fondness, tender and kind feelings, inclination, and love. Persian forms include maḥab, maḥabat. Fem. expression often used by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, but never by Shoghi Effendi.
Mahall-i-Darb Maḥall-i-Ḍarb Place of striking: location in Tabríz where the Báb was subjected to the bastinado after His examination by the divines.
Mahalli, Mahalliya, Mahalliyat Maḥallí, pl. Maḥallíyát local, domestic; native, indigenous; parochial;—pl. local news, local page (of a newspaper). Fem. Maḥallíya[h or t]
Mahall, Mahalla, Mahallat Maḥall, pl. Maḥáll, fem. Maḥallát (Pers. also Maḥal) (fem. Maḥalla[h or t], Pers. “Maḥallih”) place, location, spot, site, locale, locality, centre, section, part, quarter (of a city); (place of) residence; business; business house, firm, commercial house; store, shop; object, cause (e.g., of dispute, admiration, etc.); gear (automobile). Pers. also meaning of palace. Maḥallát is the capital of Maḥallát County, Markazí Province, Írán. See Fúlád Maḥallih and Murgh-Maḥallih.
Mahallu’l-Barakah (Mahallu’l-Barakih) Maḥallu’l-Barakah literally “The Place of Blessing”. A Bahá’í community enterprise in Írán to create a fund used to assist the poor and needy, the education of children, and the propagation of the Bahá’í Faith. See Shirkát-i-Nawnahálán.
Mahatta, Mahattat Maḥaṭṭa[h or t], pl. Maḥaṭṭát stopping place, stop (also of public conveyances); station, post; railroad station; broadcasting station, radio station. Maḥaṭṭat ar-Raml (Sand Station, Mahatet el Raml or Ramleh) is a tram station and neighbourhood (in wasaṭ al-Balad, “Downtown”) of Alexandria, Egypt.
Mahbub, Mahabib Maḥbúb, pl. Maḥábíb beloved; dear; lovable, desirable; popular; favourite; beloved one, lover; (pl.) gold piece, sequin (in Ottoman times) Title of the First Promised One expected by the Shi’ites.
Mahbuba Maḥbúba sweetheart, darling, beloved woman
Mahbubu’sh-Shuhada’ Maḥbúbu’sh-Shuhadá’ (Beloved of Martyrs) Mírzá Muḥammad-Ḥusayn Brother of Mírzá Muḥammad-Ḥasan, both from Iṣfahán.
Mahd Maḥḍ of pure descent, pureblood; pure, unmixed, unadulterated; genuine; sheer, downright, outright (e.g., lie, nonsense, etc.)
Mahd al-‘Ulya, Mahd-i-‘Ulya Mahd al-‘Ulyá, Per. Mahd-i-‘Ulyá highest cradle. Title given to Faṭimih Khánum (c. 1828–1904), second wife of Bahá’u’lláh, and mother of Mírzá Muḥammad ‘Alí and Mírzá Badí‘u’lláh.
Mahd al-Iman, Mahd-i-‘Iman Mahd al-Ímán, Pers. Mahd-i-‘Ímán cradle of the faith. Írán is the cradle of the Bahá’í Faith.
Mahd, Muhud Mahd, pl. Muhúd bed; cradle
Mahdi-Shahr (Mahdishahr) Mahdí-Shahr (Mahdíshahr) town of the Mahdí (Mehdishahr) City (35.711616, 53.355456) 175 km east of Teheran in Semnan Province. Formerly, Sang-Sar or Sangsar.
Mahdiy, Mahdi, Mihdiy, Mihdi Mahdíy (Pers. also Mihdíy, Mihdí) fem. mahdíyya[h]. rightly guided; English Mahdi; one who guides aright, the Guided One. A title of the twelfth (expected) Imám or Qá’im al-Mahdíy (“He who is guided by God”).
Mahdiya Mahdíya[t] a bride carried home to her husband’s house; a present, gift; “rightly guided (by God)”, state of being guided, mahdi-hood (avoid mahdí-hood, Arabic-English combination)
Mahdud Maḥdúd limited, bounded, separated, terminated, defined, definite
Mahduf (Mahzuf) Maḥḍúf taken away, cut off, elided (syllable from a word, or foot from a verse); apocopated; curtailed, docked, mutilated
Mahfil al-Murattab, Mahfil al-Murattab Maḥfil al-Murattab (Pers. Maḥfil-i-Murattab) “arranged assembly”, name given to the embryonic Central Assembly of Ṭihrán by the Hands of the Cause (about 1899), which was the predecessor of both the Local Spiritual Assembly of Ṭihrán (about 1913) and the National Spiritual Assembly of Írán (1934).
Mahfil-i-Rawhani Maḥfil-i-Rawḥání literally “spiritual gathering” or a “spiritual assembly”
Mahfil, Mahafil Maḥfil, pl. Maḥáfil assembly, congregation, meeting, gathering; party; body, collective whole; circle, quarter
Mahfurujak (Mahforujak, Mahfaruzak) Máhfurújak (“Mahforujak”, “Mafroosak”, Máhforújak, Máhforujak, and Máhfrújak) a village (36.505466, 52.969665) 10 km SW of Sari, 11 km NE Qá’im Shahr and about 30 km from the Caspian Sea, Mazandaran Province.
Mahfuz Maḥfúẓ guarded or preserved
Mahid Mahíd broken, shattered. Mahída Baghdádí, wife of Adíb Raḍí Baghdádí (named by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, “the pleasing one”)
Mahin, Muhana’ Mahín, pl. Muhaná’ despised, despicable, contemptible, vile
Mahiya, Mahiyat (Pers. Mahiyyat) Máhíya(h or t), pl. Máhíyát quality, quiddity (the inherent nature or essence of someone or something), essence, nature; salary, income; pay (military).1
Majma’-i-Abrar Majma‘-i-Abrár the gathering place of the righteous, e.g. the House of Justice. See barr (reverent).
Majma’ul-Fusaha’ Majma‘ul-Fuṣaḥá’ "The meeting place of the eloquent", “Assembly of eloquent men” by Ridá Qulí Khán Hidáyat
Majmu’ Majmú‘ collected, gathered; totality, whole; total, sum (arithmetic)
Majmu’a (Majmu’ih), Majmu’at, Majami’ Majmú‘a[h or t], pl. Majmú‘át, Majámí‘ (fem. of Majmú‘) collection (e.g., of works of art, of stamps, etc., also of stories); compilation, list; group (also, e.g., of trees, of islands, etc.); series (e.g., of articles in a newspaper; (new meaning) battery (electrical); alliance, league, bloc (e.g., of states); collective, collectivistic organization; aggregate; complex, block (of buildings); system; bulletin, periodical
Majmu’ih-i-Athar-i-Hadrat-i-A’la Majmu‘ih-i-Áthár-i-Ḥaḍrat-i-A‘lá Collection of letters by “His Holiness the Most Exalted One” [the Báb]
Majmu’ih-i-Khatabat-i-Hadrat Majmú‘ih-i-Khaṭábat-i-Ḥaḍrat Pers. Majmú‘ih-i-Khaṭábat-i-Ḥaḍrat-i-‘Abdu’l-Bahá “Collection of talks by His excellency ‘Abdu’l-Bahá”, published in English as The Promulgation of Universal Peace
Majmu’iy-i-Alwah-i-Mubarak Majmú‘iy-i-Alwáḥ-i-Mubárak “Compilation of Tablets of medicine by the Blessed” [Bahá’u’lláh]
Majmu’iy-i-Ishraqat Majmú‘iy-i-Ishráqat “Compilation of Splendours” by Bahá’u’lláh
Majnun, Majanin Majnún, pl. Majánín possessed, obsessed; insane, mad; madman, maniac, lunatic; crazy, cracked; crackpot; foolish; fool. Name of classical Persian lover who searches for his beloved Laylí.
Majrur, Magarir Majrúr, pl. Magárir drawn, dragged, towed, etc.; word governed by a preposition, word in the genitive form; (pl.) drain, sewer
Majusi, Majus Majúsí, pl. Majús Magian; adherent of Mazdaism; a follower of Zoroaster; later translated as a “fire-worshipper”;—pl. Magian; Magus, magi; adherents of Mazdaism. Zoroastrians are not fire-worshippers. Zoroastrians believe that the elements are pure and that fire represents God’s light or wisdom.
Majusiyat Majúsíyat the religion of the Magi
Makatib-i-‘Abdu’l-Baha Makátíb-i-‘Abdu’l-Bahá “Tablets of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Makhdhumiya Makhdhúmíya(h) status of the master or employer
Makhfi Makh hidden, concealed, covered, occult, clandestine, private. Imám Makhfí, the Hidden Imam (Muḥammad ibn al-Ḥasan), has been given many titles, including: Ṣáḥib az-Zamán (“the Lord of the Age”), Ṣáḥíb al-Amr (“the Lord of Command”), al-Mihdí (“the Rightly-Guided One”), al-Qá’im (“He who will arise”), al-Imám al-Munṭaẓar (“the Awaited Imám”) and the Baqíya Alláh (“Remnant of God”).
Makhluq, Makhluqat, Makhliq Makhlúq, pl. Makhlúqát, Mákhlíq created; creature, created being
Makhluqat, Makhluqa, Makhaliq Makhlúqat, Makhlúqa a creature, a created thing;—pl. makhaliq, makhlúqát
Makhsus Makhṣúṣ special
Makhtum Makhtúm hidden, concealed, kept, preserved (secret), sealed, finished, concluded
Makhzum Makhzúm pierced in the nose;
name of the founder of a tribe, Banú Makhzúm clan of the Quraysh tribe
Makhzun, Makhzunat Makhzún, pl. Makhzúnát stored, stored up, deposited, warehoused;
(pl.) stock, supply, stock in trade
Makka Makka[h or t] a place of great concourse.
Makkah is a more accurate spelling of Mecca,
Official name is Makkah al-Mukarramah (“Makkah the Noble”) and shortened to Makkah.
al-Bakka (Qur’án 3:96) may be an older name for al-Makkah.
Bahá’í Writings use Baṭḥá’ to mean Makkah (Mecca).
Makki, Makkiya, Makkiyun Makkí, fem. Makkíya[h or t] (also fem. Makkiyya[h or t], pl. Makkiyún)
Meccan;
revealed at Mecca (i.e. a chapter of the Qur’án, ≈90).
Abú Ṭálib Muḥammad ibn ‘Alí al-Makkí (d. 996) was a Ḥadíth scholar, Shafi‘i jurist, and Sufi mystic. Author of Qúṭ al-qulúb fí mu‘ámalat al-maḥbúb wa waṣf ṭaríq al-muríd ilá maqám al-tawḥíd (“Strengthening the hearts in treating the beloved and describing the path of the disciple to the station of monotheism” or simply “The Sustenance of Hearts”)
Maknun, Maknuna, Maknunih Maknún, fem. Maknúna(t) hidden, concealed; well-kept; hidden content. Pers. also Maknúnih
Maktab, Makatib Maktab, pl. Makátib office; bureau; business office; study; school, elementary school; department, agency, office; desk
Maktaba, Maktabat, Makatib Maktaba(h), pl. Maktabát, Makátib library; bookstore; desk
Maktub, Makatib Maktúb, pl. Makátíb written, written down, recorded; fated, foreordained, destined; something written, writing;—(pl.) a writing, message, note; letter
Maku Mákú Pers. from Azerbaijani. A city in the West Azerbaijan Province, Írán and the capital of Maku County. It is 130 km NE of Van and 205 km NW Tabriz. Located in a mountain gorge of the Zangmár River. Máh-Kú Qal‘a (fort or castle, now a ruin), 4 km east of the new city centre of Mákú, is where the Báb was imprisoned. See Máh-Kú.
Maku’i Mákú’í a native or inhabitant of Mákú.  Maḥmúd Pásháy-i-Mákú’í
Mal’ak, Malak, Mala’ik, Mala’ika Mal’ak & Malak, pl. Malá’ik, Malá’ika(h) an angel (as sent by God); messenger, envoy; embassy, mission; an epistle. Derived from the form IV root كلأ (L’K) to send as a messenger.
Mala al-A’la al-Mala al-A‘lá “the Supreme Concourse”
Mala’, Amla’ Mala’, pl. Amlá’ being full, crowd, gathering, assembly, congregation; audience; (general) public; council of elders, notables
Maladh Maládh refuge, protection; shelter; asylum, sanctuary; protector
Maladhgard, Manikert, Malazgirt Maládhgard Manzikert (modern Malazgirt or Malâzgird) located north of Lake Van in Muş Province, eastern Türkiye. The Battle of Manzikert was fought between the Byzantine Empire and the Seljuk Empire on 26 August 1071 near Manzikert. The Byzantine army defeat led to the capture of the Romanus IV Diogenes (r. 1068–1071).
Malaka, Malk, Mulk, Milk Malaka (Malk, Mulk, Milk) to take in possession, take over, acquire (something), seize, lay hands (on), possess oneself, take possession, lay hold (of); to possess, own, have (something), be the owner (of); to dominate, control (something): to be master (of); to role, reign, exercise power or authority, hold sway; to be capable (of), be equal (to). Hence, milk al-yamín, those whom your right hand possesses, e.g. women slaves
Malaki Malakí royal, kingly, regal; monarchic, sovereign; monarchist; angelic
Malakiya, Malakiyat Malakíya, pl. Malakíyát monarchy, kingship, royalty
Malakut Malakút realm, kingdom, empire; kingship, royalty, sovereignty. ‘álami malakút, the invisible, contemplative, or intelligent world; the heavenly court, hall of angels; Kingdom of Angels—realm of being. See Háhút, Láhút, Jabarút and Násút.
Malakuti, Malakutiya Malakútí, fem. Malakútíya[h or t] divine, heavenly, celestial
Malamat Malámat reproaching, reproving, blaming; reprehension, reproach, rebuke, censure; criticism; contumely
Malayir Maláyir city SSE of Ḥamdán, Írán
Malfuf Malfúf wound, coiled; wrapped up (in); rolled up, rolled together, convolute; twisted, wound (around); fastened, attached (to); swathed (in or with); plump, stout (body)
Malih, Maliha (Malihih), Millah, Amlah Malíḥ, pl. Milláḥ, Amláḥ (fem. Malíḥa[h or t]) salt, salty, briny, salted; pretty, handsome, comely; beautiful; nice, pleasant, agreeable; witty
Malik Jahan Khanum Malik Jahán Khánum Malik Jahán Khánum Qájár (1805–1873) was the wife of Muḥammad Sháh Qájár of Persia and the mother of Náṣir ad-Dín Sháh. She was the de facto regent of Persia for about 45 days. See Náṣir ad-Dín Sháh Qájár.
Malik, Malika, Mulaka Malík, fem. Malíka, pl. Mulaká’ king, monarch, ruler; master, possessor, owner, proprietor. See sulṭán (a higher level of sovereignty)
Malik, Malika, Muluk, Amlak, Malikat Malik, fem. Malika(h), pl. Mulúk, Amlák king or queen, sovereign, monarch; present a gift to the king or queen.—pl. fem. Malikát
Malik, Mullak Málik, pl. Mullak, Mullák reigning, ruling; owning, possessing, holding; owner, proprietor, master, possessor, holder. ibn Málik, Abú ‘Abd Alláh Jamál ad-Dín Muḥammad (c. 1204–1274) was an Arab grammarian.
Maliki Málikí, pl. Mullákí state of master, mastership; royal, kingly; lordly. A Malikite is a Sunní muslim sect member of al-málikíya—one of the four (the Ḥanafí, the Ḥanbalí, the Málikí and the Sháfi‘í) religious Sunní Islamic schools of jurisprudence (fiqh). Founded by Málik ibn Anas of Medina.
Maliku’l-Fadl Malíku’l-Faḍl the lord of grace
Maliku’l-Mulk, Malik al-Mulk Máliku’l-Mulk, Málik al-Mulk “The Owner of All Sovereignty”
Maliku’t-Tujjar Maliku’t-Tujjár (“the King of the Merchants”) DB 447
Maliya (Maliyyih), Maliyat Málíya(t), Pers also Máliyyih, pl. Málíyát monetary affairs, finance, public revenue; finances, financial situation
Malja’, Malaji’ Malja’, pl. Maláji’ (place of) refuge, retreat; shelter; sanctuary, asylum; home; base; pillbox, bunker, dugout
Malkam Malkam name from Hebrew (מַלְכָּם) “their king”
Malmir Málmír a village 65 km SW of Arák, in Markazí province, Írán
Malmiri Málmírí of or from Málmír
Mamaqan Mamaqán city 50 km south of Zanján, Írán. Other variations found are Mámáqán and Mamáqán.
Mamduh, Mamduhin Mamdúḥ, pl. Mamdúḥín praised, celebrated, famous, laudable, commendable
Mamlaka, Mamalik Mamlaka[h or t], pl. Mamálik kingdom, empire, state, country; royal power, sovereignty. Mameluke Dynasty is Salṭanat al-Mamálík.
Mamluk, Mamluka, Mamalik Mamlúk, fem. Mamlúka(t), pl. Mamálík possessed, in one’s power; a purchased slave or captive;—pl. white slave; mameluke; Mameluke. A term commonly used to refer to non-muslim slave soldiers and Muslim rulers of slave origin.
Man Man 1. (interrogative pronoun) who? which one? which ones?
2. (relative pronoun) who; the one who; those who; one who; whoever, whosoever, everyone who, he who.
Man Mán Pers. a lord; a family; household furniture; hereditary property, an heirloom; a house; grief, melancholy; disease; besides; like, resembling; agreeable; eternal, perpetual; (for ) we, us, our
Man Yuzhiruhu’llah Man Yuẓhiruhu’lláh (man + yu + ẓahara + Alláh) “He/Him whom God shall make manifest”. Title given by the Báb to the promised One. “He Who is made manifest in the past and in the future” and “Him Whom God has manifested and will manifest” are other renderings.
Manaf Manáf name of a pagan Arabian idol. ‘Abd Manáf al-Mughírah ibn Quṣayy was a Qurayshí and great-great-grandfather of Prophet Muhammad.
Manakji (Manikji, Manekji, Manikchi) Mánakjí Mánakjí Límjí Hátariyá (1813–1890) (Maneckji Limji Hataria) was an Indian scholar and civil rights activist of Parsi Zoroastrian descent. Sent as emissary of the Parsis of India to the Zoroastrians of Írán (1854–1890). Known in India as Mánikchí Ṣáḥíb. Hindi suffix ‘jí’ appended to names and titles of venerated persons as a sign of respect and endearment.
Manar, Manara, Manawir, Mana’ir Manár and Manára[h or t] pl. manáwir, maná’ir. Lighthouse; minaret. Pers. variation minár (“minar”).
Manassa (Manassih), Manassat Manaṣṣa[h or t], pl. Manaṣṣát platform, podium, rostrum; a raised seat highly decorated, on which the bride is exhibited to public view; any place of exhibition, a theatre.
Manba’, Manabi’ Manba‘, pl. Manábi‘ spring, well; fountainhead, springhead, source, origin
Manda’iyun al-Mandá’iyún Mandaean (“Gnostic”, from the Mandaic word manda meaning "knowledge"). Also known as Sabians (aṣ-Ṣábi’ah) or Sabian-Mandaeans (aṣ-Ṣábi’ah al-Mandá’iyún) are an ethno-religious group, native to the alluvial plain of southern Mesopotamia who are followers of Mandaeism. They were possibly the earliest to practice baptism and may have originated Gnosticism. In Muslim countries, Mandaeans are mostly called Sabians (aṣ-Ṣábiʼún). See Ṣábi’.
Mandal Mandal Pers. a pivot or axis; an enchanter’s circle marked on the ground, within which people sit when endeavouring to conjure up demons or spirits; a kind of drum; latch of a door; a boot; wood of aloes
Mandali (Mandalij) Mandalí a town (33.747878, 45.552305) in ‘Iráq near the Iranian border
Mangul, Mangulat Mangúl, pl. Mangúlát carried, conveyed, transported; transferred; transmitted; translated; copied, transcribed; movable, mobile, portable; handed down, traditional; traditional stock;—pl. a movable thing
Manhaj, Minhaj, Manahij Manhaj, Minhaj, pl. Manáhij open, plain, easy road, highway, path; manner, procedure, method; program; course
Mani Mání Pers. thou remainest; thou resemblest; rare, uncommon; name of a celebrated Persian painter, the founder of the sect of the Manicheans.
Mani’, Mawani’, Mani’at Máni‘, pl. Mawáni‘, Máni‘át refusing, denying, hindering, forbidding, etc.; preventive; prohibitive; difficult of access; impediment, obstacle, hindrance;—(pl. mawáni‘) hindrance, obstacle, obstruction; impediment; a preventive, preservative; objection;—(pl. máni‘át) cutout, anti-interference device (radio). From the root mana‘a withholder, shielder, defender.
Mani’, Muna’a Maní‘, pl. Muna‘á’ unapproachable, inaccessible, impervious, impenetrable, forbidding; well-fortified; mighty, strong, powerful; impregnable, unconquerable; insurmountable, insuperable, invincible, immune
Mani’i-Usku’i Maní’i-Uskú’í
Manish Manish Pers. greatness of soul, magnanimity, authority, gravity, dignity; liberality; nature, genius; constitution, temperament, disposition, good-nature, cheerfulness, content; the heart; pride, arrogance; desire, wish
Mankib, Manakib Mankib, pl. Manákib shoulder; side, flank; highland, upland. Qur’án 67:15
Manluki, Mamlukiya Mamlúkí, fem. Mamlúkíya[h or t] slavery; captivity
Mann, Amnan Mann, pl. Amnán gracious bestowal; favour; benefit, blessing, boon; gift, present, largess; honeydew; manna; a measure for dry goods; a maund (weight); a weight of 2 raṭl (Persian weight). There are two Pers. weights: 1) Normal mann—about 3 kg. 2) king mann or mann-i-sháhí’ is equal to 6.6 kg. The Writings usually refer to the later.
Mannan, Mannana Mannán, fem. Mannána[h or t] kind, kindly, benign, gracious; munificent, liberal, generous; benefactor; al-Mannán (one of the attributes of God) the Benefactor
Manqul wa ma’qul Manqúl wa ma‘qúl literally, “transferred and reasonable”, i.e. “desumed” (select or borrow (from traditional) knowledge) versus “excognitated” (thought out, plan, devise) knowledge (Memorials of the Faithful, p. 156)
Manqul, Manqulat Manqúl, pl. Manqúlát carried, conveyed, transported; transferred; transmitted; translated; copied, transcribed; movable, mobile, portable; handed down, traditional; traditional stock
Mansha’ Mansha’, Manshá a place where anyone grows up; one’s native soil; principal, beginning, origin, source, spring, motive; object, design, purport, drift, provision (of a law, etc.); allusion; exordium, or argument of any composition
Manshad Manshád village 43 km SSW of Yazd (31°31′45″N 54°13′11″E)
Manshadi Manshádí from Manshád
Manshiya (Manshiyya, Manshiyyih) Manshíya[h or t] al-Manshíya was a Palestinian village (32.932008, 35.090549), now part of NE ‘Akká that is 1.3 km south of Bahjí. The village was (except for the Abú ‘Aṭíya mosque, the Islamic school for orphans and a handful of old houses) largely destroyed in 1948. Iṣfahání Persian al-Manshíyyih.
Mansub, Mansubat Manṣúb, pl. Manṣúbát erected; set-up, raised; planted in the ground; fixed, fastened, attached; installed in office; levelled, aimed (cannon; at); (pl.) word in the accusative or subjunctive. See fá‘il, maf‘úl and marfú‘
Mansur (Mansour), Mansura Manṣúr, fem. Manṣúra(h or t) supported, aided (by God); victorious, triumphant; victor; “rendered victorious”. al-Manṣúr is a district in western Baghdád. In the NE of the district is the Washshásh neighbourhood. al-Manṣúra is a city 115 km north of Cairo—named after the Egyptian victory over Louis IX of France during the Seventh Crusade.
Mansuri Manṣúrí
Mansus Manṣúṣ manifested, declared; expressly stated in a text, authoritative, indisputable
Manthur Manthúr scattered, dispersed, strewn about; prosaic, prose; wall-flower, gillyflower
Mantiq Manṭiq (faculty of) speech; manner of speaking, diction, enunciation; eloquence; logic
Mantiqu’t-Tayr Manṭiqu’ṭ-Ṭayr “The Conference of the Birds” by Shaykh Farídu’d-Dín ‘Aṭṭár, where birds search for Símurgh, and pass through the seven valleys of Search, Love, Knowledge, Independence, Unification, Amazement, Destitution and Annihilation.
Manu, Minu Manú, Minú Pers. paradise, heaven; high, sublime
Manuchihr (Manuchehr, Minuchihr) Manúchihr (Manú + chihr) Old Per. the eighth mythical Sháh of the Pishdadian (Pishdádiyan) dynasty of Persia according to Sháhnámah. His great-grandfather was Fereydun (Farídún).
Manyal Manyal “Nilometre”. Qaṣr al-Manyal (Manial Palace) in the El Manial district of Cairo.
Manzar, Manazir Manẓar, pl. Manáẓir sight; view, panorama; look(s), appearance, aspect; prospect, outlook, perspective; an object soon or viewed, photographic object; scene (of a play); spectacle; stage setting, set, scenery; place commanding a sweeping view; lookout, watchtower. Used in Tablet of Aḥmad (appearance/manifestation). See maẓhar and ẓuhúr
Manzara, Manazir Manẓara(h or t), pl. Manáẓir (fem. form of Manẓar) place commanding a scenic view; view, scenery, landscape, panorama; watchtower, observatory; guestroom, reception room, drawing room, parlour
Manzariyih, Manzariyeh Manẓaríyih city 81 km south of Iṣfahán. Manẓariyyih caravanserai (34.891092, 50.819865) on Teheran-Qom Old Rd.
Manzil, Manzila, Manazil Manzil, fem. Manzila[h or t] (pl. Manázil, Manzil-há, fem. Manzilát) Turkish menzil. stopping place (temporary), way station, camp site; apartment, flat; house; a bow-shot distance (about 230 m);—fem. degree, grade, rank; position, status, standing; dignity.
Maqal, Maqala, Maqalat Maqál, fem. Maqála[h or t] (fem. pl. maqálát) speech; proposition, contention, teaching, doctrine; article; treatise; piece of writing
Maqala Shakhsi Sayyah Maqála-i-Shakhṣí Sayyáḥ ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, given the English title A Traveller’s Narrative. Full title Maqálát-i-Shakhṣí Sayyáḥ kih dar qaḍíyat-i-Báb niwishta ast can be roughly translated as “A traveller’s personal narrative describing the Cause of the Báb”.
Maqala, Maqalat, Maqalih Maqála[h], (Pers. Maqálih), pl. Maqálát article; essay; treatise; piece of writing; narrative
Maqam (“Makam”, Magam), Maqamat Maqám, pl. Maqámát site, location, position; place, spot, point, locality; situation; station; standing, position, rank, dignity; tomb of a saint, sacred place; key, tonality, mode (music). Melodic modes used in traditional Arabic music. Ṣúfí spiritual stations. The Shrine of the Báb was called Maqám by Persian Bahá’ís (The Priceless Pearl, p. 235).
Maqam-i-A’la Maqám-i-A‘lá “Exalted Spot”, a title given to the Shrine of the Báb by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Maqam-i-Khidr Maqám-i-Khiḍr The Lower Cave of Elijah, blessed by the footsteps of Bahá’u’lláh for three days (according to Memoirs of Dr Ḥabíb Mu’ayyad, 2:258) and of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for about two months (according to an unpublished manuscript). See also David S. Ruhe, Door of Hope, pp. 186–88.
Maqam-i-Mahmud Maqám-i-Maḥmúd “Praiseworthy Station”, the rank of Prophets endowed with constancy
Maqam-i-Nuzul, Maqam-i-‘Uruj Maqám-i-Nuzúl, Maqám-i-‘Urúj 1. Maqám-i-‘Urúj: Stations of descent, literally “bringing forth”. Ends in material realities (‘Abdu’l-Bahá)—going away from God. 2. Maqám-i-‘Urúj: the Stations of ascent (circle of existence) ends in spiritual realities. Concept held by some Sufis. See Qaws-i-Nuzúl, Qaws-i-‘Urúj
Maqbil Maqbil place of pilgrimage
Maqama, Maqama Maqáma[h or t], pl. Maqámát (fem. of maqám) sitting, session, meeting
Maqami Maqámí local; resident, stationary
Maqbul, Maqbula Maqbúl, fem. Maqbúla[h or t] acceptable, reasonable; satisfactory; pleasing, obliging, complaisant, amiable; well-liked, likable, popular, welcome
Maqdis Maqdis a holy place
Maqsud Maqṣúd aimed at, intended; intentional, designed, deliberate; meant
Maqsur Maqṣúr confined (to); restricted, limited
Maqsura, Maqsurat, Maqasir Maqṣúra[h or t], pl. Maqṣúrát, Maqáṣír palace; cabinet, closet; compartment; box or stall in a mosque near the mihrab (miḥráb), reserved for the ruler; (theatre, cinema) box, loge; the detached portion of a mosque set aside for the communal prayer, and frequently enclosing the tomb of the patron saint; (prisoner’s) dock; chapel (in a church)
Maqtal, Maqatil Maqtal, pl. Maqátil murder, death; murderous battle;—(pl.) vital part of the body (the injury of which will bring about death), mortal spot, mortal organ; Achilles’ heel, vulnerable spot
Mar Már lord (Christian title preceding the names of saints), saint
Marad, Amrad Maraḍ, pl. Amráḍ disease, malady, ailment; illness, sickness
Maragh, Maragha (Maragheh, Maraghih) Marágh, fem. Marágha[h or t] a place where (a horse) rolls himself about or sleeps; (in Pers.) rolling about. Marágha (37.390004, 46.236306) is a ancient city 77 km south of Tabríz, Azarbaiján.
Maraghi, Maraghiya Marághí, fem. Marághíya[h or t] from or of the city of Marágha or the Marágh tribe. ‘Abdu’l-‘Alí Khán-i-Marághi’í.
Marand (Morand) Marand city (38.431662, 45.773375) in East Ádharbáyján province, 60 km NW of Tabríz.
Marathiyya-Khan Maráthiyya-Khán reciter of poems about the death of Imám Ḥusayn. Pers. Maráthiyyih-Khán
Marathiyya-Khani Maráthiyya-Khání recitals of the sufferings of the Imams
Mard, Mardan Mard, pl. Mardán Pers. man, hero, warrior; brave, bold
Mardah, Marzi Marḍáh, Pers. Marẓí a means affording satisfaction or gratification; satisfaction, pleasure. See Raḍíya
Mardana Mardána Pers. brave, manly; courageously, vigorously; what belongs to a man (as male apartments). See zanána.
Mardi Mardí Pers. manliness, virility, valour; bold, brave, warlike
Mardin Márdín A city in SE Türkiye
Mardi, Mardiya (Mardiyya, Marziyya) Mardí, fem. Marḍíyá[h or t], pl. Marḍíyát (Pers. Marḍiyyih, Marẓiyyih, “Marzia”, “Marzieh”) accepted, well-pleased, one who is pleasing. Marẓíya, sister of Qurratu’l-‘Ayn (Ṭáhirih). ‘Abdu’l-Bahá wrote to Marzieh Nabíl Carpenter Gail (neé Khán) (1908–1993): ‘O God, make her who is pleasing to God (Marzieh), well-pleased with God (Razieh).” Arches of the years, p. 82, referring to Qur’án 89:28. See Marḍáh and Ráḍíya
Marfu’ Marfú‘ traceable in ascending order of traditions to Muḥammad (Prophetic tradition); (grammar) in the nominative or indicative, respectively. See fá‘il, maf‘úl and manṣúb
Marhab, Marhaba Marḥab, fem. Marḥab[h or t] amplitude, largeness; spacious, wide; fem. “you are welcome!”
Marhaba, Marhaba-an Marḥabá, Marḥab-an make yourself at ease! Welcome, may your arrival be happy! God bless you! Well done!
Mariah Máríah Mary
Marj, Muruj Marj, pl. Murúj grass-covered steppe; pasture land; meadow; sending to pasture, allowing (cattle) to feed at liberty; mixing; permitting (the seas) to flow and mingle together (God); disturbance, mixture, confusion
Marja’ Marja‘ Pers. bringing back, restoring; return; time or place of return; a rendezvous, place of reference, refuge; a goal; (in grammar) antecedent; repetition; ultimate object
Marja’u’t-Taqlid Marja‘u’t-Taqlíd lit. reference point for emulation. Un-elided forms: Marja‘ at-taqlíd (Pers. Marja‘-i-taqlíd). One who through his learning and probity is qualified to be followed in all points of religious practice and law by the generality of Shi’is.
Marjan, Murjan, Marjana Marján, Murján, fem. Marjána[h or t] (collective; nomen unitatis ة) small pearls; corals. Qur’án 55:22 contains the words lu’lu’ and maján, which are often translated as “pearls, both great and small” rather than as “pearls and coral”. This is preceded by Qur’án 55:19 where “two seas” meet—it is assumed one is salty and the other fresh. Although there are freshwater pearls, there are no freshwater corals. These terms must be symbolic, as confirmed by the following: “Happiness is the surging ocean in the depths of which the diver finds the pearls of resignation and the corals of renunciation.” ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in Star of the West, vol. XIII, no. 6, p. 153 September 1922. Persian meaning includes: Pers. life, soul; a step-son; a robust man. Marjánih was the mother of ‘Ubayd Alláh ibn Ziyád.
Majma’ al-Abrar Majma‘ al-Abrár the gathering place of the righteous, i.e. the House of Justice
Majma’, Majma’a, Majami’ Majma‘, fem. Majma‘a[h or t] pl. Majámi‘. place where two or more things meet, place or point of union, junction; meeting, congregation, convention, assembly
Marji, Maraji Marji‘, pl. Maráji‘ return; authority to which one turns or appeals; place of refuge, retreat; recourse resort; authority, responsible agency; source (esp. scientific), authoritative reference work; resource; starting point, origin; recourse
Markaz al-‘Ahd, Markaz-i-‘Ahd Markaz al-‘Ahd, Pers. Markaz-i-‘Ahd “The Centre of the Covenant”, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Markaz Mithaqihi, Markaz-i-Mithaqihi Markaz Mítháqihi (Pers. Markaz-i-Mítháqihi) “Centre of His Covenant”. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá was appointed as the Centre of the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh with men.
Markaz-i-Athar Markaz-i-Áthár (the centre of relics, the Archives)
Markaz, Marakiz Markaz, pl. Marákiz foothold; stand, station; place where someone is posted or stationed; post; (police, etc.) station; office, branch office (commerce); locality where something takes place, scene, site, seat; position (military); headquarters; main office, central office; central exchange (telephone)
Markazi Markazí central; district (used attributively). Raḍawí Khurásán or Markazí Khurásán, a province in Írán.
Martaba al-Jami’ Martaba(t) al-Jámi‘ the comprehensive stage
Martaba, Maratib Martaba(t), pl. Marátib step, stage; a step-like elevation serving as a seat; mattress; grade, degree, rank, class
Marthiya, Martha’, Maratin Marthiya(h), Marthá’, pl. Maráthin elegy, dirge, epicedium;—pl. funeral orations. Pers. singular also Marthiyyih
Marut Márút great; name of a king; name of an angel, and companion of Hárút (Qur’án 2:102). See Hárút
Marvdasht Marvdasht town in Írán
Marw, Marv Marw, Pers. Marv Merv (37.666001, 62.174061), located near Mary, Turkenistan
Marwa Marwa(h or t) a flint-stone. al-Marwah is a small rock outcrop with flints in Mecca, which Muslims believe to be the biblical Moriah where Abraham went to sacrifice Ishmael (according to most Muslims, this is confirmed by Bahá’u’lláh). Biblical Moriah is associaated with Mount Gerizim (near Nablus) or the Jerusalem Upper Eastern Hill (“Temple Mount”, Zion #2). See Ṣahyún.
Marwan (Maruan), Marvan Marwán, Pers. also Marván stone from al-Marwah used to make fire in ancient times. Also it means a very strong lion and leader. Name of 4th and 14th Umayyad Caliphs
Marwanid Marwánid Marwanids (990–1085) were a Kurdish Muslim dynasty in the Diyár Bakr region of Upper Mesopotamia (present day northern ‘Iráq and SE Türkiye) and Armenia
Maryam Maryam Mary, Maria. Maryam, Bahá’u’lláh’s cousin, sister-in-law, friend, and faithful follower
Maryam-Abad (Maryamabad) Maryam-Ábád Pers. a small village (31.141625, 53.242450) in Yazd Province, 180 km NNE of Shíráz
Mas’ala, Masa’il Masa’ala[h or t], pl. Masá’il question; issue, problem; matter, affair, case; request
Mas’ud Mirza Mas‘úd Mírzá (1850–1918), eldest son of Náṣir ad-Dín Sháh, but not the crown prince since his mother was a concubine. He was known as Yamín-ad-Dawla and as Ẓillu’s-Sulṭán, but Bahá’u’lláh referred to him as the Infernal Tree (Zaqqúm).
Mas’ud-Kaldih Mas‘úd-Kaldih
Mas’ud, Masa’id Mas‘úd, pl. Masá‘íd happy, lucky, fortunate, prosperous, blessed; favourable; august; a proper name
Mas’udi Mas‘údí happiness, prosperity. Abú al-Ḥasan ‘Alí ibn al-Ḥusayn ibn ‘Alí al-Mas‘údí (c. 896–956) was an Arab historian, geographer and traveller. al-Mas‘údí was one of the first to combine history and scientific geography in a large-scale work, The Meadows of Gold and Mines of Gems (Murúj adh-Dhahab wa Ma‘ádin al-Jawhar), is an historical account in Arabic of the beginning of the world starting with Adam and Eve up to and through the late Abbasid Caliphate.
Masabih as-Sunnah Maṣábíḥ as-Sunnah Lamps of Tradition by al-Ḥusayn ibn Mas‘úd al-Baghawí. See miṣbáḥ and Mishkátu’l-Maṣábíḥ
Masabih-i-Hidayat Maṣábíḥ-i-Hidáyat “Lamps of Guidance” (9 volumes, 1950–1975) by ‘Azízu’lláh Sulaymání. Biographical accounts of 99 prominent Bahá’ís.
Masad, Misad, Amsad Masad (collective), pl. Misád, Amsád palm fibres, raffia
Masdar-i-Amr Maṣdar-i-Amr mystic source, source divine command, source of revelation
Masdar, Masadir Maṣdar, pl. Maṣádir starting point, point of origin; origin, source (fig.); (gram.) infinitive, verbal noun; absolute or internal object
Mash’ar, Masha’ir Mash‘ar, pl. Mashá‘ir cultic shrine for ceremonies of the ḥajj; sensory organ;—pl. senses, feelings, sensations. Pers. explanation: a place dedicated to religious ceremonies, or where sacrifices are offered. al-Mash‘ar al-Ḥarám, open-roofed mosque “The Scared Grove” between Miná and ‘Arafat, east of Mecca.
Mash’arihi’l-Fu’ad Mash‘arihi’l-Fu’ád “Sanctuary of His Heart”
Masha’u’llah or Ma Sha’u’llah shá’u’lláh or Má Shá’u’lláh What God wills (Má + Shá’a + Alláh, “Mashallah”)
Mashaf, Mushaf, Masahif Maṣḥaf, Muṣḥaf, dual Maṣḥafayn (pl. Maṣáḥif) volume; book; a page, written leaf; a PHYSICAL, written copy of the Qur’án (Sharíf maṣḥaf, the “Noble book”);—pl. books, volumes; multiple PHYSICAL, written copies of the Qur’án (there is ONLY one Qur’án or revelation). Muṣḥaf Fáṭimah (“Book of Fatimah”)—there is a legend that Gabriel brought this book to console Fáṭima after the death of her father. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá described it as “a name without form and a title without reality”. See Kalimát-i-Maknúnih, Ṣaḥífiy-i-Fáṭimíyyih, and Qur’án.
Mashhad-Sar (Mashhadsar) Mashhad-Sar (Mashhadsar) “the special way to Mashhad”, referring to the only road connecting the northwest of Írán to the northeast, including Mashhad, which passed through Mashhadsar, a busy commercial port (36.703148, 52.650692) by the 18th century on the southern coast of the Caspian Sea. Renamed Bábulsar in 1927. An important port for Bárfurúsh, 12 km to the south, but from 1895 increased competition came from ports in Gílán.
Mashhad, Mashahid Mashhad, pl. Masháhid place of assembly, assembly, meeting; place where a martyr or hero died; religious shrine venerated by the people, especially the tomb of a saint; funeral cortege; profession; view, aspect, spectacle, sight, scenery; place or object of interest; scene (e.g., of a crime, of nature); act, number (as part of a program, e.g., in vaudeville), scene (in theatre, as part of a play); aspect. Capital of Khurásán (Khorasan), Írán, shrine city of Imám Riḍá.
Mashhadi (“Mashdi”), Mashhadi-Ha Mashhadí, pl. Mashhadi-há of or from Mashhad. Also used for a Muslim who has performed the pilgrimage to Mashhad. Slang form is Mashdí.
Mashhud Mashhúd taking place in the presence of spectators or witnesses; happening before a large audience, well-attended; memorable (day, event)
Mashhur, Mashahir Mashhúr, pl. Masháhír well-known, widely known, renowned, famous, celebrated; notorious, ill-reputed; wide-spread, common; a famous, celebrated personality, a celebrity; accepted, established, canonical (textual variant, version of the Qur’án)
Mashi’a Mashí’a[h or t] volition, will; wish, desire
Mashi’a, Mashiya Mashí’a[h or t] (Mashíya[h or t]) will, pleasure; will of God, fate
Mashkuk Mashkúk doubted, doubtful, uncertain, problematical; ambiguous; altered, tampered with
Mashriq, Mashariq Mashriq, pl. Masháriq place of sunrise, east; place of rise; the Orient, the East; resplendent, radient, shining
Mashriqu’l-Adhkar, Mashariqu’l-Adhkar Mashriqu’l-Adhkár Dawning-place of the praises, prayers, remembrances or mentions of God. “The place of prayers”. Title for a purpose built Bahá’í House of Worship (restrictive meaning as used by Shoghi Effendi).—pl. Masháriqu’l-Adhkár “places of prayers”.
Mashrut Mashrúṭ agreed upon, stipulated; pledged, under obligation; conditional, contingent
Mashrutah, Mashrutih Mashrúṭah, Pers. Mashrúṭih Ar. conditional; Pers. constitutional
Mashsha’, Mashsha’un Mashshá’, pl. Mashshá’ún goodwalker; walker (athletics). Word used in Arabic for a peripatetic—see peripatetic
Mashwar, Mashura, Mashwarat Mashwar, Mashúr (fem. Mashwara[h or t], Mashúra[h or t], pl. Mashwarát) consultation, deliberation, conference; counsel, advice, suggestion
Mashy (Mashi) Mashy going, walking; walk
Mashyakha, Mashayikh, Masha’ikh Mashyakha, pl. Masháyikh, Mashá’ikh Ar. office, or dignity, of a sheik; sheikdom (in general, specifically, anyone of the semi-independent territories on the Persian Gulf); an administrative subdivision in Tunisia; professorate (e.g., of al-Azhar). See Shaykh
Masih, Musaha’ Masíḥ, pl. Musaḥá’ anointed; wiped, clean, smooth; al-Masíḥ the Messiah, Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed) From Meshiah (Hebrew).
Masiha Masíḥá Pers. Christ, the Messiah; a Christian
Masiha’i Masíḥá’í Pers. Christ-like; of the Messiah; the office or works of the Messiah
Masihi, Masihiyat Masíḥí, fem. Masíḥíya[h or t] (pl. Masíḥíyát) Christian; appertaining to Christ; Messianic;—pl. a Christian. al-masíḥíya Christendom; Christianity, the Christian faith.
Masikh Masíkh transformed; disfigured, defaced, deformed, ugly; tasteless, insipid, stale (“a monster”)—refer to Selections from the Writings of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 40
Masil or Mawsil (Mausil) al-Mawṣil or al-Maṣil Mosul, Iraq
Masjid al-Aqsa al-Masjid al-Aqṣá “remotest mosque”, Aqṣá Mosque, near the Dome of the Rock
Masjid al-Haram al-Masjid al-Ḥarám the Noble Mosque, the main Mosque in Mecca within which is the cubic building (al-Ka‘ba, the “Kaaba” or al-Ka‘ba al-Musharrafah, the exalted “Kaaba”)
Masjid an-Naw, Masjid-i-Naw Masjid an-Naw, Pers. Masjid-i-Naw The New Mosque in Shíráz (29.611165, 52.541850)
Masjid Jami’, Masjid-i-Jami’ Masjid Jámi‘, Pers. Masjid-i-Jámi‘ “congregational mosque”, Friday mosque or grand mosque. Often the main mosque of an area.
Masjid-i-Jahan Numa Masjid-i-Jahán Numá Pers. “mosque commanding view of the world”. Mosque in Delhi, now commonly called Masjid-i-Jámi‘.
Masjid-i-Kufih Masjid-i-Kúfih (MF)
Masjid-i-Masha’u’llah Masjid-i-Mashá’u’lláh the Báb’s remains were hidden overnight in this abandoned building near Ṭihrán, between the Sháh ‘Abdu’l-‘Azím Shrine and Chashma ‘Alí.
Masjid-i-Shah or Masjid-i-Sultani Masjid-i-Sháh or Masjid-i-Sulṭání Shah or Royal Mosque in Ṭihrán. Renamed Masjid-i-Imám in 1979. Shaykh Muḥammad-Taqí Falsafí preached an incendiary sermon against the Bahá’ís during Ramaḍan 1955.
Masjid, Masajid Masjid, pl. Masájid (Literally, place of prostration) mosque.
Maslak, Masalik Maslak, pl. Masálik way, road, path; course of action, policy; procedure, method
Maslama Maslama(h or t) Maslamah bin Ḥabíb (the name was scorned by Muslims to Musaylimah, meaning reduced or little Maslamah), he was one of a series of people (including his wife, Sajáḥ) claiming to be a prophet, and he was a “rival” of Muḥammad. The epithet kadhdháb, “liar”, is usually affixed: Musaylimah al-Kadhdháb (Musaylimah the Arch-Liar). See Muṣaghghara and Yamáma.
Masqat, Masqit, Masaqit Masqaṭ, Masqiṭ, pl. Masáqiṭ place where a falling object lands; waterfall. Masqaṭ (Muscat) is the capital of Oman
Masrur Masrúr glad, happy, delighted (at), pleased (with)
Mast Mast Pers. drunk, intoxicated; libidinous, lustful, wanton, furious; an animal in rut. Ḥájjí Zayn al-‘Ábidín Shírwání (Mast ‘Alí Sháh)—Persian scholar and mystic (1193–1253 Sh./1779–1837)
Mast Mást Pers. sour, coagulated milk; mastic (Arabic gum)
Mastar (Master) Mástar a very small village (34.631332, 49.777107) in Markazi Province, Írán. Also known as Mu‘áṣir (“contemporary”).
Masud Masúd (probably for musauwad) who has been made a chief, who has become great
Matali’-i-Anwar Maṭáli‘-i-Anwár “The dawn rays” by Muḥammad Nabíl-i-A‘ẓam Zarandí. Translated as The Dawn-Breakers by Shoghi Effendi.
Matba’a, Matabi’ Maṭba‘a(h), pl. Maṭábi‘ print shop, printing office, printing house, press
Matbu’, Matbu’at Maṭbú‘, fem. Maṭbú‘a(h or t), pl. Maṭbú‘át printed, imprinted; stereotyped;—pl. printed material, prints; printed matter
Mathal al-A’la Mathal al-A‘lá likeness of the One without semblance, sublime simultude, Sublime Exemplar. See Qur’án 16:60, 30:27.
Mathal, Amthal Mathal, pl. Amthál likeness; metaphor, simile, parable; proverb, adage; example; lesson, similar case; ideal, model
Mathani (Massani, Messani) Mathání oft-repeated or repetition (see Qur’án 15:87). See Fátiḥa regarding the revealing of Súra al-Fátiḥa twice.
Mathnaviy-i-Mubarak Mathnavíy-i-Mubárak “Blessed Mathnaví”, 300 line Persian poem by Bahá’u’lláh
Mathnawi (Masnawi), Mathnavi Mathnawí, Mathnawiyy (Alternative transcription Masnawí and Iṣfahání Pers. Mathnaví) double, twofold, two- (e.g., of a railroad: two-track); rhyme; poetry composed of distichs corresponding in measure, each consisting of a pair of rhymes; title of several works of this kind, especially the Sufic poem of Jallálu’d-Dín Rúmí. Formed from ma+thanawí, refers to the metre and rhyme scheme of a type of Persian poem written in couplets. Plurals: Mathnawiyyát, Pers. Mathnawí-há. Poetical form commonly used for epic, mystical poems. Two popular mathnawí metres are: mutaqárib muthamman maḥḍúf, as in Firdawsí’s Sháhnámih; and ramal musaddas maḥḍúf as in Mawláná Jalálu’d-Dín-i-Rúmí’s Mathnawí-yi-Ma‘nawí (“The Spiritual Couplets”). See muzdawij and thanawí.
Matla’-i-Anwar Maṭla‘-i-Anwár the Dawning Place of Lights (the Shrine of the Báb)
Matla’, Matali’ Maṭla‘, pl. Maṭáli‘ rise, time of rising (of celestial bodies); point of ascent; starting point, point, of departure; break (e.g., of day), dawn (e.g., of an era), dayspring; onset, outset, start, beginning; introduction, preface, proem; opening verses (of a poem); prelude; lookout; ladder, steps, stairs
Matla’u’l-Walayat Maṭla‘u’l-Waláyat Translated by Shoghi Effendi as “Representative of God”
Matlab, Matalib Maṭlab, pl. Maṭálib search, quest, pursuit;—pl. demand, call (for); request, wish; claim; problem, issue; (claims of the government =) taxes
Matlub, Matlib Maṭlúb, pl. Maṭálib, Maṭálíb wanted (in classified advertisements); due, owed (money); unknown (of a quantity; mathematics); (pl. maṭálib) wish, desire; pl. maṭálíb claims
Matn, Matin, Mutun Matn and Matín, pl. Mutún firm, strong, solid, “mighty”. The text of ḥadíth, as opposed to its isnád, or chain of transmission.
Mawbadh, Mubadhan, Mawabidha Mawbadh, Múbidh, Múbadh, Múbadhán (“Mubidh”, “Mubadh”, “Mobed”, “Mobad”, “Maubadh”) Pers. a chief or learned doctor of the Magi, a Zoroastrian priest.—pl. Mawábidha(t)
Mawbiq (Maubiq) Mawbiq place of destruction, of perdition; prison, jail; the valley of Gehenna, where children were sacrificed to Moloch (Mawlúkh, a Canaanite god associated with child sacrifice, through fire or war)
Mawdud (Maudud) Mawdúd beloved, held dear
Mawdudi (Maududi) Mawdúdí more beloved. Sayyid Abul A‘lá Mawdúdí (1903–1979) Islamic scholar, Islamist ideologue, Muslim philosopher, jurist, historian, journalist, activist and scholar active in British India and later, following the partition, in Pakistan. Author of Towards Understanding the Qur’án. See Abú al-‘Alá’.
Mawhiba (Mauhiba), Mawahib Mawhiba(h or t), pl. Mawáhib gift; talent; “bounty”; liberality, generosity
Mawjud (Maujud), Mawjudat Mawjúd, pl. Mawjúdát found; available, on hand, existing, existent; present; living being, creature; stock, store, supply;—pl. everything in existence, the creation; (commerce) assets, stocks
Mawkib (Mawkab, Maukib), Mawakib Mawkib, pl. Mawákib pageant; procession; mounted escort, retinue, cortege; triumph. Mírzá Mawkib, 19th century Persian astrologer (Memorials of the Faithful, p. 110).
Mawla (Maula) Mawlá[h or t] mistress, lady of rank; a freed woman or manumitted slave; a female slave. Fem. of Mawlá.
Mawla (Maula), Mawali Mawlá, fem. Mawlá[h or t], pl. Mawálí Pers. (Ar. influence) a magistrate of a large city; a lord, master; a schoolmaster, doctor, learned man, a judge, a priest. See mullá; ‘alím, pl. ‘ulamá’.
Mawla al-Wara’ Mawla al-Wará’ Lord of Mankind, a title used by Persians when referring to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Mawla’, Mawali Mawla’, pl. Mawálí Pers. a king, prince, sovereign, lord, master, judge, magistrate. A follower, client. A benefactor, helper. A companion, confederate, partner. A stranger. A visitor, guest. See Mawlan
Mawlan (Maulan), Mawalin Mawlan, pl. Mawálin master, lord; protector, patron; client; charge; mend, companion, associate; the Lord, God; Mawláya and Mawláná are forms of address to a sovereign
Mawlana (Maulana) Mawláná (Mauláná) our lord, master (a title); form of address to a sovereign, “our Master”
Mawlawi, Malulawiya Mawlawí, pl. Mawlawíya judicial, belonging to a judge or magistrate; a doctor of Islamic law; an assistant lawyer; a learned man; divine, religious, belonging to God; a dervish, Muslim monk; dervish of the order (Mawlawiyya (Pers.)) of Mawlá Jalál ad-Dín Muḥammad Rúmí. Mawlawí Shír ‘Alí (Mawlawí Sher ‘Alí) (1875–1947) was a prominent Aḥmadí scholar and translator of the Qur’án. Variations Maulawi, Maulavi.
Mawlawiyat (Maulawiyat) Mawlawíyat Pers. A resemblance to, or equality with, a prince, lord, master or benefactor.
Mawlid (Maulid), Mawalid Mawlid, pl. Mawálid birthplace; birthday; anniversary, birthday of a saint (also Christian)
Mawlud (Maulud), Mawalid Mawlúd, pl. Mawálíd produced, born, come into the world; birth; birthday;—(pl.) newborn baby, infant; child, son; creations, novelties
Mawqif (Mauqif), Mawaqif Mauqif, pl. Mawáqif stopping place; station; (cab, etc.) stand; (bus, train, etc.) stop; parking lot, parking place; stopover, stop; place, site; scene, scenery; position, posture; situation; attitude; stand, position, opinion
Mawsil (Mausil) al-Máwṣil Mosul
Mawt (Maut) Mawta, Amwat Mawt, fem. Mawta[h or t], pl. Amwát death; decease, demise
Mawthiq (Mauthiq), Mawathiq Mawthiq, pl. Mawáthiq covenant, agreement, contract, treaty, pact
May (Maya) May Pers. grape-wine; rose-water; spirituous liquor; a goblet. The fem. name “May”: May (grape-wine) or Mayá (possible meanings: attractive, beautiful and intoxicating)
Mayamay, Miyamay (Mayamey) Mayámay or Miyámay (میامی m-y-á-m-y) (“Meyami, Mayamey, Mayami, Maiamai”) is a small city (36.410484, 55.653358) in Semnan Province, Írán. City is 60 km east of Sháh-Rúd and 180 km west of Sabzivár. The Dawn-Breakers uses Míyámay (Iṣfahání).
Mayamayi, Miyamayi Mayámayí or Miyámayí of or from Mayámay
Maydan (Maidan), Midan, Mayadin Maydán, Mídán, pl. Mayádín square, open place, open tract; field; arena; battleground, battlefield; combat area, fighting zone; race course, race track; playground (figuatively); field, domain, line, sphere of activity. There is no meaning associated with a length as stated in The Dawn-Breakers (see manzil).
Maydan-i-Khan Maydán-i-Khán
Maydan-i-Shah Maydán-i-Sháh
Maykhana (Maikhana, Maykhanih) Maykhána Pers. a wine-cellar, tavern; drinking utensils, wine-service; hence also “spiritual wine”
Maymana (Maimana), Mayamin Maymana(t), pl. Mayámin right side; right wing (of an army); fortune; prosperity, happiness. Maymanat Rural District in Tehran Province.
Maymun, Maimun, Mayamin Maymún, Maimún, pl. Mayamín fortunate, lucky; blessed; monkey. See Abú ‘Imrán Músá ibn Maymún (Maimonides)
Mayyan, Ma’in Mayyán (نايم) and Má’in (نئام) liar. (also Máyán). Note transcription of “اي” (áí as “ayy”) and “ئا” (áy—y with Hamza—as “á’” or “áy”).
Mayyit, Amwat Mayyit, pl. Amwát [M-Y-T (ميت)] dying, death. al-mayyit the deceased; al-Bahr al-Mayyit the Dead Sea.
Mazandaran, Mazindaran Mázandarán, Mázindarán a province in northern Írán, on the Caspian south coast. Arḍ-i-Mím. See Ṭabaristán.
Mazandarani, Mazindarani Mázandarání, Mázindarání (pl. Mázandaráníyún) from or of Mázandarán
Mazdak Mazdak The story of Mazdak [he preached a community of property and families, and a simple ascetic life], in the days of King Kobad [Kavi Kavata, Kai Kobad or Kavadh] sons were Kavi Usan (or Kai Kaus) and Kavi Haosravah (Kai Khosrau or Khosrau Anushirvan)], the father of the Great Anoshirwan [Anushirvan—“having an immortal soul”], is given in the history of Sháh-Nameh (Book of Kings) of Firdawsí (Firdausi and Ferdowsi in English), and also in all the Persian histories. (The Bahá’í Proofs)
Mazgan Mazgán very small village in Markazí Province, Írán (34.010109, 50.381649)
Mazhar, Mazahir Maẓhar, pl. Maẓáhir (external) appearance, external make-up, guise; outward bearing, comportment, conduct, behaviour; exterior, look(s), sight, view; semblance, aspect; bearer or object of a phenomenon, object in which something manifests itself; phenomenon; symptom (medical);—pl. manifestations, expressions. The place or bearer of divine revelation, a revealer of God’s Word. Manifestation of the Names and attributes of God (also Manifestation of the Self of God) in the Bahá’í Writings. Bahá’u’lláh did not claim to be a nabí nor a rasúl. See manẓar and ẓuhúr
Mazhariya, Mazhariyya Maẓharíya[h or t], Maẓhariyya[h or t] state of being the object; manifestation-hood
Mazharu’l-ilahi Maẓharu’l-iláhí “Manifestation of God”, meaning the Manifestation of the Self of God or the Manifestation of the Names and attributes of God. Future possibility: refer to mention of waraqát (leaves, female) in Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 185.
Mazinan Mazínán Pers. a village (36.309707, 56.817147) east of Mashhad.
Mazlum Maẓlúm wronged, ill-treated, unjustly treated, tyrannized
Mazlumi, Mazlumiyat Maẓlúmí, fem. Maẓlúmíya[h or t] (Pers. with Ar. influence) oppression, misery; subduedness, gentleness, meekness; modesty
Mazra Mazra‘ (arable) land
Mazra’a, Mazra’ih Mazra‘a[h], Pers. Mazra‘ih, Ar. pl. Mazári‘ field under cultivation; farm; plantation; country estate. A town 6 km north of ‘Akká and about 0.5 km from the sea. House (built by Muḥammad Páshá Ṣafwat) of Bahá’u’lláh is just north of this village (32.987227, 35.099427).
Mazra’iy-i-Vashshash Mazra‘iy-i-Vashshásh Pers. once a field on the northern outskirts of Baghdád between the city centre and Káẓimayn where Bahá’u’lláh celebrated Riḍván (1863). It is now the neighbourhood of al-Washshásh, in NE area of Manṣúr district
Mazzah, Mazih Mazzaḥ and Maziḥ joker, jester, buffoon, wag, “Humorist or Playful”, a name of God according to Bahá’u’lláh
Mi’a, Mi’un, Mi’in, Mi’at Mi’a(h), pl. Mi’ún (Mi’ín, nom.), Mi’át hundred
Mi’ad, Mawa’id Mí‘ád, pl. Mawá‘íd promise; appointment, date, rendezvous; appointed time; time agreed on, time fixed by appointment; deadline, date (especially also due date for repaying a debt); consulting hour, office hour(s) (of a doctor, etc.); visiting hours (in museums, etc.); (time of) departure (of trains, buses, etc.). Qur’án 34:30
Mi’mar Mi‘már builder, architect; mason
Mi’marbashi Mi‘márbáshí Pers. (mi‘már+báshí) be an architect
Mi’raj, Ma’arij Mi‘raj or Mi‘ráj, pl. Ma‘áríj ladder, stairs. al-Mi‘ráj (“The ascent”) Muḥammad’s vision of His night journey to the outermost mosque and His ascent to the heavens on His steed Burak. See ma‘raj
Midhat Midḥat Páshá Pers. see Midḥat
Midhat Midḥat Pers. praising; praise, encomium; a laudable action, anything deserving commendation
Midilli (Madelli) Midillí Turkish for Lesbos (Levos) Island. Capital city and main port is Mitilíni (Mytilene).
Midmar, Madamir Miḍmár, pl. Maḍámír race course, race track; arena; field of activity, field, domain
Midyan (Midian), Madyan Midyan, Madyan Midianites, believed to have lived in the northwest Arabian Peninsula. Also known as Aṣḥábu’l-’Aykah, “Companions of the Wood”, since they used to worship a large tree. See Aykatún
Miftah, Mafatih Miftáḥ, pl. Mafátíḥ key (to a door, of a keyboard, especially that of a piano); switch (electrical, railroad); lever, pedal (of a vehicle); knob (on a radio); stop (of a wind instrument); valve (of a trumpet); peg, pin (of a stringed instrument)
Miftahu Babi’l-Abwab Miftáḥu Bábi’l-Abwáb [Meftah Bab-el-Abwab] “The Key to the Gate of Gates”—book written by Mírzá Muḥammad-Mihdí Khán
Mih, Mihan Mih, pl. Mihán Pers. great; principal; pl. the great, the elders, grandees
Mihal Míḥál, Pers. Míká’íl Michael (a Christian name)
Mihdala, Mahadil Miḥdala, pl. Maḥádil roller, steamroller
Mihdi-Quli Mihdí-Qulí
Mihdi Mihdí (also Mahdí) One who guides aright, the Guided One. A title of the Twelfth (expected) Imám or Qá’im. Mírzá Mihdí (“The Purest Branch”)
Mihdishahr (Mehdishahr), Mahdi-Shahr Mihdíshahr (Mihdí-Shahr) (formerly, Sang-i-Sar or Sangsar,) is a city (15 km NNW of Semnan and 175 km east of Teheran) and capital of Mehdishahr County, Semnan Province, Írán. Also spelt Mahdí-Shahr (Mahdíshahr) (“Mahdi-Shahr or Mahdishahr”).
Mihdiy-i-‘Atri Mihdíy-i-‘Aṭrí, Hájí Mullá so named, because he was a distiller of ‘Aṭṭár
Mihdiy-i-Dahaji Mihdíy-i-Dahají
Mihdiy-i-Kandi Mihdíy-i-Kandí
Mihdiy-i-Kashani Mihdíy-i-Káshání (MF)
Mihdiy-i-Khu’i Mihdíy-i-Khu’í
Mihdiy-i-Rashti Mihdíy-i-Rash
Mihdiy-i-Yazdi Mihdíy-i-Yazdí (MF)
Mihdiyabad (Mehdi Abad) Mihdíyábád a very small village (31.450768, 54.161375) 11 km SW Manshád
Mihdizadih Mihdízádih (Mihdí-Zádih)
Mihman (Mehman) Mihmán Pers. a guest; a son-in-law
Mihman-Dust Mihmán-Dust Pers. name of small villages. Mihmán-Dust (36.218755, 54.556551) village in Semnan province.
Mihr Mihr Pers. the sun; love, friendship, affection, kindness; mercy, pity; 7th month of the Persian solar year; the 16th day of every month; death; a mandrake; a red stone; a gilded ball fixed on a canopy or standard; name of a fire-temple
Mihr-‘Ali Mihr-‘Alí Khán
Mihrab Mihráb Pers. name of a champion of Túrán; father of Rúdábah (mythological woman) who was the bride of Zál (legendary Iranian king from Sístán) in Firdawsí’s Sháhnámah. Manṣur Mihrábí
Mihrab, Maharib Miḥráb, pl. Maḥárib prayer niche in a mosque showing the direction of Mecca. The principle place in a mosque where the imám prays with his face turned towards Mecca.
Mihrabi Miḥrábí Pers. (Ar. influence) having a miḥráb; like a miḥráb; arched; cut in the shape of a miḥráb, round (a beard).
Mihrabkhani Miḥrábkhání Pers. Rúḥu’lláh Miḥrábkhání, Sharḥ-i-Aḥwál-i-Jináb-i-‘Abu’l Faḍl-i-Gulpáygání [“Description of the life of Mirza ‘Abu’l Faḍl-i-Gulpáygání]
Mihrangiz (Mehrangiz) Mihrángíz (“Mehrengiz” and “Mehrenguiz”) Pers. (mihr + ángíz). “raising affection”. Mihrángíz Rabbání, a sister of Shoghi Effendi.
Mihraban (Mehriban) Mihrabán city (38.082010, 47.132856) 75 km east of Tabríz. Turkish mähriban from Persian, loving friend. Pers. mihrábán, kind, generous.
Mihriz (Mehriz) Mihríz Pers. city 36 km south Yazd and a gate in Yazd
Mihryar (Mehryar) Mihryár (Mihr + Yár) kind friend.  (TN p. 16) ibn-i-Mihríyár (?)
Mihtar (Mehtar), Mihtarani Mihtar, fem. Mihtarání Pers. greater; elder; prince, lord, chief, governor; a sweeper, a menial who removes filth; a groom
Mika’il, Maka’in Míká’íl, Míká’ín Pers. Michael “who is like God”
Milad, Mawalid Mílád, pl. Mawálíd birth; time of birth, nativity; birthday—pl. age classes, age groups (recruitment, etc.); ‘Íd al-Mílád, Christmas (Christian)
Milan (Meelan) Mílán a village (37.927348, 46.113078) 23 km SW Tabríz, in Ádhirbáyján (Azerbaijan), NW Írán. It is between the villages of Bávíl and Uskú’.
Milani Mílání of or from Mílán. Ḥusay-i-Mílání, known as Ḥusayn Ján, weaver, helped to recover the body of the Báb, later went to Ṭihrán, where he claimed to be the return of Imám Ḥusayn. He may have claimed to be a successor of the Báb. Schemed to provoke militant attack on Náṣir ad-Dín Sháh Qájár August 1852. One of those executed soon afterwards.
Milh, Amlah, Milah Milḥ m. and f., pl. Amláḥ, Miláḥ salt; gunpowder; witticism, wittiness, wit
Milhu’l-Ujaj Milḥu’l-Ujáj “salt that burneth bitterly”. See ajja
Milli (Melli), Milliya Millí, fem. Millíya[h or t] popular, national
Mim Mím 24th Arabic letter. Mázandarán
Min Min (preposition) 1. of; some, some of, (a) part of; belonging to, pertaining to, from among. 2. from, away from, out of, from the direction of.
Mina, Mawanin, Miyan Míná’ fem. and Mína[h or t] (pl. Mawánin, Miyan) port, harbour, anchorage
Minahiju’l-Ahkam Mináhiju’l-Aḥkám “Paths to understanding the laws and ordinances”, 2 vol. hand written work in Fársí by Fáḍil-i-Yazdí. Distribution not permitted by Shoghi Effendi.
Minar, Minar-Ha Minár, pl, Minár-há Pers. a tower, turret, steeple, spire, minaret; an obelisk.
Minbar (Mimber), Manabir Minbar, pl. Manábír mimbar; pulpit; rostrum, platform, dais
Minhu, Minha Minhu, fem. Minhá from him, from it
Minu Mínú Pers. female name: heaven; an emerald; white or blue glass; a glass gem; hair. Mínú Zamání
Miqat, Mawaqit Míqát, pl. Mawáqí appointed time; date, deadline; time; season, time of the year; meeting point, rendezvous;—pl. times of departure and arrival, timetable. Míqát al-ḥájj, one of the five rendezvous points for Meccan pilgrims, where they must be in a state of iḥrám before proceeding to Mecca. SeeMeccan pilgrim meeting points” section.
Miqdad Miqdád al-Miqdád ibn al-Aswad al-Kindí (or just Miqdád), a companion of Muḥammad
Mir Muhammad-Husayn Mír Muḥammad-Ḥusayn Mír Muḥammad-Ḥusayn Khátúnábádí (d. 1881), surnamed the “She-Serpent” (Raqshá’) by Bahá’u’lláh. Responsible for the deaths of the brothers named the “King of Martyrs” and “Beloved of Martyrs”. See Shaykh Muḥammad Báqir.
Mir, Miran Mír, pl. Mírán Pers. contraction of Amír. Also descendant of Muḥammad or Sayyid.
Mir’ah, Miraya, Mara’in, Marayat Mir’á[h or t], pl. Mará’in (fem. Miráya[h or t], pl. Maráyát) looking glass, mirror; reflection, reflected image
Mir’at Mir’át Pers. A looking-glass, mirror. See miráya
Mir’at al-Wadiyyah Mir’át al-Waḍiyyah “Polished Mirrors” by Cornelius van Dyck. See waḍí’
Mir’atu’l-Azaliyyih Mir’átu’l-Azalíyyih “Everlasting mirror”, a title of Mírzá Yaḥyá
Mir’atu’l-Buldan Mír’átu’l-Buldán “The Mirror of the Lands”. Possibly by Yáqút Shiháb al-Dín ibn-‘Abdulláh al-Rúmí al-Ḥamawí (1179–1229) or a later (1860-1870) incomplete Qájár project.
Miraya, Mirayat Miráya, pl. Miráyát looking glass mirror
Miri Mírí (Meeri) public, governmental, government-, state- (in compounds); fiscal
Mirrikh Mirríkh Mars (astronomy)
Mirza Mihdi Mírzá Mihdí (1848–1870) was the youngest child of Bahá’u’lláh and his wife Ásíyih Khánum. He was given the title Ghusn-i-Aṭhar (“Purest Branch” or “Purer Branch”).
Mirza (Morza), Amir-Zadih, Amirzada Mírzá (Amírzáda or Pers. Amírzádih) Pers. contraction of amír-záda (“child or addition of a prince”). A title of nobility (a son of a prince) when placed after a name (Turkish style; previously placed before a name); but a gentleman, an educated person, a scholar, worthy person, mister when placed before a name. Mírzá as a noun, secretary.
Mirzay-i-Halabi-Saz Mírzáy-i-Ḥalabí-Sáz, Ḥájí
Misbah (Mezbah), Masabih Miṣbáḥ, pl. Maṣábíḥ lamp; light, luminary (also figuratively); head-light (of an automobile)
Misgarabad, Miskarabad Misgarábád (Miskarábád) village 11 km SE of the centre of Ṭihrán (Mesgar Abad, Mesgar Abad, Mesker Abad). See naḥḥás, misgar.
Misha (Mishih) Mísha Pers. name of the first man
Mishah, Mishkat, Mishkawat, Mashakin Mishkáh (tá’ marbúṭa ending) (pl. Mishkáwát, Mashákin) niche (for a lamp); lamp, pendent lamp. Persian singular Mishkát.
Mishkah al-Anwar Mishkáh al-Anwár “Tabernacle for lights” (more elegant than “Niche for lights”) by Abú aṭ-Ṭúsí al-Ghazálí, a commentary on Qur’án 24:35.
Mishkar (Mishgar) shkar small village 33° 34′ 40″ N 47° 58′ 19″ E in Luristán province, western Írán. Ḥabíb Miskar (probably Míshkar) Bahá’í World 8:679
Mishkat al-Masabih, Mishkatu’l-Masabih Mishkát al-Maṣábíḥ, Mishkátu’l-Maṣábíḥ (should be Mishkáh al-Maṣábíḥ) “A niche for lamps”. A book of Sunní traditions by Muḥammad ibn ‘Abd Alláh Khaṭíb at-Tabrízí is an expanded version of Maṣábíḥ as-Sunnah by al-Ḥusayn ibn Mas‘úd al-Baghawí.
Mishkin Mishkín Pers. “musk-scented”; “jet-black” (dried musk powder is black—“black like musk”, Ghulám al-Khuld, Bahá’u’lláh)
Mishkin-Qalam Mishkín-Qalam Pers. Mírzá Ḥusayn-i-Isfahání (surnamed Mishkín-Qalam, meaning “musk-scented pen” or “jet-black pen”, by Muḥammad Sháh because of the beauty and inner mystical message of his works); 1826–1912. He was one of the nineteen Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, as well as a famous calligrapher of 19th century Persia. He is the author of a calligraphic rendering of the Greatest Name used by Bahá’ís. Mishkín-Qalam signed works as “Servant at the gate of Bahá, Mishkín-Qalam”. See Díyár-i-Khaṭṭ
Misk, Mashmum Misk (m. & f.), also Mashmúm musk
Miskawayh Miskawayh ibn Miskawayh (932–1030) (Abú ‘Alí Aḥmad ibn Muḥammad ibn Ya‘qúb ibn Miskawayh) was a Persian chancery official, philosopher and historian. He wrote the first major Islamic work on philosophical ethics entitled Tahdhíb al-Akhláq, the “Refinement of Character”.
Misr, Amsar, Masr Miṣr, pl. Amṣár big city; metropolis, capital;—miṣr, (colloquial) maṣr Egypt; Cairo. Egypt has 27 governorates (muḥáfẓah); second level are regions (markaz or qism); third-level are the districts (ḥayy) and villages (qaryah).
Misri, Misriyun Miṣrí, pl. Miṣríyún Egyptian; Cairene (a native of Cairo); an Egyptian
Misriya, Misriyat Miṣríya(h), pl. Miṣríyát Egyptianism, Egyptian national character; Egyptian woman or girl. al-Waqá’i‘ al-Maṣriyyah (“The Egyptian affairs or events”), was an Egyptian newspaper established in 1828 written in Ottoman Turkish and Arabic, later, only Arabic.
Mithal, Amthila, Muthul Mithál, pl. Amthila[h or t], Muthul something equal; something similar; simile, parable, allegory; example; pattern, standard; exemplary punishment; model; image, picture
Mithaq (Missaq or Missagh), Mayathiq tháq, pl. Mayáthíq, Mayáthiq pl. also Mawáthíq) a promise, covenant, contract, agreement, bargain, compact, confederacy, alliance, league; a testament; treaty, pact; charter. al-mítháq al-awwal, the first or primordial covenant with God (see Qur’án 7:172), in which all human souls are to bear witness that He is their Lord. See also Genesis 9:8–16. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá stated a rainbow is a symbol of the Covenant of God. “The lights of the Kingdom and the heavenly illumination emanated from this rainbow.” God can be likened to a rainbow where the colours represent the religions, working together in unity they provide information about God, but not all. The invisible colours of the rainbow represent the unknowable. (Craig Kilner, Quora, 2024).
Mithaqiya (Mithaqiyya), Mithaqiyan tháqíya, pl. Mítháqíyán (Ar. adjective) agreement, covenant, pact. Former Mítháqíya (Mítháqiyya) Hospital run by Bahá’ís in Ṭihrán. Firaydún Mítháqíyán.
Mithl, Amthal Mithl, pl. Amthál something similar, something of the same kind; resemblance, similarity, similitude, likeness; image; equivalent
Mithqal, Mathaqil Mithqál, pl. Matháqíl a unit of weight used for weighing gold, silver and saffron (4.68 gm). Traditionally, 24 chickpeas, changed by the Báb to 19 chickpeas (3.641666 gm).
Miyan, Miyana Miyán, Miyána Pers. waist, loins; middle, centre; interior (modern); among, between, mean. Miyána (Meyaneh, Miane, Meyaneh, Miyaneh, and Miyanah) a city (37.429145, 47.706986) in East Azerbaijan province, Írán.
Miyanaj (Mianaj, Meyanaj) Miyánaj Pers. (“Míánaj”) village (36.905745, 47.442704) in Zanjan Province
Miyandu’ab (Miyan-Du’ab), Qushachay Miyándu’áb (Miyán-Du’áb) or Qúshácháy Pers. “between two rivers” (Miandoab or Qúshácháy; Azerbaijani Qoşaçay) is a city (36.966890, 46.107130) and capital of Miyándu’áb County, West Ádhirbáyján, Írán. As its name suggests, it is situated in a delta region between the Zarrínah-Rúd and Símínah-Rúd (the golden and the silverized) that flow into Lake Urmia. See Miyán and Dú’áb.
Miyanrud (Mianrud, Mian Rud) Míyánrúd Pers. a city (32.153776, 48.440236) in Khuzestan Province. Also several villages near Ámul, Mazindaran Province.
Mizan, Mawazin Mízán, pl. Mawázín balance, scales; weight; measure; poetic measure, metre; rule, method; justice, equity, fairness, impartiality. Qur’án 42:17 & 57:25 (balance to weigh conduct or to balance right and wrong respectively).
Mu’abbid, Mu’abadan Mu‘abbid, pl. Mu‘abadán Pers. (fire) worshipper
Mu’abbir, Mu’abbirun Mu‘abbir, pl. Mu‘abbirún interpreter (of feelings, of dreams); expressive, significant. Soothsayer (PDC). pl. also -án (accusative), -ín (genitive).
Mu’abbiri Mu‘abbirí Pers. interpretation of dreams
Mu’adh, Mu’az Mu‘ádh protected. Mu‘ádh ibn Jabal (603–639) was a ṣaḥábí Muḥammad. Mu‘ádh was an Anṣár of Banú Khazráj and compiled the Qur’án with five companions while Muḥammad was still alive.
Mu’adhdhin, Mu’adhdhun Mu’adhdhin, pl. Mu’adhdhún muezzin (Turkish müezzin), announcer of the hour of prayer. Persian may use Mu’aẓẓin.
Mu’akhkhir Mu’akhkhir one who keeps back or puts things in their proper places; hence, a name of God.
Mu’allim, Mu’allima, Mu’allimun Mu‘allim, pl. Mu‘allimún a teacher or tutor. Fem. mu‘allima[h or t]. Pers. also mu‘allimih. al-Mu‘allimu’th-Thání (The Second Teacher—a title of Avicenna (2nd after Abú Rayḥán al-Bírúní)
Mu’amala, Mu’amalat Mu‘ámala[h or t], pl. Mu‘ámalát treatment; procedure; social intercourse, social life, association (with one another); behaviour, conduct (toward others); business; transaction; (especially in pl.) mutual relations, business relations
Mu’ammad Mu‘ammad (a tent) supported, propped by columns; baptized
Mu’ammid (Moamid) Mu‘ammid a baptizer, Baptist. There is no indication that a “Moamid” paper in Egypt exists, so it is assumed to be al-Mu’ayyad.
Mu’ammar Mu‘ammar, pl. Mu‘ammarún senior (in sports)
Mu’annath Mu’annath (grammar) feminine (adj.)
Mu’arrakh, Muwarrakh, Mu’arrakhun Mu’arrakh, Muwarrakh, pl. Mu’arrakhún dated (earlier); chronicled
Mu’arrikh, Muwarrikh, Mu’arrikhun Mu’arrikh, Muwarrikh, pl. Mu’arrikhún who dates (a letter); who marks the time of any event; chronicler, annalist, historian. Mu’arrikhín, muwarrikhín (oblique case dual, also used as nominative)
Mu’asir, Mu’asirin Mu‘áṣir, pl. Mu‘áṣirín contemporary, contemporaneous; a contemporary
Mu’assasa, Mu’assasat Mu’assasa, pl. Mu’assasát foundation, establishment; firm (commerce); institution; organization
Mu’assis Mu’assis he who lays a foundation; founder; a strengthener; enactor (e.g. founder of a law, school, sect, etc.)
Mu’assisiy-i-Ayadiy-i-Amru’llah Mu’assisiy-i-Ayádíy-i-Amru’lláh Pers. Bahá’u’lláh: “The institution of the Hands of the Cause of God”
Mu’assisiy-i-Ma’arif-i-Baha’i Mu’assisiy-i-Ma‘árif-i-Bahá’í name of Iranian Bahá’í Publishing Trust
Mu’aththir, Mu’aththirat Mu’aththir, pl. Mu’aththirát affecting, acting upon; effective; impressive; moving, touching, pathetic;—pl. influencing factor, influence
Mu’attar Mu‘aṭṭar perfumed, scented, fragrant
Mu’awin Mu‘áwin helper, supporter, standby; aide; assistant; adjutant, aide-decamp; police officer heading a city precinct (Iraqi)
Mu’awiya, Mu’awiyya, Mu’aviya Mu‘áwiya[h or t] (معاوية) Ar. (Pers. with v instead of w, and with -ih endings) a fox’s whelp. Masculine name and that of the first (Mu‘áwiya ibn Abí Sufyán, c. 597, 603 or 605—680) and third Umayyad caliphs. The first founded the Umayyad dynasty (based in Damascus). Mu‘áwíya, etc., used because it is easier to pronounce (H. M. Balyuzi).
Mu’awwil Mu‘awwil interpreter
Mu’ayyad (Mu’aiyad, Moaid, Muayyad) Mu’ayyad confirmed, fortified, assisted. al-Mu’ayyad (“The Strengthened”) newspaper (1889–1915), Cairo. Dr Hábibu’llah Khudábakhsh (1888–1971) or Dr Ḥabíb Mu’ayyad (he was named Mu’ayyad (“confirmed”) by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá); wrote Kháṭirát-i-Ḥabíb (“Memoirs or Diary of Habib”).
Mu’ayyad fi ad-Din Mu’ayyad fí ad-Dín (fí’d-Dín) “The one aided in religion”, a title
Mu’ayyadu’d-Dawla Mu’ayyadu’d-Dawla “Helper of the state”, honorific title
Mu’ayyir Mu‘ayyir an assayer of precious metals
Mu’ayyiru’l-Mamalik Mu‘ayyiru’l-Mamálik “assayer of the kingdoms”
Mu’azzam, Mu’azzama Mu‘aẓẓam, fem. Mu‘aẓẓam(h or t) glorified, exalted, revered, venerated; sublime, august (especially of rulers); splendid, gorgeous, glorious, magnificent, resplendent; bony; ossified
Mu’bid Mu’bid Sháh Bahrám Mu’bidzádih, Indian Bahá’í, son (zádih) of Mu’bid Khudábakhsh (Khudá Bakhsh)
Mu’id, Mu‘idun Mu’íd, pl. Mu’ídún skilful, clever, experienced, able, powerful; (God) the restorer or bringer again; repetitor, tutor, trainer, coach; assistant conducting drill sessions (university)
Mu’in Mu‘ín Pers. an assistant
Mu’ina Mu‘íná abbreviation of Mu’ín Ághá
Mu’inu’l-Mulk Mu‘ínu’l-Mulk BKG 397
Mu’inu’s-Saltanih Mu‘ínu’s-Salṭanih DB 76
Mu’issu’s-Saltanih Mu‘íssu’s-Salṭanih
Mu’izz Mu‘izz one who honours or worships; one who strengthens; name of God, the Giver of Honour
Mu’izzi Mu‘izzí Amír ash-Shu‘ará’ Abú ‘Abdu’lláh Muḥammad bin ‘Abd al-Malik Mu‘izzí (1048–1125) was a Persian poet. He ranks as one of the great masters of the Persian panegyric form known as Qaṣídah.
Mu’jam al-Buldan Mu‘jam al-Buldán Dictionary of the Countries by Yáqút
Mu’jam, Ma’ajim Mu‘jam, pl. Ma‘ájim incomprehensible, unintelligible, obscure (language, speech); dotted, provided with a diacritical point (letter);—(pl.) dictionary, lexicon
Mu’jiza, Mu’jizat Mu‘jizá, pl. Mu‘jizát (Mo’jaza) “making weak or feeble”, or that which renders the adversaries to the truth weak and feeble; a term used only for miracles performed by prophets
Mu’min, Mu’minun, Mu’minin, Mu’minat Mu’min, pl. Mu’minún and Mu’minín (“Mumin”, Momen) believing, faithful; believer (Muslim); orthodox; an orthodox Muslim; (God) protecting, the protector or the guarantor. Feminine mu’mina, pl. mu’minát.
Mu’ta, Muta Mu’ta(h or t), Múta(h or t) Mu’tah (where swords were formerly made) is a town 10 km SW al-Karak and 100 km SSW of Amman, in Jordan. In Islamic tradition it is known for the Battle of Mu’tah (Ma’raka Mu’tah or Ghazwah Mu’tah) in CE 629, the first military engagement between Arab Muslims and the Byzantine Empire (with their Arab Christian Ghassanid vassals). The Muslim army travelled about 860 km north from Medina to Ma‘án (Jordan), and then a further 130 km to Mu’tah).
Mu’tadid Mu‘taḍid a petitioner for justice, a plaintiff
Mu’tamad Mu‘tamad reliable, dependable; object of reliance, support; sanctioned, approved, authorized; accredited; commissioner, authorized agent, proxy, envoy, representative; commissary, commissar
Mu’tamadu’l-Mulk Mu‘tamadu’l-Mulk The Trust of the Empire (official title). Title of Manúchihr Khán, Governor of Iṣfahán
Mu’taman Mu’taman entrusted; confidant
Mu’tamid Mu‘tamid one who rests or leans upon; a believer; resolved, determined
Mu’tamidu’d-Dawla Mu‘tamidu’d-Dawla “State accreditor”, “State certifier”, “Support of the dynasty”
Mu’tamidu’s-Saltanah Mu‘tamidu’s-Salṭanah “Reliant on the Sultanate”
Mu’tasam Mu‘taṣam a place of refuge
Mu’tasim Mu‘taṣim holding fast, clinging (to), relying (on); attendant (on); preserved, defended; abstaining, or refraining (from disobedience, etc., by the grace of God); a servant (of God). Abú Isḥáq Muḥammad ibn Hárún ar-Rashíd (796–842), better known by his regnal name al-Mu‘taṣim bi’lláh (literally “”He who seeks refuge in God”), was the eighth Abbasid caliph (r. 833–842).
Mu’tazil Mu‘tazil seceder, dissenter, separatist
Mu’tazila Mu‘tazila(h or t) followers in English: Mu‘tazilite. An offshoot sect of the qadaríyat. They believed in monotheism, divine unity, justice and free will; use of reasoning and logic by a sane mind to analyze religious texts and doctrines. If a literal meaning of the Qur’án is consistent with the rest of scripture, the main themes of the Qur’án, the basic tenets of Islám, and the well-known facts, then interpretation, in the sense of moving away from the literal meaning, is not justified. If a contradiction results from adopting the literal meaning, then an interpretation (closest to the literal) is warranted. The transmission of the oral ḥadíth was considered not sufficiently reliable.
Mu’tazili Mu‘tazilí dissenter, separatist, seceder; an infidel, an atheist
Mu’zam Mu‘ẓam the greater part, or better sort (of anything); the mass or major part, the gross, the bulk (of). Mu‘ẓam al-Infiṣál al-‘Aẓím (Most Great Separation), 10 March 1866 in Edirne (Adrianople), of “believers” into Bahá’ís and Azalís, and of the separation of believers from Gog and Magog (Mírzá Yaḥyá and Siyyid Muḥammad-i-Iṣfahání).
Mubagajian Mubagajian Armenian. Sargis (Latin Sergius) Mubagajian (1860–1937), better known by his pen name “Atrpet” (“Master”), was a prolific and multifarious Armenian writer. He published two books about the Bábí Faith with purported photographs and drawings of the Báb and some prominent Bábí figures.
Mubahala, Mubahilih Mubáhala(h or t), Pers. Mubáhilih cursing; wishing evil to another; execration; “withdrawing mercy from one who lies or engages in falsehood”. In Qur’án 3.61, invocation of God’s curse (la‘nat Alláh) was mentioned as a decisive solution to the dispute over Jesus between the Christians of Najrán and Muḥammad. Alláh ordered Muḥammad to call on the Christians to invoke God’s curse (mubáhala) upon those who are intentionally unjust in their claim in order to determine who was telling the truth, they refused. Praying for God to curse the liar regarding religious disputes is an ancient Arabic tradition.
Muballigh, Muballighat, Muballighun Muballigh, pl. Muballighát, Muballighún (Mu + balligh) bearer (of news), messenger; informer, denouncer; detective. Fem. mubalágha[h]. Name given to Bahá’í teachers or “missionaries” (especially those on journeys to spread the Bahá’í Faith). In Írán, very knowledgeable Bahá’ís (usually scholars of high stature and good communicators) whose responsibility was to travel and teach the Bahá’í Faith.
Mubarak Mubárak blessed, happy, fortunate, lucky auspicious; august; sacred, holy; welcome. A title of Bahá’u’lláh: Jamál-i-Mubárak, the Blessed Beauty.
Mubaraka Mubáraka(t), Pers. Mubárakih (God) blessing (man), prospering (him)
Mubashshir, Mubashshirat Mubashshir pl. Mubashshirát announcer, messenger (of glad tidings); evangelist (Chr.); preacher; missionary (Christian)
Mubassir Mubaṣṣir one who shows, renders quick-sighted, or causes to understand; provident, penetrating
Mubayyin (Mubaiyin) Mubayyin (mu-bayyin) illustrative, explanatory; a declarer; the “expounder” and the “interpreter” (W&T of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 11)
Mubayyin-i-kitab Mubayyin-i-Kitáb “Interpreter of the Book” (‘Abdu’l-Bahá)
Mubdi Mubdi‘ who first produces, creator, author, originator, inventor, founder; a heretic, heresiarch, religious innovator
Mubid, Mawbad (Maubid), Mubad Múbid, Mawbad, Múbad Pers., from maghú (mugh) + bid. mobad, chief of the Magi (Zoroastrian priest); a Pársí, especially one of their priests; a doctor, philosopher, any man of great wisdom whose sayings are quoted; one who administers justice; a judge, especially of the Jews; a wazír, a councillor of state
Mubin Mubín (“mobine”) clear, plain, evident, obvious, patent (particularly with respect to the meaning of revelation)
Mubtadi’, Mubtadi’un Mubtadi’, pl. Mubtadi’ún beginning; beginner; novice (Christian)
Mubtil, Mubattil, Mubtilun Mubṭil, Mubaṭṭal, pl. Mubṭilún Pers. who or what invalidates; frustrative; a defacer, destroyer; one who embellishes his speech with lies
Mudabbir Mudabbir manager, director; ruler, disposer; leader; ringleader
Mudaf Muḍáf added, subjoined, adjoined, apposed; construct state (grammar). muḍáf ilayh the second, or governed, noun of a genitive construction (grammar). Muḍáf in Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh) refers to mixed water. c.f. Muṭlaq.
Mudafa’at Mudáfa‘at repulsing, defending oneself, resisting, averting, prohibiting, checking; protracting, delaying; deferring payment of a debt
Mudallil Mudallil dallying, fondling; coquettish; a coaxer, wheedler
Mudammira, Mudammirat Mudammira, pl. Mudammirát destroyer (nautics)
Mudarris, Mudarrisun Mudarris, pl. Mudarrisún teacher, instructor; lecturer, professor
Mudda, Mudad Mudda[h or t], pl. Mudad period (of time), space of time, interval; while; duration; limited or appointed time, term
Muddaththir Muddaththir one who is wrapping himself up
Mudgha, Mudagh Muḍgha, pl. Muḍagh something to be chewed; bite, bit, morsel; small chunk of meat; embryo. Qur’án 23:13–14: stages of embryo development: 1. life-germ (nuṭfa) 2. clot (‘alaqa) 3. a morsel of flesh (muḍgha) 4. bones (‘iẓám) 5. flesh (laḥm) and 6. another creation (khalqan ákhar), during which the spirit enters the body. Interpeted by Sayyid Káẓim Rashtí as stages in human spiritual progress corresponding to the appearance of Adam; Noah; Abraham; Moses; Jesus; and Muḥammad. Stages refer also to the six days of creation in (Qur’án 11:7) and in formation of the universe (Shaykh Aḥmad Aḥsá’í). The development of Shaykhí thought in Shí‘í Islam, p. 170.
Mudhahhab Mudhahhab gilded; worked with gold thread
Mudhahhib Mudhahhib a gilder; a gold embroiderer
Mudhakkar Mudhakkar (grammar) masculine
Mudhhab Mudhhab gilded
Mudhhill Mudhill dishonourer, disgracer, degrader, humiliator, debasing; who renders vile or abject; who discovers one to be so; a name of God
Mudir, Mudira, Mudara Mudír, fem. Mudirá, Mudará head, chief, director; administrator; manager; intendant, superintendent; rector (of a university);—pl. administrative officer at the head of a county
Mudiriya, Mudiriyat Mudíríya(t), pl. Mudíríyát direction; administration; management;—(pl.) mudiria, province (Egypt); approximately: main department of a ministry (Írán)
Mudiy Muḍíy departure, leave; passing; lapse, elapsing, expiration (of a period of time); continuation (of something); deeper penetration, deeper insight (into); carrying out, execution, pursuit (of an intention, of a plan)
Mudkhal, Mudkhala, Madakhil Mudkhal, fem Mudkhala[h or t] (pl. Mudákhíl) introduced; spurious, illegitimate; worthless, base; an introductory treaty; time or place of introduction. In Safavid Persia, Mudákhíl became known as a “commission, perquisite, douceur, consideration, pickings and stealings, profit”, “official swindling”, etc. It came to signify the balance of personal advantage, usually monetary, which can be squeezed out of any and every transaction; see Píshkish.
Mufaddal Mufaḍḍal a devoted follower of Imám Ṣádiq who handed down many of his traditions.
Mufakhir Mufákhir boastful, vainglorious, proud
Mufakhkham Mufakhkham honoured
Mufakhkhamu’d-Dawla Mufakhkhamu’d-Dawla (Iṣfahání Pers. Mufakhkhamu’d-Dawlih) “the honoured of the state”, state title of General Isḥáq Khán, went as Persian Minister to the United States in 1901
Mufassal Mufaṣṣal distinct, partitioned (as a pearl bracelet having a larger gem or one of a different kind between every pearl); divided, separated, particularized, detailed; fully described; separate, distinct, clear, ample; divisions of a district (opposite to ṣadr “the chief seat of government”); the Qur’án from al-ḥujurát (49th chapter) to the end
Mufassir Mufassir commentator, expositor, or interpreter (of the Qur’án)
Mufawada, Mufavadat (Mufavadat) Mufáwaḍa[h or t], pl. Mufawaḍát negotiation, parley, talk, conference; partnership (Islamic law). Pers. “variations”: Mufávaḍa, pl. Mufavaḍát. an-Núr al-Abhá fi Mufáwaḍát ‘Abdu’l-Bahá: Guftgú bar sar-i-nahár (“A glorious light on ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Words: Conversations around the dining table” (2nd edn, Cairo 1920)—collected and published by Laura Clifford Barney. She translated these “Table Talks” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá as Some Answered Questions (1908).
Mufrad, Mufradat Mufrad, pl. Mufradát single, solitary, lone, detached, isolated; (grammar) simple, consisting of only one word (expression); being in the singular; singular (grammar);—pl. words, terms, names, expressions (of a scientific field); details
Mufsid Mufsid mischievous, pernicious, destructive, corruptive; vitiating; a corrupter, depraver, destroyer, author of evil, malefactor, seditious man, breed-bate, mischief-maker
Mufsid-i-fil-ard Mufṣid-i-fil-arḍ “the corrupt upon the land” Qur’án 18:94
Muftakhir Muftakhir proud, vainglorious, boastful, bragging; outstanding, excellent, first-rate, perfect, splendid, superb, glorious, magnificent; sumptuous, deluxe
Mufti, Muftiyun Muftí, pl. Muftíyun one whose sentence has the authority of the law, an expounder of the Muslim law, giver of a fatwá; a muftí. In Sunní Islám, a consulting Canon lawyer, who delivers legal opinions on points of Islamic law to the qáḍí (judge)
Mugh Mugh Pers. one of the Magi (Zoroastrian priest), worshipper of fire, infidel, pagan; a Christian monk
Mughill Mughill 1. a traitor, deceiver, spiteful or deceitful person who bears malice and ill-will;
2. (land, soil) productive, fruitful (in grain and produce), fertile
Mughir Mughír one who makes a predatory incursion, a spoiler, plunderer
Mughira Mughíra(h or t) “attacker/raider”; light horsemen, when making a plundering excursion into an enemy’s country. al-Walíd ibn al-Mughírah al-Makhzúmí was a very wealthy chief of the Banú Makhzúm clan of the Quraysh tribe during Muḥammad’s time and was indirectly mentioned in a number of verses of the Qur’án.
Mughith Mughíth who gives aid, auxiliary
Mughni Mugh who or what supplies the place of, excuses, or dispenses with; independent
Mugul, Mughul Mugúl, Pers. Mughul a Mogul, Mongol, Mughal; the Great Mogul, emperor of Hindústán; the Tartars, natives of Túrán, Scythia, or Transoxiana; the Georgian Christians. al-Mugúl, the Mongols, the Moguls.
Muguli, Mughuli Mugúlí, Pers. Mughulí Pers. of or relating to the Moguls (Mongolian); Mogul, Mongol, Tartar; (metaphorical) fearless; cruel, severe, terrible. the Great Mogul, emperor of Hindústán; the Tartars, natives of Túrán, Scythia, or Transoxiana; the Georgian Christians. al-Mugúl, the Mongols or Moguls.
Muhabbat, Muhabba Muḥabbat, Muḥabba The city of Madínah
Muhadara, Muhadarat Muḥáḍara, pl. Muḥáḍarát lecture
Muhaddith, Muhaddithun Muḥaddith, pl. Muḥaddithún speaker, talker; spokesman; conversation partner, interlocutor; relator, narrator; a transmitter of Prophetic traditions, traditionary, representative of the science or study of Ḥadíth. Pl. Muḥaddithín
Muhadir, Muhadirat Muḥáḍir, pl. Muḥáḍirát lecturer, speaker
Muhafaza, Muhafazat Muḥáfaẓa[h or t], pl. Muḥáfaẓát guarding; safeguarding; preservation; protection, defence; conservation, sustaining, upholding; retention, maintenance (of something) conservativism (politics), conservative attitude; following, observance (of something), compliance (with something), adherence (to); guarding (against misfortune), saving (from misadventure); garrison (military);—(pl.) governorate (one of five administrative divisions of Egypt, in addition to a mudíríyát); office of the muḥáfiẓ (head of a governorate); province, anyone of the larger administrative districts (Syria)
Muhajir, Muhajirun Muhájir, pl. Muhájirún emigrant, émigré; al-Muhájirún those Meccans who emigrated to Medina in the early period of Islám. In Islám, a muhájir is someone who moves from non-Islamic lands to a Muslim community, while in the Bahá’í Faith it denotes one who moves from a larger Bahá’í community to a place with no or few Bahá’ís in order to propagate the religion. Dr Raḥmatu’lláh Muhájir (1923–1979), Hand of the Cause of God, married Írán Furútan (b. 1933) in 1951.
Muhallal, Muhallil Muḥallal a place whither anyone frequently goes; lawful; made lawful; a small matter;—muḥallil, one who makes lawful, especially one who marries a thrice-divorced1 woman and dismisses her after consummation, so that she may lawfully return to her former husband; one who solves.
Muttahid, Muttahida (Muttahidih) Muttaḥid, Muttaḥid[h or t] (Pers. “Muttaḥidih”, “Mutahidih”, “Mottahedeh”) united, combined, consolidated, amalgamated; uniform, standardized; harmonious, unanimous, in agreement, concordant
Muttalib Muṭṭalib a seeker. ‘Abdu’l-Muṭṭallib Shaybah ibn Háshim (c. 497–578, grandfather of Muḥammad). Háshim ibn ‘Abd Manáf (c. 464–497, born ‘Amr al-‘Ulá, great grandfather of Muḥammad). ‘Abd Alláh ibn ‘Abd al-Muṭṭalib (c. 546–570, father of the Prophet Muḥammad ibn ‘Abdu’lláh).
Muttaqi Muttaqí abstinent, abstemious, temperate, sober; cautious; God-fearing, pious
Muttaqin, Muttaqun Muttaqin, pl. Muttaqún god-fearing, godly, devout, pious
Muwahhad Muwaḥḥad combined, consolidated, amalgamated; united; unified; standardized, regularized; having one diacritical point (letter)
Muwahhid (Muvahhid), Muwahhidun Muwaḥḥid, pl. Muwaḥḥidún one who believes in the unity of God, orthodox; a Unitarian. Followers of Muḥammad ‘Alí after the death of Bahá’u’lláh (the náqiḍín) described themselves as muwaḥḥidún. See mushrikún and thábit.
Muwallad, Muwallada, Muwalladat Muwallad, fem. Muwallada(t) born, begotten, produced, generated; brought up, raised; born and raised among Arabs (but not of pure Arab blood); not truly old Arabic, introduced later into the language, post-classical (especially of words); half-breed, half-caste, half-blood;—pl. Muwalladát, Muwalladún
Muwaqqar (Muvaqqar) Muwaqqar respected, held in respect; venerable, reverend
Muwaqqari’d-Dawla Muwaqqari’d-Dawla (“Pers.” Muwaqqari’d-Dawlih, “Muvaqqari’d-Dawlih”) “revered state”, a title. Mírzá ‘Alí Muḥammad Áqá, Muvaqqaru’d-Dawlih, father of Ḥasan Muwaqqar Bályúzí, a governor of the Persian Gulf Ports and Islands, and later a Vazír.
Muwasa, Muwasat (Muvasat) Muwásá[h] (fem. for mu’ásá or mu’ásáh; convention, muwásáh, but is pronounced muwását when in combination with a word starting with a vowel, e.g. al-) consolation; charity; beneficence; fem. sacrifice needs for others, preferring others to oneself. See comment for musáwáh.
Muzaffar Muẓaffar (Muzaffer, Mozaffar, Mosafir) victorious, successful, triumphant
Muzaffari’d-Din Muẓaffari’d-Dín, Sháh
Muzammal Muzammal muffled up, concealed in one’s garments
Muzdalifa Muzdalifa(h or t) an open, level area near Mecca associated with the Ḥajj. It lies just southeast of Miná, on the route between Miná and ‘Arafát.
Muzdawij Muzdawij coupled, united, wedded. A poetic style that includes alliteration or a rhyme scheme within the ending words of two lines, and follows a specific meter. It is very similar to the Persian, Urdu, and Turkish mathnawí, with one major difference: most Muzdawij follows an aaa/bbb/ccc pattern, while the other mathnawí follow an aa/bb/cc pattern.
Muzha, Muzhgan Muzha (مژه), pl. Muzhgán Pers. (“Mozha”, “Mozhgan”, “Mozhan”, “Mojan”) eyelash
Muzzammil Muzzammil one who wraps up and hides in his garments
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Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
N
Na (Nah) Na Pers. (sometimes, in poetry, nah), no, not, neither, not yet
Na Khayr (Na Khair) Na Khayr Pers. no, not at all (“modern colloquialism”)
Na’am Na‘am (interjection) yes! yes indeed! certainly! surely! (introducing a verbal clause:) to be sure ... (usually isolated word), Na‘am’ (colloquial) I beg your pardon? what did you say?
Na’am, An’am Na‘am, pl. An‘ám (noun) grazing livestock (e.g. sheep, camels, cattle, goats); hence “common herd” (people)
Na’am, La; Balih, Nah Na‘am, Lá; Pers. Balih, Na (Nah) yes/no
Na’ib (1), Nuwwab Ná’ib, pl. Nuwwáb representative, agent, proxy, intermediary, substitute, alternate; delegate; deputy (of a dárúgha)
Na’ib (2), Na’iba, Na’ibat Ná’ib, fem. Ná’iba[h or t], fem. pl. Ná’ibát share, portion; allotment; contingent, quota; distributive share in estate, statutory portion. Fem. vicissitudes, ups and downs (of luck, of a battle, etc.); heavy blow, disaster, calamity, misfortune. Fem. pl. also nawá’ib.
Na’ib al-‘Amm an-Ná’ib al-‘Ámm general representative of the Hidden Imám without specific appointment by him
Na’ib al-Ghayba Ná’ib al-Ghayba “viceroy of the absence”
Na’ib al-Imam Ná’ib al-Imám representative of the Imám
Na’ib al-Iyala, Na’ibu’l-Iyalih Ná’ib al-Iyála, Ná’ibu’l-Iyálih “government agent”. Íyálih incorrectly used in GPB and BKG.
Na’ib as-Sadr Ná’ib as-Ṣadr vice president
Na’ib-i-Khass Ná’ib al-Kháṣṣ, Pers. Ná’ib-i-Kháṣṣ exclusive representative of the Twelfth Imám (“Naib-i-Khas”), appointed by the four abwáb. A title attributed by others to the Báb.
Na’im Na‘ím amenity, comfort, ease, happiness, felicity; gentle, tranquil, peaceful; blissful. Mirza Muḥammad, sobriquet Na‘ím, was a Bahá’í poet from Furúshán, one of the three villages that constituted a larger unit, Sidih of Iṣfahán. Na‘ím noted that Du‘á’ as-Saḥar (the Dawn prayer) begins with the name of Bahá’ (Splendour) and ends with the name of ‘Alá’ (Loftiness), the latter the exalted name of the Báb, the two names of the 1st and 19th months of the Badí‘ calendar.
Na’im Ná‘im, fem. Ná‘ima[h or t] soft; smooth; tender; fine, powdery. Fem. a garden, meadow; delicate (woman), well fed and healthy.
Ná’im, pl. Niyám, Nuwwam, Nuyyam Ná’im, pl. Niyám, Nuwwam, Nuyyam (pl. Nuwwám, Nuyyám) sleeping; asleep; numb, benumbed (limb); calm, tranquil, peaceful (night); fem. ná’ima[h or t], pl. ná’imát.
Na’imi Na‘ímí
Na’imiyan Na‘ímíyán ‘Alí Na‘ímíyán
Na’in (Nain, Naeen) Ná’ín city (32.863536, 53.094398) 136 km east of Iṣfahán
Na’ir, Na’ira, Nawa’ir Ná’ir, fem. Ná’ira[h or t], pl. fem. Nawá’ir Bright, clear, shining, luminous. Fem. fire, heat, warmth, inflammation, flame, blaze; enmity, hatred; a fireplace; charcoal.
Na’l, Ni’al, An’ul Na‘l, pl. Ni‘ál, An‘ul sandal; shoe; horseshoe
Na’l-Band Na‘l-Band Arabic element. A smith, farrier. Blacksmith Ustád Ḥusayn-i-Na‘l-Band.
Na’mayn (Na’aman) Na‘mayn (Na‘amayn) “two yeses”. Riḍván Garden of Na‘mayn (a small island in a stream (an-Na‘mayn) 2.5 km SE of old ‘Akká).1 The garden is also described as “The New Jerusalem” and “Verdant Isle” (GPB 193). There is a tradition in Islám that on the last Day in response to the Divine Call, “Am I not your Lord?” two yeses will be heard. The Na‘mayn Garden (32.915208, 35.090687), a ‘verdant knoll’ less than a kilometre east of the walls of ‘Akká, around which the Na‘mayn Stream (Tayyár Na‘mayn?, now largely dry due to ground water extraction for irrigation) divides before it empties (<0.5 km) into the Nahr Na‘mayn (Hebrew Na‘aman River), and 1 km further on, the sea. The river was once known as the Belus or Belos River of Phoenicia. The source of the river is said to be Tel Afiq (32.846499, 35.111614; the biblical town of Aphik, also known as Tel Kufrdani or Kurdani). See Na‘am and Riḍwán.
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• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
O
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Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
P
Pa Pers. the foot; a footstep, vestige; cause, pretence, pretext; power, strength; opposition, resistance
Pa-Qal’iyi Pá-Qal‘iyí Pers. the people that are related to or are from the place that is within the area protected by a castle. See Qal‘a
Pap Páp Pers. the Pope (modern from French pape)
Papa Pápá Pers. father; the Pope
Pa’in Pá’ín Pers. lower part, bottom, foundation. See suflá (asfal), and contrast with bálá and ‘ulyá (used for upper parts of villages)
Pad Pád Pers. protecting, guarding; a guardian; great; firm, durable ; a throne; power, possession.
Pad-Shah (Padshah) Pád-sháh (Pádsháh) Pers. (Padshah, Padishah, Padeshah) (protecting lord), an emperor, sovereign, monarch, great king. The Sháh of Írán and the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire were styled Pádsháh. See Tablets of Abdul-Baha Abbas.
Pahlaw (Pahlav), Pahlawan Pahlaw (Pahla), Pahlawán Pers. Pahla comes from the term Pahlaw and thus from Parthav (Old Persian Parthia; Middle Persian Pahlaw). This is identical to the concept of the Parthians and Parthia. It also entered a number of languages as a military or even legendary title, as Pahlawán. Hence, a hero, champion, brave warrior, strong athletic man; a wrestler; a saint; traditional Persian wrestling.
Pahlawi (Pahlavi, Parsik, Parsig) Pahlawí (Pahlaví), pl. Pahlawí-há Pers. belonging to a city; a citizen; an ancient Persian and what relates to him; saintly; family name of a recent short “dynasty” (Khánadán Pahlaví, the family of the Pahlavis) of Sháhs begun in 1925 by Riḍá Khán. Plural (pahlaviha”) applies to ordinary people. Middle Persian or Pahlawí, also known by its endonym Pársík or Pársíg in its later form, is a Western Middle Iranian language that became the literary language of the Sasanian Empire. Middle Persian continued to function as a prestige language years after the Sasanian collapse. It is descended from Old Persian, the language of the Achaemenid Empire and is the linguistic ancestor of Modern (or New) Persian (also known by its endonym Fársí), the official language of Írán, Afghánistán and Tajikistan.
Pak Pák Pers. pure, chaste, innocent, clean, neat; perfect, full, complete; all, entire; downright
Pakbaz Pákbáz utmost detachment or those who risk all they have in gambling, those who give away whatever they have
Pakdini Pákdíní Pers. pure religion
Pakistan Pákistán “Land (stán, Persian) of the Pure (pák, Persian and Pashto)”
Pakistani Pákistání
Panabandan (Panah Bandan) Panábandán (also known as Panáh, Panáh Bandán, Panámandán, and Panávandán) is a small village 22 km SE Rasht in Gílán Province, Írán. See Fahnih
Panah (Fanah) Panáh Pers. an asylum, refuge, protection; shade, shelter. Fanáh (Panáh) Khusraw, better known by his laqab of ‘Aḍud ad-Dawla (“Pillar of the [Abbasid] Dynasty”) (936–983; r. 949–983) was an emir of the Buyid dynasty.
Panba (Panbah, Panbih, Panbeh) Panba (پنبه) Pers. cotton
Panba-Chula (Panbih-Chulih) Panba-Chúla (Panbeh Chuleh) a village (-i-bálá, upper and -i-pá’ín, lower) 18 km north of Sari
Panhan, Pinhan Panhán, Pinhán Pers. concealed, hidden; clandestine, secret
Panj Panj Pers. five; fifth; in fives; the five senses
Panj Ganj Panj Ganj Pers. the five senses; the five daily prayers of Islam; the five poems (Panj Ganj, or Khamsa, “Five Treasures” of Niẓámí) (Khamsa: Persian pronunciation of Ar. Khumásí)
Panj’ali (Panjali) Panj‘alí (Panj+‘Alí) Pers. very small village in Vizhinán Rural District, in the Central District of Gílán-i-Gharb County, Kermanshah Province, Írán. Possibly Dúl Zard-i-Panj‘alí (34.091497, 45.893233), 6 km SSW Gílán-i-Gharb.
Par-Pa (Parpa) Par-Pá (Parpá) Pers. feather foot; “light foot” surname given to Hájí Mírzá Jání (The Dawn-Breakers 101)
Par, Parr Par, Parr Pers. a wing; a feather; a leaf; the arm from the collar-bone to the tip of the finger; the sails or paddles of a mill; a side, skirt, or margin; leaf of a tree; light, ray
Paraclete (Parakletos) Paraclete advocate, intercessor; comforter or spirit of truth. Paráklētos, Greek, can signify “called to one’s aid in a court of justice”, a “legal assistant”, an “assistant”, or an “intercessor”. Latin Paracletus. Christians believe Paraclete is the Holy Ghost (John 14:16, 14:26, 15:26, 16:7). Many Muslims use Qur’án 61:6 to claim parakletos in the Bible should have been periklytos. However, see fáraqlíṭ.
Paran Párán Pers. (from Hebrew; Pharan, Ar. Fárán) uncertain location of a mountain, desert, wilderness, etc.
Deuteronomy 33:2 is believed to link Sinai (Jabal Músá), “Seir” (Mt. Sa‘ír) and Párán (Mt. Párán in the Arabian Peninsula, hence Mount Ḥirá’) with Moses, Jesus Christ and Muḥammad respectively. Hence, symbolizing the place of the encounter of the divine Manifestation with God, i.e. the giving of the Tawrát to Moses, the Injíl to Jesus, and the Qur’án to Muḥammad.
‘Abdu’l-Bahá states that the “Covenant upon Mount Párán” in the Bahá’í Writings refers to the Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh. (Adib Taherzadeh, The Covenant of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 408)
Muslim and Arabic traditions hold that the wilderness of Párán is, broadly speaking, the Ḥijáz or the Arabian Peninsula. By extension, “Mount Paran” was connected to Mount Ḥirá’.
See Fárán.
Parast, Parastan Parast, pl. Parastán Pers. a worshipper; one who persists in his opinion
Parda Parda Pers. a veil, curtain, tapestry, caul, film, membrane; a partition between two rooms; the walls of a tent; a fence or wall for dividing fields; an act of a play
Parda Khwani (Pardeh Khwani) Parda Khwání Pers. figuratively, reading from the screen or curtain; parda show or a type of theatre. Before the advent of Islám it was a widely practised form of epic story telling in Írán using a screen depicting the events. Afterwards, the parda khwání was transformed into a national-religious performance that influenced the development of the ta‘zíya. Note: since a و (wáw) after a خ (kh) may not be pronounced, it may be written as parda khání (see PDC p. 93) (or “parda khani”).
Pari Parí Pers. winged; a good genius, a fairy
Pari-Rukh, Pari-Rukhsar Parí-Rukh, Parí-Rukhsár Pers. angel-cheeked, fairy-faced
Parishan (Pareshan) Paríshán Pers. dispersed, scattered; dishevelled; disturbed, perplexed, confounded, distracted, agitated, afflicted, vexed, sad, melancholy; unfortunate; disgusted. Also described as the mystic name for one “lost in an ecstasy of love”.
Pariz Páríz Pers. city (29.873842, 55.747571) 47 km north of Sírján, Írán
Pars (Fars) Párs Pers. a leopard (pard); an animal smaller than a leopard and trained to hunt; ounce, cheetah; Persia (from which is derived the Greek Persis, a name for the Fars region, now a province). Persis (Persia) is the name used in the West to refer to all of Írán. Arabs substituted the P for an F: Fárs.
Parsa’i Pársá’í Pers. chastity, purity, abstinence
Parsi (Parsee), Parsiyan Pársí, pl. Pársiyán Pers. (Parsi, pl. Parsis in India), a Zoroastrian, a Persian. An adherent of Zoroastrianism; specifically a descendant of Persian Zoroastrians who fled to India in the 7th & 8th centuries. See Fársí.
Parsiy-i-Sarih Pársiy-i-Ṣaríḥ Pers. “pure Persian”. Bahá’u’lláh used pure Persian rather sparingly, except when corresponding with Zoroastrians or for other special occasions. The Persian spoken in His time and today borrows heavily from Arabic, the language of Islám. He used Arabic as the primary language of Revelation and many of His prayers and tablets in Persian are heavily Arabicized. “Although there can be no question or doubt as to the sweetness of the Persian tongue, yet it hath not the scope of the Arabic.” (Bahá’u’lláh, Pen of Glory, p. 148)
Parwin (Parvin, Parvene, Parvyn) Parwín (Parvín) Pers. Pleiades. Name given in 1919 to the daughter of Dr Ḍíyá’ Baghdádí by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. Later a middle name of Ḥabíba (Ḥabíbih) was added.
Parwiz (Parviz) Parwíz (Parvíz) Name of Persian king
Paşa, Paşalar Paşa, pl. Paşalar Turkish, pasha. Üç Paşalar: The "Three Pashas" (Turkish Üç paşalar) refers to the triumvirate of senior officials who effectively ruled the Ottoman Empire during World War I: Mehmed Talaat Pasha (Mehmed Talât Paşa, 1874–1921, assassinated), the Grand Vizier (prime minister) and Minister of the Interior; Ismail Enver Pasha (İsmail Enver Paşa, 1881–1922, assassinated), the Minister of War; and Ahmed Cemal Pasha (Ahmet Cemâl Paşa, 1872–1922, died in a war), the Minister of the Navy. They were largely responsible for the Empire’s entry into World War I in 1914 and also largely responsible for the death of over one million Armenians in the Armenian genocide.
Pasha shá Persian form of Turkish paşa. See shá
Pasha’i, Pashahi, Pashay shá’í, Pásháhí and Pásháy Pers. (ائي ending) a small village in Golestan Province, Írán. 150 km west of Bujnúrd.
Pashaliq (Bashaliq), Pashaliq-ha sháliq, pl. Pásháliq-há Pers. form of Turkish paşalık, the jurisdiction or the territory of a páshá.
Pashay-i-Qibrisi sháy-i-Qibrisí Muḥammad Pásháy-i-Qibrisí (qubrusí, “a Cypriot”), once a Grand Vizir of the Ottoman Empire and Governor of Adrianople until April 1864
Pashtu (Pushtu, Pashto) Pash Pers. also Afghání. Pashtú: a glass bottle; language spoken by Afghans
Pay-i-Minar (Pay-Minar) Páy-i-Minár Pers. foot of the minaret
Payam Payám Pers. news, advice; message; rumour, fame
Payambar (Payam-bar), Payambaran Payámbar, pl. Payámbarán Middle Pers. an apostle; a messenger. See Nabí (Arabic influence).
Payam-i-Dust (Payam-e-Doost) Payám-i-Dúst Pers. “Radio message from a friend” (Bahá’í radio broadcasts)
Payghun Payghún Pers. a condition, covenant
Paykar Paykar Pers. face, countenance; form, figure, mould, model; portrait, likeness; an idol-temple
Payman Paymán Pers. measuring; promise, agreement, compact, convention, treaty, stipulation, pledge, security, confirmation; asseveration, oath, kindred
Payrawi (Pay-rawi, Payravi) Payrawí (Payraví) a following, pursuit; search; dependence, consequence
Pe Pe (پ) Perso-Arabic alphabet letter that is based on bá’ (ب) with two additional diacritic underdots. It is interchangeable with fe (ف), e.g. Fársí and Pársí.
Periclytes, Periklytos, Periklutos Periclytes, Greek Periklýtis famed, illustrious, celebrated, praiseworthy, praised one, “much praised. Rendered in Arabic as Aḥmad
Peripatetic Peripatetic the Peripatetic school was a school of philosophy in Ancient Greece. Its teachings derived from its founder, Aristotle (384–322 BC), and peripatetic is an adjective ascribed to his followers. The term “Peripatetic” is a transcription of the ancient Greek word περιπατητικός peripatêtikos, which means “of walking” or “given to walking about”. The Peripatetic school was known simply as the Peripatos. Aristotle’s school came to be so named because of the peripatoi (“colonnades” or “covered walkways”) of the Lyceum where the members met. The legend that the name came from Aristotle’s alleged habit of walking while lecturing may have started with Hermippus of Smyrna.
Picha (Pichih, Picheh) cha Pers. woven, black, horse hair (or other fibre) net used to cover a woman’s face. Turkish yaşmak, peçe, petche; Ar. yashmak, ḥijáb.
Pichan chán Pers. complicated, twisted
Pidar (Pedar), Padar Pidar, Padar Pers. a father
Pija Kula (Pija Kola), Picha Kula Pidar-Ján “Father dear”. A title given to ‘Abdu’lláh of Qazvín (MF)
Pija Kula (Pija Kola), Picha Kula Píjá Kulá (Píchá Kulá) Pers. village (36.563549, 52.583363) 8 km NW of Babol. Possible home of Quddús.
Pilaw (Pilav), Pulau Píláw (Píláv) Pers. boiled rice and meat. Turkish pilav. English (UK) pilau, English (US) pilaf.
Pindar Pindár Pers. thought, imagination, fancy, opinion; pride, conceit, a high opinion of oneself
Pir Pír Pers. An old man; a founder or chief of a religious body or sect
Pir-Murad Pír-Murád Imám-Zádih Sayyid Muḥammad bin Músá al-Káẓim (Pír-Murád Shrine) (29.129644, 54.031008)—building has been replaced. West Istahbán has grown around it.
Pish (Pesh) sh Pers. before; in front; forward; past; future; further, beyond; preamble, premises; an example, model, exemplar, coryphaeus, chief, superior, commander, leader
Pish-Kash, Pishkish Pish-Kash, Píshkish Pers. a present, tip, duoceur. Ritual courtesy forbids you to take the gift.
Pishdad (Peshdad) Pishdád Pers. a law-giver; the first to redress the wrongs of the oppressed; earnest-money; Hushang, the first of the line of Peshdadian kings.
Pishdadiyan (Peshdadiyan shdádíyán Pers. the Píshdádíyán Dynasty is said to have produced the first kings who ruled over Persia (e.g. Firaydún)
Pishkar (Pesh-kar) shkár Pers. an assistant, helper; a domestic, a serving-man, a hired labourer; a steward; a disciple; a subordinate officer whose business it is to write the accounts.
Pishnamaz Píshnamáz Pers. a prayer leader; a chaplain; the cleric who leads the congregation in prayer in the mosque, usually equivalent to an imám-jum‘ih
Plevna Plevna Pleven, Bulgaria
Prayer Prayer There are three types of revealed prayers:
ṣaláh [ritual or obligatory prayers revealed by Bahá’u’lláh],
du’á’ (prayers for certain occasions and requirements) and
munájáh (prayers that are more in the character of communing with God) [revealed by the Báb, Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá and Shoghi Effendi].
See ṣaláh.
Pukhta (Pukhtih, “Pokhet”) Pukhta Pers. boiled, dressed, cooked; ripe, mature; expert, skilful, versed in business; sly; a large lamb; contemptible; strong, well built
Pul Púl Pers. a bridge; a small piece of copper coin; money; a fish-scale; a station on a journey, an inn
Pur Púr Pers. a son; a horse; one who shams ignorance; steel; a woodcock; Porus, king of the Pauravas
Pur Pur Pers. full; laden, charged; complete; much, very
Pur-dil (Purdil) Pur-dil (Purdil) Pers. “full heart” full of courage, intrepid, magnanimous; intelligent; liberal
Pur-Ustadkar Púr-Ustádkár Pers. See púr, ustád and kár
Pursidani Pursídaní Per. questions that ought to be put, conventional questions; a riddle
Pursish Pursish Pers. a question, interrogation; visiting the sick; mourning the dead
Pusht Pusht Pers. the back; the outside; the blade of a sword; a support, prop; a protector, patron
Pust (Post) Púst Pers. skin; a raw hide, undressed skin; rind, outward coat; crust; bark of a tree; a shell; poppy-head; slander, detraction
Pustchi Pústchí púst+chí? Yadu’lláh Pústchí executed 24 June 1981.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
Q
Qa’ima, Qa’imat, Qawa’im Qá’ima[h or t], pl. Qá’imát, Qawá’im leg, foot, paw (of a quadruped); leg, foot (of furniture); pale, stake, post, prop, stanchion, pillar; pommel (of a sword’s hilt); stand, base, support; (figurative) main support, pillar; upright, perpendicular; a perpendicular line;—pl. list, roster, register, index, table, schedule; catalogue; invoice, bill
Qa’da Qa‘da sitting; backside, seat, buttocks, posteriors; space occupied while sitting, seating space
Qa’ida (Qaeda), Qawa’id Qá‘ida(h), pl. Qawá‘id foundation, groundwork; basis; fundament; base (geometry; military); support, base, socle, foot, pedestal; Ottoman: chassis, undercarriage; precept, rule, principle, maxim; formula; method, manner, mode; model, pattern. al-Qá‘ida is a militant Sunni islamist multi-national organization founded in 1988 by Osama bin Laden, ‘Abdu’lláh Yúsuf ‘Azím, and several other Arab volunteers during the Soviet-Afghan War
Qa’im Al-Muhammad Qá’im Ál Muḥammad “the one who rises of the family of Muḥammad”), a title given to a messiah-like figure in the eschatology of Shí‘a Islám, sometimes equated with the Mahdí. The term first came into use in the eighth century to refer to a future member of the family of Muḥammad who would rise up and defeat the wicked rulers of the age and restore justice. See also al-Qá’im bi’l-sayf and al-Qá’im bi-amr Alláh.
Qa’im bi-amr Allah al-Qá’im bi-amr Alláh “the one who carries out the order of God”
Qa’im bi’l-Sayf al-Qá’im bi’l-Sayf “He who will rise up”/“he who will rise up with the sword”—title of the Hidden Imám in his persona as the Mahdí and world conquerer
Qa’im Shahr (Qa’imshahr, Qaemshahr) Qá’im Shahr Qaem Shahr (Qaemshahr and Qa’em Shahr; formerly (pre-1979) known as Sháhí) is a city in and the capital of Qaem Shahr County, Mazandaran Province, Írán. Originally known as Aliyabad (‘Aliyábád or ‘Alí-Ábád). 155 km NE of Ṭihrán. It is 6 km NE of the Shrine of Shaykh Ṭabarsí.
Qa’im, Quwwam, Quyyam Qá’im, pl. Quwwam, Quyyam (pl. also Quwwám, Quyyám) rising, getting up; standing; upright, erect; stand-up; existing, existent; visible, conspicuous; firm, steadfast, staunch, unflinching, unshakable; revolting, rebelling (against). The Sunnis (Ar. Sunnyún) await the appearance of the Mihdí and also “the return of Jesus Christ”. The Promised One of Islám (Qá’im Ál-Muḥammad), “He Who shall arise” (of the family of Muḥammad)—for the return of Imám Ḥusayn. Sometimes given as Kaem and Khaem.
Qa’imiya, Qa’imiyya Qá’imíya (Pers. Qá’imiyya) Station of the Qá’im (“He Who shall arise”). Qa’im-hood, Qa’im-ship. Similar to Messiahship (station of the promised and expected deliverer/redeemer/saviour of the Jewish people)
Qa’im-Maqam, Qa’imaqam (Kaymakam) Qá’im-Maqám “standing place” but, in this context, maqám is used with the sense of “office”, “position” or “state”. A Turkish “sub-governor” that is “standing in place” of the sulṭán at a local level. An administrative officer at the head of a qaḍá’. Title of a local governor in Írán.
Mírzá Abu’l-Qásim-i-Faráhání, entitled Qá’im-Maqám, Grand Vizier to Muḥammad Sháh, was a close friend and associate of Mírzá Buzurg-i-Núrí, the father of Bahá’u’lláh. He was executed in June 1835. Bahá’u’lláh extoled him in one of His Tablets.
Qa’im-Maqami Qá’im-Maqámí lieutenancy; succession, assigneeship; representation; deputation. Mírzá Áqá Khán (entitled Qá’im-Maqámí) was a grandson of Qá’im-Maqám and an eminent Bahá’í.
Qa’in, Qayin Qá’in, Qáyin (Qaen, Ghayen, Qayen, Ghaen) capital city (33.736576, 59.178814) of Qá’in County in South Khorasan Province, Írán
Qa’ini Qá’iní name by which Mírzá Habíb-i-Shírází was known
Qaba’ (Quba’), Aqviya Qabá’, pl. Aqbiya an outer garment with full-length sleeves. Qubá’ (Pers. also qubá), name of several places. Qubá’, formerly a village, now part of Madinah, the place where Muḥammad and Abú Bakr arrived (16 July 622 (12th Rabí‘ al-Awwal) and first stayed after emigrating from Makkah. This was fourteen years after Prophethood and the date marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar (Hijra). A masjid was established here by Muḥammad, the first to be built in the Islamic dispensation (see Qur’án 9:108).
Qabid Qábiḍ, pl. Qábiḍún, Qábáḍ constipating, costive (medical); grievous, distressing, embarrassing; receiver, recipient; gripper, clamp, claw, catcher, tongs, holder (technology);—(pl.) (tax) collector
Qabil, Qabila Qábil, fem. Qábila[h or t] approaching, ensuing, following; next (year); a recipient; capable, able, skilful, clever; worthy, sufficient
Qabila, Qaba’il Qabíla(h), pl. Qabá’il tribe
Qabiliya, Qabiliya Qábilíya[h or t], pl. Qábilíyát faculty, power, capacity, capability, ability; aptitude, fitness; tendency, disposition, liability, susceptibility, sensibility, receptivity (to); appetite
Qabl Qabl (preposition) before, prior to, previously
Qabr, Qubur Qabr, pl. Qubúr grave, tomb, sepulchre
Qabus Qábús Pers. a man with a handsome face and a fine complexion (káwús). Ar. nightmare
Qabz, Qubuz Qabẓ, pl. Qubúẓ Pers. (verbal noun) Taking, seizing, arresting, grasping, griping, clutching; keeping back, restraining ones hand from taking hold of; flying or walking swiftly; driving (camels) fast; capture, sequestration, confiscation; receipt, voucher; contraction;—pl. receipt papers
Qad Qad indicates the termination of an action; sometimes corresponding to English “already”; sometimes, at times; perhaps, or English “may”, “might”
Qada Qaḍá (verb) a decree, mandate, judgement. See qadr.
Qada’ Qaḍá’ (verbal noun) settling, finishing, ending, closing, termination, conclusion, windup, completion, accomplishment; carrying out, execution, performance, effectuation; fulfilment, satisfaction, gratification (of a wish, of a desire); provision (for a need); compliance (with a request); payment, settlement, discharge (of a debt); passing, spending (of a period of time); divine decree (al-Qaḍá’, mystical station of submitting to the divine decree, it is singular!), destiny, fate; judgement, sentence, (judicial) decision, (court) ruling, ordinance; administration of the law, judiciary, jurisprudence, justice; law; jurisdiction; office of judge, judicature; judging, rendering of judgement; sentencing, condemnation (of someone); extermination, annihilation, extirpation
Qada’ al-Qadar al-Qaḍá’ wa’l-Qadar “the decree and the measure”, divine providence or predestination according to Sunní Muslims
Qadam (Ghadam, Ghedam), Aqdam Qadam, pl. Aqdám a foot; a footstep, track, trace; a foot’s length; step, pace; merit, pre-excellence; bold, heroic; very meritorious.
Rúḥu’lláh Qadamí (Ghedami).
Qadar, Aqdar Qadar, pl. Aqdár divine fore-ordainment, predestination; whatever is fixed, decreed, and commanded by God; fate, destiny, lot. Decision, destiny, measure or desert, mystical station of consciousness of one’s destiny; power; the power of directing one’s own actions (free will); quantity, price, value.
Qadariya Qadaríya[h or t] a Muslim sect that teaches the doctrine of free-will. al-qadaríya, a theological school of early Islám asserting man’s free will. See Jabríyya.
Qadi-Kala (Ghadikola, Qadi Kola) Qáḍí-Kalá villages:
Qáḍí-Kalá 40 km SE Sari (36.338935, 53.407464);
Qáḍí-Kalá 13 km NNW of Sari (36.674167, 53.107222);
Qáḍí-Kalá 9 km NW of Bábul (36.587500, 52.588056);
Qáḍí-Kalá 9 km NNW Qá’im Shahr (36.538611, 52.897222)
Qadi, Qazi, Qada, Quzat Qáḍí, Pers. Qáẓí, pl. Qaḍá(h) (“cadi”) a judge (civil, criminal or religious in Islám). Pers. pl. quẓát. See Qáḍin
Qadim, Qadimun, Qudum Qádim, pl. Qádimún, Qudúm, Quddám one arriving, arriver, arrival, newcomer
Qadim, Qudama’ Qadím, pl. Qudamá’ ancient, olden; archaic; former; without beginning or end (eternal)
Qadimi Qadímí ancient, olden; an old inhabitant; one holding by hereditary descent
Qadin, Quda, Qawadin Qáḍin decisive, conclusive; deadly, lethal;—(pl. quḍá[h]) judge, magistrate, justice, cadi;—pl. qawáḍin requirements, exigencies
Qadir, Qadira Qádir, fem. Qádira[h or t] possessing power or strength, powerful, potent; having mastery (over something), capable (of something); omnipotent, almighty, all-powerful (God)—abjad value 314. Qadír and Qádir are often used interchangeably, but they have slightly different meanings. In general qadír, is used to describe the inherent nature of something or someone, while qádir is used to describe the ability to do something.
Qadiriya, Qadiriyyih Qádiríya, Pers. Qadiriyyih Qádiríya Ṣúfí Order, founded by ‘Abdu’l-Qádir-i-Gílaní 1077–1166
Qadiriyan, Ghadiriyan Qadíriyán or Ghádíriyán Pers. Dr ‘Abdu’l-Mísságh Ghádíriyán or Dr ‘Abdu’l-Mítháq Qadíriyán
Qadisiyyah al-Qádisíya, Pers. al-Qádisiyyah city south of Baghdád and famous as the site of a battle c. 636 when Arab-Muslim invaders defeated a larger Sasanian Empire army.
Qadiya Baha’iya Qaḍíya Bahá’íya the Bahá’í Cause. See Amr al-Bahá’í
Qadiya, Qadaya Qaḍíya(h or t), pl. Qaḍáyá lawsuit; litigation, judicial contest; action at law, suit; (legal) case, cause, legal affair; matter, affair; question, problem, issue; theorem, proposition (mathematics)
Qadiyan (Qadian) Qádiyán Pers. a very small Persian village (33.049832, 48.973821). Qadian is a city in Punjab, India. See Aḥmadiyya.
Qadiyani (Qadiani) Qádiyání, pl. Qádiyáníyún of Qádiyán. A pejorative term used by some South Asian muslims to refer to Aḥmadí Muslims, primarily in Pakistan. The term originates from Qádiyán, a small town in the Punjab, northern India, the birthplace of Mírzá Ghulám Aḥmad, the founder of the Aḥmadiyya movement. While it is pejorative to the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, it is used in official Pakistani documents.
Qadr, Aqdar Qadr, pl. Aqdár extent, scope, quantity, amount, scale, rate, measure, number; sum, amount; degree, grade; worth, value, standing, rank; divine decree (singular only)
Qaf Qáf name of Arabic letter ق. Qáf is said to be the Arabized form of the Middle Persian word gâp meaning “unknown”.
Qaflan-Kuh, Qaflankuh (Kaflan-Kuh) Qáflán-Kúh, Qáflánkúh Qáflánkúh Mountain Range has an average width of almost 20 km and a length of about 100 km, it stretches in a northwest-southeast direction, beginning from northwest of Zanján, passing north of Zanján and ending southeast of Zanján
Qafqas, Qawqas Qafqás al-Qafqás and al-Qawqás, the Caucasus. Pers. Qafqáz or Ghafgház (“Qafqaz”, “Kawkaz”, “Ghafghaz”).
Qahhar Qahhár conquering, vanquishing; al-Qahhár the Subduer, the Almighty (God)
Qahir, Qahira, Qahirih Qáhir; fem. Qáhira[t], Pers. also Qáhirih who or what subdues or triumphs; a conqueror; mighty, powerful; violent, forcible, oppressive. Feminine: a conqueress, victrix; Augusta; name of the capital of Egypt, Cario. The official Arabic name of Cairo is al-Qáhirah, from an-Najm al-Qáhir (planet Mars).
Qahqaha, Qahqahih Qahqaha[h or t], Pers. Qahqahih loud burst of laughter
Qahr Qahr vanquishing, conquer, subdual, subjection, subjugation; compulsion, coercion, force; (e.g.) annoyance, trouble, sorrow, grief
Qahru’llah Qahru’lláh “Annoyance of God” or “The Wrath of God”. Name given by the Báb to an Indian dervish and to Mullá Muḥammad-‘Alíy-i-Zanjání.
Qaht Qaḥṭ lack of rain, failing rain; drought, dryness; famine; dearth, failure of crops, lack, want, scarcity; penury, hunger, starvation, want, famine; a hard blow
Qahtan Qaḥṭán legendary ancestor of the south Arabians. Name of the son of Amír, son of Sálikh, father of a Yemeni tribe; name of a desert. Baní Qaḥṭán (Qahtanite) Arab tribe from Yemen, consisting of two sub-groups: Ḥimyar (Himyartes) (in the area of Ṣan‘á’) and Kahlán (Kahlanis)..
Qahtani Qaḥṭání (tribe) of Qaḥṭán. Qahtanite and Qahtani refer to Arabs who originate from south Arabia.
Qahviy-i-Awliya, Qahviyih Awliya Qahviy-i-Awlíyá, Qahviyih Awlíyá mosque-like building containing the school attended by the Báb. It was in the Bázár-i-Murgh (Poultry Market) quarter of Shíráz
Qahwa-Khana, Qahwih-Khanih Qahwa-Khána, also Qahwih-Khánih Pers. coffee house.  also Qahvih-i-khánih
Qahwa, Qahawat, Qahawi Qahwa[h or t], pl. Qahawát, Qaháwí wine, coffee;—pl. café, coffeehouse
Qahwachi, Qahwa-chi, Qahvih-chi Qahwachí, Qahwa-chí, Qahvih-chí Pers. coffee house keeper or coffee maker. Sometimes includes tá’ marbúṭa: Qahwahchí, Qahvahchí, etc.
Qawati, Qahawati Qahwátí, Qahawátí, pl. Qahwátíya coffeehouse owner (pl. also qahwíya)
Qahwiya Awliya’, Qahviyih-i-Awliya’ Qahwíya Awliyá’ (Pers. Qahviyih-i-Awlíyá’) mosque-like building containing the school attended by the Báb. It was in the Bázár-i-Murgh (Poultry Market) quarter of Shíráz (District 8).
Qajar, Qajaran, Qajar-ha Qájár, pl. Qájárán, Pers. Qájár-há a Turkoman tribe of Túrán, and a family whose leaders reigned in Persia from 1795 to 1925; the dynasty was founded by Ághá Muḥammad Khán. Also spelt Kadjar, Kajar, Kadzhar, Cadzhar, Cadjar, Ghajar.
Qal wa-qil, Qil wa-qal Qál wa-qíl, Qíl wa-qál long palaver; idle talk, prattle, gossip.
Qal’a (Pers. Qal’ih, Qal’eh), Qila’, Qulu’ Qal‘a(h or t), Pers. Qal‘ih, pl. Qilá‘, Qulú‘ castle, fortress, stronghold, fort (especially on the top of a mountain); citadel
Qal’a Zinjir Qal‘a Zinjír Pers. very small village (33.002655, 48.203327) and nearby rock outcrop 71 kn NNW of Dizfúl
Qal’a-i-Muhammad ‘Ali Khan Qal‘a-i-Muḥammad ‘Alí Khán (“Qaleh-i-Mohammad Ali Khan”) is a very small village (35.252778, 50.981111) in Rayy County, Tehran Province.
Qala (Qawl) Qála (Qawl) to speak, say, tell (something, to someone). Qul (قُلْ) say!
Qalam al-Ilahi al-Qalam al-Iláhí “the divine pen”
Qalam-dan (Qalamdan) Qalam-dán (Qalamdán) Pers. pencil-box
Qalam, Aqlam (Qilam, Qulam) Qalam, pl. Aqlám reed pen; pen; writing, script, calligraphic style, ductus; handwriting; style; office, bureau, agency, department; window, counter; item, entry. Qilám (Qulám) appears to be another plural.
Qalandar (Kalandar), Qalandarun Qalandár, Pers. Qalandar, pl. Qalandárún wandering ascetic. Ḥájí Qalandar, Bahá’í teacher and former dervish.
Qalandariya Qalandáríya[h], Pers. Qalandariyya[h] sect of wandering ascetic Ṣúfí dervishes
Qalb, Qulub Qalb, pl. Qulúb heart; middle, centre; core, gist, essence; marrow, medulla, pith; the best or choicest part; mind, soul, spirit
Qalbi Qalbí, Qalbíyan of or pertaining to the heart, heart- (in compounds), cardiac, cardiacal; cordial, hearty, warm, sincere. Qalbíyan cordially, heartily, warmly, sincerely.
Qalil, Aqilla’, Qala’il, Qilal Qalíl, pl. Aqillá’, Qalá’il, Qilál little; few; insignificant, inconsiderable, trifling; small (in number or quantity), scant, scanty, spare, sparse, meagre, insufficient; scarce, rare; a small number, a small quantity, a modicum, a little (of)
Qalis (Qullais, Qillis) Qalís a miser. Kanísa al-Qalís (al-Qalis Church) in Sana‘á’ (in Yemen) built between 527 and the late 560s by Abrahah al-‘Ashram to promote Christianity in the predominantly Jewish kingdom while also attempting to antagonise the Ka‘aba in Mecca, a major religious centre for Arab polytheists. Sura 105 “The Elephant” records his attack on Mecca in 570.
Qalyan (Galayin, Galyun) Qalyán Pers. (Nárgíl) pipe for smoking through water; water pipe, narghile, hubble-bubble; smoking pipe, tobacco pipe.
Qamar, Aqmar Qamar, pl. Aqmár (Egyptian Ghamar) the moon (especially from the third day to the end of the month); (variation) having the eyes dazzled from the reflection of snow or any bright colour; satisfying thirst; being abundant (forage, etc.); being spoiled; watching, lying awake in moonlight—pl. moon; satellite (astronomy). Jerah from Hebrew “moon”.
Qamaran al-Qamarán (dual) the sun and moon. Pers. Qamarání
Qamari Qamarí of or pertaining to the moon, moon-shaped, moon-like, lunar
Qamariya al-Ashhur al-Qamaríya(h) al-Ashhur the lunar months (Qamariyyah also used)
Qamariya al-Huruf al-Qamaríya(h) al-Ḥurúf the moon letters (grammar) (Qamariyyah also used)
Qambar Qambar a companion of Imám ‘Alí. Qambar-‘Alí was a servant of Mullá Ḥusayn.
Qamis, Qamisa, Qumus, Aqmisa, Qumsan Qamíṣ, pl. Qumuṣ, Aqmiṣa, Aqmiṣa shirt; dress, gown; covering, cover, case, wrap, envelope, jacket; (Christian) alb, surplice, rochet; incarnation. Fem. qamíṣa[h].
Qams Qamṣ gallop
Qamsar (Qamşar, Ghamsar, Kamsar) Qamṣar village (33.751320, 51.427924; now a city ) 25 km south of Káshán, Iran. Mírzá Maḥmúd-i-Qamṣarí.
Qamus, Qawamis Qámús, pl. Qawámís ocean; dictionary, lexicon. al-Qámús al-Muhíṭ (“The Surrounding Ocean”) by Muḥammad ibn Ya‘qúb al-Fayrúzábádí
Qana, Qanan, Quniy, Qina’, Qanawat Qanáh (Qanát is also used in Írán) (pl. qanan, quníy, qiná’, qanawát, qanayát) spear, (bamboo) lance; shaft; tube, duct, pipe; an underground canal; a syphon;—(pl. aqniya, qanawát) canal; stream, waterway. Qanats, developed in Írán, are sloping underground channels (with vertical access shafts) used to transport water from an underground aquifer. See Falaj.
Qanbar Qanbar name of servant and companion of Imám ‘Alí
Qand, Qunud Qand, pl. Qunúd hard crystalline mass formed by evaporating or boiling cane sugar, candy
Qanit, Qanita Qánit, fem. Qánita[h or t] godly, devout, prayerful. Fem. devout, obedient, submissive. Pers. Qánitih (also known as Káfiya), the name of the maid of Ṭáhirih at Badasht.
Qannad Qannád Pers. A maker of sugar-candy; a confectioner. Áqá Ríḍáy-i-Qannád
Qantara (Kantara), Qanatir Qanṭara, pl. Qanáṭir arched bridge, stone bridge; vault, arch; archway, arcade; arches, viaduct, aqueduct (especially pl.); dam, weir. al-Qanṭara is a north-eastern Egyptian city on the western side of the Suez Canal located in the Egyptian governorate of Ismailia, 160 km north-east of Cairo and 50 km south of Port Said. Known as Kantara by the British during the First World War.
Qanun fi’t-Tibb, Qanun fi at-Tibb al-Qánún fi’ṭ-Ṭibb, Ar. al-Qánún fí aṭ-Ṭibb “The Canon of Medicine” by Avicenna. A 5 vol. encyclopedia of medicine.
Qanun, Qawanin Qánún, pl. Qawánín canon; established principle, basic rule, axiom, norm, regulation, rule, ordinance, prescript, precept, statute; law; code; tax, impost
Qapu Qápú Azerbaijani, gate. ‘Álí Qápú Palace is an imperial palace in Iṣfahán.
Qara (Ghara) Qará Turkish. black
Qara-Gawhar, Qara-Guhar Qará-Gawhar, Qará-Guhar “Black pearl or gem”, name given to a 51 kg chain, one of two dreadful chains (the other was Salásil) placed on Bahá’u’lláh in the Black Pit of Ṭihrán. See silsila and síyáh-chál
Qarab, Qaraba Qarab, fem. Qarába[h or t] (pl. fem. qarábát) near; fem. relation, relationship, kinship. Súrih of Qarábat by the Báb
Qara, Qurra Qárá, pl. Qurrá reciter(s) of the Qur’án by heart
Qarabagh, Qarah Bagh Qarabágh (Qarah Bágh) district 56 km SW of Ghazní, 128 km SW of Kabul, in eastern Afghánistán
Qarad Qarad Pers. being corroded, worm-eaten (leather); being silent (especially from an impediment in speech); being crisp and curly (hair); being matted and impacted (wool); palm-branches stripped of their leaves; being small (teeth); being spoiled in flavour; tautology. Ar. “monkey”. Skirmish of Dhú Qarad (a reservoir or well, skirmish also named al Ghábah, possibly 24.562517, 39.606828) three days before the battle of Khaybar. Located just north of Medina.
Qarad, Qarrad Qarád (قراد) possibly should be qarrád (قرّاد), “a keeper or trainer of monkeys”; or qurád (قراد), “tick”
Qaraguzlu, Qarah-Guzlu, Karagozlu Qaraguzlú, Qarah-Guzlú, Karagözlú T. “black-eyed”. Turkish tribe, a large number live in Hamadán.
Qarah Darrah Qarah Darrah a village in Khuristan, Zanjan or Fars Provinces
Qarah Tabbah (Qarah Tapah, Qarih-Tapih) Qarah Tabbah town in Iraq 28 km NNW of Jalula (Jalawlá) and 68 km NSW of the town of Kifrí. Bahá’u’lláh passed here enroute to Istanbul.
Qarar, Qararat Qarár, pl. Qarárát sedentariness, fixedness, fixity; firmness, solidity; steadiness, constancy, continuance, permanency, stability; repose, rest, stillness; duration; abode, dwelling, habitation; residence; resting place; bottom (e.g., of a receptacle); depth (of the sea);—pl., decision, resolution
Qarasha (Qarsh) Qarasha (Qarsh) to gnash, grind (one’s teeth); to nibble, crunch, chew (something). Derivatives Qirsh and Quraysh.
Qard (Qadh), Qird, Qurud Qarḍ (Qirḍ), pl. Qirḍ loan; “to cut”, because historically the lender cut off part of his or her property to give to the borrower as a loan
Qard al-Hasan Qarḍ al-Ḥasan benevolent lending; interest-free loan with unstipulated due date (repaid at the pleasure of the borrower). Hence, can be translated as a loan that is a good deed or charitable act. Ḥasan is derived from Iḥsán (“splendid or beautiful”). Term is translated as “loan on benevolent terms” in Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 132.
Qarh, Qarha, Quruh, Qirah Qarḥ, pl. Qurúḥ (fem. qarḥa, pl. qiraḥ) ulcer, sore; abscess, boil
Qari’, Qari’un, Qurra’ Qári’, pl. Qári’ún, Qurrá’ intoner, reciter or reader (especially of the Qur’án); the appointed time (of anything, especially of a periodical wind to blow); devout, pure, holy
Qari’a, Qawari’ Qári‘a(h), pl. Qawári‘ (sudden) misfortune, calamity; adversity. al Qári‘ah, the Great Calamity, Súra 101.
Qarin Qarín, pl. Quraná’ connected, joined, linked, combined, united, associated, affiliated; companion, mate, fellow, associate, comrade; husband, spouse, consort
Qarmat Qarmaṭ “to make the lines close together in writing” or “to walk with short steps”. See muqarmaṭ
Qarmati, Qaramita Qarmaṭí, pl. Qarámiṭa(t) Carmathian, Qarmathian or Karmathian; members of a very fanatic and syncretic branch of Sevener Ismá‘ílí Shí‘á Islám. Mubárak, was an accomplished calligrapher, excelling in a názuk style known as muqarmaṭ. For that reason he was entitled Muqarmaṭwayh. Thus the appellation Qarmaṭí and its westernized form, Carmathian, are derived from the muqarmaṭ style of calligraphy. People accepting the teachings of ‘Abdu’lláh ibn Maymún and Mubárak were called Mubárakís or Qarmaṭís (of the Qarmaṭíya sect). Names of other founders have been suggested.
Qarn, Qurun Qarn, pl. Qurún horn (of an animal; as a wind instrument); feeler, tentacle, antenna; top, summit, peak (of a mountain); the first visible part of the rising sun; capsule, pod (botany); century. See qirán.
Qarshi Qarshí (Uzbek; Persian: Nakhshab; Russian: Karshi) is a city in southern Uzbekistan. Originally the Sogdian city of Nakhshab, and the Islamic Uzbek (Turkic) city of Nasaf, and the Mongol city of Qarshi (pronounced Kharsh), Qarshí was the second city of the Emirate of Bukhárá.
Qarun Qárún mentioned in the Qur’án, believed to be the son of Moses’ paternal uncle, the Korah (Korah son of Esau or Korah son of Izhar?) of the Old Testament, and proverbial for his wealth and avarice.
Qarya, Quran Qarya(h or t), pl. Quran, Pers. Qurá village; hamlet; small town; rural community
Qasa (Qais, Qays, Qiyas) Qása (Qais, Qays, Qiyás) to measure, gauge
Qasam (Kasam, Kassam), Aqsam Qasam, pl. Aqsám oath
Qasas Qaṣaṣ clippings, cuttings, chips, snips, shreds, narrative, tale, story. Also to relate, narrate, tell (to someone something)
Qasd Qaṣd endeavour, aspiration, intention, intent; design, purpose, resolution; object, goal, aim, end; frugality; thrift, economy. biʼl-qaṣd, on purpose, designedly.
Qashqa’i Qashqá’í clans of Turkic ethnic origin
Qasi, Qusat Qásí, pl. Qusát Pers. hard; severe
Qasid Qaṣíd aspired, desired, aimed at, intended; faultless, without defects (of a poem)
Qasida Lamiya, Qasidiy-i-Lamiyyih al-Qaṣída al-Lámíya Pers. Qaṣídiy-i-Lámíyyih ode with lám as the last consonant on each line
Qasida at-Ta’iya, Qasidiy-i-Ta’iyyih al-Qaṣída at-Tá’íya (Pers. Qaṣídiy-i-Tá’íyyih) ode with tá’ as the last consonant on each line
Qasida, Qasa’id (Kasida) Qaṣída(h), pl. Qaṣá’id “intention”; a poem, or elegy being a kind of longer ghazal; an ode; a staff, rod; a fat she-camel. An ancient Arabic poem having, as a rule, a rigid tripartite structure. The verses have uniform length and rhyme. Therefore, poems are often named with reference to their end of line rhyming letter, e.g. ‘ayníya, lamíya (ending in the letter lám), Núníya, etc.
Qasidah al-Warqa’iya Qaṣídah al-Warqá’íya (Pers. Qaṣídiy-i-Varqá’iyyah, “Qasidiy-i-Varqa’iyyah”) “Ode of the Dove” by Bahá’u’lláh in Arabic
Qasim Qásim divider; distributor; divisor, denominator (mathematics)
Qasim (Qassim) Qaṣím easily broken, brittle, fragile. al-Qaṣím, Saudi Arabian province in the centre of the Arabian peninsula.
Qasir, Qasira, Qisar, Qisara Qaṣír, fem. Qaṣíra(t), pl. Qiṣár, fem. (fem. pl. qiṣára(t)) short; small, short (of stature), low
Qasr (1) Qaṣr shortness, brevity; smallness; incapability, inability; insufficiency, inadequacy; laxity, slackness, negligence, neglectfulness; indolence, inertness, laziness; shortening, curtailment, abridgment, reduction, diminution; limitation, restriction, confinement (to)
Qasr (2) (Kassre), Qusu Qaṣr, pl. Quṣúr castle; palace; palais. Also a citadel, villa, any imposing building or structure, e.g. Qaṣr Mazra‘ih. Bahjí (built by ‘Údí Khammár) is sometimes called Qaṣr Bahjí (Mansion of Delight). Qaṣr al-‘Adlíya (Morocan) palace of justice, courthouse. Quṣúr also means incapability, inability; insufficiency, inadequacy; deficiency (defect, default), shortcoming, lack; reduction, diminution (falling in price, falling short), decrease; slackness, laxity, negligence, neglectfulness; indolence, inertness, laziness; legal minority; failing; inaccuracy, incorrectness; error, sin, fault. Hence, “Dwellest thou in palaces” in Tablet to Pope Pius IX, SLH p. 54, can also be translated as “Dwellest thou in sin”.
Qasr-i-Shirin Qaṣr-i-Shírín
Qass Qaṣṣ following (the footsteps of another); shaving, shearing, paring the nails; cutting (the hair); clipping the wings of a bird; bringing one near to death’s door; being on the point of death
Qass, Qiss, Qusus Qass, Qiss, pl. Qusús, Qusus priest, presbyter, clergyman, minister, parson, vicar, curate, pastor (Christian)
Qassab, Qassabchi Qaṣṣáb a blower of a flute or a pipe; a butcher. Qaṣṣábchí (chí, Turkish ending indicating geographic location or profession)
Qat’i Qaṭ‘í decided, definite, positive; final, definitive
Qat’iya Qaṭ‘íya certainty, definiteness, positiveness. Those who are certain.
Qat’iyan Qaṭ‘íyan decidedly, definitely, emphatically, categorically
Qatil, Qatla Qatíl, pl. Qatlá killed; killed in battle, fallen; one killed in battle, casualty. Qurratu’l-‘Ayn called Sayyid Káẓim “al-Qatíl” (the killed one)—he died in Karbalá in AH 1259/CE 1843—it is believed he was poisoned.
Qatr, Qitar Qaṭr, pl. Qiṭár dripping, dribbling, dribble, trickling, trickle;—pl. drops, driblets; rain
Qatra, Qatarat Qaṭra[h or t], pl. Qaṭarát (nomen unitatis of qaṭr) drop (also as a medicine).
Qatruya (Qatruyeh), Qatayrat Qaṭruya[h or t], pl. Qaṭruyát (diminutive of qaṭrat) droplet, driblet. Qaṭruyah (Pers. Quṭruyih or “Quṭrih”) is a city (29.146257, 54.701239) 37 km east of Nayríz.
Qawa’id al-‘Aqa’id Qawá’id al-‘Aqá’id the ‘foundations of (Islamic) belief’
Qawam (Qavam) Qawám upright posture, erect bearing; straightness; stature, physique, build, frame; figure, body (of a person); rightness, properness, proper condition, normal state; strength, vigor, stamina; firmness, consistency; support, stay, prop; livelihood, living
Qawam al-Mulk, Qavamu’l-Mulk Qawám al-Mulk, Pers. Qavámu’l-Mulk
Qawiy, Aqwiya’ Qawíy, pl. Aqwiyá’ strong; potent; vigorous; potent; potent; potent; mighty, powerful, forceful; potent; intense, violent, vehement; firm, solid, robust, hardy, sturdy
Qawl (Qaul), Aqwal, Aqawil Qawl, pl. Aqwál, Aqáwíl word, speech, saying, utterance, remark; statement, declaration; report, account; doctrine, teaching;—pl. aqwál testimony (in court);—pl. aqáwíl sayings, locutions; proverbs. Qul, 2nd person, singular, masculine, imperative “Say!” (thou). Used as a command from God to Muḥammad (in the Qur’án) to inform the people.
Qawlawayh (Qawlavayh, Qulawayh) Qawlawayh, Qúlawayh (Qúlúya) Persian historian Abu’l-Qásim Ja‘far bin Muḥammad bin Ja‘far bin Muṣ‘ab Ja‘far b. Muḥammad, better known as ibn Qawlawayh or ibn Qúlawayh
Qawm (Qaum), Aqwam Qawm, pl. Aqwám fellow tribesmen, kinsfolk, kin, kindred; tribe, race, people, nation; people. e.g. “qawm Lúṭ” used 11 times in Qur’án (“people of Lot”)
Qaws (Qaus), Aqwas, Qusiy, Qisiy Qaws m. and f., pl. Aqwás, Qusíy, Qisíy bow, longbow; arc (geometry); arch, vault (architecture; of a bridge); violin bows, fiddlestick; semicircular table
Qaws-i-Nuzul, Qaws-i-‘Uruj Qaws-i-Nuzúl, Qaws-i-‘Urúj 1. Qaws-i-Nuzúl (arc of descent), Bahá’í: Will (Mashíyat), Determination (Irádah), Destiny (Qadar), Decree (Qaḍá’), Permission (Idhn), Term (Ajal), and Book (Kitáb).
2. Qaws-i-‘Urúj (or Qaws aṣ-ṣu‘úd), Arc of ascent, Bahá’í: arc of ascent: valley of search, the valley of love, the valley of knowledge, the valley of unity, the valley of contentment, the valley of wonderment, and the valley of true poverty and absolute nothingness. See Maqám-i-Nuzúl, Maqám-i-‘Urúj
Qawwas Qawwás bowmaker; bowman, archer; kavass (Turkish armed guard), consular guard
Qayrawan, Qayrawanat Qayrawán, pl. Qayrawánát (“Qairawan, Kairouan”) caravan. al-Qayrawán, northern Tunisian city.
Qays (Qais) Qays measuring one thing by another, comparing, estimating; name of the father of a tribe; also of the tribe itself; also of a city in Egypt, and of an island in the sea of ‘Umán
Qaysar (Qaisar), Qayasir Qayṣar, pl. Qayáṣir, Qayáṣira Caesar; emperor, kaiser; tsar
Qayyim Qayyim valuable, precious; straight, right; caretaker, curator, custodian, superintendent; al-qayyima the true faith
Qayyum (Qaiyum), Qayyuma Qayyúm, Qayyúma[h or t] permanent, lasting; stable, fixed, steady; peerless, matchless; the everlasting, the eternal (“Self sufficient, Self-subsisting”—God); an appraiser, valuer; the guardian. Superlative of Qá’im [the Báb], the Most Great One Who will arise [Bahá’u’lláh] “Verily I say, after the Qá’im [the Báb] the Qayyúm [Bahá’u’lláh] will be made manifest. For when the star of the Former has set, the sun of the Beauty of Ḥusayn will rise ….” Dawn-Breakers, p. 41. fem. guardianship.
Qayyumiya (Qaiyumiya) Qayyúmíya[h or t] permanency, stability
Qayyumu’l-Asma’ Qayyúmu’l-Asmá’ or Qayyúm-i-Asmá’ “The Self-Subsisting Lord of All Names”—the Báb’s commentary on Súra 12 Yúsuf. A title primarily referring to the “Greatest Name”, i.e. Bahá’u’lláh.
Qazim Qáẓim Should be Káẓim
Qazwin (Qasvin, Ghasvin) Qazwín (also Qazvín) a city 140 km NW of Ṭihrán. The Casbeen of Milton’s Paradise Lost.
Qazwini (Qazvini, Ghazvini) Qazwíní (also Qazvíní) of or from Qazwín. Mírzá Munír Nabíl Zádih-i-Qazvíní.
Qibla, Qiblih, Qiblatayn Qibla[h or t], Pers. also Qiblih anything opposite; that part to which people direct their prayers, direction to which Muslims turn in praying (towards the Ka‘ba, the Point of Adoration for Muslims); recess in a mosque indicating the direction of the Ka‘ba, prayer niche. English kiblah. The Most Holy Tomb of Bahá’u’lláh at Bahjí is “the Heart and Qiblih of the Bahá’í world” GPB 110, 277. Qiblatayn, dual, i.e. Mecca and Jerusalem (the latter having not only been the Christian Qibla, but also originally that of the Muslims; till their prophet, to conciliate the goodwill of his fellow-citizens, changed it to Mecca in the second year of the Hijra).
Qibliy-i-‘Alam Qibliy-i-‘Álam “Centre of the Universe” (DB xxxviii) a title of a Qájár Sháh
Qibt, Qubt, Aqbat al-Qibṭ, al-Qubṭ, pl. al-Aqbáṭ The Copts (from Coptic language), an ethno-religious (mainly Christian) group native to north Africa (mainly in Egypt, Sudan and Libya)—they are the original inhabitants of Egypt, in contrast to sibṭ, the Hebrew settlers. Copt originally referred to all Egyptians, later it became synonymous with native Christians in light of Egypt's Islamisation and Arabisation after the Muslim conquest of Egypt in the 7th century. About 90% of Egyptians are Muslims, and about 15% are of Arab origin. Very few Jews (Sibṭ) remain in Egypt. See Sibṭ.
Qibti, Qubti Qibṭí, Qubṭí, fem. Qibṭíya(h), pl. Qabáṭí Egyptian (not of Arabic descent), Coptic; Copt (from Greek). Máríah bint Sham‘ún, better known as Máríah al-Qibṭíya, or Maria the Copt (d. 637).
Qidam Qidam time long since put, old times; remote antiquity, time immemorial; oldness; ancientness; infinite pre-existence, sempiternity (eternity), timelessness (of God); seniority
Qilij Qilij Turkish kılıç, pl. kılıçlar; a one-handed, single-edged and curved scimitar. Qilij Arslán; Turkish Kılıç Arslan or Kılıçarslan, literally “Sword lion” (1079–1107) was the Seljuq Sultan of Rum from 1092 until his death.
Qindil, Qanadil Qindíl, pl. Qanádíl lamp; candlestick; candelabrum
Qiran Qirán close union, close connection: conjunction (astronomy); marriage, wedding. Persian coin used between 1825 and 1932. One túmán = 10 qirán. (pl. of qarn) small hills summits of mountains.
Qirat, Qararit Qíráṭ, pl. Qaráríṭ a carat (weight); a dry measure; a square measure
Qirsh, Qurush Qirsh, pl. Qurúsh shark (zool.); (pl.) piaster (currency)
Qisas Qiṣáṣ requital, reprisal, retaliation; punishment, castigation, chastisement; accounting, clearing, settlement of accounts
Qisasi, Qasasi, Qisasyun Qiṣaṣí, Qaṣaṣí, pl. Qiṣaṣyún narrative, epic; (pl.) storyteller, writer of fiction, novelist, romancer
Qisasu’l-‘Ulama’ Qiṣaṣu’l-‘Ulamá’ biography of Shí‘í scholars by Tunukábaní
Qishla, Qishlaq (Qeshlaq, Kishlak) Qishlá, Qishláq, Qishlaq (“Qeshlag”, “Qeshlagh”) Turkish from kışlak. A warm place where kings, etc, pass the winter; winter-quarters. There are many such places in Írán. Qishláq of Núr is Tunikábun County on the Caspian Sea coast, see Tunukában.
Qishr, Qishra, Qushur Qishr, fem. Qishra[h or t], pl. Qushúr cover(ing), integument, envelope; shell; peel; rind, bark; skin, crust; scab; scurf; hull, husk, shuck; scales (of fish); slough (of a snake);—pl. trash, garbage, refuse; trivialities, banalities; externals, superficialities, formalities; dandruff
Qishri Qish scaly, scurfy, scabrous, squamous; crustaceous; superficial
Qism, Aqsam Qism, pl. Aqsám part, share, allotment; portion; division, compartment; section; department; group, class; district, precinct; police precinct, police station (Egypt); administrative subdivision of a muḥáfaẓa (Egypt); subcommittee; kind, sort, specimen, species
Qisma (Kismet), Qisam Qisma(t), pl. Qismát, Qisam dividing, division, distribution, allotment, apportionment; (mathematics) division (by);—(pl. qisam) part, portion, share, allotment; lot, destiny, fate (foreordained by God)
Qissa, Qisas Qiṣṣa, pl. Qiṣaṣ manner of cutting; cut; (pl.) narrative, tale, story
Qistas al-Mustaqim al-Qisṭás al-Mustaqím True Balance (Qur’án 17:35, 26:182)
Qital Qitál fight, struggle, contention (against); combat, strife, battle. See jihád
Qiyama, Qiyamah, Qiyamat Qiyáma(h or t) resurrection; tumult, turmoil, upheaval, revolution, overthrow; guardianship. At the end of time, the Qiyáma of bodies follows the annihilation of all creatures and precedes the Day of Judgement. Qur’án 75: al-Qíyámat (“The resurrection”). In Bábí doctrine, it is the termination of a prophetic cycle and the start of a new one.
Qiyas Qiyás analogical deduction
Quba’ Qubá’ Former village (24.439296, 39.617262) 3.5 km south of the centre of al-Masjid an-Nabawí, Mecca. Site of first mosque built by Muḥammad.
Qubba (Kubba), Qibab, Qubab Qubba[h or t], pl. Qibáb, Qubab (originally a tent of hides in a circle)
a tent, tabernacle; cupola, dome; cupolaed structure, dome-shaped edifice;
domed shrine, memorial shrine (especially of a saint)
Qubbat al-Khadra’ Qubbat al-Khaḍrá’ “green dome”, name given to the horse mounted formation of Muḥammad and His escort wearing shiny green coats of arms (CE 630) en route to Mecca. Qubbah al-Khaḍrá’ was built above the tomb of Muḥammad and early Muslim Caliphs, Abú Bakr and ‘Umar. The dome is now in the SE corner of the expanded al-Masjid an-Nabawí (Mosque of the Prophet), located in the traditional centre of Medina.
Qubbata’s-Sakhrah Qubbata’ṣ-Ṣakhrah Dome of the Rock, on the “Temple Mount”, Jerusalem
Quch ch Pers. a horned fighting-ram; a buck
Quch-Hisar Qúch-Ḥiṣár Pers. “ram fence”, a former village (35.547045, 51.445648), about 10 km SSE of the centre of Ṭihrán (in Ray district), which was once owned by Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’u’lláh transferred the title to a sister of Muḥammad Sháh to avoid Ḥájí Mírzá Áqásí purchasing it.
Quchan chán city and capital of Qúchán County, NE Írán; 90 km south of the border city of Ashkhabad (Ashqábád). Sometimes called Khabúshán, also name of a village 30 km NW of Qúchán. Old Qúchán (37.131218, 58.486137) was destroyed (with a huge loss of life) by an earthquake on 17 November 1893 and again 17 January 1895. City was moved 3.5 km SE.
Quddus, Qaddus Quddús, Qaddús most holy, All-Holy (God). al-Quddús “The Most Holy” One. The title of Muḥammad-‘Alí of Bárfurúsh, last of the 18 Letters of the Living, second only to the Báb in rank among the Bábís. Father was Áqá Muḥammad Ṣáliḥ. Quddús was martyred in 1849 in the Sabz-i-Maydán (“green square”) of Bárfurúsh.
Qudra (Qudrat) Qudra(t) faculty (of), being able; power, strength (for); capacity, ability, capability, aptitude, potency; prowess, courage, audacity; one of the attributes of God, omnipotence (of God), providence, prescience; the creation, universe, nature; destiny
Qudratu’llah Qudratu’lláh “Power of God”
Quds, Qudus, Aqdas Quds, Qudus, pl. Aqdás holiness, sacredness, sanctity;—pl. sanctuary, shrine
Qudsi, Qudsiyan Qudsí, pl. Qudsiyán holy, sacred; saintly; saint
Qudsiya (Ghodsia, Ghodsieh), Qudsiyyih Qudsíya[h or t], Pers. Qudsiyyih holiness, sacredness, sanctity; saintliness
Quffa (Quffih), Qufaf Quffa[h or t], pl. Qufa large basket; (Mesopotamian) round boat, gufa (Iraqi)
Quhaf, Quhafa Quḥáf, fem. Quḥáfa[h or t] torrential (river). ‘Uthmán ‘Abú Quḥáfah ibn ‘Ámir (CE 540–635), father of the first Ráshidūn caliph, Abú Bakr.
Quhistan, Kuhistan Quhistán, also Kuhistán Pers. “mountainous land”. Name of many places/regions in Afghánistán, Pákistán and Tajikistan, including a region of medieval Persia, the southern part of the Greater Khorasan Province (see Khurásán).
Qulam-‘Ali Qulám-‘Alí
Qulam-‘Aliy-i-Najjar Qulám-‘Alíy-i-Najjár (MF)
Qulam-Husayn Qulám-Ḥusayn
Qulhak (Qolhak or Gholhak) Qulhak (Gholo-hak or Gulahek)—once a village (35.773919, 51.444023) and one of the well-known and delightful summer resorts of Ṭihrán [now District 3 in the NE of the city]
Quli (Ghuli, Gholi, Kuli) Qulí “son of”
Quli Khan ‘Alí-Qulí Khán Better known as Ali-Kuli Khan. In the early days the nom-de-plume Eshte’al al-Ebn Kalanter (Ishti‘ál Ibn-i-Kalántar) was used in his writings and translations.
Quliy-i-Sabziwari Qulíy-i-Sabziwárí Mírzá Muḥammad Qulíy-i-Sabziwárí, a mujtahid of Yazd who was martyed
Qum (Ghom, Gom), Qumm Qum holy city 130 km SSW of Ṭihrán, location of the Shrine of Ma’ṣúmih, the sister of Imám Riṣá, the eighth Imám
Qumi (Ghomi, Gomi), Qummi Qumí (Qummí) from Qum
Qumrud, Qomrud Qumrúd village 20 km NE Qum (34.725643, 51.072090)
Qumruq-Kilisa Qumruq-Kilísá village, near or now in Edirne (Memorials of the Faithful, p. 63). Turkish Gümrük Kilise?
Quni (Kuni) Quni a small village (38.002721, 44.705264) in West Azerbaijan Province.
Quniyah Qúníyah Turkish. Konya is a city (37.873514, 32.490676) in central Anatolia.
Qununlu (Aq or Qara), Qoyunlu, Koyunlu Áq Quyúnlú or Qará Quyúnlú Turkish/Persian. Áq Quyúnlú also called the “White Sheep Turkomans” (Turkish Türkmen), was a Persianate Sunní Turkoman tribal confederation that ruled parts of present-day eastern Türkiye from 1378 to 1501, and in their last decades also ruled Armenia, Azerbaijan, most of Írán, and ‘Iráq. Qará Quyúnlú also called the Black Sheep Turkomans were a Muslim Turkoman monarchy that ruled over the territory comprising present-day Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia, north-western Iran, eastern Türkiye, and north-eastern ‘Iráq from about 1374 to 1468.
Qur’an, Mashaf Qur’án (“plural”, see Maṣḥaf) recitation, reading, the word (“The Reading, or the Book that ought to be Read”. Titled, “The Perspicuous Book”). The Qur’án is meant to be recited. Its verses are divided according to the rhythm of the language. Therefore, Qur’anic recitation guides (indicated by various marks) is based on the structure (or the syntax of the sentence) and the need to pause, for breath or for effect. Imám ‘Alí explains that al-Qur’án is the essence of all Holy Books and the essence of al-Qur’án is contained in its first chapter. Further, the essence of the first chapter is in the first verse, and the essence of the first verse is in the first letter, B. The duration of the cycle of al-Qur’án (Islám) is 1,260 years. English Qur’an or Koran. See Furqán, maṣḥaf (a PHYSICAL, written copy of the Qur’án), nuskha, tajwíd.
Qur’ani, Qur’anic Qur’ání (adjective) of or pertaining to the Qur’an (min al-Qur’án). English Qur’anic.
Qurashi Qurashí of, pertaining to, or belonging to the Quraysh (Koreish) tribe; Qurayshite (Koreishite)
Qurayn (Qurain) Qurayn interchangeable with Qarn, which roughly corresponds to sandy, flat hillock. al-Qurayn (25.483768, 49.597740) is a small village 12 km north of al-Hufúf in the Wáḥat al-Aḥsá’ region. Shaykh Aḥmad al-Aḥsá’í studied in the village as a young boy.
Quraysh (Quraish) Quraysh “Koreish”, dim. of qarasha (“shark”), name of an Arab tribe in ancient Mecca (that of Muḥammad)
Qurayza (Quraiza, Koreiza), Quraytha Qurayẓa(h or t) Banú Qurayẓa (“Qurayzih”) a Jewish tribe at the oasis of Khaybar (Khaibar), 138 km north of Medina. Battle of Khaybar CE 628.
Qurba Qurbá relation, relationship, kinship (Qur’án 42:23 refers to respect or love of all relatives)
Qurban-‘Ali-i-Banna Qurbán-‘Alíy-i-Banná DB 421
Qurban, pl. Qarabin Qurbán, pl. Qarábín (Ghorban) sacrifice, offering, immolation, oblation; Mass (Christian); Eucharist (Christian). Qurbán Khán was the father of Mírzá Taqí Khán.
Qurbanpur Qurbánpúr Amínu’lláh Qurbánpúr
Qurrat Qurrat being cool and cheerful (eye); being charmed by the sight of a beloved object (the same); joy, gladness
Qurrat al-‘Ayn, Qurratu’l-‘Ayn Qurrat al-‘Ayn, Pers. Qurratu’l-‘Ayn onsolation for the eye; delight of the eye; joy, pleasure, delight; darling. “Solace of the Eyes”—title given by Siyyid Káẓim to Fáṭimih umm-i-Salamih of Qazvín (Ṭáhirih—the Pure One and Zarrín-Táf—Crown of Gold).
Qurrat al-‘Ayni, Qurratu’l-i-‘Ayni Qurrat al-‘Ayní, Pers. Qurratu’l-i-‘Ayní “Solace of my eyes”, name given to Ṭáhirih by her teacher, Siyyid Káẓim.
Qurratíya Qurratíya Qurratis, followers of Qurrat-i-‘Ayn
Qusayy (Qusai, Kusayy or Cossai) Quṣayy Quṣayy ibn Kiláb ibn Murrah; c. 400–480, was an Ishmaelite descendant of the Prophet Abraham, orphaned early on he would rise to become King of Makkah, and leader of the Quraysh tribe. He is best known for being an ancestor of the Prophet Muḥammad.
Qustas, Qistas, Qasatis Qusṭás, Qisṭás, pl. Qasáṭís balance, scales
Qutb ad-Din Quṭb ad-Dín pivot or axis of the faith
Qutb ad-Din Haydar Quṭb ad-Dín Ḥaydar 10-11th century Persian Sufi mystic and founder of the mystic Ḥaydaríya sect
Qutb al-Aqtab Quṭb al-Aqṭáb “Axis of the Axes”, a description applied to Mullá Ḥusayn
Qutb, Aqtab Quṭb, pl. Aqṭab axis, axle; pole (astronomy, geography, electricity); pivot; leader; authority, leading personality, celebrity (chiefly used in the plural). Quṭb, is one of the highest titles of Sufism and Muḥammad assumes the title of quṭb al-aqṭab (pole of the poles or the major polestar). Quṭb ar-raḥá pivot (of something; figuratively.)
Qutr, Aqtar Quṭr, pl. Aqṭar region, quarter; district, section; tract of land; zone; country, land; diameter (of a circle); diagonal; calibre, bore (of a tube)
Qutrih Quṭrih Qatruyeh, city 37 km east of Nayríz
Quwa, Quwat, Quwan Qúwa(h or t), pl. Qúwát, Quwan strength; vigour; potency; power, force; intensity; violence, vehemence; courage, pluck; faculty, ability, capability, aptitude; efficacy, efficiency, potential; (electric) energy, power, capacity, output; armed force, troop;—qúwát armed forces; troops. biʼl-qúwa(h or t), with power, powerfully, vigorously.
Quzih-Kuh Qúzih-Kúh may refer to a part of the mountain range to the south of Bavánát
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• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
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• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
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• Qur’anic “names” of God
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• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
R
Ra Rá’ Arabic letter
Ra’a, Yara, Ra’y, Ru’ya Ra’á, Yará, Ra’y, Ru’ya to see; to behold, descry, perceive, notice, observe, discern (something); to look (at something as), regard (something as), consider, deem, think (something to be ...); to judge; to be of the opinion (that), believe, think (that); to express ones opinion; to feel (that); to deem appropriate, think proper (something), decide (on something, to do something); to consider, contemplate
Ra’d, Ru’ud Ra‘d, pl. Ru‘úd thunder
Ra’f, Ra’fat Ra’f, Ra’fat Pers. pitying; being kind and compassionate; bounty. Hence, ra’fatí
Ra’id, Ruwwad Rá’id, pl. Ruwwád visitor; scout, reconnoiterer; boy scout; explorer, pioneer; leader; precept, guiding principle. rule (of conduct)
Ra’in Rá‘in, pl. Ru‘áh, Ru‘yán, Ru‘á’, Ri‘á’ shepherd, herdsman; guardian, keeper, protector; patron, sponsor; pastor (Christian)
Ra’ina Rá‘iná (a form of address coined by the companions of the Prophet used in addressing him and it happened to be somewhat homophonous with a Hebrew word meaning ‘evil’; therefore the Muslims were cautioned against using the expression) ‘regard us’, ‘look at us’, ‘listen to us’, ‘have care for us, our shepherd. Qur’án 2:104: “Believers, do not say [to the Prophet] ‘rá‘iná’, but say ‘unẓurná’. See Unẓurná
Ra’is, Ru’asa’ Ra’ís, pl. Ru’asá’ one at the head, or in charge, of; head; chieftain; leader; chief, boss; rais; director; head-master, principal, chairman; governor; president; manager, superintendent; conductor (mus.); superior (as distinguished from subordinate); (mil.) captain
Ra’isa (Raisa, Raissa, Ra’eesah) Ra’ísa[h] (fem. of Ra’ís) manageress; directress; mother superior
Ra’s al-Himar, Sar-i-Khar Ra’s al-Ḥimár, Pers. Sar-i-Khar (Ra’su’l-Ḥimár) ass’s head, someone that cannot be trusted
Ra’s al-Husayn Ra’s al-Ḥusayn head of Ḥuasyn.
Maqám Ra’s al-Ḥusayn, places where Imám al-Ḥusayn’s head is claimed to be buried or kept.
Ra’s, Ru’us, Ar’us Ra’s (m. & f.), pl. Ru’ús, Ar’us head (also as a enumerative of cattle); chief, chieftain, head, leader; upper part, upper end; tip; top, summit, peak; vertex, apex; extremity, end; promontory, headland, cape (geography); main part. Araxes (Ar’us, “Aras”) River forms the NW border of Írán. In Islamic times, the Araxes became known in Arabic parlance as ar-Ra’s. This Arabic name led Muslim’s to connect the Araxes with the Aṣḥáb ar-Ra’s of the Qur’án 25:38, 50:12. ‘Abdu’l-Bahá said the “Companions of Ras” (ar-Ra’s, Aras or Araxes River) refers to Zoroaster and the Zoroastrians. Máh-Kú is to the west and Qal‘ah Chihríq to the SW of the Araxes River. Ra’s al-Krúm (“Ras el-Krum”), the northern point or headland, Haifa (32.834961, 34.985320). “Krúm” (since in Mt. Carmel area) is more likely to be Kurúm.
Ra’uf Ra’úf merciful, compassionate; kind, benevolent; gracious. ar-Ra’úf divine name the Compassionate
Ra’y (Ray, Rai), Ara’ Ra’y, Pers. Ráy (variation), pl. Árá’ opinion, view; idea, notion, concept, conception; advice, suggestion, proposal; (Islamic Law) subjective opinion, decision hued on one’s individual judgement (not on the Qur’án and Sunna). Persian variation of the meaning for road, path.
Raba, Rubuw Rabá (Rabá’, Rubúw) to increase; to grow; to grow up; to exceed, (a number) Form II to make or let grow; to raise, rear, bring up (someone); to educate; to teach, instruct (a child); to breed, raise (e.g., poultry, cattle); to develop (e.g., a method) Form III to practice usury Form IV to make grow, augment, increase (something); to exceed (a number, an age, a measure) Form V to be brought up, be educated; to be bred, be raised. See Riban
Rabah Rabáḥ gain, profit; a kind of cat
Rabb al-A’la, Rabb-i-A’la Rabb al-A‘lá, Pers. Rabb-i-A‘lá “Lord the Most High” or “Exalted Lord” (a designation of the Báb)
Rabb, Arbab Rabb, pl. Arbáb lord; master; owner, proprietor (Isl. Law); (with following genitive) one possessed of, endowed with, having to do with, etc. (the Lord = God)
Rabba, Rabbat Rabba(t), pl. Rabbát mistress; lady
Rabbani Rabbání divine, godly; pertaining to God; a doctor of divinity. Surname given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to Shoghi Effendi to distinguish him from his cousins (see Afnán and Shahíd). See Priceless Pearl, p. 17. Also used by his siblings: Ḥusayn, Riyáḍ (Riad), Rúḥangíz and Mihrangíz.
Rabbi Rabbí my lord
Rabbihi Rabbihí His Lord. Aḥmad ibn Muḥammad ibn ‘Abd Rabbihí, al-‘Iqd al-Faríd (The Precious (Priceless or Unique) Necklace)
Rabbiya’l-Abha Rabbíya’l-Abhá “My Lord, the Most Glorious”
Rabi’ Rabí‘ spring, springtime, vernal season; name of the third and fourth months of the Muslim year
Rabi’, Rabi’a Rábi‘, fem. Rábi‘a(h), Pers. Rábi‘ih fourth (fem. fourth “female”); making a fourth. Bahá’u’lláh’s family lived four months with the Rábi‘ih family in ‘Akká. The house is adjacent to the small Shrine of Shaykh Ghánim (the building with two small, green domes, east of bend in SE corner of Salah and Basri St, co-ord. 32.919514, 35.068102).
Rabi’a, Rabaya Rabí‘a[h], pl. Rabáya guard. Brothers Shaybah ibn Rabí‘ah (c. 560–624) and ‘Utbah ibn Rabí‘ah (c. 563–624), and nephew Walíd ibn ‘Utbah were killed in a 3 × 3 match before the Battle of Badr in 624.
Rabi’u’l-Awwal (Rabi’u’l-Avval) Rabí‘u’l-Awwal (Rabí‘u’l-Avval) Third month in Islamic calendar. The first [month] or beginning of spring, referring to its position in the pre-Islamic Arabian calendar.
Rabi’u’th-Thani (Rabi’ al-Athir) Rabí‘u’th-Thání Fourth month in Islamic calendar. (the second/last spring). Also known as Rabí‘ al-Ákhir.
Rabigh Rábigh Rábigh is an ancient town on the Red Sea coast about halfway between Medina and Mecca. It is about 16 km NW of Masjid Míqít al-Juḥfah
Rada, Rawd (Raud) Ráda (Rawd) to walk about, move about, prowl; to look. Form IV to want (something, to do something), wish, have a mind, be willing (to do something); to want to have (something). Form VIII to repair; to explore (something). Aráda want (to), Aradtu, wanted
Radawi, Radavi (Razavi) Raḍawí, Pers. Raḍaví Ústán (province) Raḍawí Khurásán, in the NE of Írán
Radd, Rudud Radd. pl. Rudúd return; restoration, restitution; refund, reimbursement; repayment, requital; repulsion; warding off, parrying; denial, refusal; rejection; reply, answer; reflection (e.g., of light); refutation; attribution (to)
Radi Raḍí content, pleased. See Mahíd
Radi, Radiya Ráḍí, fem. Rádíya[h or t] contented, satisfied, pleased, willing, acquiescent; pleasing, pleasant, agreeable
Rada’u’r-Ruh (Rada’r-Ruh, Rada’ar-Ruh) Ráḍí’u’r-Rúḥ “Contented spirit”, name given to Mullá Muḥammad-Riḍáy-i-Manshádí by Bahá’u’lláh. [Raḍ’ar-Rúḥ, Raḍa’r-Rúḥ and Raḍíur-Rúḥ all appear to be incorrect]
Radifa Rádifa[t] second trumpet blast on Day of Resurrection (Qur’án 39:69)—Bahá’u’lláh
Radiy (Razi), Radiya (Raziya) Ráḍiy, fem. Ráḍiya[h or t] willingly, with pleasure. Pers. fem. also “Ráḍiyyih”.
Radiy, Radiya (Razieh), Ardiya’ Raḍíy, fem. Raḍíya[h or t], pl. Arḍiyá’ satisfied, content; pleasant, agreeable. Pers. fem. also “Raḍíyih”.
Radiya, Ridan, Ridwan, Marda Raḍiya (Riḍan, Riḍwán, Marḍá[h]) to be satisfied, be content. Riḍan (contentment, satisfaction; agreement); Riḍwán (consent, assent, agreement, acceptance, approval, sanction; good will, favour; pleasure, delight). See Marḍáh
Raf’, Rif’a’ Raf‘, fem. Rif‘a[h or t] lifting, hoisting (also, of a flag); elevation; raise, raising, stepping up (of prices, of temperatures, etc.); setting up; erection; abolition; lift, (e.g., of a ban); remedy, elimination, removal; remission (of a tax), abrogation; submission, filing (e.g., of a report);—fem. height, elevation (e.g., of a structure); high rank or standing.
Rafi Ráfi‘ One who raises or exalts (bearer, crane, hoist); adducing; putting in the nominative case; a plaintiff; a high mountain
Rafi-i-Khayyat Rafí‘-i-Khayyáṭ
Rafi, Rafi’a Rafí‘, fem. Rafí‘a(h or t) high, high-ranking; lofty, exalted, sublime; loud (voice, sound); thin, fine, delicate; exquisite, refined, subtle; artistic. Rafí‘ (or Qal‘ih Rafí‘) small village 14 km NSE Sar Púl-i-Zaháb.
Rafi’ ad-Darajat Rafí‘ ad-Daraját The One Who is Exalted in Rank
Rafi’a, Rafa’i’ Rafí‘a(h), pl. Rafá’i‘ legal case brought before the competent authorities; a document submitted to a proper authority
Rafi’i Rafí‘í Ardikán Ḥasan-i-Zádih Rafí‘í, a Knight of Bahá’u’lláh
Rafidi, Arfad Ráfiḍí, pl. Arfáḍ apostate, renegade, turncoat; disloyal, rebellious; bigoted, fanatical
Rafiq, Rufaqa’, Rifaq Rafíq, pl. Rufaqá’, Rifáq companion, attendant; escort; buddy, friend; comrade (in Marxist terminology); associate, partner; accomplice; kind (to), mild, gentle, tender
Rafiqa, Rafiqat Rafíqa, pl. Rafíqát woman companion; girl-friend; sweetheart; mistress, par amour
Rafsanjan (Rafsinjan) Rafsanján city and council in Kirmán province, Írán
Raghib, Raghaba ghib, pl. Raghaba(t) desiring, desirous
Raha, Rahat, Rah Ráḥa, pl. Ráḥát, Ráḥ rest, repose; recreation; ease, leisure; vacation; comfort;—pl. palm of the hand, hand
Raha’, Ruha’ Rahá’, Ruhá’ wide (plain); ar-Ruhá’ or ar-Rahá’, ancient Edessa, now Şanlıurfa
Rahbar Rahbar Pers. a way-guide, escort; demonstration, proof, “leader”
Rahbar-i-Mu’azzam Rahbar-i-Mu‘aẓẓam Pers. “supreme leader”, commonly used as a sign of respect, although the 1989 Iranian constitution simply designates them as “leader” (rahbar)
Rahib Rahíb dreadful, awful, fearful, terrible; solemn, grave
Rahib, Ruhban Ráhib, pl. Ruhbán monk (Christian), a pious person, a devotee, a hermit
Rahiba, Rahibat Ráhiba (fem.), pl. Ráhibát nun (Christian)
Rahil Ráḥíl Rachel
Rahil, Ruhhal, Rahilun Ráḥil, pl. Ruḥḥal departing leaving, parting; traveling; (pl. ráḥilún) deceased, late
Rahim Khan, Rahimkhan Raḥím Khán Saráb-i-Raḥím Khán (Sarab-e Rahim Khan) village (36.800488, 46.296035) in Bukán County, West Azerbaijan Province, Írán. 145 km south Tabríz.
Rahim, Ruhama, Ruhum Raḥím, pl. Ruḥamá’, Ruḥúm merciful, compassionate, one of the names (ar-Raḥím) of God
Rahimiyan Raḥímíyán UHJ 63-86, p. 620
Rahimpur Raḥímpúr Díjaz-i-Raḥím Púr (“Rahim Pur”, “Dizaj-e Rahim Pur”), village, West Azerbaijan Province, Írán. 17 km SSE of Urmia (37.409444, 45.104167)
Rahiq Raḥíq exquisite wine; necta
Rahiq Raḥíq the best wine; nectar; pure, clear, generous (wine); a kind of perfume
Rahiq-i-Makhtum Raḥíq-i-Makhtúm sealed choice wine. A title by A. H. Ishráq-Khávarí. See Maykhána
Rahjird (Rahjerd, Rahgird, Rah Gerd) Ráhjird is a village (34.389203, 50.366349) in Qom County, Qom Province
Rahm (Ruhm) Raḥm Pers. compassion, commiseration
Rahma Raḥma(t) pity, compassion; human understanding, sympathy, kindness; mercy. Pers. A gift of the divine mercy; rain, a woman’s name; pity, compassion, commiseration; pardon, forgiveness.
Rahman Raḥmán merciful, compassionate (God). ar-Raḥmán the Merciful (i.e. God), the Most Gracious. The Báb permitted this phrase to be tattooed on the chest of women, in the most beautiful calligraphy.
Rahmani Raḥmání divine
Rahmatu’llah Raḥmatu’lláh Mercy of God. Raḥmatu’lláh ‘Alá’í (Hájí Mullá Rhamatollah)
Rahnama, Rahanmay, Rahnamun Ráhnamá, Ráhnamáy, Ráhnamún Pers. showing the way; a guide; a chamberlain; a lord, prince
Raja Raja yearning, mystical station of yearning or longing for divine grace
Raja’a, Rija’a, Ruju, Raj’a, Rij’a Raja‘a(h), Rij‘a(t), Rujú‘, Pers. Raj‘a(h) to come back, come again, return; to resort, turn (to); begin again, resume (the return of a specific person in a future time). e.g. Rij‘at-Ḥusayní (Imám Ḥusayn)
Raja’i (Rajaei, Rajaee, Rajai) Rajá‘í Pers. (Turkish Reçai) is a given name and surname
Rajab-i-Haddad Rajab-i-Ḥaddád DB 487
Rajaba, Rajiba, Rajab Rajaba, Rajiba (varn. Rajab) to be afraid, be awed (respect, honour). Rajab is seventh month in Islamic calendar
Rajfa Rajfa(t) (nomen vicis) trepidation, tremor; shudder, shiver; agitation, earthquake
Rajifa Rájifa(t) first trumpet blast on Day of Resurrection (Qur’án 39:69)—the Báb
Rajm, Rujam Rajm, pl. Rujam stoning;—pl. missile. The Qur’án does not prescribe stoning as a punishment for any crime.
Rajul, Rijal, Rijalat Rajul, pl. Rijál man;—(pl. rijálát) great, important men, leading personalities, men of distinction. See Imra’.
Rak’a, Raka’at Rak‘a(h), (variation Rukú‘), pl. Raka‘át a bending of the torso from an upright position, followed by two prostrations (in Muslim prayer ritual). The recitation of specifically revealed verses accompanied by a prescribed set of genuflections and other movements. Yarka‘ imperfect form of the verb.
Raka’a, Ruku’, Ruku’at Raka‘a, Rukú‘ 1. to bend the body, bow (especially in prayer); to kneel down, drop to one’s knees.
2. Rukú‘ (pl. ruku‘át) can also roughly mean passage, periscope or stanza—it is used to denote a group of thematically related verses in the Qur’án. Longer chapters (surá) in the Qur’án are usually divided into several ruku‘át, so that the reciters could identify when to make rukú‘ in Ṣaláh without breaking an ongoing topic in the Quranic text. There are 558 ruku‘át in the Qur’án. Yarka‘ imperfect form of the verb.
Rakhsh Rakhsh Pers. lightning; the rainbow; reflection of light; a mixture of red and white; a face marked with moles; a mottled or partridge-coloured horse; swift; a horse; name of the horse of the celebrated Rustam; happy, fortunate, prosperous; joyful; commencement; happiness, prosperity
Ram Rám Pers. obedient, obsequious; tame, domestic; happy, cheerful; industrious; shrewd; alacrity; affluence, plenty; name of the inventor of the lute; the twenty-first day of the month; name of the angel who presides over that day; going, passing by, penetrating.
Rám holds significant spiritual meaning and is often associated with divine attributes and qualities. It can be seen as a symbol of spiritual power and majesty.
Ramadan (Ramazan) Ramaḍán (Pers. Ramaẓán) Ninth month in Islamic calendar. Time of “intense heat, scorched ground and shortness of rations” (burning heat)
Ramal Ramal name of a poetical meter
Ramda’ Ramḍá’ sun-baked ground
Ramin, Rumah Rámin, pl. Rumáh throwing; thrower, hurler; marksman; rifleman (Syrian military). Jabal Rumáh (“Archer’s Hill”, 24.502257, 39.612163) name given to a rock outcrop after the battle of Uḥud.
Raml, Ramala (Ramleh, Ramlih), Rimal Raml, fem. Ramla[h], pl. Rimál sand. ar-Ramlah (Heb. Ramla) a city in central Israel on the Jerusalem-Tel Aviv highway. Maḥaṭṭat ar-Raml (“Ramleh”) is a neighbourhood of Alexandria, Egypt. ‘ilm ar-raml or ḍarb ar-raml geomancy (divination by means of figures or lines in the sand). See Maḥaṭṭat ar-Raml under Maḥaṭṭa.
Ramy Ramy (act or process of) throwing, flinging, shooting, etc. Ramy al-jamarát literally, “throwing of the jamarát” [place of pebbles], figuratively, “the stoning of the devil”. See Jamra.
Ramz, Rumuz Ramz, pl. Rúmúz sign, nod, wink, motion; hint; allusion, intimation; allegory; riddle; symbol, symbolic figure, emblem, character; secret sign, code sign. ar-ramz al-munamnam (“the ornamented symbol”), an elevated rhyming title of Bahá’u’lláh.
Ransom-Kehler Ransom-Kehler Keith Ransom-Kehler (1876–1933), born Nannie Keith Bean (known later solely by her mother’s maiden name of Keith). American Bahá’í lecturer and world traveller; designated by Shoghi Effendi as the first American Bahá’í martyr and, posthumously, the first woman appointed as a Hand of the Cause of God. Shoghi Effendi sent her on a special assignment in Írán to 1. represent the National Spiritual Assembly of the Bahá’ís of the United States and Canada, and on behalf of Shoghi Effendi; 2. to petition Riḍá Sháh Pahlaví to remove the ban on the entry and distribution of Bahá’í literature in Írán and also to secure the lifting of all the limitations that had for years been imposed on the Iranian Bahá’í community. Died of smallpox in Iṣfahán.
Raqasha Raqasha to variegate, make multi-coloured (something). Form II to adorn, embellish, decorate (something)
Raqib, Ruqaba’ Raqíb, pl. Ruqabá’ vigilant, watchful; guardian, keeper, warden; watcher, observer, lookout; spy; overseer, supervisor, inspector; controller, control officer; postal censor; sergeant (Syrian military)
Raqim, Raqa’im Raqím, pl. Raqá’im inscription, tablet; letter, message; “essay” (in Letters & Essays). A writing, a book; especially that which records the history of the Seven Sleepers (Aṣḥáb al-Kahf (see listing), “Companions of the cave”); their dog; also their village, or the mountain and cave in which they slept.—pl. books; epistles, writings.
Raqiq, Ariqqa’, Riqaq Raqíq, pl. Ariqqá’, Riqáq slave, slaves (singular and collective); flat loaf of bread; thin; slender, slim; line, delicate; soft, tender, gentle; sensitive, tactful, discreet, prudent
Raqqa (Raqa, Riqqa), Rakka Raqqa to be or become thin, delicate, fine; to be tender, soft; to be pure, clear, limpid (water); to soften, relent (toward someone), have pity, feel compassion, have sympathy (for). ar-Raqqah is a city in Syria located on the northeast bank of the Euphrates River, 170 kilometres ESE of Aleppo.
Raqqi Raqqí of or from ar-Raqqah
Raqsha’ Raqshá’ (from raqasha, to variegate, make multi-coloured) shape, beauty and ability to attract of a serpent. Female serpent, described as being marked with mottled black and white spots. “She-serpent”, title given to the Imám-Jum‘ih of Iṣfahán, Mír Muḥammad-Ḥusayn Khátúnábádí.
Rasa’il wa Raqa’im Rasá’il wa Raqá’im title of a book by Mírzá Faḍl that was translated as “Letters & Essays”. See risála and raqím
Rasafa, Rusafa Raṣáfa (or Ruṣáfa) Firmness, compactness. Al-Raṣáfa, east bank of Baghdád
Rashad Rashad integrity of conduct, straightforwardness, forthrightness
Rashad (variation Rishad) Rashád (Rishád) integrity of conduct; reason, good sense, senses; maturity; garden peppergrass (Lepidium sativum)
Rashada Rashada to be on the right way, follow the right course, be well guided, not go astray (especially, in religious matters); to have the true faith, be a true believer; to become sensible, become mature, grow up; to come of age
Rashh Rash secretion (of a fluid); perspiration, sweating; leaking, leakiness; filtering, filtration, percolation; oozing, trickling; cold, catarrh
Rashh-i-‘Ama Rashḥ-i-‘Amá’ “Sprinkling from a Cloud”, often roughly translated as “Sprinkling of the Cloud of Unknowing”. First poem by Bahá’u’lláh after His release from the Black Pit, Ṭihrán. ‘Amá symbolizes the First Invisible Substance. Call of the Divine Beloved uses “The clouds of the realms above”. Many writers, reason unknown, omit the final ḥamza.
Rashid (Rashed), Rashida, Rashidun shid, fem. Ráshida, pl. Rashidún following the right way, rightly guided, having the true faith; sensible, reasonable; of full legal age, major;—pl. Rashidún, Rashidín, Rightly-Guided, the first four Caliphs (Sunní Islám)
Rashid (Rasheed), Rashida, Rushada Rashíd, fem. Rashída, pl. Rushadá rightly guided, following the right way; having the true faith; reasonable, rational, intelligent, discriminating, discerning; mature;—pl. of full legal age, major
Rashid ad-Din Sinan Rashíd ad-Dín Sinán a leader of the Syrian branch of the Nizárí Ismá‘ílí state (“the Assassins”), and a figure in the history of the crusades. Was known by the crusaders as the “Old Man of the Mountain” (Shaykh al-Jabal). He went to the Alamút valley, the centre of the Ḥashsháshín, as a youth.
Rashid Khalifa Rashíd Khalífa Dr Rashíd Khalífa (1935–1990) was an Egyptian-American biochemist. He later claimed to be a messenger of God but not a prophet. He believed that the beliefs and practices of Islám should be based on the Qur’án alone. From 1968 he used computers to analyze the frequency of letters and words in the Qur’án. He claimed that the Qur’án, unlike the hadiths, was incorruptible because it contained a mathematical structure based on the number 19.
Rashsha, Rashsh Rashsha (Rashsh) to spatter, splash, spurt (a liquid); to spray (a liquid); to sprinkle (something, with, on); to splatter, spatter, bespatter (something, with water, etc.); to water (something)
Rasht Rasht city in province of Gílán
Rashti Rash of or from Rasht. See Sayyid Káẓim Rash.
Rasiq (Rasikh), Rasiqun Rásiq, pl. Rásiqún firmly established, deep-rooted; grounded, firmly fixed, stable; conversant (with something), thoroughly versed, completely at home (in a field).
Dr Shápúr Rásikh 1924–2021, Bahá’í educationalist, sociologist, scholar, author.
Rasiqun fi’l-‘ilm ar-Rasiqún fi‘l-‘ilm those deeply rooted in knowledge (Ṣúfí terminology)
Rasm Rasm Pers. marking out, drawing, writing; a law, canon, rule, regulation, precept, habit, custom, mode, manner, usage. Rasm (rite, formality and rule) affects everyone. Rasm (custom) has made it easy for the clergy to control the general population. Hidden Words Arabic no. 2. See sha’n
Rasm, Rusum, Rusumat Rasm, pl. Rusúm, Rusúmát drawing (e.g., as a subject in school);—(pl. rusúm, rusúmát) a drawing; sketch; graph; picture; photograph; illustration; pattern (e.g., on a fabric);—(pl. rusúm) trace, impression; designation, mark; inscription, legend; record, notes; (official) document, (legal) instrument; writing; design; prescription, regulation; ceremony, form, formality; rate, fee, tax, due. Rasm is an Arabic writing script often used in the early centuries of Classical Arabic literature (CE 7th to early 11th century)—essentially Arabic script without dots (i‘jám) and vowel marks (ḥarakát)—also known as Arabic skeleton script.
Rass Rass digging (a well or grave); the beginning of anything; first attack or symptom (of a fever or love); burying; hiding, secreting; making peace, reconciling; a well constructed with stones; name of a certain well in which the people of Thamúd imprisoned one of their prophets until he died. Aṣḥábí (ahli) ar-Rass—name given to these people. ar-Rass town 350 km WNW Riyadh.
Rast, Rastan Rást, pl. Rástán Pers. right, true; good, just, sincere, upright; straight, even, level; right (opposed to left); complete; actually, certainly, surely, truly; name of a note in music
Rastagar Rastagár Pers. safe, free, escaped, bountiful (Rastigar, Rastegar)
Rastakhiz Rastákhíz Pers. resurrection. Rastakhiz Party (Ḥizb-i-Rastákhíz “Resurgence party”) founded on 2 March 1975 by Muḥammad Riḍá Pahlaví, the Sháh of Írán. The party was intended as Iran’s new single party, holding a monopoly on political activity in Írán, and to which all Iranians were required to belong. The Bahá’ís refused to join. It survives today in exile as an Iranian monarchist party opposing the Islamic Republic created when the Pahlavi dynasty was overthrown.
Rastaq (Rastagh, Rostaq) Rastáq a town (28.445751, 55.075400) 110 km SE of Nayriz, in Fars Province.
Rasul (Rassoul), Rusul, Rasulan Rasúl, pl. Rusul, Pers. also Rasúlán messenger; emissary; envoy, delegate; apostle (Christian). Term for a figure of salvation—Messenger of God (AND a Prophet). Persian plural may also be Rasúlin. Compare with Nabí.
Rasul Allah, Rasulu’llah Rasúl Alláh, Pers. Rasúlu’lláh Messenger of God. “Divine Manifestation” in the Bahá’í Writings. See Sulṭán ar-Rusul.
Ratl Raṭl, pl. Arṭál rotl, a weight (449.28 g; in Syr. 3.202 kg, in Beirut and Aleppo = 2.566 kg)
Rawan Rawán Pers. life, soul, spirit; the reasonable soul; the heart; the heart; brisk, active (sale); mounted, riding; running; flowing, fluid; lawful, proper; text; reading; forthwith, immediately, quickly
Rawda (Rauda), Rawd, Riyad, Ridan Rawḍa[h or t], (Pers. Rawḍih) garden; meadow.—pl. rawḍát, rawḍ, riyáḍ (“riaz”, “riyaz”, “reyz”); training or breaking in (a colt) and rídán. Riyáḍ was the name of a brother of Shoghi Effendi. ar-Riyáḍ (Riyadh) is the capital of Saudi Arabia.
Rawda-Khwan (Rawdih-Khwan) Rawḍa-Khwán (Rawḍih-Khwán) Pers. an eulogist of, or one who prays over, the dead. Note: since a و (wáw) after a خ (kh) may not be pronounced, it may be written as rawḍa-khán.
Rawda-Khwani (Rawdih-Khwani) Rawḍa-Khwání (Rawḍih-Khwání) Pers. “lament recitation”. A traditional recital by Shí‘a Muslims of the sufferings of Imám Ḥusayn. Note: since a و (wáw) after a خ (kh) may not be pronounced, may be written as rawḍa-khání (see PDC p. 93).
Rawdat as-Safa, Rawdatu’s-Safa Rawḍat aṣ-Ṣafá, Pers. Rawḍatu’ṣ-Ṣafá Gardens of Purity. Táríkh rawḍatu’s-Ṣafáy-i-Náṣirí by Riḍá Qulí Khán Hidáyat
Rawdiy-i-Kafi Rawḍiy-i-Káfí
Rawh (Rauh) Rawḥ refreshment
Rawh wa rayhan Rawḥ wa rayḥán ‘with joy and radiance’
Rawha’ (Rauha’, Roha, Rooha) Rawḥá’ related to Ráḥa[h] (“rest”). The eastern side of Baghdád (split by the Tigris River) was known (by Persians) as ar-Rawḥá’ (supposedly the wide-spreading or the shallow). See az-Zawrá’. ar-Rawḥá’, a small place 62 km SW of Medina, was named after a king from Yemen who is said to have passed by and stayed there. There is a well, Bi’r ar-Rawḥá’ (Bi’r ar-Rawḥá’, “Well of Souls”, 24.078195, 39.161778), and nearby is Bi’r ash-Shifá’ (“Healing well”, or also Bi’r ar-Rawḥá’) (24.077791, 39.162389). Here Muḥammad and His companions rested on their march to Badr (CE 624). Abú-Sufyán and the Meccans also rested here after the battle of Uḥud (CE 625).
Rawhani (Rauhani) Rawḥání good, agreeable, clean and pure (place)
Rawi, Rawiyan Ráwí, pl. Ráwiyán one who narrates the words of another, who alleges that he saiḍ so and so; a historian, a narrator, teller
Rawiy Rawíy final letter, rhyming letter (in Arabic verse); rhyme
Rawshan (Raushan) Rawshan, pl. Rawáshin skylight, scuttle
Rawshani Rawshaní
Rawza Rawza[h] (Rauza, Rouza, Roza Rozza, Roseh) Perso-Arabic term (“shrine” or “tomb”) derived through Persian from the Arabic rawḍah, but extended to mean a tomb surrounded by a garden as at Agra and Aurangabad. The Taj Mahal has been described as a rawza-i munawwára (Perso-Arabic: rawḍah-i-munawwárah), meaning the illumined or illustrious tomb in a garden.
Raya, Rayat Ráya[h or t], pl. Ráyát banner, flag. ar-Ráyat as-Sawdá’ (“The Black Banner” or “The Black Standard”) also known as ar-Ráyat al-‘Uqáb (“The Banner of the Eagle”) or simply as ar-Ráyah (“The Banner”) is one of the flags flown by Muḥammad in Muslim tradition. It was used by Abú Muslim in his uprising leading to the Abbasid Revolution in 747 and is therefore associated with the Abbasid Caliphate in particular. It is also an Islamic symbol heralding the advent of the Mahdí—from the ḥadíth that whenever it was unfurled at Khurásán, it would signalize the advent of God’s new Revelation on earth. Mullá Ḥusayn took a black flag from Mashhad (now in Raḍawí Khurásán Ústán, a province) to Shaykh Ṭabarsí. See Cháwush.
Rayb (Raib) Rayb doubt; suspicion; uncertainty
Rayhan (Rauhan, Reyhan), Rayhana Rayḥán, fem. Rayḥána(h) ease, fragrant herb, sweet basil. Rayhána bint Zayd, a Jewish wife of Muḥammad.
Raytu’l-‘Ayn Ráytú’l-‘Ayn Pers. “vision of the eye”. See Ra’y
Raytu’llah Ráytú’lláh Pers. “I saw God”. See Ra’y
Rayy (Raz, Ray, Rey, Raghes) Rayy an ancient capital city of the Medes to the east of Shahr-i-Ray (SE Ṭihrán). Ráz, an older name
Razaqa Razaqa to provide with the means of subsistence (to someone; said of God); to bestow (upon someone something, material or spiritual possessions; said of God), endow (someone with); to bless (someone with, especially with a child)
Razzaq Razzáq dispenser, disposer of; an attribute of God, as the provider of the necessaries of life, the giver of daily bread; providence.
Razi Rází Pers. inhabitant of Ráz. Abú Bakr Muḥammad Zakariyá Rází, also known Rhazes or Rasis (854–925), was a Persian polymath, physician, alchemist, philosopher, and important figure in the history of medicine. He also wrote on logic, astronomy and grammar.
Raziq Ráziq giver of the necessaries of life; providence. ar-Ráziq, the Maintainer, the Provider (one of the 99 attributes of God)
Ri’asa, Riyasa Ri’ása, Riyása leadership, leading position; management, direction; chairmanship; presidency, presidentship; supervision, superintendency
Riban (Riba’), Ribawan, Ribayan Riban (Riba’), dual Ribawán (or Ribayán) interest, but usually usurious interest; usury; gain in selling, profit. Qur’án 3:130, 4:161, 30:39 and most importantly 2:275–2:280. Muslims generally interpret usury as including all interest. However, according to the Báb (Persian Bayan, p. 181), the Qur’án does not forbid interest: “Most important, he [the Báb] denied the validity [of the generally accepted interpretation] of the Quranic law against usury, maintaining that interest on money may be taken.” Vahid Rafati, The development of Shaykhí thought in Shí‘í Islam, p. 152. See fá’id, ribawí, and the root rabá.
Ruba’i, Ruba’iyyat Rubá‘í, pl. Rubá’iyát consisting or four, quadripartite, fourfold, quadruple; quadrangular; tetragonal; (grammar) consisting of four radical letters, quadriliteral; quartet; (pl.) quatrains (poetry)
Ribat (Robat, Rubat), Rubut, Arbita Ribáṭ, pl. Ribát, Rubuṭ, Arbiṭa[h or t] ribbon, band, lace; ligature, ligament; bandage; dressing (of a wound); bond, fetter, shackle;—pl. (ribát, rubuṭ) inn for travellers, caravanserai; hospice (for Sufis or the poor). Rubáṭ Karím is a city (35.471603, 51.084752) 36 km SW of Ṭihrán.
Ribawi Ribawí usurious
Rida-Quli Riḍá-Qulí Riḍá-Qulí, Mírzá Half-brother of Bahá’u’lláh who kept apart from Him and hid his relationship.
Rida’ Riḍá‘ foster relationship
Rida’, Ardiya Ridá’, pl. Ardiya loose outer garment, cloak, robe; (lady’s) dress, gown; attire, costume
Rida’, Riza’ Riḍá’, Pers. Riẓá’ & Riḍá (Pers. “Reza”) contentment, contentedness, satisfaction; agreement, consent, assent, acceptance, approval, sanction; propitiation, conciliation. “good-pleasure”. Mystical station in which one finds absolute peace and inner pleasure in relation to life in general.
Rida’i, Riday Riḍá’í (Riḍáy) Pers. (Rezaei, Rezaee, Rezai, Rezaie, Rezayee, or Rezayi) “of Riḍá’ (Reza)”
Rida’u’r-Ruh Riḍá’u’r-Rúḥ “Contentment of the spirit”. This is the preferred name, based on Arabic grammar and “Riḍá”, for Mullá Muḥammad-Riḍáy-i-Manshádí, see the Ráḍí’u’r-Rúḥ entry.
Riday-i-Qannad Riḍáy-i-Qannád
Riday-i-Saffar Riḍáy-i-Ṣaffár
Ridwan, Ridvan Riḍwán, fem. Riḍwána[h], Per. Riḍván consent, assent, agreement, acceptance, approval, sanction; good will, favour; pleasure, delight. It is sometimes translated as ‘paradise’, ‘heaven’, ‘tabernacle’ and ‘garden’. See Raḍiya. Name given to two gardens significant in Bahá’í history: the garden of Najíbíyah owned by Najíb Páshá outside Baghdád (≈33.344433, 44.378333, area now occupied by the Baghdad Medical City—22 April–2 May 1863); and the Na‘mayn Garden (32.915208, 35.090687). See Na‘mayn.
Ridwaniya, Ridvaniyyah Riḍwáníya[h], Pers. Riḍvániyya[h] used as Persian fem. name (Ridvaniyeh), satisfaction. Riḍváníyyih Khánum was a Persian Bahá’í serving in ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s household in ‘Akká. She was the daughter of Ḥájí Siyyid Javád and the wife of Mírzá Ḥusayn Ḥájí, and the brother of Aḥmad Yazdí.
Ridwanu’l-‘Adl, Ridvanu’l-‘Adl Riḍwánu’l-‘Adl “The Garden of Justice” by Bahá’u’lláh
Ridwanu’l-Iqrar, Ridvanu’l-Iqrar Riḍwánu’l-Iqrár “The Garden of Confession” by Bahá’u’lláh
Ridwanu’llah, Ridvanu’llah Riḍwánu’lláh “The Garden of God”
Rif (Riff), Aryraf Ríf, pl. Aryáf fertile, cultivated land; country (as opposed to city), countryside, rural; ar-Ríf or Ríf Miṣr Lower Egypt; seashore, seacoast; ar-Ríf (Rif, Riff or Er Rif) hilly coastal region of NE Morocco
Rif’a (Rif’at or Raf’at; Rafat, Rafati) Rif‘a[h or t] or Raf‘a[h or t] height, elevation (e.g. of a structure); high rank or standing.
Raf‘atí, of or related to.
Rifa’i (Rifa’iyya, Rifa’iya) Rifá‘í (also Rifá‘iyya, Rifá‘iya) eminent Súfí order (ṭaríqa) founded by Aḥmad ibn ‘Alí ar-Rifá‘í
Rifat, Rafat Rifát, Rafát lifted, elated, joyous.
Of or related to, e.g. Dr Vahid Rafati (1945–, Vaḥíd Rafátí), former Head of the Research Department in Haifa, the author of numerous articles and books in Persian and English.
Rih, Riyah, Arwah, Aryah Ríḥ, pl. Riyáḥ, Arwáḥ, Aryáḥ wind; smell, odour;
—pl. also name of the father of a tribe
Rik’at Rik‘at Ar. Prostration in prayer (Kitáb-i-Íqán p. 50)
Rikab, Rukub, Rikabat,Raka’ib Rikáb, pl. Rukub, Rikábát, Raká’ib stirrup;—pl. riding camel, riding animal, mount
Risala, Risalat, Rasa’il Risála(h or t), pl. Risálát, Rasá’il consignment, shipment; mail item; (written) communication or report; missive; letter, note; epistle; treatise; dispatch; message; radio message; the gift of prophecy; the office of a prophet; Messengership. Messengership is described as proclaiming the knowledge of the first intellect (al-‘aql al-awwal) to the prepared (musta‘idd) people. Shaykh Aḥmad in The development of Shaykhí thought in Shí‘í Islám, p. 90. See nubúwa
Risalah Fi’l-Ghina’ Risálah Fi’l-Ghiná’ “Treatise on Singing” by the Báb
Risalah Fi’n-Nahv Risálah Fi’n-Naḥv “Treatise on Grammar” by the Báb
Risaliy-i-‘Adliya Risáliy-i-‘Adlíya “Treatise on Justice” by the Báb
Risaliy-i-Amriyyih Risáliy-i-Amríyyih (Ar. Amriya) “Treatise on the Cause” by Muḥammad Muṣṭafá al-Baghdádí
Risaliy-i-Ayat-i-Mu’arrakhih Risáliy-i-Ayát-i-Mu‘arrakhih “Treatise on the earlier verses” by Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl
Risaliy-i-Ayyubiyyih Risáliy-i-Ayyúbiyyih “Treatise on Job” by Abu’l-Faḍl
Risaliy-i-Dhahabiyyih Risáliy-i-Dhahabíyyih should be Khuṭbiy-i-Dhikríyyih by the Báb Gate of the Heart, p. 379.
Risaliy-i-Fiqhiyyih Risáliy-i-Fiqhíyyih “Treatise on Fiqh” by the Báb
Risaliy-i-Furu’-i-‘Adliya Risáliy-i-Furú‘-i-‘Adlíya “Treatise of Justice: Branches” by the Báb
Risaliy-i-Ithbat-i-Nubuvvat-i-Khassih Risáliy-i-Ithbát-i-Nubuvvat-i-Kháṣṣih “Epistle on the Proofs of the Prophethood (of Muḥammad)” by the Báb, i.e. His specific station and mission.
Risaliy-i-Khaqaniyyih Risáliy-i-Kháqániyyih treatise in answer to Fatḥ-‘Alí Sháh’s question regarding the superiority of the Qá’im over His ancestors.
Risaliy-i-Madaniyyih Risáliy-i-Madaniyyih Pers. “Treatise on civilization” (or Shoghi Effendi as “Tablet of Divine Civilization”) written anonymously by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in 1875. First English translation title (1910 & 1918) “Mysterious Forces of Civilization”. Marzieh Gail 1957 tr. title “The Secret of Divine Civilization”.
Risaliy-i-Siyasiyyih Risáliy-i-Siyásiyyih Treatise on Politics by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Risaliy-i-Sultaniyyah Risáliy-i-Sulṭániyyah “The royal message” by Shaykh Aḥmad to Fatḥ-‘Alí Sháh
Rish-Safid sh-Safíd “white beard” of wisdom, a person in charge of the welfare of a group of a few households. The term denoted a person of wisdom and experience within the community.
Rish, Rishun, Riyash, Aryash sh (collective; noun Ríshun) feathers; feathering, plumage; clothes, attire, exterior; bristles (e.g., of a brush). Pl. riyásh, aryásh
Risha, Rishat sha(t) (n. -un.) pl. Ríshát feather; quill; writing pen; brush (of a painter); plectrum; lancet; (e.g.) reed (of certain wind instruments, e.g., of the oboe (music)
Riyal Riyál, pl. Riyálát a silver coin
Riz-Ab (Rizab, Rezab) Ríz-Áb Pers. waste bath or washing water. A village (empty? 31.302413, 54.080200?) in Taft County, Yazd Province, Iran. 90 km SW of Yazd. A village (28.853536, 55.008231) 78 km SE of Nayriz.
Rizq, Arzaq Rizq, pl. Arzáq livelihood, means of living, subsistence; daily bread, nourishment, sustenance; boon, blessing (of God); property, possessions, wealth, fortune; income; pay, wages
Rizqu’llah Rizqu’lláh “God bless him”, “fortune from God”
Rizwan, Ruzwan Rizwán, Ruzwán Pers. accepting, acquiescing; being pleased, gratified; —rizwán, a blessing, benediction; paradise; name of the porter or gardener of paradise
Ru’ya’, Ruya Ru’ya’, Rúyá seeing, looking, viewing, vision; inspection, examination. See Ra’á
Ru’yatú’l-Mashiyya Rú’yatú’l-Mashíyat “vision of the Primal Will of God”
Rub’, Arba’ Rub‘, pl. Arbá‘ quarter, fourth part; roubouh, a dry measure. ar-Rub‘ al Khálí (“empty quarter”, desert region in southern Arabia, largest in the world)
Ruba’iyat ‘Umar Rubá’iyát ‘Umar Khayyám Quatrains of ‘Umar Khayyám [or those attributed to him]. Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám, the Astronomer-Poet of Persia. Rendered into English Verse is the title given by the translator Edward FitzGerald to a collection of Persian quatrains.
Rubat-Karim (Robat-Karim) Rubáṭ-Karím (formerly known as Shahríyár and Shahryár) is a city (39 km SW of Teheran; 35.472695, 51.084748) in Tehran Province, Írán. Nabíl-i-A‘ẓam first heard of the declaration of the Báb while visiting an uncle what was then a village. See Ribáṭ.
Rubban (Rabban), Rubaniya, Rababina Rubbán, pl. Rubbáníya, Rabábina[h] master, captain, pilot, skipper, boatswain, navigator
Rububiya, Rububiyya Rubúbíya[h or t], Pers. Rubúbiyyih divinity, deity, godship, dominion, supreme power
Rud Rúd Pers. river, torrent, flowing water; the Oxus; intestines, gut; the string of a musical instrument; a bow-string; song, cheerfulness, jovial conversation, convivial mirth; vocal or instrumental music; a son or daughter; a beautiful brunette; a comely and amiable youth; a plucked bird; a shorn sheep. Used as a suffix with given name, as in Yálrúd.
Rudaki Rúdakí from a Rúdak village (in Fárs (very small, 29°37′31″ N 51°25′57″ E), Qazvín (35.694810, 49.894467) and Ṭihrán (NE Ṭihrán, 35°50′55″ N 51°32′59″ E) Provinces). Abú ‘Abd Alláh Ja‘far ibn Muḥammad ar-Rúdakí (died 941), better known as Rúdakí, a Persian poet regarded as the first great literary genius of the modern Persian language. He was born in Rúdak (38.437844, 68.766154)—now a town (Рӯдакӣ, 11 km south of Dushanbe) in western Tajikistan.
Rudbar Rúdbár Pers. “by the river”, a city and capital of Rudbar County, Gilan Province, Írán. 54 km south of Rasht.
Ruh al-Mu’ani Rúḥ al-Mu’ání al-Rúḥ al-Mu‘ání, The Spirit of the Meanings, by Shaykh Maḥmúd al-Álúsí
Ruh Husayn ibn Rúḥ, Ḥusayn ibn Abú al-Qásim al-Ḥusayn ibn Rúḥ an-Nawbakhtíy) was the third of the four deputies of the twelfth Imám
Ruh, Arwah Rúḥ m. & f., pl. Arwáḥ breath of life, soul; spirit (in all senses); gun barrel
Ruha Rúḥá wind, breath, spirit. Rúḥá Khánum (1880–1971) a twin daughter of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. See Ṭúbá.
Ruhangiz, Ruh-Angiz Rúḥángíz Pers. (rúḥ + ángíz) “raising the spirit”. Rúḥángíz Rabbání a sister of Shoghi Effendi.
Ruhani, Ruhaniya, Ruhanun Rúḥání, fem. Rúḥániya[h or t] (pl. Rúḥánún) spiritual, immaterial; divine, sacred, holy; clergyman, minister (Christian). Iṣfahání Pers. Rúḥániyih.
Ruhaniya, Ruhaniyyih Rúḥáníya[h or t] (Iṣfahání Pers. Rúḥáníyih) spirituality; transfiguration
Ruhi Afnan Rúḥí Afnán Shoghi Effendi’s cousin, Rúḥí Muḥsin Afnán, known as Ruhi Effendi, eldest son of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s daughter, Ṭúbá
Ruhi Fida’ Rúḥí Fidá’ “my soul is redemption”, a common expression
Ruhi, Ruhat Rúḥí, pl. Rúḥát spirituous; spiritual;—pl. spiritual things
Ruhiya, Ruhiyyih Rúḥíya, Pers. Rúḥiyyih spirituality; mentality, mental attitude, frame of mind. Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum Rabbani (née Mary Sutherland Maxwell).
Ruhu’l-Ma’ani Rúḥu’l-Ma‘ání a tafsír (exegesis) of the Qur’án by Muftí Sayyid Maḥmúd al-Álúsí al-Baghdádí (10 December 1802—29 July 1854), was an ‘Iráqí Islamic scholar best known for writing Rúḥu’l-Ma‘ání
Ruhu’llah Rúḥu’lláh “Spirit of God”. A designation Muslims use for Jesus (Rúḥu’lláh ‘Ísá) based on verses such as Qur’án 4:171 (Ruḥun Minhu, “Spirit of/from Him (it) (God)”). Rúḥu’lláh Varqá was the son of Mírzá ‘Alí-Muḥammad-i-Varqá.
Rukh Rukh Pers. a cheek; the face, countenance; a side, point, quarter; the rook or tower at chess; a knight-errant; a head-stall for a horse
Rukhsara Rukhsára Pers. cheek, face, complexion, mien
Rukn ar-Rabi’, Rukn-i-Rabi ar-Rukn ar-Rábi‘, Pers. Rukn-i-Rábi‘ “The Fourth Pillar or Support” (God, Muḥammad and the Imams are the first three)—a perfect Shí‘í man (ash-Shí‘í al-Kámil) believed always to exist among the Shi’as and to serve as a Channel of grace
Rukn, Arkan Rukn, pl. Arkán pillar, support, prop; corner; nook; basis, basic element, first principle; face—pl. staff (military); basic elements, chief elements
Rukni’d-Dawlih Rukni’d-Dawlih the Pillar of the State
Rum Rum sand, especially light sand that can be carried by the wind
Rum, Arwam ar-Rúm, pl. al-Arwám of or pertaining to the eastern Roman Empire, that later became the Byzantine Empire, the Byzantines; Byzantium (i.e. the Christian people and countries (Greece; Rome, Romelia; Türkiye);—pl. (the adherents of) the Greek Orthodox Church. ar-Rúm is an old name for Istanbul. Derived from a Greek plural word meaning Romans. Baḥr ar-Rúm (the Roman Sea) the Mediterranean.
Rumi (Roumie), Arwam, Rumiyan Rúmí, pl. Arwám, Pers. Rúmiyán Roman, Byzantine; Greek Orthodox (Church). Jalálu’d-Dín-i-Rúmí, “Glory of the Faith from Byzantine (Anatolia)”.
Rumilya, Rumelia, Roumelia Rúmílyá Turkish (Rumeli) for “Land of the Romans” also known as Turkey (now Türkiye) in Europe, was a historical term describing (after 1453) the area now referred to as the Balkans (an area primarily populated by Christians) when it was administered by the Ottoman Empire. Rumelia included the provinces of Thrace, Macedonia and Moesia, today’s Bulgaria and Turkish Thrace. The name Rumelia was ultimately applied to a province composed of central Albania and north-western Macedonia.
Runiz (Roniz Olya) Rúníz a town (29.192224, 53.768822) 55 km west of Nayríz
Ruqayya (Ruqiyya) Ruqayya[h] (also spelled Ruqaiya, Ruqaya, Ruqiyyih, etc.) feminine name meaning “rise, ascent, ascending”, “chant or recite Divine Words”. Derived either from ruqíy or ruqyah. It also means “enchanting, bewitching or of being armed against sorcery”. Ruqayyah bint Muḥammad (601–624), a daughter of Muḥammad and Khadíjah. Name given to Mary Hotchkiss Bode by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Ruqiy Ruqíy rise, progress, upward development
Ruqya, Ruqan Ruqya[h or t], pl. Ruqan spell, charm, magic; incantation
Rushan (Raushan, Roshan) shan Pers. a window. Rúshan-Kúh (Roshan Kouh), a very small village (36.380516, 53.364171; many are Bahá’ís who are suffering persecution, confiscation and destruction of properties) 34 km SE of Sárí.
Rushd Rushd integrity of (ones) actions, proper, sensible conduct; reason, good sense, senses; consciousness; maturity (of the mind). Abú’l-Walíd Muḥammad ibn ‘Aḥmad ibn Rushd (1126–1198) “Averroes”, was a Muslim Andalusian philosopher and thinker who wrote about many subjects, including philosophy, theology, medicine, astronomy, physics, Islamic jurisprudence and law, and linguistics.
Rushdi Rushdí, fem. Rushdiya(h) rightly guided, of true faith, mature
Rustam (Rostam, Rostem, Rustum) Rustam Pers. the most renowned Persian hero, described as Persia’s Hercules. Character in Sháhnáma(h)
Rustami Rustamí Pers. valour, heroism
Rustaq, Rastaq Rustáq, Rastáq (Ar. element) a village, market-town, encampment of tents or huts; a villager; the commander of a file of men, a corporal. Rastáq (Rostagh, 28.448690, 55.076019) a village in Fárs Province, 110 km SE of Nayríz
Rutba, Rutab Rutba[h or t], pl. Rutab degree, grade, level; rank, standing, station; class, quality; (military) rank; clerical rank, order (of the Christian ministry); religious ceremony (Christian)
Ruz Rúz Pers. a day; day-time; the sun; the face; good fortune; opportunity; the vernal equinox; power, strength; courage; open, manifest, clear, evident
Ruz-bih, Ruzbih Rúz-bih, Rúzbih Pers. good day, fortunate days, happy times; improving daily; happy, fortunate. For bih, see bahja.
Ruz-i-Alast Rúz-i-Alast Pers. Day of Alast
Ruz-i-Payman Rúz-i-Paymán Pers. Day of the Covenant. Rúz-i-Payghún may be an alternative.
Ruzbihan (Ruzbihyan) Rúzbihán (Roozbehyan) possible plural of Rúzbih. Rúzbihán Baqlí Shírází (d. 1221), 13th-century Iranian mystic.
Ruzita Ruzítá Pers. (from French) little everlasting rose. Ruzítá Samandarí, wife of Bahman Samandarí (executed 1992)
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S
Sa’a, Sa’at Sá‘a[h or t], pl. Sá‘át, Sá‘ (short) time, while; hour; timepiece, clock, watch
Sa’ada Sa‘áda[h or t] (fem. of sa‘d) happiness; bliss, felicity; good fortune, success, prosperity, welfare; title of a páshá; sa‘ádat (with following name, e.g. Sa‘ádat-Ábád) is the title of a high official. Sa‘ádat Ábád (29.272778, 53.061111) is a small village on the road between Shíráz and Nayríz, where the headless body of Mírzá ‘Abdu’l-Ḥusayn (Nayríz uprisings) was buried. Also a village (36.442778, 52.2275) 11.5 km WSW of Ámul visited by Bahá’u’lláh in 1844.
Sa’adat-Abad Sa‘ádat-Ábád a village (36.443640, 52.228517) in Mazandaran Province, and a wealthy district in northern Ṭihrán.
Sa’b, Sa’b, Si’ab Ṣa‘b, pl. Ṣi‘áb hard, difficult;—pl. difficulties. Ṣa‘b as a verb means to become abstinent, or to become extreme and unbearable; and as a noun, is the opposite of domestic animal, and refers to everything that is unbearable. See mustaṣ‘ab
Sa’b mustas’ab Ṣa‘b Mustaṣ‘ab “exceedingly abstruse”
Sa’d (Sa’ad) Sa‘d, pl. Su‘úd good luck, good fortune.Sa‘d ibn Abí Waqqáṣ, also known as Sa‘d ibn Malik, was a companion of Muḥammad. Sa‘d was reportedly the seventh person to embrace Islám (aged 17). His son, ‘Umar ibn Sa‘d bin Abí Waqqáṣ, known as Ibn Sa‘d (d. 685) was the commander of the army of ‘Ubayd Alláh bin Ziyád in the death of Imám Ḥusayn and his companions. He is among the most hated figures in Shí‘a Islamic history.
Sa’d ibn Ma’adh (Sa’d-i-Ma’adh) Sa‘d ibn Ma‘ádh, (Sa‘d-i-Ma‘ádh) “being happy/fortunate” + “act of taking refuge or a place of refuge”. Abú ‘Amr Sa‘d ibn Ma‘ádh ibn an-Nu‘mán (c. 591–627) was a chief of the Aws tribe in Medina and a prominent companion of Muhammad.
Sa’d ibn Ma’adh, Sa’d-i-Ma’adh Sa’dan, Sa’adin ape
Sa’di (Saadi) Sa‘dí “fortunate, lucky”. Persian poet Musharrif al-Dín ibn Muṣlih al-Dín Shírází (1210–1291), named after his patrons Sa‘d bin Zangí and Abú Bakr bin Sa‘d (hence nom de plume Sa‘dí). See Gulistán and Shírází. Sa‘dí village about 3 km north of Shíráz city centre, now District 3 of the city.
Sa’du’llah Sa‘du’lláh “Joy of God”
Sa’i Sa‘í seeking, search or ritual walking. The walk between the rocky outcrops aṣ-Ṣafá and al-Marwah in Mecca
Sa’id (Saeed, Saied, Saeid), Su’ada’ Sa‘íd, fem. Sa‘ída[h or t], pl. Su‘adá’ (Sa‘ida, Sa‘ihih) happy; radiant, blissful; lucky, auspicious; felicitous.
Sa‘ádatukum is a polite form of address that means “Your Excellency” or “Your Honour” (-kum, “your”).
Búr Sa‘íd (Port Said) is a seaport in NE Egypt.
Sa’id, Su’ud Ṣa‘íd, pl. Ṣu‘úd Ṣa‘īd highland, upland, plateau; surface of the earth, dust on it; a mountain road; soil, land, or even a grave site in certain contexts.
Ṣa‘íd Miṣr (or simply aṣ-Ṣa‘íd): Upper Egypt.
Sa’ida, Sawa’id Sá‘ida(h), pl. Sawá‘id tributary. Qaṣṣ ibn Sá‘idah
Sa’idi, Sa’ayida Ṣa‘ídí, pl. Ṣa‘áyida Upper Egyptian (i.e. southern or south of latitude 30° north, south of Cairo) in the sense of “ascend”
Sa’idu’l-‘Ulama’ Sa‘ídu’l-‘Ulamá’ title with colloquial meaning of “Leader of the Learned” or “Chief of the Scholars”. Title given to Mullá Sa‘íd, a mujtahid from Bárfurúsh, by Náṣiri’d-Dín Sháh as a reward (to gain his political support) for his hostility to the Bábís during the siege of Shaykh Ṭabarsí in 1849.
Sa’im Ṣá’im fasting (adj.); faster, one who fasts
Sa’imun, Suwwam, Suyyam, Siyam pl. Ṣá’imún, Ṣuwwam, Ṣuyyam, Ṣiyám plurals of Ṣá’im. Hasan Balyuzi, Shoghi Effendi and Adib Taherzadeh and others use ṣíyám
Sa’in Ṣá’in preserver, sustainer, maintainer, keeper, guardian, protector; protective
Sa’in Qal’a (Sa’in Qal’ih) Ṣá’ín Qal‘a (Ṣá’ín Qal‘ih) Pers. small island in southern Lake Urmia and city 67 km SE Zanján
Sa’inu’d-Din Ṣá’inu’d-Dín “Preserver of religion”
Sa’iqa, Sawa’iq Ṣá‘iqa[h or t], pl. Ṣawá‘iq bolt of lightning, thunderbolt
Sa’ir, Su’ur Sa‘ír, pl. Su’ur blazing flame, fire; blaze; hell, inferno. Mt. Sa‘ír (Mt. Seir; 30.184341, 35.316634)—the mountain can be a reference to Jesus. Chain of mountains west and south of the Dead Sea extending through Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Sa‘ír is a Palestinian town 8 km north-east of Hebron.
Sa’sa’ Ṣa‘ṣa‘ separated, dispersed.
Sa’sa’a Ṣa‘ṣa‘a(h or t) separating, dividing, dispersing; moving, shaking; name of a purgative plant; also of the father of a tribe. The Banú ‘Ámir ibn Ṣa‘ṣa‘ah was a large and ancient Arab tribe originating from central and south western Arabia that dominated Najd for centuries after the rise of Islám.
Sa’ud Sa‘úd Ál-Sa‘úd is the ruling royal family of Saudi Arabia
Sa’udi Sa‘údí Saudi. al-Mamlaka(h) al-‘Arabíya(h) as-Su‘údíya(h) (“the Saudi Arab kingdom”)—normally translated as “the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”
Sab’a, Sab’, Sab’ih Sab‘a(h), fem. Sab‘, (Pers. Sab‘ih) seven
Sab’ata ‘Ashara, Sab’a ‘Ashrata Sab‘ata(h or t) ‘Ashara seventeen (fem. Sab‘a ‘Ashrata(h or t))
Sab’un Sab‘ún seventy
Saba, Saba’, Saba’iyyun Sabá’ (or Saba’), pl. Saba’iyyún Saba, Sabaean (“Sabean”, and not Sabian), Sheba (Hebrew). Ancient Ma’rib, in modern Yemen, was the capital of the kingdom of Sabá’ (the kingdom of “Sheba”, in King Solomon’s day, included Yemen and parts of the west side of the Red Sea, which was later Christianised from Abyssinia). The kingdom was founded by the Sabaeans (as-Saba’iyyún). In the Qur’án, they are described as Saba’ (not to be confused with Ṣábi’) or as the people of Tubba‘ (Qawm Tubba‘). Symbolic home or dwelling place of the “well-beloved” (PHW 1).
Saba, Sabw, Subuw, Siban, Saba’ Ṣabá, Ṣabw, Ṣubúw, Ṣiban, Ṣaba’ to be a child, be childish. There is also a link with the east wind, see separate listings for Ṣaban Ṣubúw.
Sabah Ṣabáḥ morning
Sabaha, (Sabh, Sibaha) Sabaḥa (Sabḥ, Sibáḥa) to swim (in); to float (figuratively); to spread Form II to praise, glorify
Sabahani Sabaḥaní glorify me. Sounds like sabakthani. See Shavaktani
Saban, Sabawat, Asba’ Ṣaban, pl. Ṣabawát, Aṣbá’ east wind
Sabara Ṣabara to bind, tie, fetter, shackle; to be patient, be forbearing, have patience, take patience, persevere; to bear calmly, patiently, stoutly, endure
Sabbagh Ṣabbágh dyer
Sabbaq, Sabbaqun Sabbáq, pl. Sabbáqún anticipatory; precursory; triumphant; fast train, express train; precursor; winner in contest
Sabha, Subuhat, Subah Sabḥa[h or t], Subḥa[h or t] (pl. subuḥát) majesty (of God). Translated by Shoghi Effendi as “veil”. See Subuḥát al-Jalál.
Sabi’, as-Sabi’a, Subat, Sabi’a, Sabi’un Ṣábi’, pl. Ṣubát an idolater, who changes his religion, pagan, Sabian (not “Sabean”); Mandaean. fem. Ṣabí’a[h or t], Ṣábí’a[h or t]. aṣ-Ṣábi’a or aṣ-Ṣábiʼún (derived from the Aramaic term Ṣabi, ‘to baptize’), the Sabians, designation of two different sects: 1) the Mandaeans, a Judeo-Christian Gnostic, baptist sect in Mesopotomia (Christians of St. John), used in this sense in the Qur’án. 2) The Sabians of Ḥarrán, a pagan sect extant as late as the 11th century CE. See Mandá’iyún.
Sabil, Subul, Asbila, Siblan Sabíl (m. & f.), pl. Subul, Asbila, Siblán way (e.g. God’s), road, path; access; means, expedient, possibility (to, for);—pl. (asbila) public fountain);—pl. (siblán) clay pipe bowl, clay pipe (of the Bedouins)
Sabiq, Sabiqun, Sabiqin, Subbaq, Sabiqan Sábiq, pl. Sábiqún, Sábiqín, Subbáq antecedent, preceding, foregoing, previous, prior; former, ex-; retired; sábiqan formerly, previously. The Báb initially described the Ḥurúf-i-Ḥayy (“Letters of the Living”) as Sábiqún (those who “have preceded in faith”). In Islám it refers to the eminent early followers of Muḥammad.
Sabiqa, Sawabiq Sábiqa[h], pl. Sawábiq (fem. of sábiq) precedence, priority; previous case, precedent; previous, earlier publication of an author;—pl. antecedents; previous convictions
Sabir Ṣábir, dual Ṣábirán patient, long-suffering, enduring, perseverant, steadfast
Sabir, Sabar, Subara’ Ṣabír, Ṣabár, pl. Ṣubará’ patient, mild, long-suffering; a surety, sponsor
Sabiriyan Ṣábiríyán those who are patient
Sabr Ṣabr fettering, shackling; patience, forbearance; composure, equanimity, steadfastness, firmness; self-control, self-command, self-possession; perseverance, endurance, hardiness. e.g. Súriy-i-Ṣabr
Sabri (Zabari), Sabriya Ṣabrí, fem. Ṣabríya[h or t] patient. A very small village (also known as Zabárí, 35.728333, 56.929167) in Sabzevar County, Razavi Khorasan Province. 87 km SW of Sabzevar.
Sabt, Sabut Sabt, pl. Sabút rest, quiet, repose. as-sabt, the Jewish sabbath (possibly borrowed from Hebrew Shabát); observing the Sabbath (Shabbat); Saturday
Sabti Sabtí (Ar. influence) surname of Aḥmad, a son of Harún ar-Rashíd, supposedly because he devoted six days of the week to the service of God, and worked on the sabbath, or Saturday, for a livelihood
Sabuktigin Sabuktigín also spelt as Sabuktagin, Sabuktakín (“Sabuktakíyn”), Sebüktegin and Sebük Tigin. Abú Manṣúr Sabuktigín (c 942–997), a brave general, (father of Sulṭán Maḥmúd, the founder of the Ghaznawíyán dynasty (r. 977–997)). In Turkic the name means beloved prince.
Sabur, Subur Ṣabúr, pl. Ṣubur (very) patient, enduring, perseverant, steadfast
Sabz Sabz Pers. green, verdant, fresh, recent.
Sabz-i-Maydan, Sabzih-Maydan Sabz-i-Maydán Pers. “Vegetable square”, “Green square”, “Sabzih-Maydán”. Square (35.677350, 51.419981) in Ṭihrán to the south of the main palace where many early Bábís were martyred. Now a gold and jewellery market.
Sabzi Sabzí Pers. verdure, greenness; vegetables
Sabzivar (Sabzevar), Bayhaq, Sabziwar Sabzivár city (36.216270, 57.673413) in Khurásán Province,` NE Írán.
"Sabzihvár" in The Dawn-Breakers.
Medieval name was Bayhaq ("Beihagh").
Abú Bakr Aḥmad also known as Imám al-Bayhaqí, was born 994 in the small town ofKhusruwjird, less than 10 km west of Sabzivár (Bayhaq).
Birth place of ‘Alí-Akbar Furútan.
Bahá'u'lláh named it Madínatu'l-Khaḍrá' ("The Verdant City").
Sad Ṣád Arabic letter
Sad-i-Isfahani Ṣád-i-Iṣfahání Epistle to the Son of the Wolf, p. 86
Sada (Pers. Sada, Sadih, Sadeh) Sáda simple; plain, unicoloured, uniform (fabric). Pers. white; a feast kept by the Persians at the winter solstice
Sada (Sadah, Sadih, Sedeh) Sada Pers. a flaming fire; a festival-night, on which the Persians light a number of large fires (see sáda). Sadih (Sedeh), derived from Sih-dizh (“three castles", a town (32.684449, 51.515125), prior to the 1930s, that formed around three neighbouring castles. Now part of the city of Khumayní Shahr, which is now part of the Isfahan Metropolitan area. Birth place of the Bahá’í poet brothers Nayyir and Síná.
Sadaqa, Sadaqat Ṣadaqa(t), pl. Ṣadaqát alms, charitable gift; almsgiving, charity, voluntary contribution of alms, freewill offering; legally prescribed alms tax (Islamic Law)
Sadar-i-Kull Sadár-i-Kull The Dawn-Breakers, p. 556
Sadat-i-Khamsi Sádát-i-Khamsí Surname adopted by five siyyid brothers (it was formerly Báqiroff)
Sadhaj, Sadhij, Suddaj dhaj, Sádhij, pl. Suddaj (from Sáda) simple; plain, uncoloured, uniform (fabric); innocent, ingenuous, naive; plain, homely; artless, guileless, candid, frank (character); primitive. Sádhij (Sazij), a daughter of Badí‘u’lláh (a son of Bahá’u’lláh)
Sadhaja dhája simplicity; innocence, ingenuousness, naiveté; homeliness, plainness; guilelessness
Sadhijiyyih dhijíyyih Pers. second daughter of Bahá’u’lláh and His second wife, Mahd-i-‘Ulyá
Sadiq (Sadeq, Sadegh), Sadiqa Ṣádiq, fem. Ṣádiqa[h or t] true, truthful (veridical), veracious, sincere, candid; reliable; accurate, true, genuine, faithful, authentic; righteous, loyal and just, saintly The sixth Shí‘a Imám.
Sadiq-i-Khurasani Ṣádiq-i-Khurásání Mullá Ṣádiq-i-Khurásání (formerly known as Muqaddas), and surnamed Ismu’lláhu’l-Aṣdaq by Bahá’u’lláh.
Sadiq-i-Tabataba’i Ṣádiq-i-Ṭabáṭabá’í
Sadiq-i-Tabrizi Ṣádiq-i-Tabrízí Attempted to assassinate Náṣir ad-Dín Sháh in 1852.
Sadiq-i-Yazdi Ṣádiq-i-Yazdí
Sadiq-i-Zadih Ṣádiq-i-Zádih
Sadiqi Ṣádiqí Pers. truthfulness; truth, sincerity
Sadiqi-pur (Sadiqipur) Ṣádiqí-púr (Ṣádiqípúr) ‘Abbás-‘Alí Ṣádiqípúr
Sadir Ṣádir going out, emanating, originating; issued, come out, published, etc.; exportation, export; yield
Sadr Sadr setting (the hair) a flowing (a woman)
Sadr ad-Din Ṣadr ad-Dín one who is foremost and most prominent in religion. Ṣadr ad-Dín Muḥammad Shírází, more commonly known as Mullá Ṣadrá (Persian; Arabic Ṣadr al-Muta’allihún; c. CE 1571/2–c. 1635/40/AH 980–1050), was a Persian Twelver Shí‘í Islamic mystic, philosopher, theologian, and ‘Álim who led the Iranian cultural renaissance in the 17th century.
Sadr al-Ardibili Ṣadr al-Ardibílí Sufi leader in Ardibíl. See Ardibílí.
Sadr al-Muta’allihin Ṣadr al-Muta’allihín foremost among those who have become divine-like
Sadiq, Sadiqa, Asdiqa’, Sudiqa, Sudqan Ṣadíq, pl. Aṣdiqá’, Ṣudaqá, Ṣudqán friend; friendly, connected by bonds of friendship. Fem. Ṣadíqa[h or t] and Iṣfahání Pers. also Ṣadíqih. See Pers.Yár.
Sadr al-A’zam (Sadr-i-A’zam) aṣ-Ṣadr al-A‘ẓam (Ṣadr-i-A‘ẓam) “the Greatest Leader”. Often the prime minister or chief minister; dignity of premier; chief seat. One of the honorifics attached to the chief minister of a sháh. See Wazír-i-A‘ẓam.
Sadr, Sadra, Sudur, Asdar Ṣadr (Pers. also Ṣadrá), pl. Ṣudúr, Aṣdár chest, breast, bust; bosom, heart; front part, front; part, portion; first hemistich; leader, commander; beginning, start, outset, commencement, inception; early period, beginnings, dawn (figurative);—pl. (also) coming out, appearance, publication (e.g., of a book), issuance (e.g., of an ordinance).
Aṣdár is a non-standard plural used by Bahá’u’lláh.
In Persian, ṣadr denotes an outstanding person, e.g. a scholar; prime minister; a judge.
Ṣadr ad-Dín Muḥammad bin Ibráhím bin Yaḥyá Qawámí Shírází (best known in Persian as Mullá Ṣadrá, later given the Arabic title Ṣadr al-Muta’allihín; c. 1571/2–c. 1635/40), was a Persian Twelver Shí‘í Islamic mystic, philosopher, theologian, and ‘Álim who led the Iranian cultural renaissance in the 17th century. Due to Mullá Ṣadrá’s influential role in Persian intellectual history, the use of Ṣadrá as a title or honorific reflects his impact.
Sadr-i-utaq Ṣadr-i-uṭáq Pers. seat of honour
Sadra’iya, Sadra’iyya, Sadra’iyun Ṣadrá’íya[h or t], Ṣadrá’iyya[h or t] (pl. Ṣadrá’íyún) follower of Mullá Ṣadrá
Sadri (Sedreh, Sadre) Ṣadrí Pers. (Ar. influence) pectoral; supreme; a vest, waist-coat; a jacket. Zoroastrian sacred vest. See kustí
Sadrih Sadrih Pers. tree, branch. Sadrih of Blessedness, i.e. the Báb. See sidr, sidra.
Sadru’d-Dawlah (Sadru’d-Dawlih) Ṣadru’d-Dawlah “Heart of the state” or “Heart of the dynasty”. Ṣadru’d-Dawlat al-Iṣfahání (Ṣadru’d-Dawliy-i-Iṣfahání).
Sadru’l-‘Ulama’ Ṣadru’l-‘Ulamá’ honorific title, “Heart of the scholars”. A title given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (also the title Ṣadr aṣ-Ṣudúr) to Ḥájí Sayyid Aḥmad Ṣadr al-‘Ulamá Hamadání (1868–1907), a learned believer who around 1904, with ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s encouragement, established the first teacher-training class for Bahá’í youth in Ṭihrán.
Sadru’l-A’zam, Sadr-i-A’zam aṣ-Ṣadru’l-A‘ẓam, Pers. Ṣadr-i-A‘ẓam Ottoman Empire Grand Vizier or Prime Minister
Sadru’s-Sudur Ṣadru’ṣ-Ṣudúr The title originally held by the chief priest of Persia since Ṣafawí times until abolished by Nádir Sháh. Now chief judge, chancellor. The officer would have been in charge of ecclesiastical law, which consists of the utterances of the Prophet in the Qur’án; of the opinions of the Twelve Holy Imams; and of the commentaries of a school of pre-eminent ecclesiastical jurists.The body of law so framed has been roughly codified and divided into four:
1. religious rites and duties,
2. contracts and obligations,
3. personal affairs,
4. sumptuary rules and judicial procedure.
This law is administered by an ecclesiastical court, consisting of ‘ulamá’ (i.e. lay priests) and mujtahids (i.e. learned doctors of the law), assisted sometimes by qaḍá (qadis or judges), and under the presidency of an official, known as the Shaykhu’l-Islám. The chief of this ecclesiastical hierarchy was in the past the Ṣadru’ṣ-Ṣudúr, or Pontifex Maximus, a dignitary chosen by the king and placed over the entire priesthood and judicial bench of the kingdom. For an example, see the ‘Abd an-Nabí entry.
Saduq Ṣadúq veracious, truthful, honest, sincere
Safa’ (Saffa), Safa’ Ṣafá’, Pers. also Ṣafá’ clearness, clarity, limpidity, untroubledness, cloudlessness, serenity, purity, sheerness; happiness, felicity, serenity, gaiety, cheerfulness; sincerity, candor, honesty. May also appear as Ṣafí.
Edward Kinney (1863–1950) named Ṣafá (“Serenity”) by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. See Wafá.
aṣ-Ṣafá and al-Marwah are two rocky outcrops about 450 m apart and a little to the north of the Ka‘ba, within the Great Mosque of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Muslims travel back and forth between them seven times during the ritual pilgrimages of Ḥajj and ‘Umrah.
Safa’i (Safai) Ṣafá’í Pers. from Ar. purity, clearness; Suhayl Ṣafá’í
Safad, Sifad, Asfad Ṣafad, Ṣifád, pl. Asfád bond, tie, fetter
Safadi Ṣafadí belonging to, native or inhabitant of, Safad
Safar, Asfar Safar, pl. Asfár departure; (pl.) journey, travel, trip, tour. e.g. Pers. Safar-náma (The book of travels)
Safar, Asfar Ṣafar, pl. Aṣfár second month in Islamic calendar. “void”, see ṣafira
Safawi, fem. Safawiya, Safawiyyun Ṣafawí, fem. Ṣafawíya(t), pl. Ṣafawiyyún Pers. a prince or member of a dynasty of Persian kings (Safawiyan or Safavid dynasty—Khándání Ṣafawíya), named after Ismael Ṣafí. aṣ-ṣafawíya (pl. aṣ-ṣafawiyyún), the safawid (or Pers. safavid).
Safdar Ṣafdar (Pers., Ar. influence) he who breaks the ranks; warlike, brave
Saff, Sufuf Ṣaff, pl. Ṣufúf aligning or arranging in a line or row;—(pl.) row, line, file, rank, queue; row, or tier, of seats; grade, form (in school), class course, section, division, group
Saffa Ṣaffa to set up in a row or line, line up, align, array, arrange, order (something); to eat, compose (type); to range, class, classify (someone among); to cut (something) in strips
Saffah Saffáḥ shedder of blood, killer, murderer. Caliph ‘Abu’l-‘Abbás ‘Abdu’lláh as-Saffáḥ
Saffar, Saffara Ṣaffár, collective Ṣaffára[h or t] brass founder or a copper smith
Saffari, Suffari Ṣaffárí, Ṣuffárí Pers. a coppersmith
Saffariyan Ṣaffáriyán Pers. the Saffarid dynasty, it was a Sunní Iranian dynasty from Sístán that ruled over parts of eastern Írán, with its capital at Zaranj (a city now in SW Afghánistán), from 861 to 1003. Founded by the Persian coppersmith Ya‘qúb ibn al-Layth al-Ṣaffárí (840–879)
Safaha Safáha[h or t] (fem. of Safíh) foolishness, stupidity, silliness; impudence, shamelessness, insolence
Saffatun, Saffat Ṣáffatun, Ṣáffat those standing in or forming a rank, line or a row
Safid (Safed), Safida (Safidah, Safedih) Safíd, fem. Safída Pers. white, fair; clear, evident, manifest. Fem. chalk, whiting. Sapíd/sapída have similar meanings.
Safih, Sufaha’, Sifah Safíh, pl. Sufahá’, Sifáh foolish, stupid, silly; fool; an incompetent (Islamic law); impudent, shameless, insolent; insolent fellow. Áqá Muḥammad-Mihdí, because of his stupidity, was mockingly called Safíhu’l-‘Ulamá’, “the Foolish One of the Learned”.
Safina, Sufun, Safa’i Safína, pl. Sufun, Safá’i ship, vessel, boat
Safir, Sufara Safír, pl. Sufará mediator (between contending parties); ambassador (diplomatic). Also as a term for a figure of salvation—messenger, mediator
Safira, Safar, Sufur Ṣafira (Ṣafar, Ṣufúr) to be empty, be devoid, vacant (of)
Safiy Safíy term for a figure of salvation—the friend, the chosen one
Safiy, Safi, Asfiya Ṣafíy, Pers. Ṣafí, pl. Aṣfiyá’ clear, limpid, untroubled, undisturbed, serene, cloudless, pure, sheer;—pl. sincere friend, best friend, bosom friend
Safiya (Safiyya), Salifiya Ṣafíya(t), pl. Ṣalafíya leader’s share of the loot; lion’s share of the booty. Name of one of Muḥammad’s wives.
Safr, Sifr, Sufr, Safir, Sufur, Asfar Ṣafr, Ṣifr, Ṣufr, Ṣafir, Ṣufur, pl. Aṣfár empty, void, devoid, (of), free (from)
Safura Ṣáfúrá Zipporah, the wife of Moses
Safwat (Safouat), Sifwat, Suwat Ṣafwat, Ṣifwat, Ṣufwat Pers. choicest, best, purest part. Muḥammad Páshá Ṣafwat
Saghir ‘Id aṣ-Ṣaghír ‘Íd Little Bayrám, i.e., the feast of fast breaking on the 1st of Shawwál
Saghir, Sighar, Sughara Ṣaghír, pl. Ṣighár, Ṣughará small, little; paltry, scanty, insignificant; tiny, minute; young, juvenile, minor; a minor, one under age
Sahabi, Sahaba Ṣaḥábí, pl. Ṣaḥába a companion of the Prophet Muḥammad; companions, disciples, scribes and family of Muḥammad. Sing. Ṣaḥabíyy (masc.) Ṣaḥabíyyah (fem.) See Tábi‘ún.
Sahand Sahand Pers. a massive, heavily eroded stratovolcano (37.729736, 46.500086; located south of Tabríz) in East Azerbayjan Province, northwestern Írán. At 3,707 m it is the highest mountain in the province of East Azerbaijan.
Sahar Sahar sleeplessness, insomnia; wakefulness, vigil; watchfulness, vigilance (over); crescent moon (“just before dawn”). Turkish Seher.
Sahar, Ashar Saḥar, pl. Asḥár time before daybreak, early morning, dawn
Sahba’ Ṣahbá’ reddish (she-camel); wine, or the expressed juice of white grapes; red wine. Faríburz Ṣahbá’, Bahá’í architect.
Sahban Saḥbán water left in a bottle. Saḥbán Wá’il, famed pre-Islamic poet
Sahha, Sihha (Pers. Sihhih), Sahah Ṣaḥḥa, Ṣiḥḥa(h or t), Ṣaḥáḥ to be healthy; to be all right, be in order; to recover, recuperate (from); to heal (of a wound); to be sound, strong, vigorous, firm, right, correct, faultless, unimpaired, unblemished; to be firm, unshakable (resolution); to be admissible, permissible; to be true, authentic, certain, sure; to prove true, turn out to be true; to hold good
Sahhaf Ṣaḥḥáf a bookseller; a book-binder; a librarian
Sahib Amr Ṣáḥib Amr “Master of the Cause”, i.e. Shoghi Effendi.
Sahib az-Zaman, Sahibu’z-Zaman Ṣáḥib az-Zamán, Ṣáḥibu’z-Zamán “The Lord of the Age”. A title of the Qá’im or twelfth Imám, the Promised One of Islamic tradition. The Báb according to the Bahá’í Writings.
Sahib Sunna, Ahl as-Sunna Ṣáḥib Sunna[h or t] pl. Ahl as-Sunna[h or t]. Adherent to the Sunnah, Sunni in English. Plural adherents of Sunní Islám are referred to in Arabic as ahl as-sunnah wa l-jamāʻah (“the people of the Sunnah and the community”) or ahl as-sunnah for short; in English Sunnis. In English, doctrines and practices of Sunní Islám are sometimes called Sunnism, while adherents are known as Sunni Muslims, Sunnis, Sunnites and Ahlus Sunnah.
Sahib-Diwan Ṣáḥib-Díwán “Master of the Treasury” or “Minister of Finance”
Sahib-Ikhtiyar Ṣáḥib-Ikhtíyár possessed of free election or option; pre-eminent. Ikhtíyár used by Balyuzi and The Dawn-Breakers
Sahib-Qirani Ṣáḥib-Qirání Pers. heroic; royal, imperial. Aḥmad Sháh’s summer palace, Ṣáḥib-Qiráníyyih (Arches of the years).
Sahib, Ashab, Suhab, Sahaba, Suhban Ṣáḥib, pl. Aṣḥáb, Ṣuḥub, Ṣaḥába(h) associate, companion, comrade, friend; (in India) a title of courtesy, equivalent to Mr and Sir; adherent, follower; the other (of two); (with following genitive) man, owner, possessor, holder, master, lord, commander, representative, author or originator of ...; entrusted with; addicted or given to. Other plurals: ṣuḥbán, suḥba(h).
Sahiba, Sahibat, Sawahib, Sawahibat Ṣáḥiba, pl. Ṣáḥibát, Ṣawáḥib, Ṣawáḥibát fem. of Ṣáḥib, woman companion, a lady; a wife, etc.
Sahiba, Suhba, Sahaba, Sihaba Ṣaḥiba, Ṣuḥba[h or t] Ṣaḥába[h] or Ṣiḥába[h]. To be or become a companion, an associate, a comrade, a friend (of someone), make or become friends, be friends (with someone); to associate, have social intercourse (with someone); to accompany, escort (someone); to be closely associated (with someone). Mullá Muḥammad Báqir, better known as Ṣuḥbat-i-Lárí (d. 1835–36), Ṣúfí poet.
Sahifa (Sahifih), Suhuf, Saha’if Ṣaḥífa(t), pl. Ṣuḥuf, Ṣaḥá’if leaf (in a book or notebook), page; newspaper, paper, daily, journal; epidermis; surface; exterior. Pers. also Ṣaḥífih
Sahifah as-Sajjadiyah as-Ṣaḥífah aṣ-Sajjádíyah (Pers. Sajjádiyya) (“Scripture of Sajjád”) is a book of supplications attributed to ‘Alí ibn Ḥusayn Zayn al-‘Ábidín, the great-grandson of Muḥammad
Sahifatu’l-Haramayn Ṣaḥífatu’l-Ḥaramayn “Epistle of the Twin Shrines” by the Báb alternative name is Ṣaḥífa Baynu’l-Ḥaramayn
Sahifiy-i-‘Adliyyih Ṣaḥífiy-i-‘Adlíyyih “Epistle of Justice:  Root Principles” or the “Book of Justice” by the Báb. Also called Ṣaḥífiy-i-Uṣúl-i-‘Adlíyyih, on the fundamental or root principles of religion
Sahifiy-i-A’mal-i-Sanih Ṣaḥífiy-i-A‘mál-i-Sanih “Epistle on the Devotional Deeds of the Year” by the Báb
Sahifiy-i-Baynu’l-Haramayn Ṣaḥífiy-i-Baynu’l-Ḥaramayn “The Epistle revealed between the Twin (Two) Shrines” by the Báb. It was composed on the road between Medina and Mecca in answer to questions posed by Mírzá Muḥíṭ-i-Kírmání.
Sahifiy-i-Fatimiyyih Ṣaḥífiy-i-Fáṭimíyyih Book of Fatimih. See Kalimát-i-Maknúnih and Maṣḥaf.
Sahifiy-i-Furu’-i-‘Adliyyih Ṣaḥífiy-i-Furú‘-i-‘Adlíyyih “Epistle of Justice: Branches” by the Báb
Sahifiy-i-Ja’fariyyih Ṣaḥífiy-i-Ja‘faríyyih “Epistle to Ja‘far” by the Báb
Sahifiy-i-Makhzumiyyih Ṣaḥífiy-i-Makhzúmíyyih by the Báb An interpretation of a tradition related to Abú ‘Ubayd-i-Makhzúmí about the disconnected letters of the Qur’án and the time of the appearance of the Qá’im.  It is also named Makhzúní because at its beginning the Bab has referred to it as Makhzúní [Not Ṣaḥífiy-i-Makhdhúmíyyih as in The Dawn-Breakers, p. 669]
Sahifiy-i-Makhzunih Ṣaḥífiy-i-Makhzúnih “Hidden Treasured Epistle” by the Báb
Sahifiy-i-Radaviyyih Ṣaḥífiy-i-Raḍavíyyih “Epistle of Riḍá’” by the Báb
Sahifiy-i-Shattiyyih Ṣaḥífiy-i-Shaṭṭíyyih Pers. “Epistle of the River” by Bahá’u’lláh. Bahá’u’lláh unveils different aspects of the Word of God, which is the supreme testimony of God and conclusive demonstration of His power, and many other questions by using the analogy of a river (shaṭṭ ). Divine revelation can be likened to a great river which inundates the land.
Sahih, Sihah, Asihha Ṣaḥíḥ, pl. Ṣiḥáḥ, Aṣiḥḥá’ healthy, well, sound, healthful; complete, integral, perfect; whole, entire, undivided; right, correct, proper; true, veritable, actual, real; authentic, genuine, truthful, reliable, credible, believable; valid, legally valid, legal, lawful, rightful; strong (grammar; of a consonant, a verb). Táj al-Lugha wa aṣ-Ṣiḥáḥ al-‘Arabíya “The Crown of Language and the Correct Arabic” (abbreviated as aṣ-Ṣiḥáḥ fí al-Lugha, “The Correct Language”, and aṣ-Ṣiḥáḥ), a dictionary of Arabic, by Abú Naṣr Ismá‘íl ibn Ḥammád al-Jawharí.
Sahir Sáhir sleepless, awake, wakeful; watchful, vigilant; evening, night, nocturnal, nightly, taking place by night. The s-h-r root means staying up at night, insomnia; the earth’s surface, the Earth, desert. Of this root, only sáhira occurs in Qur’án 79:14.
Sahira (Sahirah or Sahirat) Sáhira(h or t) the earth, or its surface; a running fountain; an extensive desert without water; Syria; hell; a country that God will create for the day of resurrection
Sahl, Sahil, Suhul Sahl and Sáhil, pl. Suhúl smooth, level, even, soft (ground); easy, facile, convenient (for someone); simple, plain; fluent, flowing, facile (style);—(pl.) level, soft ground; plain
Sahm, Siham, Ashum, Suhum Sahm, pl. Sihám, Ashum, Suhúm arrow; dart;—pl. (ashum) portion, share, lot; share (of stock). as-Sahm (24.172222, 56.888611) is a coastal town in northeastern Oman.
Sahn, Suhun, Ashina Ṣaḥn, pl. Ṣuḥún, Aṣḥina a bowl, dish; plate; dish, meal, food; yard, courtyard; surface, plane; disk;—(pl. aṣḥina) phonograph record
Sahna, Sahnih (Sahneh) Ṣaḥna, Pers. Ṣaḥnih Pers. a city in and the capital of Ṣaḥnih County, Kermanshah Province, Írán. 60 km SE Kermanshah and 83 km SW Hamadán.
Sahra’, Saharin, Sahara, Sahrawat Ṣaḥrá’, pl. Ṣaḥárin, Ṣaḥárá, Ṣaḥrawát desert, stepp. aṣ-Ṣaḥrá’ Sahara. Ṣaḥrá’ an-Nafúd is a desert in the northern part of the Arabian Peninsula
Sahw (Sahv) Ṣaḥw cloudlessness, brightness serenity (of the weather); clarity, alertness of the mind, consciousness; bright, serene, cloudless, sunny (weather)
Sahw, Suhuw Ṣaḥw, Ṣuḥuw to regain consciousness, come to; to recover (from intoxication), sober up; to wake up, awake (from sleep); to become alert (to something), become aware (of something); form II to wake up, awaken, rouse (someone); form IV to be or become clear, bright, cloudless, serene (day, sky); to wake up, awaken, rouse (someone). Contrast with maḥw
Sahyun (Sahioun) or Sihyawn (Sihyaun) Ṣahyún or Ṣihyawn Zion
Saj’, Asja’ Saj‘, pl. Asja‘ speaking rhythmically; cooing (of a dove); crying (of a she-camel); rhymed prose; rhyme, metre, cadence, poetry. Saj‘ has strong features of rhymed and metred verse, but it is not poetry. Rather, it is formalized and very stylized poetic prose. Called saj‘ because of its evenness or monotony, or from a fancied resemblance between its rhythm and the cooing of a dove.
Saj’a Saj‘a(h) a passage of rhymed prose
Sajah Sajáḥ Sajáḥ bint al-Ḥárith ibn Suwayd, Arab Christian and soothsayer, declared she was a prophetess after learning that Musaylimah (whom she later married) and Ṭulayḥa ibn Khuwaylid ibn Nawfal al-Asadí (631) had declared prophethood. After the Battle of Yamáma where Musaylimah was killed, Sajáḥ converted to Islám.
Sajda, Sajadat Sajda, pl. Sajadát prostration in prayer
Sajid, Sujjad, Sujud Sájid, pl. Sujjad, Sujúd prostrate in adoration, worshiping
Sajin (Sajjin), Sujana’, Sajna Sajín, pl. Sujaná’, Sajná imprisoned, jailed, captive; prisoner, prison inmate, convict
Sajjad, Sajjadun Sajjád, pl. Sajjádún one who bows in adoration, worshiper (of God)
Sajur Sájúr a Druze town 26 km east of ‘Akká and 14 km west of Safed. The area for sájúr stone used for the Bahá’í terraces.
Sakhira, Sakhar, Sakhr, Sukhur, Sukhr Sakhira (Sakhar, Sakhr, Sukhur, Sukhr, Sukhra, Maskhar) to laugh, scoff, jeer, sneer (at), mock, ridicule, deride (someone or something), make fun (of)
Sakhkha Ṣakhkha(h or t) that which deafens by its vehemence; to pierce; calamity of the Resurrection. Found in Qur’án 80:33. From the root ṣ-kh-kh deafening sound, a cry that deafens by its vehemence; to pierce; calamity.
Sakhr, Sukhur, Sukhura, Sakharat Ṣakhr (collective; nomen unitatis) (pl. Ṣukhúr, Ṣukhúra, Ṣakharát) rocks, solid rock, boulders, rock formations
Sakhra Ṣakhra[h] boulder, rock. Qubbat aṣ-Ṣakhrah, the Dome of the Rock, the Mosque of Omar (in Jerusalem)—also called al-Aqṣá, “The Rock”
Sakht, Sakhta kht, fem. Sákhta[h or t Pers. make, construction, fabric, manufacture; furniture, apparatus, gear
Sakhwid (Sakhvid, Sakhoid) Sakhwíd small village and rural district (31.506288, 54.067142) 50 km SW of Yazd, Írán
Sakin, Sakinun, Sakana, Sawakin Sákin, pl. Sákinún, Sakana, f. Sawákin calm, motionless, still; vowelless (medial consonant); stagnant, standing (water); (pl. sukkán, sakana) dweller, inhabitant, resident, occupant; the population. Persian plural sákinán (“sakinan”—inhabitants)
Sakina, (Sakinih), Sak’in Sakína[h or t], pl. Saká’in immanence of God, presence of God; devout, God-inspired peace of mind; calm, tranquillity, peace. One of the half-sisters (“tranquil”) of Bahá’u’lláh. From Hebrew Shekhinah (“dwelling”, “settling”), and denotes the presence of God in a place. Iṣfahání Pers. Sakínih.
Sal’ (Sela), Sulu’ Sal‘, pl. Sulú‘ crack, fissure, rift (from the root sala‘). Jabal Sal‘ is a rocky outcrop on the NW side of central Medina. Also known as “Jabal Sala‘”. The highest point (24.476720, 39.598700) is 100 m. Outcrop name based on appearing to be sliced several times. Muḥammad prayed to God for victory here during the Battle of the Trench.
Salaf, Aslaf, Sulaf Salaf, pl. Asláf, Suláf predecessors; forebears, ancestors, forefathers. as-salaf aṣ-ṣáliḥ “the pious predecessors” understood to be the first three generations of Mulims.
Salafiya, Salafiyat Salafíya(h), pl. Salafíyát free loan; (cash) advance. as-Salafíya is an Islamic reform movement in Egypt, founded by Muḥammad ‘Abduh. Known as Salafi or Salafist movement, also Salafism. As a rule, all Wahhabis are Salafis but not all Salafis are Wahhabis. See wahhábí
Salah Ṣaláḥ goodness, properness, rightness; usability, practicability, usefulness; righteousness, probity, piety, godliness. Ṣaláḥ Jaráh (1918–1989), a caretaker at Bahjí.
Sala (Salah, Salat), Salawat Ṣalá[h], pl. Ṣalawát (convention, ṣaláh, but is pronounced ṣalát when in combination with a word starting with a vowel, e.g. al-) English salat, the official Islamic prayer ritual; intercession, intercessory prayer, benediction; blessing, grace (of God)
Salaha Ṣalaḥa ṣalaḥa (ṣaláḥ, ṣulúḥ, maṣlaḥa) and ṣaluḥa (ṣaláḥ, ṣaláḥíya). to be good, right, proper, in order, righteous, pious, godly; to be well, thrive; to be usable, useful, practicable, serviceable, fitting, suitable, or appropriate (for), etc.
Salah ad-Din, Salahi’d-Din, Salahu’d-Din Ṣaláḥ ad-Dín, Ṣaláḥi’d-Dín, Ṣaláḥu’d-Dín “Righteousness of the Faith”. an-Náṣir Ṣaláḥ ad-Dín Yúsuf ibn Ayyúb (1137–1193), known in the West as Saladin, was the first sultan of Egypt and Syria and the founder of the Ayyubid dynasty (al-Ayyúbíyún). Pers. Ṣaláḥí’d-Dín-i-Ayyúbí.
Salahiya (Salahiyyih), Salahiyat Ṣaláḥíya(h) (Pers. Ṣaláḥiyyih), pl. Ṣaláḥíyát suitability, fitness, appropriateness, aptness; efficiency; usability, practicability, usefulness, use, worth; serviceability, proper or working condition (e.g., of a machine); competence; validity, applicability;—pl. full or mandatory power, power of attorney. Bahá’u’lláh passed here on His journey to Istanbul (possibly Kifrí).
Salajiqa, as-Salaji as-Salájiqa(h or t), pl. as-Salájí(h) the Seljuk
Salak Sálak Aleppo boil (qarḥa ḥalab), a skin disease caused by the bite of a sandfly infected with the Leishmania parasite resulting in a red bump that eventually turns into an ulcer. The ulcer can take months to heal and can leave a permanent scar.
Salaka, Salk, Suluk Salaka (Salk, Sulúk) to follow (a road), travel (along a road); to take (a road), enter upon a course or road (figatively); to behave, comport oneself (toward someone); to proceed, act; to set foot (on), enter (a place). Can be understood in the sense of a “spiritual journey”. See sulúk for a second meaning of the word.
Salam, Salamat Salám, pl. Salámát soundness, unimpairedness, intactness, well-being; peace, peacefulness; safety, security;—pl. greeting, salutation; salute; military salute; national anthem. as-salámu ‘alaykum (“‘alikum”): Peace be (with you); salutation; obeisance, homage; health, security; submission, resignation (in the will of God); professing Islám; conceding, granting; acknowledging; assenting to, accepting. Typical response is wa ‘alaykumu as-salám “and peace be upon you, too”. The complete phrase is as-salámu ‘alaykum wa raḥmatu’lláhi wa barakátuh “Peace be upon you, as well as the mercy of God and his blessings.”
Salama, Salamih (Salameh, Salamah) Saláma[h or t] (fem.), Pers. Salámih (fem. of salám) blamelessness, flawlessness; unimpaired state, soundness, integrity, intactness; well-being, welfare; safety, security; smooth progress; success. Also means submission, see root salima.
Salar Sálár Pers. old, aged; a prince, chieftain, leader, general, commander, vice-regent, viceroy, lord-lieutenant, judge, or any person in high office. Not salár as in some instances in The Dawn-Breakers
Salaru’d-Dawlih Sáláru’d-Dawlih a Governor of Kirmánsháh
Salat al-Jinaza, Salat-i-Jinaza Ṣalát al-Jináza, Pers. Ṣalát-i-Jináza Prayer for the dead
Salat-i-Jama’ah Ṣalát-i-Jamá‘ah congregational prayer
Salat-i-Mayyit Ṣalát-i-Mayyit “Prayer for the Dead” by Bahá’u’lláh
Sali’a, Sala’ Sali‘a (Sala‘) to crack, become cracked; Form VII to split, break open, burst
Salih, Saliha, Salihat, Salihin, Sawalih Ṣáliḥ, fem. Ṣáliḥa[h or t] (pl. fem. Ṣáliḥát, pl. Ṣáliḥín, Ṣawáliḥ) good, right, proper, sound; thorough, substantial, downright, out-and-out, solid; virtuous, pious, devout, godly; usable, useful, practicable, serviceable, fitting, suitable, appropriate (for); fem. virtuous, chaste;—pl. Ṣáliḥín the righteous, the pious; good men;—pl. Ṣawáliḥ advantage, benefit, interest, good, welfare. “Righteous”—Prophet of God Who appeared before Abraham and sent to the tribe of Thamúd in Arabia. Contrast with Ṭáliḥ.
Salihiya Ṣáliḥíya[h or t] Ṣáliḥíyat-a Muslim sect; al-Ṣáliḥíya, a neighbourhood of Baghdád, and the name of several villages.
Salih-i-Baraqani Ṣáliḥ-i-Baraqání Ḥájí Mullá Ṣáliḥ-i-Baraqání, father of Ṭáhirih
Salik, Salikat Sálik, pl. Sálikát traveller; a devotee; a disciple. Also passable, practicable (road); entered upon (course); clear, open, not blocked, not obstructed (also anatomy);—(pl.) one who follows the spiritual path (especially mystical)
Salim Sálim meaning, see Salím. Masc. name.
Salim, Sulama Salím, pl. Sulamá safe, secure; free (from); unimpaired, undamaged, unhurt, sound, intact, complete, perfect, whole, integral; faultless, flawless; well; safe and sound; safe; healthy; sane; (euphemistically) seriously injured or damaged, on the verge of ruin. Masc. name. Ottoman sulṭán, Salím I.
Salima Salima (see derivatives Saláma, Salám) to be safe and sound, unharmed, unimpaired, intact, safe, secure; to be unobjectionable, blameless faultless; to be certain, established, clearly proven (fact); to be free (from); to escape (danger). Form II to preserve, keep from injury, protect from harm (someone), save (someone from); to hand over intact (something, or to someone); to hand over, turn over, surrender (someone, something, or to someone); to deliver (to someone something); to lay down (arms); to surrender, give oneself up (or to); to submit, resign oneself (or to); to greet. Salute (someone); to grant salvation (God to the Prophet); to admit, concede, grant (something); to consent (to something), approve (of something), accept, sanction, condone (something)
Salis Salis tractable, pliable, docile, compliant, obedient; flexible, smooth, fluent (style)
Saljuq Saljúq Pers. from Turkish Selçuklu (pl. Selçukluları). Name of founder of the Seljuk Empire who was a medieval Turko-Persian.
Saljuqi Saljúqí Pers. Saljukian
Salm, Salama Salm, fem. Salama[h or t] peace, one who cultivates peace and friendship; eldest son of Farídún. Salmih is sometimes used. Pers. may use Salamih. See Umm Salama.
Salma, Sulayma (Sulaima) Salmá, diminutive Sulaymá (beloved) the south wind; name of a woman celebrated for her beauty; hence in general, a mistress, sweetheart, lady-love; name of a mountain; also of a tribe
Salman Salmán obedient, disciplined, humble, loyal, devoted. Salmán al-Fársí (born Rúzbih Khushnúdán, 568–653) was a friend of Muḥammad and ‘Alí. Muḥammad used him to indicate the Qá’im would be Persian.
Salmanpur Salmánpúr Dr Ḥabíbu’lláh Salmánpúr
Salmas Salmás a city (formerly, Sháhpúr; 38.199498, 44.767944) in West Azerbaijan Province, Írán, near the eastern border of Anatolia. Located at the north west end of Lake Urmia. About 30 km ENE of Chihríq. Salmás was called the “abode of Salmá” by the Báb.
Salsabil Salsabíl spring, well, “softly flowing”. A plain and the name of a river or fountain in Paradise.
Saltan, Saltana (Saltanih, Saltaneh) Salṭan, fem. Salṭana[h or t] (Pers. Salṭanih) making emperor; power, authority, dominion; magnificence, majesty; an empire, reign, kingdom, principality; saltanate. Used in title, as in Ḍíyá’u’s-Salṭanih, daughter of Fatḥ-‘Alí Sháh. Tasalṭana (Tasaltana) to become a sultan or ruler.
Salvari, Silivri Salvárí, Silivri city and a district in Istanbul Province along the Sea of Marmara in Türkiye
Salwan (Salvan, Silwan, Sulwan) Salwán forgetting. Hebrew Shiloah (Siloam); neighbourhood and pool just to the south of old Jerusalem. See Sulwán
Sam Sám Shem (eldest son of Noah). Pers. the rainbow; a swelling; a disease; fire.
Sam Khan Sám Khán
Sam’, Asma’ Sam‘, pl. Asmá‘ hearing, sense of hearing, audition; ear;—pl. ears
Sama’ Samá’ m. & f., pl. Samáwát heaven, sky; firmament
Samad Ṣamad lord; eternal, everlasting (epithet of God). aṣ-Ṣamad is mentioned once in the Qur’án (verse 112:2).
Samadiyya, Samadiyyih Ṣamadíyya, Pers. Ṣamadíyyih eternal refuge (?). See Ṣamdán
Samah Samáḥ magnanimity, generosity; kindness; liberality, munificence; indulgence, forbearance, tolerance, forgiveness, pardon; permission (for, to do something)
Saman Sámán Pers. household furniture, baggage, articles; instruments, tools, apparatus; order, arrangement, disposition; preparation; foundation of a house; a boundary, limit, place where any sign or mark is placed to separate one field from another, etc.
Samandar Samandar Ar. salamander (lizard-like amphibians, mythically associated with fire). Pers. samandar, samandir, samandur, samandal, samandúr (said to be derived from sám, fire, and andarún, within), a salamander, sometimes associated with the phoenix. Name given by Bahá’u’lláh to Muḥammad Kázim Qazvíní (1844–1918) (known as Shaykh Káẓim-i-Samandar or just Samandar). He was an Apostle of Bahá’u’lláh. Described by Shoghi Effendi as a “flame of the love of God”.
Samandari Samandarí (1874–1968) named Ṭarázulláh by Bahá’u’lláh, son of Samandar. Hand of the Cause of God and a distinguished Persian calligrapher.
Samaniyan Sámániyán Pers. the Samanid Empire (Samanian Empire, Samanid dynasty, Samanid Emirate, or simply Samanids) was a Sunní Iranian empire from 819 to 999. The empire was centred in Khurásán and Transoxiana; at its greatest extent, the empire encompassed all of today’s Afghánistán, large parts of Írán, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and parts of Kazakhstan and Pákistán.
Samanu Samanú Pers. a malt and flour candy
Samariya, Samariyyih Sámaríya[h or t] or Samaríya[h or t] (Pers. Bahá’ís Samaríyyih) Samaria is the historic and biblical name of the central region of Palestine, bordered by Judea to the south, Galilee to the north, and the Jordan River to the east. Samaríyyih Hill (32.961469, 35.092595, termed Buq‘atu’l-Ḥamrá’ by Bahá’u’lláh), 2 km north of Bahjí, opposite the kibbutz of Lohamei HaGeta’ot. A tel 3.25 km north of Bahjí, Tall as-Sámayríya (32.972709, 35.093416) and former Arab village site. See Buq‘atu’l-Ḥamrá’.
Samarqand, Samarkand Samarqand, Samarkand city in Uzbekistan
Samarra Sámarrá’ modern city on the east bank of the Tigris River, 125 km north of Baghdád. The formal name of the Abbasid city, Sámarrá’ (an archaeological site; 34.166250, 43.904869) was Surra Man Ra’á (“he who sees it is delighted”).
Samarri (Samuri, Simari) as-Sámarrí from or of Sámarrá’. Abú al-Ḥasan ‘Alí ibn Muḥammad as-Sámarrí is the fourth deputy of the twelfth Imám.
Samawah (Samawih) Samáwah as-Samáwah is a city (31.314945, 45.284614) between Baghdád and Baṣra
Samawar, Samavar Samáwar (Samávar) Pers. for the Russian samovar (“self-boiling”). Sometimes written samovár.
Samdan, Samdani, Samadi Ṣamdán, Ṣamdání, Ṣamadí eternal, everlasting; divine
Samdaniya Ṣamdáníya(h or t) eternity
Sami’ (Pers. Sami’ih), Suma’a Samí‘, pl. Suma‘á’ hearing, listening; hearer, listener
Samih, Samiha (Samihih), Sumaha’ Samíḥ, fem. Samíḥa[h or t], pl. Sumahá’ generous, magnanimous; kind, forgiving; liberal, open-handed. Samíḥih (Pers.), wife of Músá Banání (incorrectly given as Samí‘ih (A basic Bahá’í chronology), Samíyyih (The Unfolding Destiny of the British Bahá’ís), Samíḥíḥ, etc.
Samim Ṣamím innermost, heart; core, essence, marrow, pith; true, sincere, genuine
Samimi Ṣamímí (possible Arabic origin) cordial; inward; pure, sincere
Samir, Samira, Summar Sámir, fem. Sámira[h or t], pl. Summár companion in nightly entertainment; conversationalist; entertainer
Samiramis (Semiramis) Samírámís a mythical and a historical early 9th century BCE Armenian queen.
Samiri (Sameri), Samiriyun Sámirí, pl. Sámiríyún of or belonging to Sámir. Samaritan; Samaritan language. as-Sámira, the Samaritans. as-Sámirí (predating by centuries the building of Samaria) in the Qur’án is unlikely to be a personal name—possibly Shemer (Egyptian) or Shamar (Hebrew, “guard, watchman”). According to Qur’án 20:88, Sámirí (possibly a magician in the court of Pharaoh during the time of Moses) built the biblical “golden calf” that made a “lowing” sound. See khuwár.
Samit Ṣámit, pl. Ṣummát enjoying another’s misfortune. ‘Ubaydah ibn aṣ-Ṣámit was a notable companion of Muḥammad and a well respected chieftain of the Anṣár tribes confederation, which participated in almost every battle during the time of Muḥammad. His official title, according to Muslim scholarly tradition, was ‘Ubadah bin Ṣámit al-Anṣárí al-Badrí due to his actions at the Battle of Badr.
Samiy (Pers. Samiyyih) Samíy high, elevated; exalted, lofty, sublime, august; namesake
Samm, Sumum, Simam Samm, pl. Sumúm, Simám poison, toxin; venom; opening, hole; eye (of a needle)
Samn, Sumum Samn, pl. Sumún clarified butter (ghee), cooking butter
Samnan (Semnan) Samnán the capital city (180 km east of Ṭihrán) of Semnan Province, Írán
Samra, Samrih as-Samrá, Pers. Samrih was a Palestinian Arab village 10 km southeast of Tiberias. It was depopulated during the 1947–1948 Civil War in Mandatory Palestine on 21 April 1948—later it was destroyed. It was one of three villages where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá grew corn and wheat during the First World War. See ‘Adasíya and an-Nuqayb. See asmar
Samsun Sámsún Black Sea port, Anatolia, Türkiye
San’ai (Sana’a) Ṣan‘á’ capital and largest city in Yemen. It is one of the oldest, continuously inhabited, cities in the world.
San’at Ṣaní‘at an art, action
Sana (“Sina”) Saná light, splendour, brightness, flashing (of lightning); senna (name of botanical species for plants whose leaves and pods that have cathartic and laxative properties)—Senna makkí and Senna maka.
Sometimes used in a poetic or literary context to describe a divine or heavenly light.
Sana Hijriya Sana Hijríya year of the Muslim era (after the hegira), A.H.
Sana Miladiya Sana Míládíya year of the Christian era, A.D.
Sana Muhammadiya Sana Muḥammadíya(h) year of Muḥammad—better would be sana islámí (Islamic year)
Sana, Sinun, Sanawat Sana[h or t], pl. Sinún, Sanawát year. ra’s as-sanat, New Year. yawm ra’s as-sanat al-jadídah, new year’s day.
Sana’ Saná’ brilliance, resplendence, splendour, radiance, flash, flare (of lightning); exaltedness, sublimity, majesty, high rank; eminence, dignity; meridian
Sana’ al-Barq Saná’ al-Barq The Brilliance of Lightning, written by Sayyid Ja‘far al-Kashfí, father of Sayyid Yaḥyá Darábí
Sana’i Saná’í Ḥakím Abu’l-Majd Majdúd ibn Ádam Saná’í Ghaznawí, a Persian poet from Ghazní, now in Afghánistán, between the 11th century and the 12th century. He died between 1131 and 1141.
Sana’u’llah Saná’u’lláh “Brilliance of God”, a title of Bahá’u’lláh. It signifies the divine splendour and light associated with Baháʼu’lláh’s mission.
Sanaiyan Sanawíyan annually, yearly, in one year, per year, per annum
Sanam, Asnam Ṣanam, pl. Aṣnám idol, image
Sanandaj Sanandaj Provincial capital (35.312666, 46.996324) of Persian Kurdistán. Also called Sinna (“Senna”) from Kurdish.
Sanat, Sana Sanat, Sana Pers. a year; a single revolution of the sun. See sunna
Sanawi Sanawí annual, yearly
Sanduq al-Khayr aṣ-Ṣandúq al-Khayr benevolent fund
Sanduq-dar Ṣandúq-dár “Treasurer of the savings”
Sang, Sang-ha Sang, pl. Sang-há Pers. a stone; a rock; a weight; a tombstone; stone of a sealing-ring; dumb-bells of athletes; a cannon-ball; gravity, authority, dignity; value, worth, price; equality
Sanglaj (Sangelaj) Sanglaj Pers. a neighbourhood of District 12 (west of the Golestan Palace), Ṭihrán
Sangsar (Sang-i-Sar, Sang-Sar) Sangsar (Sang-i-Sar, Sang-Sar) Pers. stone + head = headstrong. A city now called Mahdí-Shahr. See Mahdí-Shahr.
Sangsar (Sang-i-Sar, Sang-Sar) Sangsár (Sang-i-Sár, Sang-Sár) Pers. stoning to death. A small village (near the Turkmenistan border; 38.211599, 56.976785), in Bojnord County, North Khorasan Province, Írán.
Sangsara, Sang Sara Sang Sará a very small village (also known as Sangsar, 18 km south of Láríján) in Gílán Province, Írán. A small village (near Caspian Sea) west of Núr in Mázandarán Province.
Sani’ Ṣaní‘ any work of art; operation, creation, performance, act, deed; a creature of God; a present, gift, donative; well groomed and fed (horse); polished and proved (sword, arrow, etc.)
Saniy (Sani), Saniya Saníy, fem. Saníya[h or t] high, lofy, sublime, exalted, splendid, flashing, shining, more shining, more radiant, more brilliant. Pers. may use Saní.
Sanjar (Senjar) Sanjar Pers. a prince, emperor, king; name of a celebrated monarch; name of a hunting bird; ecstasied, enraptured. A village 6 km west of Dizfúl
Santur Santúr Pers. a hammered dulcimer of Iranian origin
Saoshyant (Soshans) Saoshyant (Sósháns) from Avestan, “one who brings benefit”, saviour, benefactor. Name of a saviour figure in Zoroastrian tradition used for three saviour figures (Muḥammad (Úshídar Bumí), the Báb (Úshídar Máh) and Bahá’u’lláh (He claimed to be the Sháh Bahrám Varjávand)) that progressively bring about the final renovation.
Sapid (Saped), Sapida (Sapeda) Sapíd, fem. Sapída Pers. white; conspicuous, manifest; empty. Fem. whiteness; the white of the eye; the dawn; the white of an egg.
Saqar Saqar fem. hell
Saqat, Asqat Saqaṭ, pl. Asqáṭ any worthless thing; offal, refuse, rubbish, trash; junk
Saqi-az-Ghayb-i-Baqa’ Sáqí-Az-Ghayb-i-Baqá’ Pers. “The Cupbearer of the Invisible Eternity” (fifteen couplet qaṣída (ghazal) by Bahá’u’lláh)
Saqi, Saghi, Saqiyan Sáqí, pl. Suqát, Pers. Sáqiyán a water-carrier; a cup-bearer (Bahá'u'lláh, often of wine and symbolic of "mystical inebriation"), page.
Persian sometimes given as sághí.
Saqiya, Sawaqin Sáqiya[h or t], pl. Sawáqin barmaid;—pl. rivulet; irrigation ditch, irrigation canal; ; water scoop; water wheel—more common type, often powered by animals. See ná‘úra.
Saqsin (Saksin, Saksin-Bolgar) Saqsín a medieval city that flourished from the eleventh to the thirteenth centuries. Excations at Samosdelka (46.022892, 47.839000) on the Lower Volga River in Russia have located ruins of the city.
Sar Sár Pers. a starling; a camel; pain; affliction, grief, trouble; a place, spot; a hollow reed; a milestone; a wine-press; a title by which the princes in Georgia were formerly addressed; a czar; high, tall
Sar Sar Pers. the head; top, summit; having many inequalities (ground); placed after nouns it denotes plenty, magnitude, similitude, or possession
Sar Pul-i-Dhahab (Sarpol-e Zahab) Sar Púl-i-Dhaháb city 112 km west of Kermanshah
Sar-Chah Sar-Cháh a village (36.541680, 58.411074) in the Central District of Nishapur County, Razavi Khorasan Province, IrÍránan. 72 km NE of Sabzivár. Sar Cháh-i-Táziyán (33.018433, 59.560296) village 35 km NE of Bírjand.
Sar-Chashma (Sarcheshmeh) Sar-Chashma (Sar-Chashmah) Pers. “Sar-Chashmih”. A fountain-head, spring. Located to the southern side of the centre of Ṭihrán.
Sar-Galu, Sargalu, Sargallu, Sarjallu Sar-Galú (Sarjallú) (“Sarkalu”) village (35.867656, 45.162043) 43 km NW of as-Sulaymáníyah, ‘Iráq. Bahá’u’lláh lived here and/or in a nearby mountain cave.)
Sar-i-Jisr Sar-i-Jisr Pers. a “coffee-house of Sar-i-Jisr” near al-Kádhimiya Mosque in the Kádhimayn suburb of Baghdád
Sar-Zamin Sar-Zamín Pers. the earth; a country, region; limits, confines; upon the spot, on the premises
Sara Sárá happiness, laughter, joy, delight. Pers. pure, excellent (applied to gold, ambergris, musk); undefiled. Sarah, Abraham’s wife. See Sarrá’.
Sara Sará Pers. a palace, mansion. Hebrew lady, princess, queen; English Sarah.
Sara Sára Pers. posts or stones along a path, placed at the distance of a parasang apart
Sara, Sarih Sára[h or t], Pers. Sárih “woman of high rank”, Sarah, a woman’s name. Wife and aunt of Abraham. Sárih Khánum; loyal, full sister of Bahá’u’lláh; who married (1932) Mirza Maḥmúd (never a Bahá’í), the son of Mírzá Ismá‘íl-i-Vazír of Yalrud. Maḥmúd’s younger sister, Ásíyih Khánum, married Bahá’u’lláh.
Sarab Saráb mirage; phantom; sewage
Sarandib, Sayalan Sarandíb, Sayalán (Ceylon) Ceylon (from Portugese Ceilão), now Sri Lanka (hence Srí Lánká, from Sinhala). Sarandíb is derived from the Sanskrit name Siṃhaladvípaḥ (“Island of Lions”), and it is the origin of the word “serendipity”.
Saray, Saraya, Sarayat Saráy, fem. Saráya[h or t], pl. Saráyát palace. In Persian can also mean a house, grand edifice.
Sarbaz Sarbáz Sarbaz; also known as Qal‘ah-i-Sarbáz—“Fort Sarbaz”. It is a city in and the capital of Sarbáz District, in Sarbáz County, Sístán and Baluchestan Province, SE Írán.
Sardar (Sar-dar) Sardár Pers. a general, field-marshal, officer of rank, king’s lieutenant, a chief in any department; a prince
Sardar-Kull Sardár-Kull Pers. literally, the commander of all military forces, i.e. “General commander” or “Chief commander”
Sarf, Suruf Ṣarf, pl. Ṣurúf averting, turning away; expenditure, expense; spending, use, application (e.g., of time, of effort, etc.); issuance, issue, making out; disbursement; money changing; barter (Islamic law); drainage; inflection (grammar);—(pl. ṣurúf) adversities, misfortunes (also ṣurúf ad-dahr)
Sari (Shahr-Tajin, Shahr-Tajan), Saruy Sárí Pers. a starling; a milestone; a city and provincial capital of Mázindarán province (36.566292, 53.058604). Also once known as Zard-Shahr (“Yellow town”; colour of citrous fruit on trees surrounding the town) and Shahr-i-Tajin (“Town on the Tajin” River). Sárúy, citizen.
Sari Sarí, pl. Suryán Pers. chiefship, rank of general; a large river; a funnel; a kind of armour for a horse’s head;—pl. rivulets
Sari’, Sar’a Ṣarí‘, pl. Ṣar‘á thrown to the ground, felled; epileptic; demented, insane, mad, crazy; (with following genitive) succumbing to something, fallen victim to something. Qur’án 69:7
Sarih, Sariha, Suraha’ Ṣaríḥ, fem. Ṣaríḥa[t], pl. Ṣuraḥá’ Ar./Pers. clear, evident, palpable; pure, unmixed
Sarim al-Dawla Ṣárim al-Dawla strict state
Sarim, Sawarim Ṣárim, pl. Ṣawárim sharp, harsh, hard, severe, strict, stern, cutting
Sariya, Saraya Saríya[h or t], pl. Saráyá a brigade, army, troops, any body of men from 5 to 400
Sarkar, Sar-kar Sarkár, Sar-kár Pers. compound of (sar, “head”) + (kár, “agent, doer”); a chief, superintendant, supervisor, overseer, agent; a title by way of respect given to a person present or absent; a workshop; a king’s court; government; estate; property; knowledge, practice; headman
Sarkar-i-Aqa Sarkár-i-Áqá “His Excellency the Master”. A title Bahá’u’lláh used for ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Sarmad Sarmad endless duration, eternity (the world of perpetuity)
Sarmadi Sarmadí eternal, without beginning or end; “everlasting”
Sarra Sarrá’ happiness, prosperity
Sarraf (Saraf), Sarrafa Ṣarráf, fem. Ṣarráfa[h or t] money changer; cashier, teller, treasurer; paymaster; banker. See ṣayraf.
Sarraj Sarráj saddler or leather worker
Sartip Sartíp Pers. brigadier
Saruq Sárúq (also known as Qal‘ih-i-Sárúq, Qal‘ih-i-Bálá Sárúq and Súrakh) is a village (34.414167, 49.494167) in Markazi Province
Sarw, Sarv Sarw, Pers. also Sarv (collective; nomen unitatis ة) evergreen cypress tree
Sarwistan, Sarvistan Sarwistán, Pers. also Sarvistán (Sarvestan, Serostan) “land of cypresses”; city (29.267124, 53.222546) and county in the province of Fárs, Írán
Sas, Sasan Sás, pl. Sásán Pers. a mother-in-law; pleasant, elegant, graceful; neat, clean; poor, indigent; name of an old family in Persia.—pl. solitary, recluse; a beggar; name of the father of Ardashír Bábak, founder of the dynasty of the Sasanids, who reigned in Persia from CE 224–651, when Yazdagird, the last of the race, was overpowered by the Arabians
Sasani, Sasaniun, Sasaniyan Sásání, pl. Sásáníyún, Pers. Sásáníyán belonging or relating to the Sásán dynasty (Iranian or Sasanian Empire) of Persian kings. Sásáníyún, the Sasanides; also known in English as the Sasanian, Sassanian, Sasanid and Sassanid Empire.
Satar Satár Pers. a star; a mosquito curtain;—sitár (for sih tár), a three-stringed guitar; a rising star; a riff
Sattar as-Sattár the veiler, the coverer (an attribute of God)
Satwa, Satawat Saṭwa(t), pl. Saṭawát attack, assault; influence, authority; presumption, cockiness, pride, power, strength
Satwatu’llah Saṭwatu’lláh authority of God
Sawad (Savad) Sawád, pl. Aswida black colour, black, blackness; (pl.) black clothing, mourning; arable land, tilth; shape, form; inner part, core; majority; multitude
Sawad-Kuh (Savad-Koh) Sawád-Kúh mountain (32.522235, 50.257248) west of Iṣfahán. A county in Mazandaran Province, capital city (36.116846, 53.056318) is Pul-Safíd (“white bridge”).
Sawda (Sauda) Sawda[h] date palm garden or land with many date palms. Sawda bint Zam‘a was the second wife of Muḥammad.
Sawwaf Ṣawwáf wool merchant
Sawiq, Pist Sawíq, Pers. Pist bruised corn; meal of wheat, barley, or vetches, especially when toasted
Sawla (Saula, Pers. Sawlih), Sawlat Ṣawla, pl. Ṣawlát attack, assault; force, tyranny, despotism, arbitrariness
Sawm (Saum) Ṣawm abstention, abstinence, abstemiousness; fasting, fast; aṣ-ṣawm fasting during Ramadán
Sawma’ (Sauma’), Sawami’ Ṣawma‘, pl. Ṣawámi‘ a cloister; monk’s cell; tower; hermitage
Sawma’a (Sauma’a) Ṣawma‘a(h or t) heaping up to a point; collecting, bringing together; a high-crowned cap, mitre, tiara; a Christian cell, a hermitage, a monastery; an eagle
Sawn, Sawan (Savan), Sun Sawn, Sawan or Pers. Sún a side, a part; like, resembling
Saysan (Sausan), Susan Saysan, Súsan lily of the valley (botanical)
Saysan (Seysan), Sisan, Sisan-i-Qadim Saysán Bahá'í village (37.827427, 46.734777) 46 km SE of Tabríz, East Azerbaijan Province. Also known as Saysán-i-Qadím ("Old Seysan"). All of the Bahá'ís of the village were removed and their houses razed to the ground by bulldozers in an operation of ethnic cleansing after the Islamic Revolution of 1979.
The village is on the slope (to the north) of Sahand Mountain.
Sayda Ṣaydá Sidon, southern Lebanon
Sayf (Saif), Asyaf Ṣayf, pl.Aṣyáf summer
Sayf (Saif), Suyuf, Asyaf, Asyuf Sayf, pl. Suyúf, Asyáf, Asyuf sword; sabre, foil, rapier. Sayf al-Islám—title of princes of the royal house of Yemen. Sayf Alláh or Sayfa’lláh—the Sword of God.
Sayfu’l-Haq (Saifu’l-Haqq) Sayfu’l-Ḥaq (Saifu’l-Ḥaqq) “The sword of truth” applied to Áqá Ján by Mírzá Yaḥyá
Sayha (Saiha), Sayhat Ṣayḥa (n. vic.) pl. Ṣayḥát cry, outcry, shout. The nomen vicis (n. vic.) is an Arabic infinitive that intends to denote the singleness of the action.
Sayqal (Saiqal), Sayqalat, Masaqil Ṣayqal, pl. Ṣayqalát, Maṣáqil polisher, smoother.
Ṣayqal (other possible names: Rayḥánah, Súsan and Narjis) was a slave of Imám Ḥasan al-'Askarí and claimed by Shí'ah Muslims to be the mother of the twelfth Imám.
Sayraf, Sayrafi, Sayarif, Sayarifa Ṣayraf, Ṣayrafí, pl. Ṣayárif, f. Ṣayárifa[h] money changer; cashier, teller, treasurer. See ṣarráf.
Sayrurat (Sairurut) Sayrúrat Pers. being, becoming, proving
Sayyah, Sayyahun Sayyáḥ, pl. Sayyáḥún traveller; tourist. Title, ‘Alíy-i-Sayyáḥ, given to Adí-Guzal of Maraghih, the eminent traveller and disciple of the Báb. Lawḥ-i-Sayyáḥ is a Tablet in honour of Mullá Adí-Guzal. Ḥájj Sayyáḥ, Mírzá Muḥammad ‘Alí Maḥallátí (c. 1836–1925), the first Iranian-American; a world traveller; constitutionalist and human rights activist; and secret emissary of Mas‘úd Mírzá to Bahá’u’lláh, ‘Akká, in 1888. See Guzel.
Sayyid ‘Ali (Siyyid ‘Ali) Sayyid ‘Alí Ḥájí Mírzá Siyyid ‘Alí (surnamed Khál-i-A‘ẓam, the “Most Great Uncle”) middle maternal uncle of the Báb, who raised Him after His father, Siyyid Mírzá Muḥammad-Riḍá, died when His son was 9 (1828). He was the only relative of the Báb to espouse His Cause openly during His lifetime and to accept martyrdom for His sake.
Sayyid (Saiyid), Sayyida, Asyad, Sada Sayyid, fem. Sayyida[h or t] (dual Sayyidán, pl. Asyád, Sáda[h or t], Sádát, fem. Sayyidát) master; gentleman; Mister; Sir; lord, overlord; chief, chieftain; title of Muḥammad’s direct descendants. Dual: The two sons of Imám ‘Alí, Ḥasan and Ḥusayn. During the time of the Ottoman Empire, sayyids formed a kind of nobility with the privilege of wearing green turbans. See ḥashísh. Siyyid is a Persian Bahá’í variation.
Sayyid Kazim-i-Rashti Sayyid Káẓim-i-Rash Siyyid Káẓim bin Qásim al-Ḥusayní ar-Rashtí (1793–1843). The second (successor of Shaykh Aḥmad-i-Aḥsá’í) of the “twin resplendent lights” (Bábayn, two gates) who taught their followers that the coming of the Promised One of Islam (the Báb) was at hand and prepared them for His advent. Died 31–12–1843, Karbilá, leaving no successor. See Shaykh Aḥmad-i-Aḥsá’í
Sayyid Muhammad Sayyid Muḥammad Ḥájí Mírzá Siyyid Muḥammad (surnamed Khál-Akbar, the “greater uncle”), eldest maternal uncle of the Báb.
Sayyid-i-‘Uluvv (Siyyid-i-‘Uluw) Sayyid-i-‘Uluw
Sayyid-i-Bab (Siyyid-i-Bab) Sayyid-i-Báb “Lord of the Gate” (a designation of the Báb)
Sayyid-i-Dhikr (Siyyid-i-Dhikr) Sayyid-i-Dhikr “Lord of Remembrance” (a designation of the Báb)
Sayyid-i-Khal-Dar (Siyyid-i-Khal-Dar) Sayyid-i-Khál-Dár DB 471
Sayyid-i-Nur (Siyyid-i-Nur) Sayyid-i-Núr “Radiant Sayyid” Name given to Ḥájí Siyyid Javád by the Báb. DB 188.
Sayyid-i-Shish-Pari (Siyyid-i-Shish-Pari) Sayyid-i-Shish-Parí DB 153
Sayyidi (Saidi, Sidi), Sayyidiya Sayyidí, fem. Sayyidíya[h or t] (informal sídí) my lord; sir. Honourific before the names of Muslim saints.
Sayyidu’sh-Shuhada’ Sayyidu’sh-Shuhadá’á (Pers. Siyyidu’sh-Shuhadá’) “The master of martyrs” or “The Prince of Martyrs”, Imám Ḥusayn
Saz, Sazan Sáz, pl. Sázán Pers. a musical instrument; concord, harmony; arms, apparatus, harness, furniture; preparations (for nuptials, journey, or any important business); a feast, banquet; (in compounds from sákhtan) preparing, making, effecting
Sha’a Shá’a to want; to wish (something, that)
Sha’b, Shu’ub Sha‘b, pl. Shu‘úb people, folk; nation; tribe; race
Sha’ba, Sha’b Sha‘aba, Sha‘b to gather, assemble, rally (people, something); to disperse, scatter (people, something)
Sha’ban Sha‘bán Eighth month in Islamic calendar (scattered)
Sha’iq (Shayiq, Shaiq) Shá’iq (Sháyiq) arousing longing, stimulating desire; brilliant, gorgeous, splendid, beautiful
Sha’ir, Shu’ara’ Shá‘ir, pl. Shu’ará’ knowing (by instinctive perception), endowed with deeper insight, with intuition; poet;—pl. poet
Sha’iriya, Sha’iriyat Shá‘iríya[h or t], pl. Shá‘iríyát poetry; poetical work, poetization; poetical talent; poetship
Sha’n (Shan), Sha’na, Shu’un, Shu’unat Sha’n (Shán), pl. Shu’ún, Shu’únát (feminine sha’na[h or t] and shu’úna[h or t]) matter, affair, concern, business; circumstances, state of affairs, case; nature, character, quality, kind; situation, condition, state; significance; importance, consequence; standing, prestige, rank, dignity, power, authority; respect, regard;—pl. dignities, honours, etc. sha’na like, as; bi-sha’ni regarding, with regard or respect to, relating to, pertaining to, concerning, as to, about. See rasm.
Sha’r, Sha’ar, Shu’ur, Shi’ar, Ash’ar Sha‘r, Sha‘ar, pl. Shu‘úr, Shi‘ár (coll.; nomen unitatis) hair; bristles; fur, pelt. Ash‘ar, very hairy.
Sha’rani Sha‘rání hairy, hirsute, shaggy. ‘Abd al-Wahháb ibn Aḥmad ash-Sha‘rání, author of Kitáb al-yawáqít wa al-jawáhir fí bayán ‘aqá’id al-akábir (The book of sapphires and jewels: an explanation of the tenets of faith of mystic luminaries)
Sha’rawi (Sha’ravi) Sha‘ráwí Hudá Sha‘ráwí (1879–1947) was a pioneering Egyptian feminist leader, nationalist, and founder of the Egyptian Feminist Union. God Passes By, p. 388.
Sha’sha’a Sha‘sha‘a[h or t] to mix with water, dilute (a beverage); to shine, beam, radiate, glitter, splendour, brightness, radiancy.
Sha’sha’ani Sha‘sha‘ání something that is radiant, shining, luminous; a “burst of light”. It carries a sense of brightness and light. It evokes imagery of brilliance and illumination.
Sha’ya Sha‘yá Isaiah
Sha’ystah, Sha’istah, Sha’ystih Shá‘ystah (Sha’ista, Shayista) fem. one who is polite and well-behaved
Shab Shab Pers. night, darkness
Shaba (Shayb, Shayba, Mashib) Shába (Shayb, Shayba(h), Mashíb) (“Shaib, Shaiba”) to become white-haired, grey-haired; to turn white or grey (hair); to grow old, to age; to make white-haired; to bleach (something) II to make (someone) white-haired, cause someone’s hair to turn white (grief)
Shabah, Shubuh, Ashbah Shabaḥ, pl. Shubúḥ, Ashbáḥ blurred, indistinct shape; apparition; phantom; ghost, spectre, spirit; nightmare; figure, person. ashbáḥ núr “silhouettes of light”. See Ẓill
Shabdiz Shabdíz Pers., literally “night-coloured”, “black”) legendary black stallion of Khosrau Parvez
Shabih, Shibah Shabíh, pl. Shibáh similar (to), like, resembling (someone, something)
Shabistar Shabistar city 54 km WNW Tabríz
Shabistari Shabistarí Sa‘d ad-Dín Maḥmúd ibn ‘Abd al-Karím Yaḥyá Shabistarí (1288–1340) is one of the most celebrated Persian Sufi poets of the 14th century.
Shabnam Shabnam Pers. (shab, “night” or “darkness” + nam, “moisture”) dew
Shad Shád Pers. cheerful, exulting; glad, happy; much; full; wine; light, a ray, gleam
Shadid-i-Sawla (Shadid-i-Sawlih) Shadíd-i-Ṣawla (Shadíd-i-Ṣawlih) Pers. intense, strong, vehement to attack. Name use by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá for Ali-Kuli Khan.
Shadid, Shadidat, Ashidda’, Shidad Shadíd, f. Shadídat, pl. Ashiddá’, Shidád strong, powerful, forceful, vigourous, stern, severe, rigourous, hard, harsh, violent, vehement, intense; bad, evil, ominous, calamitous, difficult; grievous. Shidád has a numerical value of 309—described as “year of stress”, AH 1309 [CE 1892], the date of Bahá’u’lláh’s ascension. See Memorials of the Faithful, p. 35
Shadpur Shadpúr (Shad + púr) Pers. Ghulám-Ḥusayn Shadpúr
Shafa Shafá to cure (someone of a disease), heal (someone of a disease, a wound), make (someone) well, restore (someone) to health
Shafi, Shafiya Sháfí, fem. Sháfíya healing, salutary; distinct, clear. Sharḥ Sháfíyat ibn Ḥájib by Astarábádí.
Shafi’, Shufa’a Shafí‘ or Sháfi‘, pl. Shufa’á mediator, intercessor, advocate. Name, and title given to certain persons, i.e. Shafí‘ Khán, Prime Minister Áqásí’s adviser.
Shafi’i, Shafi’yun, Shawafi’ Sháfi‘í, pl. Sháfi‘yún, Shawafi‘ adherent (shafiite, shafii, shafi’i, shafee) of the Shafiitic (or shafi’itic) school, a system of orthodox Sunní jurisprudence (one of 4—the Ḥanafí, the Ḥanbalí, the Málikí and the Sháfi‘í) founded by ibn Idrís ash-Sháfi‘í.
Shafiq, Shafiqa (Shafiqih) Shafíq, fem. Shafíqa[h or t] merciful, compassionate, condoling; affectionate, benevolent
Shaft Shaft Pers. town 20 km SW of Rasht, Gílán province
Shafti Shaftí Pers. of or from Shaft. Ḥájí Siyyid Muḥammad-Báqir-i-Shaftí, a celebrated mujtahid.
Shah-‘Abbas Sháh-‘Abbás 5th Safavid king of Írán
Shah-Bahram Sháh-Bahrám (Sháh Bahrám Vajárvand) the world saviour promised by the prophet Zoroaster. Fulfilled by Bahá’u’lláh.
Shah-Chiragh (Shah-Cheragh) Sháh-Chirágh (Ar. Sháh-Siráj) Shrine of Sháh-Chirágh (“King of the Lamp”, 29.609702, 52.543339) in Shíráz. Burial site of Khadíjih-Bagum, wife of the Báb.
Shah-i-Sahib-‘Alam Sháh-i-Ṣáḥib-‘Alam (Memorials of the Faithful, 99)
Shah-Muhammad Sháh-Muḥammad
Shah-Muhammad-Amin Sháh-Muḥammad-Amín
Shahbar Sháhbár DB 547
Shah-baz (Shahbaz) Sháh-báz Pers. a royal falcon; the longest feathers in a falcon’s wing; royal, generous, noble.
Shahdad Kalut Shahdád Kalút A barren region (20%) of the Lút desert characterised by enormous wind-sculpted sandstone ridges and outcrops.
Shahi Sháhí Pers. royal; imperial dignity, dominion, sovereignty, royalty; the followers of the sect of ‘Alí; name of a poet; name of an old Persian coin; a penny (modern colloquialism); a sort of sweetmeat, made of starch and white of egg. 20 sháhí = a qirán; one sháhí = 50 dínár (unit of accountancy, it is not a Persian coin).
Shahid al-Hayy ash-Shahíd al-Ḥayy living martyr1
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Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
T
Ta Ha Ṭá’ Há’ two single letters of the alphabet that are the opening and name of the 20th chapter of the Qur’án
Ta Sin, Tawasin Ṭá’ Sín, pl. Ṭáwásín Kitáb aṭ-Ṭáwásín (“Book of the Purity of the Glory of God”), best known work of Manṣúr al-Ḥalláj. He used line diagrams and symbols to help him convey mystical experiences that he could not express in words. Ṭawásín is the broken plural of the “word” ṭá’-sín, the ḥurúf muqaṭṭa‘át (“disconnected letters”) ṭá’ and sín of suras 26–28. They are assumed to be the first letters of ṭahára and saná’, hence the translation for ṭáwásín.
Ta’ Tá’ Arabic letter (t)
Ta’ Marbuta (Ta Mabuta) Tá’ Marbúṭa ۃ, a largely silent letter. Position is always at the end of a word that is usually feminine. Transcripted as t (tá’) if followed by a vowel; as an h (há’) if it is the final letter. The tá’ marbúṭa ending in most listed words is indicated by [h], [t] or [h or t].
Ta’ah Ṭá‘ah obedience (to God)
Ta’ala Ta‘álá to rise, become high; the exalted (form V of ‘alá and a root of ‘Alí)
Ta’ala Huwa’llah Ta‘álá Huwa’lláh Almighty is God! or Exalted is God!
Ta’am, At’ima Ṭa‘ám, pl. Aṭ‘ima food, nourishment, nutriment, fare, diet; meal, repast
Ta’aruf, T’aruf (Ta’arof, T’arof, Tarof) Ta‘áruf, T‘áruf Pers. knowing one another; mutual acquaintance; recognition; rule, fashion, custom. Behaviour that is appropriate and customary. Persian form of civility emphasizing both deference and social rank. The term encompasses a range of social behaviours; one example of ta‘áruf could be described as posing false invitations and promising future services or deeds to primarily strangers or distant relatives and expecting them not to take the offer and keep declining it. Also described as a form of ritual politeness. It has been corrupted in Írán and now denotes ceremonial insincerity.
Ta’assub Ta‘aṣṣub fanaticism, ardent zeal, bigotry, fanatical enthusiasm; party spirit, partisanship; clannishness, racialism, race consciousness, tribalism
Ta’ayyun Ta‘ayyun to be or to become an entity; self-determination or individualization. Term applied by al-mutaṣawwifa (Sufis) to the process of descent through which pure being gradually becomes qualified. Man is absolute being limited by ta‘ayyun (individualization).
Ta’i’ Ṭá’i‘ obedient, compliant, submissive, cheerful, willing. Not Ṭá’í (SDC, p. 48). See Ṭayy.
Ta’ib Tá’ib repentant, penitent, contrite
Ta’if Ṭá’if ambulant, itinerant, migrant, roving, wandering; one going the rounds or making the circuit or walking the beat; one performing the ṭawáf; who or what goes round; a night-watch or patrol; the ox that is stationed at the outer edge of the threshing-floor; the middle of a bow; one who performs the circumambulation of the Ka‘bah; a phantom, spectre, an apparition in a dream, especially of a mistress; name of several cities, especially the celebrated one in Hijáz, aṭ-Ṭá’if, 65 km east of Mecca and at a cooler elevation of 1,879 m, it has moderate summer weather, unlike most of the Arabian Peninsula.
Ta’ifa, Tawa’if Ṭá’ifa[h or t], pl. Ṭawá’if (fem. of ṭá’if) ambulant, itinerant, migrant, roving, wandering; one going the rounds or making the circuit or walking the beat; one performing the ṭawáf; faction (political or ideological, including in reference to religious creeds or sects)
Ta’ir, Ta’irat, Tayr (Tair) Ṭá’ir, pl. Ṭayr flying; flyer, aviator, pilot;—(pl. ṭayr) bird; omen, presage. Pers. form: ṭáyir.
Ta’ira, Ta’irat Ṭá’ira[h], pl. Ṭá’irát (fem. of Ṭá’ir) airplane, aircraft. Pers. forms: ṭáyirih, ṭá’irih.
Ta’lif, Ta’alif Ta’líf, pl. Ta’álíf formation (e.g., of a suffering, deeply afflicted; tormented government); union, junction, combination (of separate things); literary work; composition, compilation, writing (of a book, of an article);—pl. work, book, publication
Ta’lim, Talimat Ta‘lím, pl. Talimát information, advice, instruction, direction; teaching, instruction; training, schooling, education; apprenticeship;—pl. instructions, directions, directives; information, announcements
Ta’rif, Ta’rifat Ta‘ríf, pl. Ta‘rífát, Ta‘áríf announcement, notification, communication, information; instruction, direction; (social) introduction; definition, determination, identification, specification, characterization; a rendering definite (grammar)
Ta’rikh, Tarikh, Tawarikh Ta’ríkh, Táríkh, pl. Tawáríkh Ta’ríkh dating (a letter); Táríkh, date, era, epoch; day (of the month); history, chronicle, chronology (hence by extension annals, history, historiography); a calendar. Found in the title of many historical works. Táríkh al-Ḥayáh biography; ‘Ámm Táríkh world history.
Ta’us, Tawus, Tawawis Ṭá’ús, Ṭáwús, pl. Ṭawáwís peacock
Ta’wil, Ta’vil, Ta’wilat Ta’wíl, Pers. Ta’víl, Ar. pl. Ta’wílát interpretation, explanation. Also allegorical interpretation—“hidden meaning”. Qur’anic term meaning explication or elucidation, or referring to the realization, fulfillment, or outcome of a matter. As a later technical term, ta’wíl refers to the figurative or metaphorical (re)interpretation of a text, particularly Qur’anic verses and ḥadíth reports whose obvious sense is thought to entail anthropomorphism.
Ta’yid (Ta’id, Ta’eed), Ta’yyid, Ta’yidat Ta’yíd, Ta’yyid (تأييد), pl. Ta’yídát corroboration, confirmation, endorsement, backing, support; assistance, help, support; a written voucher. Ta’yíd Boys’ School (Bahá’í), Hamadán. Dr Ḥishmatu’lláh (or just Ḥishmat) Ta’yíd (Heshmatu’llah Ta’eed, d. 2021; wife Nuṣrat) first Bahá’í pioneer to Laos (1955).
Ta’ziya, Ta’ziyih, Ta’azin Ta‘zíya[h], Pers. also Ta‘ziyih, pl. Ta‘ázin consolation, solace, comfort; condolence or expression of grief. (“Ta’zieh”, “Tazía” or “Ta’ziyeh”). It comes from root word for mourning. In Persian cultural reference it is categorized as Condolence Theater or Passion Play inspired by a historical and religious event, the tragic death of Husayn, symbolizing epic spirit and resistance. Takiyah (tekyeh or ta‘zieh) is a unique circular structure built to stage the plays. See Parda Khwání.
Tab Tab Pers. a fever. tab-i-‘aṣabí (a fever affecting the nervous system, likely stress related)
Tab Táb Pers. heat, warmth, burning, inflaming, illuminating; light, splendour, lustre, radiance; a ray; strength, power, ability; a waving, bending, twisting, intertwining
Taba, Tawb (Taub), Tawba, Matab Tába (Tawb, Tawba, Matáb) to repent, be penitent, do penance. Tawba (tauba)
Taba’, Atba’ Taba‘, pl. Atbá‘ succession; dependency. Followers; subordinate, subservient (to something);—pl. follower, companion, adherent, partisan; subject, national, citizen.
Taba’ud Tabá‘ud interdistance; mutual estrangement (separation)
Taban Tábán Pers. light, luminous, resplendent, radiant, dazzling, brilliant, shining, glittering; a gleam, flash; pith of a tree
Tabanda (Tabandih, Tabandeh) Tábanda (تابنده) Pers. light-giver, radiant, shining, brilliant, luminous. Name given to Mrs Hinkle Smith, Philadelphia by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Tabaq, Atbaq Ṭabaq, pl. Aṭbáq lid, cover, plate; dish, shallow bowl; (round) tray, salver; ash tray; (pl. aṭbáq, also ṭibáq) layer, tier; stratum (of the air)
Tabaqa, Tabaqa Ṭabaqa[h or t], pl. Ṭabaqát layer; stratum (of earth, air, society, etc.); floor, story (of a building); class, category; generation
Tabar Ṭabar hatchet, ax, battle-ax
Tabaraka Tabáraka God bless ...!, to be blessed
Tabari, Tabariyun Ṭabarí, pl. Ṭabaríyún of or referring to Tabaristán. Muḥammad ibn Jarír aṭ-Ṭabarí (CE 839–923) Persian scholar, historian and commentator on the Qur’án.
Tabaristan Ṭabaristán mountainous region located on the Caspian coast of northern Írán. Since the 11th century, the province of Mázindarán.
Tabarra Tabarrá a doctrine that obliges disassociation with those who oppose God and those who caused harm to and were the enemies of the Islamic prophet Muḥammad or his family
Tabarsi (Shaykh Tabarsi) Ṭabarsí from Ṭabaristán, a former name of Mázindarán.
The Shrine of Shaykh Ṭabarsí (36.436309, 52.805366, near the village of Afrá), a local saint (Shaykh Aḥmad ibn Abí Ṭálib-i-Ṭabarsí) is 6 km SW of Qá’im Shahr and 16 km SE of Bábul, Mázindarán province. Scene of the 1849 siege of the Bábís. Mullá Ḥusayn has likened the siege to the killing of Ḥusayn ibn ‘Alí (CE 680) at Karbalá’ (see DB pp. 326, 343).‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬
Tabas Ṭabas (formerly Golshan or Gulshán) city (33.605594, 56.931505) in South Khurásán Province, Írán. 260 km NE of Yazd. Given the name Jadhba by Bahá’u’lláh.
Tabasha (Tabas-ha) Tabáshá non-existent “word” (“Tabás há”). See tamáshá.
Tabataba Ṭabáṭabá surname of the great-great-grandson of Imám ‘Alí, Ismá‘íl bin Ibráhím, on account of his pronouncing the letter ق (q) like ط (ṭ). Possible meaning: a man of high rank or high esteem.
Tabataba’i Ṭabáṭabá’í a descendant of Ṭabáṭabá
Tabawwab Tabawwáb gateship, more commonly bábíyat. See bawwáb
Tabi’, Taba’a, Tubba’, Atba’, Tawabi’ Tábi‘, pl. Taba‘a[h or t], Tubbá‘ following, succeeding, subsequent; subsidiary, dependent; minor, secondary; subordinate (to someone), under someone; belonging (to); subject to someone’s authority or competence; adherent (to) following (someone or something);—pl. atbá‘ adherent, follower, partisan; subject, citizen, national; subordinate, servant; factotum;—pl. tawábi‘ appositive (grammar); appendix, addendum, supplement;—pl. tábi‘ún (tabi’un) are the generation of Muslims who followed the Companions of Muḥammad, and thus received their teachings second-hand. As such, they played an important part in the development of Islamic thought and philosophy, and in the political development of the early caliphate. Tubbá‘ is a title or family name of the Ḥimyar kings in Yemen of the Hamadán tribe.
Tabi’a al-Kulliya aṭ-Ṭabí‘a al-Kullíya the universal nature
Tabi’a, Taba’i’ Ṭabí‘a(t), pl. Ṭabá’i‘ nature; natural disposition, constitution; peculiarity, individuality, character; regular, normal manner; physics; natural science
Tabi’a, Tawabi’ Tábi‘a(h), pl. Tawábi‘ female attendant, woman servant; appurtenance, dependency; consequence, effect, result; responsibility;—pl. dependencies, dependent territories
Tabi’i, Tabi’un Tabi‘í, pl. Tábi‘ún follower of Muḥammad;—pl. the “followers” or Successors (i.e., the generation immediately following that of the Prophet and his Companions (aṣ-Ṣaḥába)
Tabib, Atibba Ṭabíb, pl. Aṭibba physician, doctor
Tabistan Tábistán Pers. summer, hot weather
Tabligh, Tablighat Tablígh, pl. Tablíghát conveyance, transmission, delivery (to someone); information (about); report, notification (of); communication, announcement, notice. Translated as “teaching” by Shoghi Effendi. Word used instead of tabshír (“mission”, latin mittere) or da‘wa (“invitatory proclamation”)
Tablighat-i-Islami Tablíghát-i-Islámí Islamic propaganda group MUHJ 1963–86
Tabriz (Tawriz, Tauriz) Tabríz, (Tawríz) causing to come forth; calling forth, challenging; bringing to view, showing openly. Persian capital (38.079132, 46.288919) of Ádharbayján Province, Írán. Earlier name: Tawríz (Tauris). Arḍ-i-Tá’.
Tabrizi, Tabariza Tabrízí, pl. Tabáriza Pers. of or belonging to Tabŕz
Tabuk (Tabouk) Tabúk a large platter, tray, dish. An ancient city (28.40587, 36.55353) in NW Saudi Arabia. Famous for its association with an expedition led by Muḥammad to the city in AH 8 (CE 630), during very hot weather.
Tabur, Tawabir Ṭábúr, pl. Ṭawábír battalion; (e.g.) line, file, single file (of soldiers, of persons walking one behind the other); queue Yaḥyá Ṭábúr Áqásí
Tabut, Tawabit Tábút, pl. Tawábít box, case, chest, coffer; casket, coffin, sarcophagus. tábút al-‘ahd ark of the covenant.
Tabyin, Tibyan, Ibana Tabyín or Tibyán, and Ibána[h or t] exposition, demonstration, explanation, illustration. expound
Tadhkira, Tadhkara, Tadhakir Tadhkira(t), Tadhkara(t), pl. Tadhákir (mostly pronounced tadhkára) message, note; slip, paper, permit, pus; card; ticket; admission ticket; memory, remembrance; anything that aids the memory (as a knot tied on the pocket handkerchief); biographical memoir, biography; a billet, schedule, obligation, handwriting; official note
Tadhkirat al-Wafa’, Tadhkiratu’l-Vafa’ Tadhkirat al-Wafá’ Pers. Tadhkiratu’l-Vafá’. The Memorials of the Faithful by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Tadmur (Tadmor), Palmyra Tadmur Ar. for the town 144 km east of Homs, Syria, that is also named Palmrya. The site of the ancient Greek city of Palmyra (from Greek for palm) is 500 m SW of the modern town centre.
Tadrij, bi Tadrij (Bitadrij) Tadríj graduation; classification, categorization; gradation. ma‘a at-tadríj, ‘alá bi at-tadríj, bi tadríj, by graduation, by degrees, by steps, by gradation (“gradually”, “by steps”).
Tadriji Tadríjí gradual, progressive
Tadrijiyan Tadríjíyan gradually, by and by, by steps, by degrees, in stages
Tadwin (Tadvin) Tadwín recording, writing down; entry, listing, booking; registering, registration
Tadzhikistan Tádzhíkistán The Republic of Tajikistan
Tafakkur Tafakkur thinking, cogitation, meditation, reflection; speculation, contemplation, consideration
Taff Ṭaff filling (a measure or a vessel) to the brim; a side, shore, coast. Symbolic of the land of the plain of Karbilá, near where Imám Ḥusayn was martyred.
Tafrid Tafríd In Sufism it refers to “seclusion” or “withdrawal” from people and seeking solitude for spiritual contemplation. Historically, it denoted the process of acquiring deep knowledge and understanding of Islamic jurisprudence and legal principles (juristic expertise). Also conveys the concept of “oneness” or “unity”, i.e. recognizing the singular existence of God and emphasizing divine unity. See fard and hence a meaning of individualization.
Tafrish (Taresh) Tafrish city (34.697833, 50.012923 in Markazí Province) 170 km SW of Ṭihrán. Memorials of the Faithful incorrectly uses Tafrísh.
Tafsiq Tafsíq calling or making one profligate, depraving, perverting; judged as evil. See takfír.
Tafsir al-Hurufat al-Muqatta’ih Tafsír al-Ḥurúfát al-Muqaṭṭa‘ih “Interpretation of the Isolated Letters” by Bahá’u’lláh in Arabic. Also known as Lawḥ al-Áyiy an-Núr
Tafsir-i-Bismi’llah Tafsír-i-Bismi’lláh “Commentary on Bismi’lláh” by the Báb
Tafsir-i-Bismi’llahi’r-Rahmani’r-Rahim Tafsír-i-Bismi’lláhi’r-Raḥmáni’r-Raḥím by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Tafsir-i-Ha’ Tafsír-i-Há’ “Commentary on the Letter Há’” (by Báb)
Tafsir-i-Hu Tafsír-i-Hú Commentary on “He is” by Bahá’u’lláh
Tafsir-i-Kuntu Kanzan Makhfiyyan Tafsír-i-Kuntu Kanzan Makhfiyyan “Commentary on ‘I was a Hidden Treasure’” by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Tafsir-i-Nubuvvat-i-Khassih Tafsír-i-Nubuvvat-i-Kháṣṣih “Commentary on the specific station and mission (of Muḥammad)” by the Báb
Tafsir-i-Sirr-i-Ha’ Tafsír-i-Sirr-i-Há’ “Commentary on the Mystery of Há’” by the Báb
Tafsir-i-Suriy-i-Baqarih Tafsír-i-Súriy-i-Baqarih I & II “Commentary on the Súra of the Cow I & II” (Qur’án Súra 2) by the Báb
Tafsir-i-Suriy-i-Kawthar Tafsír-i-Súriy-i-Kawthar “Commentary on the Súra of Abundance” (Qur’án Súra 108) by the Báb (Ar. Tafsír Súrat al-Kawthar)
Tafsir-i-Suriy-i-Va’l-‘Asr Tafsír-i-Súriy-i-Va’l-‘Aṣr “Commentary on the Súra of the Afternoon” (Qur’án Súra 103) by the Báb
Tafsir-i-Suriy-i-Va’sh-Shams Tafsír-i-Súriy-i-Va’sh-Shams “Commentary on the Súrah of the Sun”, Tablet to Shaykh Mahmúd by Bahá’u’lláh (Qur’án Súra 91)
Tafsir-i-Suriy-i-Yusif Tafsír-i-Súriy-i-Yúsif “Commentary on the Súrah of Joseph”, commonly referred to as Qayyúmu’l-Asmá’ by the Báb (Qur’án Súra 12)
Tafsir, Tafasir Tafsír, pl. Tafásír commentary or sermon, emphasizes the interpretations of other words of God. Commentary or exegesis of whole or part of the Qur’án
Taft Taft city 22 km SW of Yazd, Írán
Tafti Taftí from Taft
Tafwid Tafwíḍ entrustment, commitment, consignment, commission(ing), charging; authorization, empowerment, delegation of authority; authority, warrant, authorization, mandate, mandatory power, procuration, proxy, power of attorney. Suspension of meaning, that is, denying the literal meaning of a Qur’anic verse or ḥadíth taken to entail anthropomorphism but consigning or entrusting (“tafwíḍ”) its true meaning to God rather than proffering a particular figurative interpretation through ta’wíl.
Taghabun Taghábun mutual deception or cheating; disillusion; defrauding, cheating one another. Yawmu’t-taghábun (“The Day of Mutual Disillusion”), one of a number of expressions used for “the Day of Resurrection” or “the Day of Judgement”—meaning relates more to the weighing up of the evil and righteous deeds of an individual earthly life when his soul enters the Hereafter than to any “disillusion”.
Taghiya Ṭághiya tyrant, oppressor, despot; bully, brute, gorilla
Taghut, Tawaghut Ṭághút, pl. Ṭawághút In traditional theology, the term often connotes an idol (particularly an ancient idol at Mecca), a false god; seducer, tempter (to error); evil that exceeds all bounds. Broadly: “to go beyond the measure”, i.e. to rebel; is Islamic terminology denoting a focus of worship other than God. Also written “Tagout”, “Thagout”, “Tougihat”, “towighate”, etc.
Taghyir Taghyír, pl. Taghyírát changing, alteration, modification, variation; change, replacement, relief; “transmutability”
Tahaddi Taḥaddí doing anything equal to another; challenging (a rival); striving to overcome, competition
Tahaddin, Tahaddiyat Taḥaddin, pl. Taḥaddiyát challenge, provocation. A verb Form V may be Taḥaddí
Taham, Tahm Taham, Tahm Pers. (from Zend/Avestan takhma) brave, war-like; incomparable, unrivalled in stature or courage
Tahara Ṭahára(h) cleanness, cleanliness, purity; cultic purity (Islamic law); chastity; holiness, sanctity, saintliness
Tahashshum and Ihtiasham Taḥashshum and Iḥtishám shame, shyness, modesty, reticent, decency, decorum
Tahdhib (Tahzib) Tahdhíb expurgation, emendation, correction; rectification; revision; training; instruction; education, upbringing; culture, refinement. Bahíyya Tahdhíb (Tahzíb)
Tahhan, Tahhana Ṭaḥḥán, fem. Ṭaḥḥána(t) a miller. Fu’ád Muḥammad Jawád Ṭaḥḥán, a Bahá’í arrested in Morocco, 1962.
Tahir (Taher), Tahira, Tahirih, Athar Ṭáhir, fem. Ṭáhira[h], pl. Aṭhár clean, pure; chaste, modest, virtuous. “The pure one”. Pers. also Ṭáhirih, a title bestowed by Jináb-i-Bahá (the Báb) on Fáṭimih umm-i-Salamih Baraqání Qazvíní (c. 1817/1818–1852), also known by the titles Qurratu’l-‘Ayn (“Solace of the Eyes”, by Siyyid Káẓim), Zarrín-Táj (“Crown of Gold”) and Zakíyyih (“Virtuous”). She is remembered for her skill as a poet, her theological insights, her leadership as one of the earliest Bahá’ís, and her ability to organize and inspire women to reject their oppressed status. Ṭáhirat al-akhláq (“pure morals”).
Tahiriyan Ṭáhiriyán Pers. aṭ-Ṭáhiriyán (the Tahirid dynasty that effectively ruled Khurásán from 821 to 873 while other members of the dynasty served as military and security commanders for the city of Baghdád from 820 until 891. The dynasty was founded by Ṭáhir ibn Ḥusayn, a leading general in the service of the Abbasid caliph al-Ma’mun. Their capital in Khurásán was initially located at Marv (Merv) but was later moved to Níshápúr.
Tahirzadih, Taherzadeh Ṭáhirzádih “Son of the pure one”. Family name taken by a distinguished Bahá’í family of Yazd, e.g. Habib Taherzadeh (1908–1995) and Adib Taherzadeh (1921–2000; Adíb Ṭáhirzádih-i-Málmírí)
Tahlil, Tahalil Tahlíl, pl. Tahálíl utterance of the formula lá iláha illá lláh (“There is no god but God”); rejoicing, exultation, jubilation; applause, acclamation, acclaim, cheering, cheers
Tahmasb, Tahmasp Ṭahmásb, Tahmásp Pers. derived from Avestan name Takhmaspa (takhma “brave, etc.” + aspa “horse”). Name of two Safavid shahs. See Taham and Aspa
Tahmid Taḥmíd praising (God), thanking (God)
Tahqiq, Tahqiqi Taḥqíq realization, actualization, effectuation, implementation; fulfillment (of a claim, of a wish, etc.); achievement, accomplishment, execution; ascertainment, determination, identification, verification; substantiation; assertion, affirmation, confirmation; pinpointing, precise determination; exactness, accurateness, precision. Taḥqíqí
Tahrif, Tahrifat Taḥríf, pl. Taḥrífát alteration, change; distortion; perversion, corruption, especially phonetic corruption of a word; forgery. A doctrine that the Torah and Gospels have been corrupted by Jewish and Christian religious leaders.
Tahrim Taḥrím forbiddance, interdiction, prohibition, ban
Tahrir, Tahrirat Taḥrír, pl. Taḥrírát setting at liberty, giving freedom; manumission; dedicating to the service of God; writing elegantly and accurately; a writing, written statement, document; fee for writing; ornamental lines
Tahriri, Tahriri-ha Taḥrírí, pl. Taḥrírí-há Pers. ^nbsp; written, in writing. Taḥríríhá Dánish
Tahshiya Taḥshiya insertion; interpolation
Tahwil (Tahvil) Taḥwíl transformation, transmutation, conversion (into something); change, alteration, modification; transplantation; transposition, reversal, inversion, translocation, dislocation, displacement; transfer, assignment; conversion (e.g. of currency); conversion, transformation (of electric current)
Tahwil al-Qiblih, Tahwil-i-Qiblih Taḥwíl al-Qiblih, Pers. Taḥwíl-i-Qiblih change in the point of adoration
Taj, Tajan, Tijan (“Tajes”, Tájes) Táj, dual Táján, pl. Tíján crown; miter (of a bishop). Bahá’u’lláh wore tall conical felt hats (táj) (often brocaded) after departing Baghdád, sometimes with a small white turban wound around the base. Turkish form, Tekiş, “Tekish”, “crown”. Táján River flows through Sárí, Mázandarán.
Taj Khatun Táj-Khátún a small village (34.551389, 50.496667), Qom County, Qom Province.
Taj Kulah Táj Kuláh “crown hat”, a hat with an attached crown brim (that may be made of gold with encrusted gems) worn by Safavid Persian nobility. Not to be confused with kaj kuláh.
Taj Mahal Táj Maḥal Pers. “Crown of the Palace”, ivory-white marble mausoleum on the southern bank of the Yamuna River, Agra. Commissioned by Sháh Jahán in 1631, in the memory of his wife Mumtáz Maḥala, completed 1648.
Taj Saltanah Táj Salṭanah (1883–1936) was a Persian princess, memoirist of the Qajar Dynasty, a daughter of Násir ad-Dín Sháh. Kháṭirát-i-Táj al-Salṭanah, translated and published as Crowning Anguish: Memoirs of a Persian Princess from the Harem to Modernity, 1844–1914.
Taj-Abad Táj-Ábád two villages on the Asadábád to Hamadán road: Tájábád-i-‘Ulyá (upper; 34.840101, 48.212725) and Tájábád-i-Suflá (lower; 34.878876, 48.218330), 18 and 17 km respectively by road from Asadábád. The Tájábád-i-Suflá Caravanserai is rare in being a circular structure.
Tajalli, Tajalliyat or Tajalliyyat Tajallí, pl. Tajallíyát lustre, brightness, brilliancy; manifestation; transfiguration; splendour, glory; effulgence. “Effulgences”, Tablet by Bahá’u’lláh
Tajalliy-i-‘Am Tajallíy-i-‘Ám “The Universal Revelation of God”
Tajalliy-i-Khass Tajallíy-i-Kháṣṣ “The Specific Revelation of God”
Tajalliy-i-Thani Tajallíy-i-Thání “The Secondary Revelation of God”
Tajarrud Tajarrud freedom; isolation; living in solitude; independence, impartiality; absoluteness; abstractness, abstraction
Tajdid, Tajdidat Tajdíd, pl. Tajdídát renewal (also. e.g., of a permit); creation of something new origination; new presentation, new production (theatre); innovation; reorganization, reform; modernization; renovation, restoration, remodelling, refitting, reconditioning, refurbishing; rejuvenation, regeneration;—pl. innovations; new achievements
Tajik Tájik general designation for a wide range of Persian-speaking people of Iranian origin, with traditional homelands in present-day Tajikistan, Afghánistán and Uzbekistan.
Tajir, Tujjar, Tijar Tájir, pl. Tujjár, Tijár merchant, trader, businessman, dealer, tradesman
Tajrid Tajríd peeling, paring; disrobement, stripping; denudation; deprivation; divestment; disarmament; dispatching (of troops); freeing; isolation; abstraction, detachment.
Tajrid al-I’tiqad Tajríd al-I‘tiqád (“Summation of Belief”) a commentary on Shí‘a doctrines by Naṣíru’d-Dín Ṭúsí
Tajrida, Tajridat, Tajarid Tajrída[h or t], pl. Tajridát, Tajáríd (fem. of Tajríd ) military detachment, expeditionary force
Tajrish Tajrísh Pers. village (35.804916, 51.433882), now a neighbourhood of Tehran (in District 1)
Tajwid Tajwíd saying, doing, or making good; doing well. The art of reciting the Qur’án, Qur’án reading (in accordance with established rules of pronunciation and intonation).
Takathur Takáthur growth, increase; multiplication, propagation, proliferation; (the act of) seeking to increase, to obtain more; vying to accumulate more.
Takbir Takbír enlargement, increase, augmentation, magnification; enhancement, aggrandizement; intensification, amplification; exaggeration; augmentative (gram.); praise, laudation, extolment, exaltation, glorification
Takfir Takfír expiation (of), atonement, penance (for a sin); seduction to infidelity; charge of unbelief; a formal denunciation by the ‘ulamá; judged as being a disbeliever. See tafsíq.
Takhallus (Taqhallus) Takhalluṣ freedom, liberation, release, extrication, escape (from). Word borrowed (with the meaning of “pen name”) to describe a pen name that is widely adopted by Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi and Persian poets—the pen name is often added to their name. A poet’s takhalluṣ is often included towards the end of a ghazal written by him.
Takht, Takhta (Takhtih) Takht, fem. Takhta(h or t) Pers. a royal throne, chair of state; a seat, sofa; a bed; any place raised above the ground for sleeping, sitting, or reclining; a saddle; a capital, the royal residence; a wardrobe, clothes-press, chest
Takht-i-Fulad Takht-i-Fúlád ‘the Throne of Steel’
Takhtarawan, Takht-i-Rawan Takhtarawán, Pers. Takht-i-Rawán mule-borne litter with poles; a travelling-bed with poles, like our sedan-chairs, but borne by mules; the throne of Solomon; an easy-paced horse; the sky; name of four stars in the constellation of the Bear. Raván (34.880665, 48.295531) is a village 22 km NW of Hamadán, in Hamadan Province, Írán.
Takistan Tákistán Pers. a vineyard
Takiya (Takiyya, Takyih), Takaya Takíya[h], pl. Takáyá monastery (of a Muslim order, i.e. the sufis); hospice; home, asylum (for the invalided or needy). In Iran Takíyah have become buildings used in Shi’ite Islamic worship and mourning. See takya
Takiyah Dawlah Takiyah Dawlat Pers. “State Theatre”, Tehran, was a Royal Theatre. It was the most famous of all the ta‘zíyah performance spaces, for the mourning of Muḥarram. Built in 1868 by Náṣir al-Dín Sháh Qájár south-east of the Gulistán Palace on the site of the Síyáh-Chál. It was destroyed in 1947 and the car park of a BMI (bank) building was constructed on the site.
Takiyiy-i-Mawlana Khalid Takíyiy-i-Mawláná Khálid theological seminary of Mawláná Khálid (35.569142, 45.448971?), Sulaymáníyyih. A place where Bahá’u’lláh stayed when visiting the city.
Takiyiy-i-Mawlawi Takíyiy-i-Mawlawí theological seminary of Mawlawí dervishes
Takmil Takmíl completion, complementing, perfecting, perfection; conclusion, termination, windup; consummation, execution
Takmil-i-Din Takmíl-i-Dín perfection of religion
Takur (Takor, Takar) Tákur (Tákar) village (36.200164, 52.010178) 40 km south of Núr and 47.5 km NE of Afjih. Bahá’u’lláh’s ancestral home (36.198842, 52.010238) is in this village. It was destroyed by the government in 1981. The inscription1 on a large wooden plaque above the house entrance is proof, according to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, that Mírzá Buzurg recognized the station of His son as the Manifestation of God.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
U
Ubay (Ubai), Ubayy Ubay, Ubayy Arabic given name derived from Abíy
Ubayd (Ubaid), Ubayda ‘Ubayd, fem. ‘Ubayda(h) diminutive of ‘Abd, a little servant
Ubaydu’l-llah ‘Ubaydu’l-lláh servant of God
Ubudiya ‘Ubúdíya(h or t) humble veneration, homage, adoration, worship; slavery, serfdom; servitude, bondage
Ud, A’wad, ‘Idan ‘Úd, pl. A‘wád, ‘Ídán wood; stick, rod, pole; branch, twig, switch; stem, stalk; cane, reed; aloes (wood); lute (musical instrument); body, build, physique; strength, force, intensity;—pl. full intensity (e.g., of a disease)
Udh’kuru Udh’kurú remember! (command)
Udh’kuru’llah Udh’kurú’lláh Remember God!
Udhr, Udhra, A’dhar, ‘Udhrat ‘Udhr, ‘pl. A‘dhár excuse, apology, pretext; objection; virginity; the attainment or accomplishment of one’s wants or wishes, good success, fortunate issue, victory, conquest; fem. ‘udhra[h or t], pl. ‘udhrát virginity, virginhood
Udi ‘Údí of wood; a diminutive of the Hebrew Ehud
Ufq, Ufuq, Afaq Ufq, Ufuq, pl. Áfáq horizon; range of vision, field of vision; pl. distant lands, faraway countries, remote regions; provinces, interior of the country (as distinguished from the capital)
Ufqi, Ufuqi, Afaqi Ufqí, Ufuqí, pl. Áfáqí horizontal;—pl. coming from a distant country or region
Uhud Uḥud 1,077 m mountain 6.6 km NNE of Medina. The battle of Uḥud on 23 March 625 occurred on the south side (4 km from Medina) and the Muslim archers stood on Jabal ‘Aynán (a small rock outcrop on the south of Jabal Uḥud). After the battle it was renamed Jabal ar-Rumáh. See ‘Aynán and Rumáh.
Ujab ‘Ujáb wonderful, wondrous, marvelous, astonishing, amazing. See ‘ajab
Ukaz (Souq Okaz or Souq Okadh) ‘Ukáẓ ‘Ukáẓ was (c. 542–726) the site of the largest and best known open air marketplace (Súk ‘Ukáẓ, 21.475287, 40.638875) during the pilgrimage season in pre-Islamic times (31 km NE of Ṭá’if) where poetry contests were held. It served as a place where warring tribes could come together peacefully to worship and trade together. A modern outdoor market and popular tourist destination has been recreated at the historic location. Prominence is given to a different poet each year.
Ukht, Akhawat ‘Ukht, pl. Akhawát a sister; (grammar) cognate; counterpart
Ula ‘Ulá high rank, prestige, glory. al-‘Ulá is a title and an ancient Arabic oasis city (26.604194, 37.928435) located in Medina province of NW Saudi Arabia. See ‘alá and Rif‘a.
Ulfa Ulfa[h or t] familiarity, intimacy; friendship, love, affection; union, concord, harmony, congeniality
Uliyya ‘Ulíyyá (also Ulúhiyya[h or t], see iláhíya) deity, divinity, godhead. More fundamentally, being worthy of worship, love, and obedience as a god.
Ulu’l-‘Azm Ulú’l-‘Azm “the determined or steadfast”; rulers, powerful leaders; those endued with a resolution to obey the commands of God (implies term is only applicable to prophets, Arch-Prophets or Messengers of God, i.e. Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad)
Uluha, Uluhiya (Uluhiyya) Ulúha[h or t], Ulúhíya[h or t] (also Ulúhiyya[h or t], see iláhíya) deity, divinity, godhead. More fundamentally, being worthy of worship, love, and obedience as a god.
Uluw (‘Uluvv) ‘Ulúw height, tallness, elevation, altitude; greatness, grandeur, highness, exaltedness, sublimity (variation of ‘alw, ‘ulw, ‘ilw, Upper or better part (of anything))
Uman ‘Umán Oman (the Sultanate of Oman)
Umari ‘Umarí follower of ‘Umar (i.e. a traditionalist)
Umawi, Umayya Umawí Umayyad, Ommayyad (adj.). Banú Umayya(h), the Umayyads, Ommayyads
Umawiya, Umawiyun al-‘Umawíya[h], pl. al-‘Umawíyúnn (Pers. al-‘umawiyya[h], pl. al-‘umawiyyún, “umawiyya” or “umawiyyun”) Umayyad (Ommayyad, Ommaiad), an Islamic dynasty (caliphate) claiming descent from Umayya (Umayyah) ibn ‘Abd Shams, a cousin of Muḥammad’s grandfather, founded by Mu’áwíyyáh, with its capital in Damascus (c. 660–750 & Moorish Spain 756–1031). Umayyad Caliphate (al-Khiláfah al-‘Umawíyah, Pers. al-Khiláfatu al-‘Umawiyyah), was the second of the four major caliphates established after the death of Muḥammad. The caliphate was centred on the Umayyad Dynasty (al-‘Umawíyún, or Banú ‘Umayyah, “Sons of Umayyah”), hailing from Mecca.
Umayr (Umair) ‘Umayr one who is intelligent. Muṣ‘ab ibn ‘Umayr, companion of Muḥammad.
Umayya, Umawiyun, Umawiyyun Umayya[h], pl. Umawíyún, Umawiyyún Umayya ibn ‘Abd Shams (b. 515) is said to be the progenitor of the line of the Umayyad Caliphs. Banú Umayyah (sons of Umayyah or Umayyad Dynasty). al-Umawiyyún, the Umayyads.
Umda, ‘Umad ‘Umda[h], pl. ‘Umad, ‘Umdán support, prop, shore; main subject, main issue, basic issue (e.g., of a controversy);—pl. chief of a village, chief magistrate of a small community; mayor. See kalántar. Khán al-‘Umdán (“Inn of Columns”) or Khán-i-‘Avámíd (Inn of Pillars) located in SW corner (al-Fákhúrah quarter) of ‘Akká.
Umm al-Kitab Umm al-Kitáb literally  ‘mother of the Book’ (or Bahá’u’lláh use of “Mother Book”), is an Islám-related term that may refer to al-Fáṭiha, the first Surah of the Qur’án, also referred to as Umm al-Qur’án.
Umm Salama (umm Salma) Umm Salama[h or t] (أُمّ سَلَمَة) (Pers. umm-i-Salamih) “mother of peace”.
Umm-i-Ashraf Umm-i-Ashraf (Mother of Ashraf)
Umm, Ummahat Umm, pl. Ummahát mother; source, origin; basis, foundation; original, original version (of a book); the gist, essence of something;—pl. matrix (typ.). Female partial name equivalents of Abu are Um and Umm (must be combined with another name).
Umma, Umam Umma[h or t], pl. Umam (fem. of umm) (Pers. pl. ummatán) community, people, nation (modern meaning); generation; sect, religious community, creed; follower, co-religionist. Muslims use the word ummah in the sense of a religious community (one for each previous religion who received a common Prophet) or more specifically, the one Muslim community with a common ideology and culture. See sha‘b.
Ummal-Zakata, Ummal-i-Zakat ‘Ummál al-Zakáta, Pers. ‘Ummál-i-Zakát to give alms (incorrect: ‘ummál-i-dhakát in PDC p. 92). See ‘Ámil.
Umman ‘Ummán Oman
Ummati Ummatí Pers. A follower of a religious sect or creed.
Ummi (Ummiy), Ummun Ummí, pl. Ummún maternal, motherly; illiterate, uneducated;—pl. an illiterate. Derived from umm, mother, or ummat, people). Qur’án 7:158, the unlettered Prophet.
Ummu’l-‘Iraq Ummu’l-‘Iráq Mother of ‘Iráq, Baghdád
Ummu’l-Kitab Ummu’l-Kitáb “mother of the book” or Mother Book of each Dispensation—the first sura of the Qur’án (Islám), the Persian Bayán (Bábí), Kitáb-i-Aqdas (Bahá’í)
Ummu’l-Mu’minin Ummu’l-Mu’minín Mother of the Faithful, name given to Phoebe Hearst by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Umr (Omr), ‘Amr, A’mar ‘Umr, pl. A‘már (‘amr in oaths) life, duration of life, life span, lifetime; age (of a person)
Umra, ‘Umar (Omar) ‘Umra(h or t), pl. ‘Umar the sacred visit to Mecca, considered to be the “lesser pilgrimage” (able to be completed in a few hours) can be performed at any time of the year; cohabiting with a woman in the house of her parents or kindred.—pl. a proper name. ʻUmar ibn al-Khaṭṭáb, 2nd Caliph; ibn ‘Abdu’l-‘Azíz ibn Marwán, 8th Umayyad Khalífah (Caliphate).
Universal House of Justice Universal House of Justice (Persian: Baytu’l-‘Adl-i-A‘ẓam) The Universal House of Justice (as ordained by Bahá’u’lláh in The Kitáb-i-Aqdas) is the nine-member (at present) supreme ruling body of the Bahá’í Faith “possessing the exclusive right to legislate on matters not explicitly revealed in the Most Holy Book”.1 It has a minimum of nine members (all men), the number will be gradually “increased nine by nine”2. It provides flexibility for the Bahá’í Faith to adapt to changing conditions by legislating on issues not already addressed in the Bahá’í writings. It was first elected in 1963, and subsequently every five years, by delegates consisting of the members of Bahá’í National Spiritual Assemblies throughout the world.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
V
Vahdat-i-Bashar Vaḥdat-i-Bashar
Vahdat-i-Haqq Vaḥdat-i-Ḥaqq
Vahdatu’sh-shuhud Vaḥdatu’sh-shuhúd “unity of vision”
Vahhab-i-Khurasani Vahháb-i-Khurásání
Vakilu’d-Dawlih Vakílu’d-Dawlih Pers. “Representative of the Government” Mírzá Muḥammad Taqí, cousin of the Báb and builder of the ‘Ishqábád temple. See Wakíl
Vakilu’l-Haqq Vakílu’l-Ḥaqq Pers. Representative of the True One, i.e. God
Valiy-i-Amru’llah Válíy-i-Amru’lláh Pers. Defender of the Faith, Leader, Commander-in-Chief. Bahá’í usage: “Guardian of the Cause of God” or the weaker, shortened form as “Guardian”
Valiyyih Válíyyih daughter of Fatḥ-‘Alí Sháh (MF)
Vanners Vanners Vanners Farm house (51.337947, -0.473281) on the corner of High Road and Brewery Lane, was demolished in the early 1960s. It was on the old royal manor in Byfleet, a village about 32 km SW of London. It was visited by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá in September 1911.
Varjavandi Varjávandí Rustam Varjávandí (1917–1984). Mythical warrior-king Wahrám Warjáwand. See Bahrám
Varqa Varqá Pers. dove (Ar. Ḥamám). Mírzá ‘Alí-Muḥammad-i-Varqá (d. 1896), first wife, Núríyyih, had four sons: ‘Azízu’lláh (c. 1881–?), Rúḥu’lláh (c. 1883–1896), Valíyu’lláh (1884–1955) and Badí‘u’lláh (died in childhood). For second wife, see Liqá’íya. Valíyu’lláh Varqá (see Walí’u’lláh entry) and his eldest son, Dr ‘Alí-Muḥammad Varqá (1912–2007), were both Hands of the Cause of God and Trustees of the Institution of Ḥuqúqu’lláh. Many years later Núríyyih became a devoted Bahá’í and was given the title Amatu’l-Ḥaqq (“maidservant of God”) by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá.
Vazir-i-Mukarram Vazír-i-Mukarram (Vazír Mokarram of Iṣfahán)
Vazir-i-Yalrudi Vazír-i-Yálrúdí
Vazir-Nizam Vazír-Niẓám
Visi Pasha Vísí Páshá
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
W
w-r-q w-r-q root Form II to leaf, burst into leaf, put forth leaves, sprout; to leaf, thumb (a book); to paper (a wall); Form IV to leaf, burst into leaf, put forth leaves, sprout. See waraq.
Wa (Va) Wa (Pers. also Va) 1. and; and also, and .... too;—2. (with following accusative) with;—3. introducing circumstantial (ḥál) clauses: while, as, when, whereas;—4. (with following genitive) by (in oaths);—5. (with following genitive) many a, how many
Wa’iz, Wu’’az, Va’iz, Vu’’az Wá‘iẓ, pl. Wu‘‘áẓ (Pers. Vá‘iẓ/Vu‘‘áẓ) preacher (PDC p. 91 error Vu‘áẓẓ)
Wa’l-‘Asr, Va’l-‘Asr Wa’l-‘Aṣr, Pers. also Va’l-‘Aṣr by afternoon. This expression is the first part of Qur’án 103:1: I swear by the declining day [also interpreted as: by the passage of time, by the afternoon prayer or, by the time of the Prophet]
Wabar or Ubar Wabár or Ubár “Ubar the lost city”, fabled capital of the ‘Ád, also known as “Iram of the Pillars” from the Arabic Iram dhát al-‘Imád in Qur’án 89:7. Located at 18.255047, 53.649036 on the SE side of the village of ash-Shiṣr.
Wabash, Awbash Wabash, pl. Awbásh trash, rubbish;—pl. rabble, riffraff. The criminal elements of poor areas of any town or city. See lúṭígarí.
Wad, Widan Wád, pl. Wídán river
Wada’, Wida’ Wadá‘, Widá‘ farewell, leave-taking, adieu, valediction
Wadad, Widad (Vidad), Wudad Wadád, Widád, Wudád love, friendship, affection
Wadd, Widd, Wudd, Awdad Wadd, Widd, Wudd pl. awdád, awudd, awidd. loving; affectionate, tender; fond, attached, devoted; lover. ‘Amr (‘Amú) bin ‘Abdiwudd, ‘Amr bin ‘Abdiwadd, ‘Amr bin ‘Abduwadd, or ‘Amr bin ‘Abd al-Wudd, was among the best warriors (a very large and strong man) of the Quraysh who was killed in the battle of Aḥzáb (also called Khandaq, “trench”) by Imám ‘Alí.
Wadi, Awdiya Wádí, pl. Awdiya(h or t) valley. See Wádin. MCI 112, 139
Wadi al-Qamar Wádí al-Qamar The Valley of the Moon, see Wádí ar-Rum
Wadi al-Qura’ (Wadi al-‘Ula) Wádí al-Qurá’ (Wádí al-‘Ulá) ruins of ancient city (26.614539, 37.911779) 1 km NW of the town of al-‘Ulá and 170 km NW Khaybar. One of three oases (Fadak, Taymá’) owned by Jews during Muḥammad’s time.
Wadi ar-Rum (Wadi Rum) Wádí ar-Rum the Sand Valley. A valley cut into the sandstone and granite rock in southern Jordan 60 km to the east of Aqaba; it is the largest wádí in Jordan. Also known as Wádí al-Qamar.
Wadi’ Wadí‘ calm, peaceable, gentle-hearted, mild-tempered, meek. “Wadie Bistani”, a young Christian (Balyuzi, ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, p. 470)
Wadi’, Wida’ Waḍí’, pl. Wiḍá’ pure, clean; neat
Wadih Wáḍiḥ clear, lucid; plain, distinct; obvious, patent, manifest; visible, conspicuous; evident, apparent, ostensible
Wadin, Awdiya (Audiya), Widyan Wádin, pl. Awdiya, Widyán valley; river valley, river bed, ravine, gorge, wadi; river; (newspaper) column
Wadq Wadq dropping, distilling (as the heavens), falling (rain); approaching, drawing near; finding repose; rain, especially incessant; face, aspect, side
Wadqayn (Wadqain) Wadqayn double calamity
Wadud Wadúd favourably disposed, attached, devoted, fond, friendly
Wafa (Vafa), Waffa (Vaffa), Yafi Wafá, Yafí to be perfect, integral, complete, unabridged. Form II: Waffá to bring up to standard, complete, round out (something); to give (someone something) to the full extent, let someone have his full share of something); to present or treat exhaustively (a topic). Mrs Carrie Kinney (1878–1959) named Wafá (certitude, fidelity) by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. See Ṣafá
Wafa’ (Vafa’) Wafá’ Ar. & Pers. keeping, fulfilment, redemption (e.g., of a promise); meeting, discharge (of an obligation); payment (of a debt); counterbalance, setoff, compensation; faithfulness fidelity; good faith; loyalty, allegiance; fulfilment, accomplishment, realization, completion
Wafa’i (Vafa’i) Wafá’í Pers. fidelity, sincerity
Wafd, Wufud, Awfad Wafd, pl. Wufúd, Awfád arrival, coming (as an ambassador to a king);—pl. a delegation, a deputation
Wafi Wafí (P. or A. origin uncertain) entire, whole, complete; just (weight); full (measure); faithful to an engagement; much
Wafi, Wafiya Wáfí, fem. Wáfiya[h or t] sincere, honourable, faithful to promises or engagements; complete, perfect, entire, full (weight), just (measure); plentiful, copious, numerous, many
Wafiy, Aufiya Wafíy, pl. Aufiyá’ true to ones word; faithful (lover); reliable, trustworthy; entire, whole, total, full, complete, integral, perfect
Waha, Wahat Wáḥa[h or t], pl. Wáḥát oasis
Wahaba (Vahaba), Wahb Wahaba, (Wahb, verbal noun) to give, donate; to grant, accord; to present; to endow
Wahada, Yahida, Wahda, Hida, Wahuda Waḥada, Yaḥidu (Waḥda(h), Ḥida(h)) and Waḥuda to be alone, unique, singular, unmatched, without equal, incomparable
Wahb Wahb excelling in a contest concerning liberality; giving, bestowing; pardoning, forgiving
Wahd, Wahda, Wahda Waḥd, fem. Waḥda[h or t] (fem. pl. Waḥdát) being single, alone, or incomparable; sole, alone, separate; solitary; (a person) of an unknown tribe or family; solitude. Feminine: oneness, singleness, unity; solitariness, isolation, seclusion, privacy, solitude, loneliness; self-containment, independence; union;—fem. pl. military unit; crew; single group
Wahdat al-Wujud, Vahdatu’l-Vujud Waḥdat al-Wujúd, Pers. Vaḥdatu’l-Vujúd unity/oneness of being/existence. Mystical doctrine associated with the Sufi school of Muḥyí ad-Dín bin ‘Arabí, criticized as entailing pantheism (ḥulúl) by its opponents. The existence of all things is one and that existence itself is Alláh. Can be translated as “existential monism”.
Wahdat fi’l-Kathrat, Vahdat dar Kathrat Waḥdat fi’l-Kathrat “unity in diversity”; seeing God (unity) in many forms of the world. Pers. waḥdat dar kathrat or vaḥdat dar kathrat
Wahhab, Vahhab Wahháb (Pers. also Vahháb) a giver, one who bestows; liberal, munificent; an epithet of God. Muḥammad ibn Abd al-Wahháb (1703–1792) was a religious leader and theologian born in the village of al-‘Uyaynah, 45 km NW of Riyáḍ. He founded the movement now called Wahhabism.
Wahhabi, Vahhabi Wahhábí (Pers. also Vahhábí) Wahabite, Wahhabi. A follower of the sect now called Wahhabism (al-Wahhábiyah, a very puritanical body of Muslims). See salafíya
Wahhabiyya Wahhábiyya[h or t] al-Wahhábiyya (Wahhabism) is a reformist religious movement within Sunní Islám, based on the teachings of 18th-century Ḥanbalí cleric Muḥammad ibn ‘Abd al-Wahháb (c. 1703–1792). Movement was established in the region of Najd and later spread thoughout the Arabian Peninsula—followed primarily today in Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
Wahid (unique), Wahida, Wuhidun Waḥíd, fem. Waḥída[h or t], pl. Wuḥídún (Pers. also vaḥíd (“vahid”)) alone; solitary, lonely; single, separate, individual, sporadic, isolated; sale, only, exclusive; singular, unique; matchless, unequaled, incomparable. Superlative form of ‘waḥada’, to be alone. Numerical value of 28. Fem. pl. Waḥídát. See Sayyid Yaḥyá Dárábí..
Wahid (unity), Wahida, Wuhidun Wáḥid, fem. Wáḥida[h or t], pl. Wuḥidún Pers. also váḥid( (“vahid”) unity, a unit, one numerical (Abjad value 6+1+8+ 4=19); someone, somebody, a certain person; sole, only. A ‘unit’ or section of the Bayán, the Book of the Báb. Unity. Symbolizes the unity of God. Fem. pl. Wáḥidát.
Wahidiya, Wahidiyya Waḥídíya[h or t], Waḥídiyya[h or t] “uniqueness” or “solitude”. Describes the state of being unique or alone.
Wahidiya, Wahidiyya Wáḥidíya[h or t], Wáḥidiyya[h or t] Unitarianism, unity manifested in the realm of Divine Attributes; a Muslim sect. Refers to the concept of unity or the state of being one.
Wahm, Awham (Auham) Wahm, pl. Awhám delusive imagination, erroneous impression, fancy, delusion; belief, guess, surmise, conjecture; imagination; bias, prejudice; error; self-deception, self-delusion; illusion; suspicion, misgiving, doubt; foreboding, evil presentiment
Wahy, Vahy Waḥy, Pers. also Vaḥy inspiration; revelation (theology). Persian definition: indicating; suggesting; revealing; writing; revelation, anything (divine) suggested, inspired, or revealed (by vision or otherwise); a book, writing, epistle (especially of a sacred character)
Waj ‘Waj crooked
Wajab (Vajab) Wajab Pers. the full extent of something from end to end; the space that something covers. About 225 mm when a hand span is meant. A measure used by Shoghi Effendi to specify the spacing of plants.
Wajd (Wujd) Wajd strong emotion, emotional upset; passion, ardor; ecstasy of love
Wajh, Wujuh, Awjuh (Aujuh) Wajh, pl. Wujúh, Awjuh face, countenance; front, face, façade; outside; surface; right side of a fabric; dial (of a clock or watch); face, obverse (of a coin); prominent personality; exterior, look(s), appearance, guise, semblance; side; direction; intention, intent, design, purpose, aim, goal, objective, end; course, policy, guiding principle, precept; way, manner, mode, procedure, method; lesson, cause; sense, meaning, signification, purport; beginning, start, outset, first part of a given period of time;—(pl. wujúh and awjuh) aspect; approach, point of view; viewpoint, standpoint;—(pl. aujuh) phase (of the moon; also electricity)
Wajhahu Wajhahú to turn ones face toward something
Wajh-u-llah Wajh-u-lláh, Wajh’u’lláh The face or countenance of God.
Wajib (Vajib), Wajibat, Waja’ib Wájib, pl. Wájibát, Wajá’ib necessary, requisite, essential, indispensable, inevitable, unavoidable, inescapable; incumbent, imperative, binding, obligatory; proper, adequate, fair;—pl. duty, obligation; incumbency; requirement, exigency, necessity; task, assignment
Wajib al-Wujud (Vajibu’l-Vujud) Wájib al-Wujud necessary being or existence (God)
Wajid Wájid finding; finder; agitated, excited, upset, worried (about); in love (with)
Wajid (Vajid), Wujdan (Vujdan) Wajíd, pl. Wujdán Pers. level, plain ground.
Wajih, Wajiha, Wujaha’, Wajihat Wajíh, pl. Wujahá’ notable, noted, eminent, distinguished; eminent man, person of note, notable; leader; excellent, outstanding; acceptable, well-founded, sound. Plural princes, chiefs. Fem. wajíha[h or t], pl. wajíhát: lady of high social standing; lady of society, socialite.
Wajihu’llah Wajíhu’lláh Beneficence of God. Has been used as a name.
Wakala, Yakilu, Wakl, Wukul Wakala, Yakilu, Wakl, Wukúl to entrust, assign, commission, charge (with), put in charge (of); to authorize, empower, appoint as representative or agent, etc.
Wakil ad-Dawla, Wakilu’d-Dawla Wakíl ad-Dawla, Wakílu’d-Dawla attorney-general of the state
Wakil, Wukala, Vakil Wakíl (Vakíl), pl. Wukalá (Vukalá) authorized representative, attorney in fact, proxy; (business) manager; head clerk; deputy, representative, vice-agent; trustee; mandatory, defence counsel; attorney, lawyer; (Syrian military) approx.: technical sergeant. Narayenrao Rangnath Shethji is believed to be the first Hindu Bahá’í—better known as N. R. Vakil—served as Chairman Indian NSA for many years.
Walad, Awlad (Aulad), Wuld Walad, pl. Aulád, Wuld descendant, offspring, scion; child; son; boy; young animal, young one; (collective) progeny, offspring, children
Walaya Waláya(t) (noun) guardianship, curatorship; legal power; friendship. The range of meanings include: “vicegerency”, “guardianship”, “protectorship” and “successorship”.
Walaya, Wilaya Waláya(h), Wiláya(h), Pers. Viláya(t) (verb) to be in charge, run, administer, govern, have power, authority
Wali (Vali), Wulat (Waliyan) Wálí, pl. Wulát or Wuláh a prince, governor of a province; one who exercises jurisdiction or authority, a chief magistrate; a friend, a near relation; Turkish administrative title;—pl. governors, presidents; judges; lords. Pers. singular/plural also Válí/Wáliyán.
Wali al-'Ahd (Vali-'Ahd) Walí al-'Ahd (Pers. Valí-'Ahd) designated heir of a ruler, or crown prince
Wali Amru'llah (Valiy-i-Amru'llah) Walí Amru'lláh (Pers. Valíy-i-Amru'lláh, Iṣfahání Persian Valíyy-i-Amru'lláh) the "Guardian of the Cause of God" (Shoghi Effendi, appointed in The Will and Testament of 'Abdu'l-Bahá), Defender of the Faith, Leader, Commander-in-Chief.
Wali al-Amr Walí al-Amr the “guardian of the cause [of God]”, a Shí‘a expression used for the twelfth Imám
Wali’u’llah, Valiyu’llah Walí’u’lláh, Pers. also Valíyu’lláh “friend, custodian, guardian of God”. Valíyu’lláh Varqá Mírzá Valíyu’lláh Khán-i-Varqá (1884–1955) was a prominent Persian Bahá’í, and appointed a Hand of the Cause by Shoghi Effendi. He was the son of Varqá, the martyr-poet, and the father of ‘Alí-Muḥammad Varqá, the longest surviving Hand of the Cause of God for the Bahá’í Faith. He married Bahíyyih Khánum, daughter of the late Saní’s-Sulṭán, surnamed Saní Illáhí. They had ten children—seven survived childhood: ‘Alí Muḥammad; Mihdí; Malíḥih (Ms Qubád); Munírih (Mrs Farzar); Parvín (Mrs Muvaffiq); Maḥmúd; Lámi‘ (Mrs Níkanpúr). See walíy.
Walid, Walida, Walidayn Walíd, fem. Walída[h], dual m. Walídáyn (pl. wildán, wuldán, fem. walá’id) new-born child, baby; boy/girl, son/daughter; young, new; (with following genitive) the product of, the result of, occasioned by, engendered by, sprung from
Walid, Walida, Walidat, Walidayn Wálid, fem. Wálida[h], dual m. Wálidáyn (pl. fem. wálidát) procreator, progenitor; father/mother, parent; al-wálidán the parents, father and mother
Waliy Amr (Valiy-i-Amr) Walíy Amr (Pers. Valíy-i-Amr) the “guardian of the cause [of God]”, a Shí‘a expression used for the twelfth Imám
Waliy, Waliya, Awliya’ (Auliya’) Walíy, fem. Walíya[t], pl. Awliyá’ (Pers. also walí) near, nearby; neighbouring, adjacent; close;—pl. helper, supporter, benefactor, sponsor; friend, close associate; relative; patron, protector; legal guardian; curator, tutor; a man close to God, holy man, saint (in Islam); master; proprietor, possessor, owner.
Persian also walí and awlíyá’.
Walíya can also mean woman, lady.
The plural (as used by Bahá’u’lláh) is usually understood as ‘saints’, in Bahá’í usage it refers to all Bahá’ís regardless of rank.
Shoghi Effendi translated it as ‘friends’ or ‘believers’.
Waliyan, Valian, Valiyan, Veleyan, Velian Waliyán two villages in Írán (Alborz (36.020788, 50.842931) and Lorestan (33.721065, 48.884754) provinces)
Waqf, (Vaqf), Awqaf (Auqaf) Waqf, pl. Awqáf stopping, stop; halting, halt; discontinuation, suspension (of judgement), stay, standstill; pausing, resting; stagnation, dullness, listlessness (of the market); pause (grammar); checking, restraining, prevention; interruption, hitch, impediment, obstacle, obstruction; suspension from duty, removal from office, discharge, dismissal; blocking (of all account), stoppage (of salaries); religious endowment, wakf (English), “habous” (Islamic Law); endowment (in general), endowment fund; unalienable property. Pers. pronounced as vaqf. Sometimes written as vagf. In Persia, the landed property of the expected Imám.
Waqí’a, Waqa’i’ Waqí‘a(h), pl. Waqá’i‘ incident, event, occurrence, happening; encounter, battle;—pl. events, happenings, goings on, developments; factual findings, factual evidence, facts (of a legal case); proceedings (of an assembly); facts. Waqa’i’-Nigár (Pers.) chronicler, a person who gathers intelligence, a government reporter.
Waqif Wáqif standing still, motionless, at rest
Waqifa, Waqifiyya Wáqifa or Wáqifiyya those who hesitate or stop
Wara’ Wara‘ piety, piousness, godliness, god-fearing; caution, cautiousness, carefulness; timorousness, timidity, shyness, reserve, refraining from anything doubtful (in religious points), being scrupulous and apprehensive of doing wrong; being modest, chaste, and temperate
Waraq, Waraqun, Waraqa, Awraq Waraq, fem. Waraqa[h or t] (dual Waraqún, pl. Awráq, fem. Waraqát) foliage, leafage, leaves; paper; paper money, banknotes; thin sheet metal, laminated metal. Feminine waraqa[h or t], pl. waraqát. Pers. also waraqih, and forms with v instead of w. Bahá’u’lláh referred to His female descendants as Varaqih/Varaqát (“leaf/leaves”). See warqa.
Waraqatu’l-‘Ulya, Varaqatu’l-‘Ulya Waraqatu’l-‘Ulyá (also Varaqiy-i-‘Ulyá) “highest leaf”. Title first bestowed on Ásíyih Khánum (the “Most Exalted Leaf”) and after her passing on Bahíyyih Khánum (the “Greatest Holy Leaf”). Translations used by Shoghi Effendi to distinguish between them.
Waraqatu’l-Firdaws, Varaqatu’l-Firdaws Waraqatu’l-Firdaws “The Leaf of Paradise”
Waraqatu’r-Ridvan, Varaqatu’r-Ridvan Waraqatu’r-Riḍván “The Leaf of Delight”, “The Leaf of Paradise”
Ward, Warda, Wurud Ward, fem. Warda[h or t], pl. Wurúd (collective; nomen unitatis ة) rose(s); blossoms, flowers, bloom; fem. rose; rosette; cockade; rosebush
Wardat Abyad, Wardu’l-Abyad Wardat Abyaḍ, Wardu’l-Abyaḍ white rose. A favourite flower of Bahá’u’lláh’s was a particular white rose from His home in Ṭihrán. This rose, single with golden centre, brownish stalks, shiny leaves, and a peculiarly delightful scent, is now flourishing in the Riḍván Garden near ‘Akká. Martha Root relates the story that after the martyrdoms of ‘Alí Muḥammad Varqá and his son Rúḥu’lláh, a “new white rose began to be cultivated” in Írán, a “rose whose perfume will be more heralded than all the ‘aṭṭár of Írán, for this is the rose of ‘tolerance in religion’. For more than a thousand years Persia had not known this rose.” See warqá’.
Wardaward (Vardavard, Vard Avard) Wardáward village (35.737152, 51.129433) that is now a suburb on the west side of Teheran
Wardi (Vardi, Verdi), Wardiya Wardí, fem. Wardíya[h or t] roseate, rose-coloured, rosy; pink. ‘Alí al-Wardí, author of Lamḥát ijtimá‘iyya min ta’ríkh al-‘Iráq al-ḥadíth (tr. as “Social Glimpses in Modern Iraqi History”). Mírzá Buzurg Núrí, Bahá’u’lláh’s father, was Vazír of Imám Wardí Mírzá (1797–1868), governor of Ṭihrán.
Warid, Wurrad, Waridat Wárid, pl. Wurrád, Wáridát arriving; found, mentioned; newcomer, arrival;—pl. wáridát imports; receipts, incomings, returns, proceeds, takings
Wariq Wariq, Wáriq leafy, green, verdant
Warith Wárith, pl. Waratth, Wurráth inheriting; heir, inheritor
Warq Warq stripping (a tree) of its leaves; coming into leaf (a tree)
Warqa, Varqa, Warqat Warqa[h or t], pl. Warqát a derivative of w-r-q and fem. form of warq that was used by Bahá’u’lláh. leaf or leaves, but Shoghi Effendi uses a metonymy, “nightingale”, in the Tablet of Aḥmad: “‘nightingale of Paradise’ (warqat al-Firdaws) singeth upon the twigs of the Tree of Eternity”; and “bird of Heaven” in Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh.
Warqa’ Warqá’, Pers. Varqá brown, tawny, dusky-coloured (she-wolf or pigeon); a she-wolf; a female pigeon. Mírzá ‘Alí Muḥammad (executed 1896) was surnamed Varqá by Bahá’u’lláh (Shoghi Effendi uses a metonymy, “Dove”). His second son was Mírzá Valíyu’lláh Khán-i-Varqá (1884–1955), and his son was ʻAlí-Muḥammad Varqá (1911–2007).
Warqa’i Warqá’í, Pers. Varqá’í of or belonging to the pigeon/dove
Warqa’iya Warqá’íya, Pers. Varqá’íyya pigeon/dove/nightingale song
Was Wás Pers. an ear of wheat or barley
Wasat Waṣát Pers. a command, charge, will, testament; counsel, advice, exhortation.
Wasat, Ausat, Wasatin Wasaṭ, pl. Ausáṭ middle; center, heart; waist; milieu, environment, surroundings, sphere; means, instrument, agent, medium; mediocrity, medium quality, average;—pl. circles, quarters, classes, strata (of the population). wasaṭin or wasaṭan: in the middle or midst of, within
Wasf, Wasfa, Awsaf (Ausaf) Waṣf, fem. Waṣfa[h or t], pl. Awṣaf description, depiction, portrayal, characterization;—pl. quality, property; characteristic, distinguishing mark, peculiarity; adjective (grammar); fem. also medical prescription
Wash (Vush). Wush (Vush) Wash Pers. good, excellent, choice, beautiful, fair; the end of a turban-sash hanging loose; a rich kind of satin. A particle of similitude added to nouns, as: qamarwash, moon-like.
Was-Kas (Vas-Kas) Wás-Kas Pers. a small village (36.414954, 52.867229) 5 km south of Qá’im Shahr
Washshash (Vashshash) al-Washshásh neighbourhood of Baghdád—once a farm where Bahá’u’lláh celebrated Riḍván (1863). See Manṣúr
Wasi, Vasi’, Wasa’ Wasí‘ (Pers. Vasí‘), pl. Wisá‘ wide, vast; roomy, spacious, large; capacious
Wasi’, Vasi’ Wási‘ wide; broad; large, roomy, spacious, vast, sweeping, extensive; far-reaching
Wasil, Wasila, Wasilat Wáṣil, fem. Wáṣila[h or t] one who joins, meets, or arrives; arrived, met; joined, connected, coupled; name of a man. Fem. a woman who joins false hair to her own.—pl. fem. wáṣilát, the total collected under every description (a revenue-form in India).
Wasiy (Wasi, “Vasi”), Awsiya’ (Ausiya’) Waṣíy (Waṣí), pl. Awṣiyá’ plenipotentiary, mandatory, authorized agent, commissioner; executor; legal guardian, curator, tutor; administrator, caretaker, trustee; regent; testator; client, principal. In Persian Bayan 6:14 “regarding titles, in this Dispensation no one is called by the name viceregent (waṣíy ) or prophet (nabí )”, instead all should only be called “believers” … Gate of the Heart, 348. This also applies to Mírzá Yaḥyá.
Wasiya (Wasayat), Wasaya Waṣíya(t), pl. Waṣáyá direction, directive, instruction, injunction, order, command, commandment; recommendation advice, counsel, admonition, exhortation; will, testament, testamentary disposition; bequest, legacy
Wasiyat-Nama (Wasiyat-Namah) Waṣíyat-Náma Pers. last will, testament; name of a work of Farídu’d-dín ‘Aṭṭár.
Wasiyya Waṣiyya will or trusteeship
Waskas, Vaskas, Vas-Kas Wáskas, Pers. Váskas, Vás-Kas village (5 km south of Qá’im Shahr, 36.415021, 52.867400), Mázandarán Province
Waswas, Wasawis Waswás, pl. Wasáwis devilish insinuation, temptation; wicked thoughts; doubt, misgiving, suspicion; delusion, fixed idea; uneasiness, anxiety, concern; melancholy; al-Waswás the Tempter, Satan. See Qur’án 114:4.
Waswasi Waswásí doubtful, distracting; apprehensive; melancholy, morbid
Watad, Watid, Awtad Watad, Watid, pl. Awtád peg, pin; tent pin, tent peg; stake, pole
Watan (Vatan), Autan Waṭan, pl. Auṭán homeland, home country, fatherland; home. Modern meaning nation. Bahrám Kaykhusraw Vaṭankháh, an Indian Bahá’í.
Watani, Wataniyun Waṭaní, pl. Waṭaníyún home; native; indigenous, domestic; patriotic; national; nationalistic;—pl. nationalist, patriot
Wathiqa, Yathiqu, Thiqa, Wuthuq Wathiqa, Yathiqu (Thiqa, Wuthúq) to place one’s confidence, put faith (in) rely, depend (on)
Waw, Vav Wáw, Pers. Váv letter of alphabet
Wayl (Wail) Wayl affliction, distress, woe
Waz, Vaz Wáz, (Váz) Pers. a desisting, giving over, suspending, relinquishing, letting alone, abandoning, deserting, renouncing, taking no care of. Small villages (lower and upper): 1. Wáz-i-‘Ulyá, also known as Váz-i-Bálá or Váz Bálá (upper Váz), 26 km SW of Ámul (36.326665, 52.123731). 2. Váz-i-Suflá; also known as Váz, Váz-i-Pá’ín, Váz Pá’ín, and Wáz (lower Váz) is a village 2 km NW of Váz-i-‘Ulyá (36.342218, 52.108247).
Wazara, Yaziru Wazara, Yaziru (wizr) to take upon oneself, carry (a burden)
Wazír-i-A‘ẓam Wazír-i-A‘ẓam “the Grand Vizier” or “the Prime Minister”. A high-ranking political position in the Ottoman Empire and other Islamic states. The Grand Vizier was the chief minister of the Sulṭán and was responsible for the administration of the state. The position was abolished following the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire in 1923. See aṣ-Ṣadr al-A‘ẓam.
Wazir (Vazir), Wuzara’ Wazír (Pers. also Vazír), pl. Wuzará’ (cabinet) minister; vizier; queen (in chess). From wazara (to carry a heavy burden).
Wijdan (Vijdan, Wajdan) Wijdán passionate excitement; ecstasy; emotional life, psychic forces; feeling, sentiment
Wijdani (Wujdani, Vijdani) Wijdání emotional; psychic, mental; sentimental. Mírzá Yúsuf Khán-i-Thábit Vujdání.
Wilashahr (Vilashahr), Wila Shahr Wíláshahr or Wílá Shahr Pers. (Víláshahr or Vílá Shahr) a small town in Írán, located in the rural area of Iṣfahán (city) and in 5 km NE of Najafábád.
Wilaya, Vilayat, Wilayat Wiláya(t), pl. Wiláyát sovereign power, sovereignty; rule, government;—pl. administrative district headed by a walí (formerly, under the Ottoman Empire), province; state. The range of meanings include: “vicegerency”, “guardianship”, “protectorship” and “successorship”.
Wilayat al-Faqih, Vilayat-i-Faqih Wiláyat al-Faqíh (Pers. Viláyat-i-Faqíh) The “Guardianship of the Islamic Jurist” or the “Governance of the Jurist”, is a theory in Shí‘a Islám that believes Islám gives a faqíh (Islamic jurist) custodianship over people, i.e. that government belongs by right to those who are learned in jurisprudence. The constitution of Írán calls for a faqíh or wiláyat al-faqíh (Guardian Jurist) to serve as the Supreme Leader of the government. In the context of Írán, wiláyat al-faqíh is often referred to as “rule by the jurisprudent” or “rule of the Islamic jurist”.
Wilhelm Wilhelm Roy C. Wilhelm (1875–1951) He initiated and sustained one of the earliest efforts (early 1900s) to make printed compilations of sacred texts more widely available—tiny blue ‘No. 9’ pamphlets.
Wird (Vird), Aurad Wird, pl. Aurád watering place; animals coming to the water; (pl.) specified time of day or night devoted to private worship (in addition to the five prescribed prayers); a section of the Qur’án recited on this occasion
Wirdi (Virdi) Wirdí (Virdí) Pers. given, bestowed
Wisal (Visal) Wiṣál reunion, being together (of lovers); communion (in love); being united in friendship, society, or confederacy; doing (anything) without interruption; meeting, interview, conjunction, arrival, attainment, fruition.
Wisaya Wiṣáya guardianship, curatorship, tutorship; executorships; tutelage; mandate (politics); trusteeship
Worlds (Zaman, Dahr, Sarmad, Azal) Worlds (Zamán, Dahr, Sarmad, Azal) zamán [world of time having a beginning and end];
dahr [world of duration having a beginning but whose end is not revealed];
sarmad [world of perpetuity whose beginning is not to be seen but which is known to have an end]; and
azal [world of eternity where neither the beginning nor end of which is visible].
(Logos and Civilization, p. 96.)
Wudu’ Wuḍú’ purity, cleanness, cleanliness; ritual ablution before prayer
Wujud (Vujud) Wujúd finding, discovery; being; existence; presence; whereabouts; stay, visit. The Imams defined three categories of existence: 1. Necessary existence(wájib al-wújud), which defines the existence of Alláh (God). God exists independently through Himself and His existence is necessary for the existence of all other things. None of His creation share in His existence. This category of being the Sufis describe as “oneness of being” (waḥdat al-ẃujud). 2. Contingent existence (al-wújud al-mumkin). This defines the existence of created things that may or may not exist. Created things have no independent being and their existence is not necessary. God created them through His will, power and knowledge, and if He willed they would have no existence. 3. Impossible being (mustaḥíl al-wújud), which includes the existence of a co-sharer in God’s entity, attributes or actions.
Wujud al-Mumkin al-Wujúd al-Mumkin contingent existence
Wujudiyah (Wujudiyyah) Wujúdíya(h) Islamic school of mystical philosophy, a form of pantheism: God exists in everything, but not everything is God.
Wuquf, Waqif Wuqúf, pl. Wáqif stopping, stop; halting, halt; standing (in adoration); stand, stance; pursuit, occupation (with), search, inquiry (into), investigation, cognizance, knowledge, understanding, comprehension; (Islamic Law) abeyance of rights;—pl. standing
Wus’ (Vus’) Wus‘ (وسع) ability, capability, faculty; capacity; power, strength; holding capacity.
Wusta, Wusat Wusṭá fem., pl. Wusaṭ middle, central; the middle finger
Wusul, Wusulat Wuṣúl, pl. Wuṣúlát arrival; attainment, obtainment, achievement; receipt; (pl.) receipt. Pers. also voucher; union with, or enjoyment of, a wished-for object; collection acquisition
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• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
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• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
X
No entries at this time
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• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
Y
Ya (vocative and exclamatory particle) O, oh, or “O Thou” in the sense of “O Thou who art”. Land of Yá, Yazd.
Ya ‘Aliyu’l-‘Ala,
Ya ‘Aliyyu’l-‘Ala
Yá ‘Alíyu’l-‘Alá,
Yá ‘Aliyyu’l-‘Alá
“O Thou the Exalted of the Exalted!”
Ya ‘Aliyu’l-A‘la,
Ya ‘Aliyyu’l-A‘la
Yá ‘Alíyu’l-A‘lá,
Yá ‘Aliyyu’l-A‘lá
“O Thou the Exalted of the Most Exalted!” is an invocation addressed to the Báb. Same as “Yá-‘Alíy-i-A‘lá” (Pers.) [Ya-‘Ali-el-Ala]—‘Alí is the first name of the Báb and it means exalted or high. A‘lá, which is the title of the Báb, means “the Most High”. The Báb is usually known in Írán as Haḍrat-i-A‘lá [Hazrat’e A’la]. Hence, “O Thou the Exalted One who art the Most Exalted” and it refers to the Báb.
Ya Allahu’l-Mustaghath Yá Alláhu’l-Mustagháth [Ya Allah El-Mostaghos] (“O God, He Who is invoked” or “O Thou God Who art invoked”, the cycle of every Divine Dispensation, invocation revealed by the Báb. Specifically, the time of Mústagháth is the day of the Latter Resurrection, that is time of Bahá’u’lláh’s Dispensation, See The Kitáb-i-Íqán, pp. 229, 248; God Passes By, p. 27; and The Dawn-Breakers, pp. 304–5. See Yá Iláha’l-Mustagháth.
Ya Baba’l-Abha Yá Bába’l-Abhá “O Gate of the All-Glorious”
Ya Baha’u’l-Abha Yá Bahá’u’l-Abhá (“O Glory of Glories”, or “O Glory of the All-Glorious”) “The Greatest Nameيا بهاء الابها 1
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Plain text Transcripted text Word meanings & comments
Z
Za, Ze, Zal Zá’, Z or Ze, Zál Per. letters transcripted as ẓ, z and dh
Za’faran (Zaaferan) Za‘farán saffron “The Blessed Tree in the land of Za‘farán referreth to the land which is flourishing, blessed, holy and all-perfumed, where that Tree hath been planted.”(Tablets of Bahá’u’lláh, p. 137). A village (36.104670, 50.117758) in Qazvin Province.
Za’im al-Dawla, Za’imu’d-Dawla Za‘ím al-Dawla, Za‘ímu’d-Dawla “leader of the state”
Za’im, Zu’ama’ Za‘ím, pl. Zu‘amá’ leader; ringleader; colonel (Írán 1922); brigadier general (military; formerly Syrian); guarantor (of)
Za’ir, Za’run, Zuwwar Zá’ir, pl. Zá’irún, Zuwwár visitor, caller, guest
Za’ira, Za’irat, Zuwwar Zá’ira, pl. Zá’irát, Zuwwar fem. visitor, caller, guest
Za’irpur Zá’irpúr Ṭúbá Zá’irpúr (MUHJ 573)
Zabadani Zabádání (Pers. “Zabadanih”, “Zabadaneh”) az-Zabádání is a city and popular hill station in southwestern Syria in the Rif Dimashq Governorate (Muḥáfaẓat Ríf Dimashq, “Governorate of the Countryside of Damascus”), close to the border with Lebanon. 30 km NW of the centre of Damascus.
Zabarjad (Zabargad) Zabarjad (Pers. also Zabargad) chrysolite (a mineral; from Greek chrysólithos, “golden stone”); archaically, any of several green or yellow-green-coloured gemstones including: topaz, chrysoberyl, zircon, tourmaline, apatite. At the time gem stones were classified only by their colour.
Zabarjadi, Zarjadin Zabarjadí, Pers. also Zabarjadín of the colour of chrysolite (a mineral)
Zabihu’llah (Gabi’u’llah) Zabíḥu’lláh Pers. (see Ar. Dhabíḥu’lláh) “Sacrifice of God”
Zabul Zábul (Zabol) is a city in and the capital of Zabol County, Sistan and Baluchestan Province, Írán. Zabol lies on the border with Afghánistán. Referred to as Sístán until the late 1920s, the city was renamed Zabol by Riḍá Sháh Pahlaví..
Zabur Zabúr (Book of) Psalms, Psalter
Zada-zad (Zadihzad) Záda-zád (suffix, also záda) Pers. born of, son of, offspring of
Zad, Zada (Zadih, Zadeh), Zadagan Zád, Záda, pl. Zádagán Pers. (pl. "zadegan") born, a son; offspring, generation; born of, descendant of (as a suffix). As a suffix, زاده (záda or zádah), is not specifically feminine or masculine, it is used as part of titles or nicknames for members of royalty, and it is also used to form surnames.
Zafar Ẓafar victory, triumph
Zafir Ẓáfir victorious, triumphant; successful; victor, conqueror
Zafira Ẓafira to be successful, succeed, be victorious, be triumphant; conquer, vanquish, defeat, overcome, surmount
Zagh gh Pers. a crow, raven, rook; a sort of pigeon; vitriol; sedition, mutiny; bias, inclination; name of a note in music; a name for a created being
Zagh va Bulbul gh va Bulbul Tablet of (the Raven and the Nightingale) In Persian literature the raven’s coarse croak is symbolic of evil while the owl is a symbol of doom and ruin.
Zaghrus (Zagros) ghrús Pers. the Zagros Mountains (Jibál Zághrús, Pers. Kúh háy-i-Zágrus) are a long mountain range in Írán, northern ‘Iráq, and SE Türkiye
Zahara (Zuhur) Ẓahara (Ẓuhúr) to be or become visible, perceptible, distinct, manifest, clear, apparent, evident, obvious (to someone), come to light, appear, manifest itself, come into view, show, emerge, crop up; to appear, seem. See ẓuhúr.
Zahid, Zuhhad, Zahidan Záhid, pl. Zuhhád, Pers. also Záhidán religious, devout, abstemious, abstinent, continent, self-denying; ascetic; a monk, hermit; a zealot. Záhidán (Zaidan, Zaydan) formerly known as Duzdáb and renamed by Riḍá Sháh Pahlaví in the late 1920s, is a city and capital of Sistan and Baluchestan Province, Írán (near the SE border).
Zahir Ẓáhir external or literal outer, outside, exterior, outward; superficial; Zahiritic, interpreting the Qur’án according to its literal meaning
Zahir, Zawahir Ẓáhir, fem. Ẓáhira[h or t], pl. Ẓawáhir (of God) mastering, knowing (something); visible, perceptible, distinct, manifest, obvious (literal), exoteric, conspicuous, clear, patent, evident, apparent; external, exterior, outward; seeming, presumed, ostensible, alleged; outside, exterior, surface; outskirts, periphery (of a city); (grammar) substantive;—pl. external sense, literal meaning (specifically of Qur’án and Prophetic Tradition). See opposite Báṭin.
Ẓahír ad-Dín Muḥammad, was the founder of the Mughal Empire and first Emperor of the Mughal dynasty (r. 1526–1530) in the Indian subcontinent. Nicknamed Babr.
See Babrí.
Zahiran Ẓáhiran externally, outwardly; seemingly, presumably, ostensibly, allegedly. See Báṭin, ta’wíl
Zahiri Ẓáhirí external or literal
Zahiriya Ẓáhiríya[h or t] manifestation, externality. “Literalists”, followers of an Islamic legal and theological school that insisted on strict adherence to the literal text (ẓáhir) of the Qur’án and Ḥadíth as the only source of Muslim law. It rejected practices in law (fiqh) such as analogical reasoning (qiyás) and pure reason (ra’y) as sources of jurisprudence and looked askance at consensus (ijmá‘).
Zahiru’l-‘Umar Ẓáhiru’l-‘Umar Recognized by Turkish authorities as Governor of ‘Akká from about 1750 to 1775.
Zahr, Zuhur, Azhur, Azhar, Azahir Zahr, pl. Zuhúr, Azhur, Azhár (collective) flowers; blossoms;—other plurals: Azáhir (“Azahir”), Azáhír. fem. Zahra[h or t] (zara sometimes used), pl. Zahrát (“Zahrat”)—flower (especially a yellow one); the freshness and bloom of a plant; flower, blossom; splendour; beauty, grace, loveliness.
Zahr, Zuhur, Azhur, Zuhurat Ẓahr, pl. Ẓuhúr, Aẓhur back; rear, rear part, rear aide, reverse; flyleaf; deck (of a steamer); upper part, top, surface. Ẓuhúrát (as a genitive; for example) pro tempore, provisional, temporary.
Zahrawi Zahráwí gay, merry, cheerful (person).  ‘Abdu’l-Hádíy-i-Zahráwí
Zahru’l-Kufah, Zahru’l-Kufih Ẓahru’l-Kúfah a description of Baghdád and Najaf in Islamic traditions
Zajra Zajra[h or t] a shout, trumpet blast
Zaka Zaká to thrive; to grow, increase; to be pure in heart, be just, righteous, good; to be fit, suitable (for someone), befit (someone)
Zakah, Zakat, Zakan, Zakawat Zakáh (or Zakát), pl. Zakan, Zakawát purity; justness, integrity, honesty; justification, vindication. Zakáh does not refer to the obligatory tithe but to the general principle of helping the poor, and this is achieved, according to Muslim law, by the giving (‘ámil) of alms as a means of purifying or securing a blessing to the rest of one’s possessions. Hence, zakáh is understood to mean alms-giving, alms, charity; alms tax (Islamic law)
Zakariya, Zakaria or Zakari Zakaríya, Zakaría or Zakarí Zacharias (prophet Zechariah), which is of Hebrew origin, meaning “God has remembered”
Zakariyyay-i-Qadi-Kala’i Zakaríyyáy-i-Qáḍí-Kalá’í a cousin of Khusraw-i-Qáḍí-Kalá’í, and his successor
Zakhu khú (Zakho) a city in northern ‘Iráq, at the centre of the eponymous Zakho District of the Dohuk Governorate of ‘Iráqí Kurdistán, located a few kilometers from the ‘Iráqí-Turkish border. 97 km NNW of Mosul
Zakiy (Zaki), Zakiya, Azkiya Zakíy (Zakí), fem. Zakíya[h or t] (pl. Azkiyá) pure; chaste; virtuous; guiltless, blameless, sinless. Pers. Bahá’í fem. also Zakiyyih or Zakíyyih.
Zalam Ẓalám evildoer, villain, malefactor, rogue, scoundrel, tyrant, oppressor
Zalamina Ẓalamína unjust, Qur’án 26:209
Zalamun Ẓalámún oppressors, wrongdoers (Qur’án 5:45, 4:75; Making the crooked straight p. 45)
Zalim, Zalimun, Zullam, Zalama Ẓálim pl. Ẓálimún, Ẓullám, Ẓalama unjust, unfair, iniquitous, tyrannical, oppressing; tyrant, oppressor; offender, transgressor, sinner. Náẓimu’sh-Sharí‘ah was known as Ẓálim, the Tyrant.
Zalum Ẓalúm one who puts a thing not in its proper place; most cruel, unjust, tyrannical. Part of Qur’án 33:72 is often translated as “... but man (al-insánu, usually translated as “the Perfect Man”) undertook it (al-amánata, “the trust” or “the faith in God”)—he was indeed unjust (ẓalúman) and foolish (jahúla). However, this must be incorrect when applied to the Prophet. The Báb stated “Man, this ‘Alí” was the “Wronged One” (ẓalúm) and He was indeed “been entitled ‘the Unknown’ (jahúl)” (See SWB, p. 70). ‘Abdu’l-Bahá (Má’idiy-i-Ásmání, vol. 2, p. 50): “... the Bearer of the most weighty Trust as ‘ẓalúm and jahúl’, these words do not mean unjust and ignorant; ... their meaning is the one wronged and unknown ... the Bearer of the Supreme Trust is oppressed ... the people disdainfully deny Him, and His station is not known; they do not appreciate Him.See jahúl.
Zalzal, Zilzal Zalzál, Zilzál concussion, shock, convulsion; earthquake
Zalzala, Zalazil Zalzala[h or t] (fem.), pl. Zalázil affliction, misfortune; to shake, rock, convulse, cause to tremble; earthquake
Zaman, Azman Zaman, pl. Azmán time; period, stretch of time; duration
Zaman, Azmina Zamán, pl. Azmina time, era; duration; fortune, late, destiny. World of time or age. In the Hidden Words: “hallowed precincts of Zamán” or the “blessed locale of Time" (buq‘a mubáraka zamán). See Ṣáḥib az-Zamán.
Zamani, Zamaniyan Zamání, pl. Zamániyán Pers. temporal; worldly; frail.—pl. people of the world.
Zamin Zamín Pers. earth, ground; floor; land, soil; a region, country; the pavement at the bottom of a pond or cistern; the ground of a picture; (adv.) on the ground or floor
Zamzam Zamzam copious, abundant (especially water). Sacred well (also called Hagar’s well) within the precincts of the Great Mosque at Mecca (it is about 25 m east of the Ka‘ba).
Zan, Zanan Zan, pl. Zanán Pers. a woman; a lady; a bride, a wife; effeminate, timid, cowardly; one who assumes a bold and animated air in walking
Zana, Zinan, Zina Zaná, Zinan, Ziná’ to commit adultery, fornicate, whore
Zanana (Zenana) Zanána Pers. women’s apartments; feminine; womanly. The inner apartments of a house in which the women of the family live. See mardána.
Zand, Zinad, Zunud Zand m. & f., pl. Zinád, Zunúd stick of a fire drill, a primitive device for kindling fire; by extension, the whole fire drill;—zand, zind, pl. zunúd, ulna (anatomy); forearm. Pers. Book of Zand written in Zand dialect and Zand dynasty.
Zandaqa Zandaqa(t) a belief in the two principles of light and darkness; impiety, heresy; atheism. See zindíq
Zangi Zangí Pers. Egyptian, Ethiopian, Moor, Negro; a savage; a fool; name of the founder of a dynasty
Zanj, Zinj, Zunuj Zanj, Zinj (colloquial), pl. Zunúj Negro. Arabic form of Zangí
Zanjan Zanján city (36.683110, 48.509688) between Qazvín and Tabríz, formerly Zangán. Home of Ḥujjat. Arḍ-i-Zá'.
Zanjani, Zanjaniyun Zanjání, pl. Zanjáníyún of or from Zanján
Zann, Zunun Ẓann, pl. Ẓunún opinion, idea, assumption, view, belief, supposition; doubt, uncertainty
Zaqqum Zaqqúm an infernal tree with exceedingly bitter fruit, the fruit of which is supposed to be the heads of devils; a thorny tree, cactus. Shajaratu’z-zaqqúm is mentioned in Qur’án 37:62, 44:43. It is said 44:43 (“bitter tree”) can refer to Ḥájí Mírzá Karím Khán, who was also a heavy smoker.
Zar Zar Pers. gold; money, riches, wealth; an old man or woman; an old man, grey and ruddy
Zar-duz Zar-Dúz (Zar-Doz) Pers. an embroiderer; embroidered; fastened with golden nails (a coffin).
Zar-duzi Zar-Dúzí (Zar-Dozí) Pers. embroidery, often with gold and silver thread
Zaradusht, Zardusht (Zardosht) Zarádusht, Zardusht Pers. Zoroaster
Zarand Zarand a city (76 km NW Kerman) and capital of Zarand County, Kerman Province, Írán
Zard Zard Pers. yellow, saffron-coloured; pale, pallid, wan; saffron
Zard, Zara, Zirih, Zarud Zard, (Pers. Zara, Zirih), pl. Zarúd chain mail, coat of mail.
Zardastan Zardastán (Zar+dastán?) Eminent Bahá’ís in the Time of Bahá’u’lláh, p.291
Zargar Zargár, Zargar Pers. goldsmith
Zari’, Zurra’ Zári‘, pl. Zurrá‘ seedsman, sower; peasant; farmer; planter
Zarin, Zarrin (Zarrinih or Zarrineh) Zarín, Zarrín Pers. golden
Zargandih (Zargandeh, Zarkandih) Zargandih Pers. (zar = gold) (Zarkandih “struck or filled with gold”). Former small village (35.773149, 51.432725) in the Shimírán division of Teheran, site of the Russian legation in 1852. Now a quarter (8 km north of the city centre) in Sector 3.
Zarqan Zarqán (from zarghún, “lush”) (Zarghan, Zarghanak). City (29.765310, 52.710449) in Fars Province; 20 km ENE of Shíráz.
Zarqani Zarqání Mírzá Maḥmúd Zarqání (c. 1875–1924), travel teacher and secretary for Shoghi Effendi. Maḥmúd’s Diary: The Diary of Mírzá Maḥmúd-i-Zarqání Chronicling ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s Journey to America, is a translation of vol. 1 of his Kitáb-i-Badá’i‘ al-Áthár (“Book of Wondrous Impressions” in two vols).
Zarrin-Taj Zarrín-Táj “Crown of Gold”, one of the titles given to Ṭáhirih by her family
Zartusht, Zardusht Zartusht, Zardusht Pers. supreme intelligence; divine light; the rational soul; the first created; the planet Mercury; a truth-speaker; Zoroaster or Zarathustra. Founder of the Zoroastrian religion.
Zatuna, Zaytunat Zaytúna(h or t), pl. Zaytúnát olive tree, olive
Zawal (Zaval) Zawál end, passage, extinction, disappearance, vanishing, cessation; setting (of the sun); noon (or zenith)
Zawar, Zawara, Zawarih, Zavarih Zawár, Zawára, Pers. Zawárih Pers. (Zavareh) an under jailer; a servant; the brother of Rustam; a city in Persian ‘Iráq founded by him. A city in and the capital of Zavareh District, in Ardestan County, Iṣfahán Province, Írán. 14 km NE of Ardestan and 115 km NE of Iṣfahán.
Zawar, Zuwar Zawár a visitor; a stranger, pilgrim;—pl. zúwár visitors
Zawj (Zauj), Azwaj Zawj, pl. Azwáj to pair, couple, mate, join in pairs or couples (something); to double, geminate (something); to employ parallelism (rhetoric)
Zawra Zawrá’ Western side of Baghdád (split by Tigris River) was also known (by Persians) as az-Zawrá (the bent or the crooked). See ar-Rawḥá
Zayanda Záyanda Pers. bringing forth; a mother
Zayandih-Rud Záyandih-Rúd Pers. from Záyandih “life giver” and Rúd “river”, is the largest river of the Iranian Plateau in central Írán.
Zayd (Zaid) Zayd Pers. being augmented; increasing, augmenting, adding; proper name of a man, frequently used in a fictitious manner
Zaydan (Zaidan) Zaydán Jurjí Zaydán.  See Záhidán
Zaydi (Zaidi) Zaydí followers of the Zaydi Islamic jurisprudence (named after Zayd ibn ‘Alí, the grandson of Ḥusayn ibn ‘Alí and the son of their fourth Imám ‘Alí ibn Ḥusayn) are called Zaydí and make up about 35–42% of Muslims in Yemen, with the vast majority of Shí‘a Muslims in the country being Zaydí. The followers dismiss religious dissimulation (taqíya). They are a Shí‘ih breakaway group.
Zaydiyya (Zaidiyya) Zaydiyya(h) Zaidism (Arabic: az-zaydiyya, adjective form zaydí) is one of the Shí‘a sects closest in terms of theology to Ḥanafí Sunní Islám.
Zayn (Zain, Zine), Zina, Zinat Zayn, fem. Zína[h or t], pl. Zínát beauty; beautiful, nice, pretty;—fem. embellishment, adornment, ornament, decoration; cloth, attire, finery; toilette
Zaynab Zaynab Ar. fem. (many spelling variations) “a father’s precious jewel” or “the one who glorifies a father”. It is derived from the Arabic root words “zína” (meaning precious jewel, what glorifies someone, source of beauty) and “ab” (meaning father). It can also mean “fragrant flower”. Daughter, wives and granddaughter (Zaynab ibnat ‘Alíy) of Muḥammad. Believed to be a modification of Zenobia. Also a girl from a village near Zanján who disguised herself as a man to join others at the fort at Zanján.
Zaynu’l-‘Abidun Zaynu’l-‘Ábidún “The ornament of the worshippers” or the “Prince of Worshippers”. Title of the fourth Imám, ‘Alí Ibn Ḥusayn, and of a distinguished Bahá’í, Fawzí Zaynu’l-‘Ábidín, Knight of Bahá’u’lláh.
Zaynu’l-Mukhlisun Zaynu’l-Mukhliṣún “the adorning of the sincere ones”, surname given by ‘Abdu’l-Bahá to Zaynu’l-‘Ábidín Ismá‘íl, father of Fawzí Zaynu’l-‘Ábidín.
Zaynu’l-Muqarrabin Zaynu’l-Muqarrabín “the Ornament of the Near Ones” or “the Ornament of the favoured”
Zayta (Zaita) Zaytá transcription from Hebrew, זית, olive. Mount Zaytá (Mount of Olives). See Tíná and Zaytún.
Zaytun (Zaitun, Zaytoun) Zaytún, fem. Zaytúna[h or t] (pl. fem. Zaytúnát) (collective noun) olive tree; olive(s). az-Zaytún, a district of Cairo that ‘Abdu’l-Bahá resided in. Jabal az-Zaytún (Mount of Olives, Jerusalem). See Tíná and Zaytá
Zayya, Tazayya Zayyá to dress, clothe, costume (someone in). Form V tazayyá to dress, put on a dress or costume; to dress up, smarten oneself up, to be dressed, be clad (in), wear (something).
Zhinus Zhínús Zhínús Muḥmúdí
Zib (Zeb) Zíb Pers. ornament, elegance, beauty; lovely, graceful
Ziba (Zeba) Zíbá Pers. beautiful, elegant; adorned, arranged; consistent. Zíbá Khánum (d. 1932), African slave owned by Fatḥ-ʿAlí Sháh. Son Ghulám-‘Alí Siyáh (1871–1949) became a Bahá’í.
Zihar Ẓihár pre-Islamic form of divorce, consisting in the words of repudiation: you are to me like my mother’s back. It is an insult proffered by a husband upon his wife that likens the wife to some prohibited female relation of his, and exposes the husband to divorce. See muḥallil
Zihtab Zihtáb Ismá‘íl Zihtáb
Zij Zíj leveling line (used by masons); ephemeris, astronomical almanac. Zíj as-Sindhind (“astronomical tables of Siddhanta”) by al-Khárazmí.
Zill, Zilal, Zulul, Azlal Ẓill, pl. Ẓilál, Ẓulúl, Aẓlál shadow, shade, umbra; shelter, protection, patronage; shading, hub; slightest indication, semblance, trace, glimpse (of something); tangent (geometry). See Shabaḥ
Zillu’llah Ẓillu’lláh “Shadow of God” DB xxxviii
Zillu’s-Sultan Ẓillu’s-Sulṭán “Shadow of the King”, Prince Mas‘úd Mírzá
Zin Zín Pers. a saddle
Zina (Zyna), Zinat (Zynat and Zeenat) Zína[h or t], pl. Zínát embellishment, adornment, ornament, decoration; cloth, attire, finery. Zínat Khánum (Zínat Baghdádí), wife of Dr Baghdádí.
Zinda, Zindagan Zinda, pl. Zindagán Pers. alive, living; life; a match, or anything similar catching fire; poor, needy; great, huge, terrible; proud, haughty;—pl. the living
Zindagani Zindagání Pers. life; sustenance, food
Zindan Zindán Pers. a prison, jail; pound, pin fold
Zindan-i-Awin Zindán-i-Áwín Pers. Evin Prison (35.795085, 51.385770) in the Evin neighbourhood of Tehran, Írán
Zindiq, pl. Zanadiq, Zanadiqa Zindíq, pl. Zanádíq, Zanádiqa[h or t] Pers. one who maintains the doctrine of two principles (light and darkness); a “fire-worshipper”; an atheist, a disbeliever in God and a future state; a heretic; impious; hypocritical.—pl. Sadducees; infidels; atheists; “fire-worshippers”; pagans, heretics. See zandaqa
Zinjir, Zanjir Zinjír, Zanjír Pers. a chain; the rippling surface of water; a harrow; a ploughshare, coulter
Zira’a Zirá‘a[h or t] agriculture; tilling, tillage; cultivation (of land); growing, raising (of crops); farming
Zira’i Zirá‘í agricultural, agrarian, farm-(in compounds)
Zirak Zírak Pers. ingenious, intelligent, prudent, penetrating, sagacious, smart, quick in understanding or at manual labour. A very small village (33.811111, 57.306944, just north of the village of Murdistán and 13 km WSW of Bushrúyih) in Boshruyeh County, South Khorasan Province, Írán. Named Khayru’l-Qurá by Bahá’u’lláh.
Zirih-Kinari Zirih-Kinárí Mullá Sa‘íd-i-Zirih-Kinárí (Zira may be a form of Zahra?)
Ziyada (Ziyad) Ziyáda(h), Pers. Ziyád increase, increment, accretion, growth; surplus, excess; increase, augmentation, raising, stepping up; enhancement, elevation, intensification; extra pay, allowance (in addition to the salary). Easier to pronounce as Zíyád (H. M. Balyuzi). ‘Ubayd Alláh ibn Ziyád was the Umayyad governor of Baṣra, Kúfa and Khurásán during the reigns of caliphs Mu‘áwíya I and Yazíd I, and the leading general of the Umayyad army under caliphs Marwán I and ‘Abdu’l-Malik. ‘Ubayd Alláh is primarily remembered for his role in the killings of members of ‘Alí ibn Abí Ṭálib’s family including Ḥusayn ibn ‘Alí, and he has become infamous in Muslim tradition.
Ziyara, Ziyarat Ziyára[h or t], pl. Ziyárát visit; call (social, of a doctor). A pilgrimage (“visitation”) made to the shrines of the Imams, Sufi saints. etc. “Pers.” Ziyárih.
Ziyarah al-Jami’ah az-Ziyárah al-Jámi’ah Comprehensive Pilgrimage, attributed to the Tenth Imám, ‘Alí al-Hádí
Ziyarat Zíyárat visiting; a visit (especially to a sacred tomb, etc.), a religious visitation, a pilgrimage. Visiting Tablet revealed by Imám ‘Alí.
Ziyarat-i-Shah-‘Abdu’l-‘Azim Zíyárat-i-Sháh-‘Abdu’l-‘Aẓím Tablet written while in vicinity of the Sháh-‘Abdu’l-‘Aẓím Shrine in Rey, about 12 km south of the centre of Ṭihrán by the Báb
Ziyarat-Nama-Ha Zíyárat-Náma-Há Pers. letters (or epistles) of visitation
Ziyarat-Namiy-i-Awliya’ Zíyárat-Námiy-i-Awliyá’ “Tablet of visitation for the exalted ones” by Bahá’u’lláh
Ziyarat-Namiy-i-Bab wa Baha’u’llah Zíyárat-Námiy-i-Báb wa Bahá’u’lláh “Tablet of visitation for the Báb and Bahá’u’lláh” by Bahá’u’lláh
Ziyarat-Namiy-i-Babu’l-Bab Zíyárat-Námiy-i-Bábu’l-Báb wa Quddús “Tablet of visitation for Mullá Husayn and Quddús” by Bahá’u’lláh
Ziyarat-Namiy-i-Bayt Zíyárat-Námiy-i-Bayt “Tablet of visitation of the House” by Bahá’u’lláh
Ziyarat-Namiy-i-Maryam Zíyárat-Námiy-i-Maryam “Tablet of visitation for Maryam” by Bahá’u’lláh
Ziyarat-Namiy-i-Mulla Muhammad Zíyárat-Námiy-i-Mullá Muḥammad Zíyárat-Námiy-i-Mullá Muḥammad ‘Alíy-i-Bárfurúshí (Tablet of visitation for Quddús) by the Báb
Ziyarat-Namiy-i-Siyyidu’sh-Shuhada’ Zíyárat-Námiy-i-Siyyidu’sh-Shuhadá’ “Tablet of visitation for the Prince of the Martyrs” by Bahá’u’lláh
Zubayda (Zubaida) Zubayda[h or t] marigold. Zubayda bint Ja‘far ibn Manṣúr, a wife of Caliph Hárúnu’r-Rashíd
Zubda, Zubad Zubda(h), pl. Zubad (fresh) butter (as opposed to samn); cream;—pl. choicest part, prime, cream, flower, elite; extract, quintessence; essence, substance; gist, main point
Zubur Zubúr (Book of) Psalms, Psalter
Zuhal Zuḥal the planet Saturn
Zuhayr (Zuhair), Zuhayra (Zuhaira) Zuhayr, fem. Zuhayra(h) little flower, blossom. Zuhayr bin Abí Sulmá (c. 520–c. 609), one of the greatest Arab poets of pre-Islamic times
Zuhd Zuhd (voluntary) renunciation (of something); indifference (to, especially to worldly things); abstemiousness, abstinence; asceticism; ad-dunyá fí az-zuhd asceticism. A Muslim is permitted to enjoy the pleasures bestowed on him by God, but Islám encourages and praises those who shun luxury in favour of a simple and pious life. However, Islám rejects excessive deliberate asceticism, poverty, passivism and monasticism. Shoghi Effendi stated “… that the maintenance of such a high standard of moral conduct is not to be associated or confused with any form of asceticism, or of excessive and bigoted puritanism. The standard ... seeks, under no circumstances, to deny anyone the legitimate right and privilege to derive the fullest advantage and benefit from the manifold joys, beauties, and pleasures with which the world has been so plentifully enriched by an All-Loving Creator.” ADJ, p. 33
Zuhr, Azhar Ẓuhr, pl. Aẓhár noon, midday; (feminine) midday prayer (Islamic Law)
Zuhra (Zohrah, Zohrih, Zohreh) Zuhra[h or t] brilliancy, light, brightness, whiteness; beauty; Banú Zuharah clan of the Quraysh tribe; a flower, blossom. az-Zuhara the planet Venus.
Zuhur Ẓuhúr appearance; visibility, conspicuousness; pomp, splendor, show, ostentation, window-dressing. Ẓuhúr is a term used by Bahá’u’lláh for “Manifestation” or “advent”) instead of Rasúl or Nabíl; and a new term: “Manifestation of God” (Ẓuhúr Alláh). In Shi’ite messianic terminology, the Advent of the Imam of the Age and the events associated with his Return. In a broader sense, any prophetic revelation. See maẓhar and manẓar.
Zuhur Allah, Zuhur-i-Ilahi Ẓuhúr Alláh, Pers. Ẓuhúr-i-Iláhí (“Manifestation of God”) See Nabíyu’lláh and Rasúlu’lláh
Zukhruf Zukhruf, pl. Zukhrúf gold; beauty, elegance, ornament; a speech embellished with fine imagery and romantic fiction; adorned falsehood; exaggeration. Qur’án 43:35, 53 uses the plural form; chapter uses the singular form.
Zulaykha (Zulaikha) Zulaykhá the wife of Potiphar (possibly captain of Egyptian palace guard), whose passion for Yúsuf (Joseph) is much celebrated in the East, particularly in the elegant Persian poems by Nizámí and Jámí.
Zulma, Zulmat, Zulumat, Zulamat, Zulum Ẓulma(t), pl. Ẓulmát, Ẓulumát, Ẓulamát darkness, duskiness, gloom, murkiness.—pl. also Ẓulam. baḥr aẓ-ẓulumát. the Atlantic Ocean. In the Qur’án, “light” (an-núr) is only ever used in the singular, because “light” refers to truth, which can only ever be one. In contrast, “darknesses” (aẓ-ẓulumát) is used to refer to untruth or error, which can come in many forms.
Zumra, Zumar Zumra, pl. Zumar troop; group (of people); crowd
Zumurrud Zumurrud emerald
Zumurrudi, Zumurrudin Zumurrudí, Pers. also Zumurrudín colour of an emerald
Zunuz Zunúz The capital of Marand.
Zunuzi Zunúzí of or from Zunúz. Sayyid ‘Alí Zunúzí, step-father of Anís. Sayyid Ḥasan Zunúzí, relative of both, prominent Bábí and amanuense of the Báb.
Zur Zúr Pers. strength, power, vigour; violence, strong effort, force; weight
Zur-Khanih Zúr-Khánih Pers. house of strength. Place for professional athletes to perform traditional exercises.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Arabic and Persian.
Letters, transcription & abjad values
The Arabic alphabet is written from right to left using 28 consonants (28 abjad values; Persian includes four additional letters (g, zh, ch, p; پ چ ژ گ)) and there is no distinction between upper - and lowercase. Both printed and written Arabic are cursive, with most letters within a word changing shape so they are directly joined to adjacent letters.
The Arabic letters are divided into 14 sun (حروف شمسية ḥurúf shamsíyah, red in the above table) and 14 moon letters (حروف قمرية ḥurúf qamaríyah). This classification is based on the way these letters affect the pronunciation of the definite article (ال) at the beginning of words. The definite article is assimilated into the sun letters and loses its distinctive sound. As a result, the sound at the beginning of the word is doubled. The definite article retains its distinctive sound when it occurs before one of the moon letters.
Ar. Name Trans.1 Abjad Ar. Name Trans.1 Abjad Ar. Name Trans.1 Abjad
Alif á 1 س Sín s 60 ك Káf k 20
b 2 ش Shín sh 100 ل Lám l 30
ت Tá’ t 400 ص Ṣád 90 م Mím m 40
ث Thá’ th 500 ض Ḍad 800 ن Nún n 50
ج Jím j 3 Ṭá’ 9 ه Há’ h 5
ح Ḥá’ 8 ظ Ẓá’ 900 و Wáw w 6
خ Khá’ kh 600 ع ‘Ayn ‘ (left) or ` 70 ۈ Ḍamma wáw u 6
د Dál d 4 غ Ghayn gh 1000 ى Alif maqṣúra y 10
ذ Dhál dh 700 ف Fá’ f 80 ي Kasra Yá’ i 10
ر Rá’ r 200 ق Qáf q 100 ء Hamza ’ (right) 12
ز Záy z 7

1 Transcription
2 The isolated hamza (ء) is treated as if it were placed on an alif where it would have an abjad value of 1.
Some grammarians regard alif ا and hamza ء as two distinct letters, while others regard them as two realizations of the same letter. They are a problematic aspect of Arabic writing and are often confusing to native and non-native speakers alike.
The Arabic letters are divided into 14 sun (حروف شمس ḥurúf shamsíyah, red in the above table) and 14 moon letters (حروف قمر> ḥurúf qamaríyah). This classification is based on the way these letters affect the pronunciation of the definite article ا>) at the beginning of words. The definite article is assimilated into the sun letters and loses its distinctive sound. As a result, the sound at the beginning of the word is doubled. The definite article retains its distinctive sound when it occurs before one of the moon letters.
Examples of changes to the definite article when placed in front of words beginning with a sun letter:
at-taj the crown adh-dhikr the remembrance ash-shams the sun aẓ-ẓafar the victory
ath-thalj the ice ar-rajul the man aṣ-Ṣaláh the prayer al-lawḥ the tablet
ad-dub the bear az-zamán the time at-ṭa‘ám the food an-nabát the vegetable
‘Ayn & hamza consonants
These Arabic consonant letters for ‘ayn and hamza are represented by left and right curly apostrophes respectively—they are NOT quote marks nor are they interchangeable. The alternative plain text characters are ` and ' respectively.1
Always include any initial ‘Ayn, and ending Hamza or ‘Ayn. It is important not to confuse any quote marks used in the text together with an ‘Ayn or a Hamza.
An ‘Ayn in the middle or at the end of a word/name can be entered by inserting a space, an apostrophe, and then removing the leading space. Alternatively, use the appended Word macro to insert the left curly apostrophe.

1 Searching in Word: use ^39 for single straight quote, ^34 for double straight quote and ^013 for paragraph or carrage return mark.
Capitalisations
There are no capital letters in Arabic and Persian script. When transcripted, capital letters should only be used for proper Names and attributes of God, otherwise, lowercase letters should be used. This document uses capital letters for all words/names as if they were proper names—these should be converted to lower case for other uses.
Elative word forms
In some languages such as Arabic, the concepts of comparative and superlative degree of an adjective are merged into a single form, the elative. How this form is understood or translated depends upon context and definiteness. In the absence of comparison, the elative conveys the notion of “greatest”, “supreme”. The elative of kabár (big) is ‘akbar (bigger/biggest, greater/greatest).
Elison and grammatical cases
The two words Náṣir ad-Dín can be linked by eliding the vowel of “al-” and adding a letter to reflect one of three grammatical cases in Arabic:
•Náṣiru’d-Dín: nominative case, used for the subject of a sentence.
•Náṣira’d-Dín: accusative case, used for the direct object of a sentence.
•Náṣiri’d-Dín: genitive case, used to indicate possession or relation.
Howeve, the nominative case is used, e.g. Náṣiru’d-Dín Sháh Qájár, when the name is used in isolation in an English sentence
Hybrid words/names
Most words (there are some commonly accepted exceptions, e.g. Bahá’ís) that have an English suffix should NOT be transcripted (e.g. Islamic, Qur’anic, Shi’ite, Shi’ism). Adding an ‘s’ to many words to represent the plural form is more recognizable to the English reader (bábs) than the often very different transcripted Arabic plural word (abwáb). These and some other words are often better replaced by an English equivalent, e.g. Gate-hood for Bábíyyat instead of the incorrect hybrid forms: “Bábhood” or “Babhood”, etc.
Numbers
Arabic numerals are written from left to right.
٠ (0) ١ (1) ٢ (2) ٣ (3) ٤ (4) ٥ (5) ٦ (6) ٧ (7) ٨ (8) ٩ (9) ١٠ (10)
Ar. m./f. ṣifr wáḥid ithnáni
ithnatání
Thalátha[h]
thalát
arba‘a
arba‘
khamsa
khams
sita
sitt
sab‘a
sab‘
thamániya
thamánin
tis‘a
tis‘a
‘ashara
‘ashar
Pers. m./f. ṣifr yak du sih chahár panj
khams
shash
sitt
haft
sab‘
hasht nuh
tis‘a
dah
Plurals
Arabic
Regular plurals for masculine nouns, add the suffix -ún (for the nominative) or -ín (for the accusative and genitive); for feminine nouns, add the suffix -át. However, not all plurals follow these simple rules. One class of nouns in both spoken and written Arabic produce plurals by changing the pattern of vowels inside the word, sometimes also with the addition of a prefix or suffix. This system is not fully regular, and it is used mainly for masculine non-human nouns; human nouns are pluralized regularly or irregularly.
Persian
The most common and productive form of pluralization for Persian nouns is with the suffix -há (not joined in formal Persian). This is typically used for non-human nouns. Another productive plural suffix is án, used for human nouns (with alternative forms gán after the short vowel “i” and “yán” after other vowels). Many nouns borrowed from Arabic feminine forms pluralize using the át suffix. Nouns borrowed from Arabic human forms often pluralize using the ín suffix. The most challenging type of noun pluralization is for Arabic broken plurals, which are formed through internal vowel alternation. These nouns pluralize in Persian like their counterparts in Arabic.
Underdots
here are three methods of adding letters with underdots:
a)Use the Microsoft Word EQ field. The disadvantages of this method are that it increases the line spacing (it can be fixed to some extent using “Exact” line spacing), it makes searching for sequences of letters very difficult, and it cannot be converted for use in other file formats.
b)Use combining dot (U+0323) or diaeresis (U+0324) below. [In Word, type in the letter, Insert | Symbol, More Symbols, scroll down to the Combining Diacritical Marks subset and select the combining character.]
c)The best option is to use the underdotted letters from an extended open type font character set (not all fonts contain these letters in their character set).
Underscores
The line placed under ‘ch’, ‘dh’, ‘kh’, ‘sh’, ‘th’ and ‘zh’ indicates that these combinations of two letters in Roman script represent the sound of a single letter in the original script.
Vowel Sounds
The following information is provided merely as a very simple introduction to pronunciation.1
Accenting provides a guide to the pronunciation of vowel sounds in standard Arabic. Any attempt to show how vowels are pronounced using English word examples is limited by the fact that English words themselves are pronounced differently in different English speaking regions. The sound of short Arabic vowels is also affected by which Arabic consonant precedes them.

1 Further information can be found at https://pronunciation-guide-ll4k9v1xc.now.sh/
á a long a as in ‘ah’, ‘arm’ or ‘father’
a a short a as in ‘band’, ‘account’ or ‘ran’
í the vowel sound ‘ee’ as in ‘meet’ or ‘feet’
i a simple ‘i’ sound as in ‘hit’, ‘bit’ or ‘sit’
ú a ‘oo’ sound as in ‘boot’, ‘moon’ or ‘root’
u a ‘o’ sound as in ‘put’
aw as ‘ow’ sound in ‘vowel’
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Bahá’í
Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh
1. Mírzá Músá (Kalím), the brother of Bahá’u’lláh 11. Mírzá Muḥammad-Taqí (Ibn-i-Abhar)
2. Mírzá Buzurg (Badí’) 12. Mullá Muḥammad (Nabíl-i-A‘ẓam)
3. Siyyid Ḥasan (Sulṭánu’sh-Shuhadá’) 13. Shaykh Káẓim (Samandarí)
4. Mullá Abu’l-Ḥasan (Amín) 14. Mírzá Muḥammad Muṣṭafá
5. Mírzá Abu’l-Faḍl-i-Gulpáygání 15. Mírzá Ḥusayn (Mishkín-Qalam)
6. Mírzá ‘Alí-Muḥammad (Varqá, Dove) 16. Mírzá Ḥasan (Adíb)
7. Mírzá Maḥmúd FurúShayghí 17. Shaykh Muḥammad-‘Alí
8. Mullá ‘Alí-Akbar (Ḥájí Ákhúnd) 18. Mullá Zaynu’l-‘Ábidín (Zaynu’l-Muqarrabín)
9. Mullá Muḥammad (Nabíl-i-Akbar) 19. Mírzá Alí-Muḥammad (Ibn-i-Aṣdaq)
10. Ḥájí Mírzá Muḥammad-Taqí (Vakílu’d-Dawlih)
(cousin of the Báb and one of the Twenty–four Elders)
Bearers of the throne of God (8)
And the angels shall be on its sides, and over them on that day eight shall bear up the throne of thy Lord.1
Islamic traditions state the bearers are four angels, but the Prophet Muḥammad prophesied that the number would be two-fold on the Day of Resurrection, i.e. eight. This two-fold number of bearers corresponds with references in the Qur’án to not just one trumpet blast but to two—the first trump denoting the end of an era and the second trump denoting the beginning of a new era. (Qur’án 39:60) Angels are the spiritual Messengers of God and can represent the earlier Prophets (Noah, Abraham, Moses and Jesus) and the later “angels”: Muḥammad, ‘Alí Ṭálib, Ḥasan ibn ‘Alí and Ḥusayn ibn ‘Alí.2
Qur’án 69:13 speaks of a single trumpet blast and the following verses speak of the calamities that accompany the Day of Resurrection in the context of the number “8”. Therefore, this is a clear reference to the Báb, Who is the eighth Arch-Messenger of God of the main world religions—including Sabeanism about which there remains some record in the Qur’án—Hinduism, Judaism, Zoroastrianism, Buddhism, Christianity and Islám.3
Thus, it is no mere coincidence that the number 8 is an important element in the construction of the Shrine of the Báb with its octagonal-shaped superstructure, its 8 minarets and the 8-point star shaped flowerbeds of its surrounding gardens. Referring to Qur’án 69:17, Ugo Giachery records the following conversation with Shoghi Effendi:
Speaking one evening of the importance of the minarets in Islamic architecture, Shoghi Effendi said: “The mosque of Medina has seven minarets, the one of Sultan Ahmad in Constantinople has six, but the Qur’án mentions eight.” Furthermore, the eight slender minaret-like spires symbolize the bearers of the ‘throne of God’ ….4
The abjad numerical value of Bahá’ (بَها>, “Glory”) is 9 (“B” (ب, Bá’) = 2, “h” (ه, Há’) = 5 and á (ا, Alif) = 1, totalling 8. However, Bahá’ ends with a Hamza (ء)—an independent consonant with no English equivalent, and, when not seated on a long vowel, also equals 1. So the numerical value of the first three elements of Bahá’, equalling 8, are the bearers of the enthroned Hamza.5 This brings the total numerical value of Bahá’ to 9, which is of great significance in the Bahá’í Faith.6
The verse [Qur’án 69:17] thus means [according to ‘Abdu’l-Bahá]: “on that day Bahá will bear up the throne (the body) of thy Lord. On that day eight will bear up one.”7
All things proceed from the Primal Unity, which in turn proceeds from the Point. The unity of the Báb and His 18 Letters of the Living comprise the Primal Unity of 19 figures (wáḥid, abjad 19, “one” or “unity”). This Primal Unity gives rise to “all things” (kullu shay’, abjad 361). It is the perfect manifestation of the attributes of God as the First and the Last.
In the Arabic Bayán, the Báb speaks of Quddús as the realization of the Last—the return of the Islamic station of gatehood, or the station of magnification (takbír). Quddús is thus a mirror of the First—the Báb—and indeed Quddús’ own name, Muḥammad-‘Alí, is the mirror image of the Báb’s name, ‘Alí-Muḥammad. Then the Báb calls Quddús the reality that is above eight unities of mirrors. Elsewhere, the Báb refers to Quddús as the one around whom eight unities revolve.8
The Báb describes the Primal Unity as consisting of the First and the Last. The First is of course the Báb, representing Huva (He), equal to 11. The remaining eight Letters represent the station of Quddús as the Last. Since the “all things” of the Bábí community (19 × 19 = 361)—each member of which is a “mirror”—can also be considered as reflections of the First and the Last, the first eleven unities (11 × 19 = 209) are created through the Báb and the remaining eight (8 × 19 = 152) through Quddús. Quddús is thus above “eight unities of mirrors” or the one around whom eight unities revolve. And 152 mirrors thus fall beneath the station of Quddús. According to the Qur’án, eight angels will carry the Throne of God on the Day of Judgment. Quddús in this sense represents the station of magnification (takbír) and gatehood, which “carries the throne of God”, that is, the Báb or the Point of glorification.9
Shoghi Effendi always referred to the Shrine of the Báb as the “Throne of the Lord”.10

1 Qur’án 69:17 (Rodwell).
2 Majma‘ al-Bayan, vol. 10, p. 346. See https://www.al-islam.org/enlightening-commentary-light-holy-quran-vol-18/surah-al-haqqa-chapter-69. See Frank Ayers, Studying the Holy Qur’án, vol. 2, p. 35.
3 Shoghi Effendi, Directives of the Guardian, pp. 51–2.
4 Ugo Giachery, Shoghi Effendi, p. 89.
5 See Muḥammad Muṣṭafá, Bahá’u’lláh the Great Announcement of the Qur’án, pp. 102–103.
6 See Frank Ayers, Studying the Holy Qur’án, vol. 6, pp. 205–6.
7 Marzieh Gail, Summon up remembrance, p. 128.
8 The Báb, Persian Bayán 4:18.
9 See Nader Saiedi, Gate of the Heart, p. 285.
10 Shoghi Effendi in Ugo Giachery, Shoghi Effendi: recollections, p. 83.
Hands of the Cause of God
Appointed by Details
Bahá’u’lláh Ḥájí Mullá ‘Alí-Akbar-i-Shahmírzádí (Ḥájí Ákhúnd) (1842–1910)
Mírzá Muḥammad-Taqí (Ibn-i-Abhar) (d. 1917)
Mírzá Ḥasan-i-Adíb (Adíb) (1848–1919)
Mírzá ‘Alí-Muḥammad (Ibn-i-Aṣdaq) (1850–1928)
‘Abdu’l-Bahá None. Five named in Memorials of the Faithful, p. 7 (one, Ḥájí Ákhúnd, was appointed by Bahá’u’lláh)
Áqá Muḥammad-i-Qá’iní (Nabíl-i-Akbar) (1829–1892)
Mírzá ‘Alí-Muḥammad-i-Varqá (d. 1896)
Mullá Ṣádiq-i-Muqaddas (Ismu’lláhu’l-Aṣdaq) (d. 1889)
Shaykh Muḥammad Riḍáy-i-Yazdí (believed to be Mullá Muḥammad-i-Riḍáy-i-Muḥammmad-Ábádí (1814–1897))
Shoghi Effendi
Posthumous
appointments
Ḥájí Abu’l-Ḥasan (Ḥájí Amín) (1831–1928) [1928]
John Ebenezer Esslemont (1874–1925) [1925]
Martha Root (1872–1939) [3 October 1939]
Keith Bean Ransom-Kehler (1876–1933) [30 October 1933]
John Henry Hyde Dunn (1855–1941) [27 April 1951]
Siyyid Muṣṭafá Rúmí (d. 1942) [14 July 1945]
‘Abdu’l-Jalíl Bey Sa‘d (d. 1942)
Muḥammad Taqíy-i-Iṣfahání (1860–1946)
Roy C. Wilhelm (1875–1951) [1952]
Louis George Gregory (1874–1951) [1951]
Shoghi Effendi
24–12–1951
(twelve)
Holy Land: William Sutherland Maxwell (1874–1951), Charles Mason Remey (1874–1974) (until 1960), Amelia Engekder Collins (1873–1962), President, Vice-President, International Baha’i Council
Írán: Valíyu’lláh Varqá (1884–1955), Ṭarázu’lláh Samandarí (1874–1968), ‘Alí-Akbar Furútan (1905–2003)
American continent: Horace Hotchkiss Holley(1867–1960), Dorothy Beecher Baker (1898–1954), Leroy C. Ioas (1896–1965)
European continent: George Townshend (1876–1957),1 Hermann Grossmann (1899–1968), Ugo Giachery (1896–1989)
Shoghi Effendi
29–02–1952
(seven)
Canada and United States: Siegfried Schopflocher (1877–1953) and Corinne Knight True (1961–1961) (resp.)
Írán: Dhikru’lláh Khádim (1904–1986), Shu‘á‘u’lláh ‘Alá’í (1889–1984)
Germany, Africa, Australia: Adelbert Mühlschlegel (1897–1980), Músá Banání (1886–1971), Clara Dunn (1869–1960) (resp.)
Shoghi Effendi
(date)
(five)
Amatu’l-Bahá Rúḥíyyih Khánum (1910–2000) [March 1952]
Jalál Kháḍih (Jalal Khazeh) (1897–1990) [December 1953]
Paul Haney (1909–1982) [March 1954]
‘Alí Muḥammad Varqá (1911–2007) [November 1955]
Agnes Baldwin Alexander (1875–1971) [March 1957]
Shoghi Effendi
2–10–1957
(eight)
Uganda: Enoch Olinga (1926–1979)
West and South Africa: William Sears (1911–1992), and John Aldham Robarts (1901–1992)
British Isles: Ḥasan Muvaqqar Balyuzi (1908–1980) and John Graham Ferraby (1914–1973)
Pacific: Harold Collis Featherstone (1913–1990) and Raḥmátu’lláh Muhájir (1923–1979)
Arabia: Abu’l-Qásim Fayḍí (Faizi) (1906–1980)

1Qal’a—fort or stronghold
2The first stop after Najíbíyyih (for seven days) was at Firayját, on the bank of the Tigris River, 5 km to the north.
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Calendars (days, months)
Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years.
Days
Day English Arabic Translation Day English Arabic Translation
1. Saturday Jalál Glory 5. Wednesday ‘Idál Justice
2. Sunday Jamál Beauty 6. Thursday Istijlál Majesty
3. Monday Kamál Perfection 7. Friday Istiqlál Independence
4. Tuesday Fiḍál Grace
Months
Naw-Rúz first day
Month 20 March 21 March Arabic Translation
1. 20 March 21 March Bahá Splendour
2. 8 April 9 April Jalál Glory
3. 27 April 28 April Jamál Beauty
4. 16 May 17 May ‘Aẓamat Grandeur
5. 4 June 5 June Núr Light
6. 23 June 24 June Raḥmat Mercy
7. 12 July 13 July Kalimát Words
8. 31 July 1 August Kamál Perfection
9. 19 August 20 August Asmá’ Names
10. 7 September 8 September ‘Izzat Might
11. 26 September 27 September Mashiyyat Will
12. 15 October 16 October ‘Ilm Knowledge
13. 3 November 4 November Qudrat Power
14. 22 November 23 November Qawl Speech
15. 11 December 12 December Masá’il Questions
16. 30 December 31 December Sharaf Honour
17. 18 January 19 January Sulṭán Sovereignty
18. 6 February 7 February Mulk Dominion
Intercalary days 25 February 26 February Ayyám-i-Há Days of Há
19. 1 March 2 March ‘Alá’ Loftiness
Years
Years are grouped into cycles of 19 years starting from the date of the Declaration of the Báb.
1. Alif A 8. Júd Generosity 14. Wahháb Bountiful
2. Bá’ B 9. Bahá Splendour 15. Widád Affection
3. Ab Father 10. Ḥubb Love 16. Badí‘ Beginning
4. Dál D 11. Bahháj Delightful 17. Bahíy Luminous
5. Báb Gate 12. Jawáb Answer 18. Abhá Most luminous
6. Wáw W/V 13. Aḥad Single 19. Wáḥíd Unity
7. Abad Eternity
Gregorian days, months
English Arabic Persian
Sunday yawm al-aḥad yak-shanbih
Monday yawm al-ithnayn shanbih
Tuesday yawm ath-thalátá’ sih-shanbih
Wednesday yawm al-arbi‘á’ chahár-shanbih
Thursday yawm al-khamís panj-shanbih
Friday yawm al-jum‘a Jum‘a
Saturday yawm as-sabt shanbih
English Arabic1 Foreign2 English Arabic1 Foreign2
January kánún ath-thání yanáyir July tammúz yúliyú & yúliyah
February shubáṭ fabráyir August áb ‘aghustus
March ádár márs September ailúl sibtambar
April nísán ‘abril October tishrín al-awwal ‘uktúbar
May ayyár máyú November tishrín ath-thání núfimbar
June ḥazírán yúniyú & yúniyah December kánún al-awwal dísembar

1Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and Iran (from classical Arabic, which are from Syriac).
2Egypt, Sudan, Arab countries in the Persian Gulf (phonetic based on old Latin names).
Islamic months
Order Arabic1 Meaning Days
1. al-Muḥarram Forbidden 30
2. Ṣafar Departure or void 29
3. Rabí‘u’l-Awwal first month or beginning of spring 30
4. Rabí‘u’th-Thání second/last spring 29
5. Jumádá al-Awwal the first of parched land 30
6. Jumádá ath-Thání the second/last of parched land 29
7. Rajab Respect, honour 30
8. Sha‘bán scattered 29
9. Ramaḍán burning heat 30
10. Shawwál lift or carry, raised 29
11. Dhu’l-Qa‘da the one of truce/sitting 30
12. Dhu’l-Ḥijjah the one of or possessor of the pilgrimage 292

1Fifth month also (using fem. of awwal) Jumádá al-Úlá. Alternatives for 4th and 6th months are Rabí‘ al-Ákhir and Jumádá al-Ákhir respectively.
230 days in leap years
Persian Solar Months
Calendar started in CE 622, and the beginning of the year is the vernal equinox.
Name Days Name Days Name Days Name Days
1 Farwardín 31 4 Tír 31 7 Mihr 30 10 Day (Dai) 30
2 Urdí (Ardí) bihisht 31 5 Murdád 31 8 Ábán 30 11 Bahman 30
3 Khurdád 31 6 Shahríwar 31 9 Ádhar (Ázar) 30 12 Isfand 29/30
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Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)
The Rightly-guided (al-Khiláfah ar-Ráshidún)
1 Abú-Bakr ibn Abí-Quḥáfah (632–34) 3 ‘Uthmán ibn ‘Affán (644–56)
2 ‘Umar ibn al-Khaṭṭáb (634–44) 4 ‘Alí ibn Abí-Ṭálib (656–61)
The Umayyad (al-Khiláfah al-‘Umawíyah)
1 Mu‘áwíyah I (Mu‘áwíyah ibn Abí-Sufyán) (661–80) 8 ‘Umar (‘Umar ibn ‘Abdu’l-‘Azíz ibn Marwán) (717–20)
2 Yazíd I (Yazíd ibn Abí-Sufyán) (680–83) 9 Yazíd II (720–24)
3 Mu‘áwíyah II (683–84) 10 Hishám (Hishám ibn ‘Abdu’l-Malik) (724–43)
4 Marwán I (Marwán ibn al-Ḥakam) (684–85) 11 Al-Walíd II (son of Yazíd II) (743–44)
5 ‘Abdu’l-Malik (‘Abdu’l-Malik ibn Marwán) (685–705) 12 Yazíd III (son of Al-Walíd I) (744)
6 al-Walíd I (al-Walíd ibn ‘Abdu’l-Malik) (705-15) 13 Ibráhím (son of al-Walíd I) (744)
7 Sulaymán (715–17) 14 Marwán II (Marwán al-Ḥimár) (744–50)
The Abbaside (al-Khiláfah al-‘Abbásíyah)
1 Abu’l-‘Abbás ‘Abdu’lláh as-Saffáḥ (750–54) 6 Muḥammad al-Amín (809–13)
2 Abú-Ja‘far al-Manṣúr (754–75) 7 ‘Abdu’lláh al-Ma’mún (813–33)
3 Muḥammad al-Mahdí (775–85) 8 Muḥammad al-Mu‘taṣim (“al-Mu‘taṣim-Bi’lláh”—‘He who is steadfast in God’) (833–42)
4 Músá al-Hádí (785–86) 9 Hárún al-Wáthiq (“al-Wáthiq-Bi’lláh”—‘He who has his trust in God’) (842–47)
5 Hárún ar-Rashíd (786–809) 10 Ja‘far al-Mutawakkil (“al-Mutawakkil ‘Alá ’lláh”—‘He who puts his reliance in God’) (847–61)
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Imams (A’imma) and deputies
Twelve Imams
1. ‘Alí ibn Abí Ṭálib (632–661) 1 7. Músá al-Káẓim Ibn Báqir (765–799)
2. Ḥasan Ibn ‘Alí (661–669) 8. ‘Alí III (‘Alí Ibn Músá ar-Riḍá) (799–818)
3. Ḥusayn Ibn ‘Alí (669–680) 9. Muḥammad ibn ‘Alí al-Jawád (818–835)
4. Zaynu’l-‘Ábidín ‘Alí II (680–712) 10. ‘Alí IV (‘Alí an-Naqí) (835–868)
5. Muḥammad-Báqir Ibn ‘Alí (712–734) 11. Ḥasan II (Ḥasan ibn ‘Alí al-‘Askarí ibn Naqí) (868–873)
6. Ja‘far aṣ-Ṣádiq ibn Báqir (734–765) 12. Muḥammad al-Mahdí Ibn Ḥasan (869–873 (AH 260))
Twelfth Imám
Shí‘ih Muslims believe the Minor Occultation (al-ghayba aṣ-ṣughra) began in AH 260/CE 874 with the “disappearance” at as-Sámarrá’, on the Tigris, of the twelfth Imám as a child. The Hidden Imám was accessible through four successive “Deputies”, “Agents” or “Gates” (Abwáb) for 69 years. The Major Occultation (al-ghayba al-kubrá) began following the death of the “fourth gate” (AH 329/CE 941) and ended with the return of the twelfth Imám (AH 1260/CE 1844). During this time the twelfth Imám supposedly lived in one of two mysterious cities: Jábulqá and Jábulsá. See A Traveller’s Narrative, p. 98.
Deputies of the twelfth Imám
1 Abú ‘Amr ‘Uthmán ibn Sa‘íd al-‘Amrí
2 Abú Ja‘far Muḥammad ibn ‘Uthmán
3 Abu’l-Qásim Ḥusayn ibn Rúḥ Naw-Bakhtí (917-937)
4 Abu’l-Ḥasan ‘Alí ibn Muḥammad as-Sámarrí (937-941)
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Meccan pilgrim meeting points
1Dhu’l-Ḥulayfah (Masjid ash-Shajarah, “Mosque of the Tree”, 24.413730, 39.542951), 9 km from Medinah, and 435 km by road from Mecca. It is the míqát for those who live in Madinah, and for those who approach Mecca from the direction of Medinah.
2al-Juḥfah (22.705402, 39.146859) is 191 km by road, to the northwest of Mecca. This is the míqát for the people who come from the direction of ash-Shám (the sun), i.e. those flying or sailing (generally from North America, Europe, Türkiye, Syria, Egypt, Algeria, Sudan and other African countries).
3Qarn al-Manázil (21.633256, 40.427478), also known as Míqát as-Sayl, located 83 km by road from Mecca, in a small town of as-Sayl al-Kabír. It serves pilgrims coming from the Najdi region, which is essentially the middle of Saudi Arabia..
4Yalamlam (20.840153, 40.138544) is a small city 105 km by road southwest of Mecca that serves the Ḥujjaj coming from the direction of Yemen.
5Dhát ‘Irq (21.633216, 40.427497) 83 km by road, northeast of Mecca. It serves pilgrims coming from the direction of ‘Iráq, Írán, and other places en-route
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Qur’án súra names
Súra Súra
1 al-Fátiḥa—The opening 58 al-Mujádilah—The pleading woman
2 al-Baqara—The cow 59 al-Ḥashr—The mustering, The exile or The emigration
3 Ál ‘Imrán—The family of Imran 60 al-Mumtaḥinah—She that is to be examined
or She who is tried (or tested)1
4 an-Nisá’—The women 61 aṣ-Ṣaff—The rank or The battle array
5 al-Má’ida—The table spread 62 al-Jumu‘ah—The day of congregation or Friday
6 al-An‘ám—The cattle 63 al-Munáfiqún—The hypocrites
7 al-A‘ráf—The heights 64 at-Taghábun—The mutual deception or disillusion,
or The mutual loss and gain
8 al-Anfál—The spoils of war 65 aṭ-Ṭaláq—The divorce
9 at-Tawbah al-Bará’ah—The repentance or The repudiation 66 at-Taḥrím—The prohibition
10 al-Yúnus—Jonah 67 al-Mulk—The dominion or The sovereignty
11 Húd—Húd 68 al-Qalam—The pen or Nún
12 Yúsuf—Joseph 69 al-Ḥáqqah—The reality or The sure reality
13 ar-Ra‘d—The thunder 70 al-Ma‘árij—The ways of ascent or The ascending stairways
14 al-Ibráhím—Abraham 71 Núḥ—Noah
15 al-Ḥijr—The rock or The rocky tract 72 Jinn—The spirits
16 an-Naḥl—The bees 73 al-Muzzammil—The enfolded one or The enshrouded one
17 al-Isra’ or Baní Isrá’íl—The night journey
or The children of Israel
74 al-Muddaththir—The one wrapped up
or The cloaked one
18 al-Kahf—The cave 75 al-Qiyáma—The resurrection
19 Maryam—Mary 76 al-Insán or ad-Dahr—The man or The time
20 Ṭá’ Há’—Ṭá’ Há’ 77 al-Mursalát—Those sent forth or The emissaries
21 al-Anbiyá’—The Prophets 78 an-Naba’—The great news, The announcement or The tidings
22 al-Ḥájj—The pilgrimage 79 an-Názi‘át—Those who tear out or Those who drag forth
23 al-Muʼminún—The believers 80 al-‘Abasa—He frowned
24 an-Núr—The light 81 at-Takwír—The folding up or The overthrowing
25 al-Furqán—The criterion 82 al-Infiṭár—The Cleaving or The cleaving asunder
26 ash-Shu’ará’—The poets 83 al-Muṭaffifín—The defrauding or The dealers in fraud
27 an-Naml—The ant 84 al-Inshiqáq—The sundering or The rending asunder
28 al-Qaṣaṣ—The story or The narrative 85 al-Burúj—The constellations or The mansions of the stars
29 al-‘Ankabút—The spider 86 aṭ-Ṭaríq—The night star or The one who arrives at night
30 ar-Rúm—The Romans 87 al-A‘lá—The Most High
31 Luqmán—Luqmán 88 al-Gháshiya—The overwhelming or The overwhelming event
32 as-Sadjah—The prostration 89 al-Fajr—The dawn
33 al-Aḥzáb—The clans, The confederates or The cohorts 90 al-Balad—The city
34 Saba’—Sheba 91 ash-Shams—The sun
35 Fáṭir—Originator or Creator 92 al-Layl—The night
36 Yá Sín—Yá Sín 93 aḍ-Ḍuḥá—The morning hours
37 aṣ-Ṣáffát—Those ranged in ranks 94 ash-Sharḥ—The expansion
38 Ṣád—Ṣád 95 at-Tín—The fig
39 Zumar—The troops or The crowds 96 al-‘Alaq—The clot
40 Gháfir or al-Mu’min—Forgiver or The believer 97 al-Qadr—The power
41 Fuṣṣilat or Ḥá Mím—Explained in detail or Ḥá Mím 98 al-Bayyinah—The evidence
42 ash-Shúrá—The consultation 99 az-Zalzala—The earthquake
43 az-Zukhruf—The gold ornament, The embellishment,
or The gilding
100 al-‘Ádiyát—The chargers or The assaulters
44 ad-Dukhán—The smoke 101 al-Qári‘ah—The calamity or The great calamity
45 al-Játhiya—The kneeling one or The crouching one 102 at-Takáthur—The piling up or The worldly gain
46 al-Aḥqáf—The wind-curved sand hills
or The winding sand-tracts
103 al-‘Aṣr—Time or The afternoon (also wa’l-Aṣr, “By the Time”)
47 Muḥammad—Muḥammad 104 al-Humazah—The slanderer, The backbiter or The scandal-monger
48 al-Fatḥ—The victory 105 al-Fíl—The elephant
49 al-Ḥujarát—The chambers or The rooms 106 al-Quraysh—The Quraysh (tribe)
50 Qáf—Qáf 107 al-Ma‘ún—The neighbourly assistance, The small kindnesses
or The alms giving
51 adh-Dháriyát—The winds that scatter
or The winnowing winds
108 al-Kawthar—The abundance
52 aṭ-Ṭúr—The mountain or The mount 109 al-Káfirún—The disbelievers or Those who reject faith
53 an-Najm—The star 110 an-Naṣr—The help or The divine support
54 al-Qamar—The moon 111 al-Masad or al-Lahab—The palm fibre, The plaited rope or The flame
55 ar-Raḥmán—The Beneficent or The Most Gracious 112 al-Ikhláṣ—The sincerity or The purity of faith
56 al-Wáqi‘ah—The inevitable 113 al-Falaq—The daybreak or The dawn
57 al-Ḥadíd—The iron 114 an-Nás—Mankind

1The tests faced by the women who emigrated to Medina.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Qur’anic “names” of God.
The 99 names of God (Alláh) (listed in traditional order in the table), known as the ‘asmá’u’lláhi’l-ḥusná (Beautiful Names of Alláh), are also called the 99 attributes of Alláh.
There is a tradition in Sufism that these names point to a mystical “Most Supreme and Superior Name” (Ismu’l-A‘ẓam).
Bahá’í sources state the Greatest or 100th name is “Bahá’” (“glory, splendour”), which appears in the words Bahá’u’lláh and Bahá’í.
‘Abdu’l-Ḥamíd Ishráq-Khávarí states Bahá’ ad-Dín al-‘Ámilí adopted the Persian poetic pen name “Bahá’” after being inspired by the words of Muḥammad al-Báqir, and the sixth Imám, Ja‘far aṣ-Ṣádiq, who stated that the greatest name of God was included in either the Du‘á’u’l-Bahá’ (four times in the first verse), a dawn prayer for Ramaḍán or the ‘A‘mal ‘am Dawúd.
1 ٱلْرَّحْمَـانُ ar-Raḥmán The All Beneficent
2 ٱلْرَّحِيْمُ ar-Raḥím The Most Merciful
3 ٱلْمَـالِكُ al-Málik The King, the Sovereign
4 ٱلْقُدُّوسُ al-Quddús The Most Holy
5 ٱلْسَّلَامُ as-Salám Peace and Blessing
6 ٱلْمُؤْمِنُ al-Mu’min The Guarantor
7 ٱلْمُهَيْمِنُ al-Muhaymin The Guardian, the Preserver
8 ٱلْعَزِيزُ al-‘Azíz The Almighty, the Self-sufficient
9 ٱلْجَبَّارُ al-Jabbár The Powerful, the Irresistible
10 ٱلْمُتَكَبِّرُ al-Mutakabbir The Tremendous
11 ٱلْخَالِقُ al-Kháliq The Creator
12 ٱلْبَارِئُ al-Bári’ The Maker
13 ٱلْمُصَوِّرُ al-Muṣawwir The Fashioner of Forms
14 ٱلْغَفَّارُ al-Ghaffár The Ever Forgiving
15 ٱلْقَهَّارُ al-Qahhár The All Compelling Subduer
16 ٱلْوَهَّابُ al-Wahháb The Bestower
17 ٱلْرَّزَّاقُ ar-Razzáq The Ever Providing
18 ٱلْفَتَّاحُ al-Fattáḥ The Opener, the Victory Giver
19 ٱلْعَلِيمُ al-‘Alím The All Knowing, the Omniscient
20 ٱلْقَابِضُ al-Qábiḍ The Restrainer, the Straightener
21 ٱلْبَاسِطُ al-Básiṭ The Expander, the Munificent
22 ٱلْخَافِضُ al-Kháfiḍ The Abaser
23 ٱلْرَّافِعُ ar-Ráfi‘ The Exalter
24 ٱلْمُعِزُّ al-Mu‘izz The Giver of Honour
25 ٱلْمُذِلُّ al-Mudhill The Giver of Dishonour
26 ٱلْسَّمِيعُ as-Samí‘ The All Hearing
27 ٱلْبَصِيرُ al-Baṣír The All Seeing
28 ٱلْحَكَمُ al-Ḥakam The Judge, the Arbitrator
29 ٱلْعَدْلُ al-‘Adl The Utterly Just
30 ٱلْلَّطِيفُ al-Laṭíf The Subtly Kind
31 ٱلْخَبِيرُ al-Khabír The All Aware
32 ٱلْحَلِيمُ al-Ḥalím The Forbearing, the Indulgent
33 ٱلْعَظِيمُ al-‘Aẓím The Magnificent, the Infinite
34 ٱلْغَفُورُ al-Ghafúr The All Forgiving
35 ٱلْشَّكُورُ ash-Shakúr The Grateful
36 ٱلْعَلِىُّ al-‘Alíy The Sublimely Exalted
37 ٱلْكَبِيرُ al-Kabír The Great
38 ٱلْحَفِيظُ al-Ḥafíẓ The Preserver
39 ٱلْمُقِيتُ al-Muqít The Nourisher
40 ٱلْحَسِيبُ al-Ḥasíb The Reckoner
41 ٱلْجَلِيلُ al-Jalíl The Majestic
42 ٱلْكَرِيمُ al-Karím The Bountiful, the Generous
43 ٱلْرَّقِيبُ ar-Raqíb The Watchful
44 ٱلْمُجِيبُ al-Mujíb The Responsive, the Answerer
45 ٱلْوَاسِعُ al-Wási‘ The Vast, the All Encompassing
46 ٱلْحَكِيمُ al-Ḥakím The Wise
47 ٱلْوَدُودُ al-Wadúd The Loving, the Kind One
48 ٱلْمَجِيدُ al-Majíd The All Glorious
49 ٱلْبَاعِثُ al-Bá‘ith The Raiser of the Dead
50 ٱلْشَّهِيدُ ash-Shahíd The Witness
51 ٱلْحَقُّ al-Ḥaqq The Truth, the Real
52 ٱلْوَكِيلُ al-Wakíl The Trustee, the Dependable
53 ٱلْقَوِيُّ al-Qawíy The Strong
54 ٱلْمَتِينُ al-Matín The Firm, the Steadfast
55 ٱلْوَلِيُّ al-Walíy The Friend, Helper
56 ٱلْحَمِيدُ al-Ḥamíd The All Praiseworthy
57 ٱلْمُحْصِيُ al-Muḥṣí The Accounter, the Numberer of All
58 ٱلْمُبْدِئُ al-Mubdi‘ The Producer, Originator, & Initiator of All
59 ٱلْمُعِيدُ al-Mu‘íd The Reinstater Who Brings Back All
60 ٱلْمُحْيِي al-Muḥyí The Giver of Life
61 ٱلْمُمِيتُ al-Mumít The Bringer of Death, the Destroyer
62 ٱلْحَىُّ al-Ḥayy The Ever Living
63 ٱلْقَيُّومُ al-Qayyúm The Self Subsisting Sustainer of All
64 ٱلْوَاجِدُ al-Wájid The Perceiver, the Finder, the Unfailing
65 ٱلْمَاجِدُ al-Májid The Illustrious, the Magnificent
66 ٱلْوَاحِدُ al-Wáḥid The One, the All Inclusive, the Indivisible
67 ٱلْأَحَد al-Aḥad The One, the Indivisible
68 ٱلْصَّمَدُ aṣ-Ṣamad The Self-Sufficient, the Impregnable, the Eternally
Besought of All, the Everlasting
69 ٱلْقَادِرُ al-Qádir The All Able
70 ٱلْمُقْتَدِرُ al-Muqtadir The All Determiner, the Dominant
71 ٱلْمُقَدِّمُ al-Muqaddim The Expediter, He who Brings Forward
72 ٱلْمُؤَخِّرُ Mu’akhkhir The Delayer, He who Puts Far Away
73 ٱلأَوَّلُ al-Awwal The First, Without Beginning
74 ٱلْأَخِرُ al-Ákhir The Last
75 ٱلْظَّـٰهِرُ aẓ-Ẓáhir The Manifest; the All Victorious
76 ٱلْبَاطِنُ al-Báṭin The Hidden; the All Encompassing
77 ٱلْوَالِي al-Wálí The Patron, The Protecting Friend, The Friendly Lord
78 ٱلْمُتَعَالِي al-Muta‘álí The Self Exalted
79 ٱلْبَرُّ al-Barr The Most Kind and Righteous
80 ٱلْتَّوَّابُ at-Tawwáb The Ever Returning, Ever Relenting
81 ٱلْمُنْتَقِمُ al-Muntaqim The Avenger
82 ٱلْعَفُوُّ al-‘Afúw The Pardoner, the Effacer of Sins
83 ٱلْرَّؤُفُ ar-Ra’úf The Compassionate, the All Pitying
84 مَالِكُ ٱلْمُلْكُ Máliku’l-Mulk The Owner of All Sovereignty
85 وَٱلْإِكْرَامُ ٱلْجَلَالِ ذُو Dhu’l-Jalál wa’l-Ikrám The Lord of Majesty & Generosity
86 ٱلْمُقْسِطُ al-Muqsiṭ The Equitable, the Requiter
87 ٱلْجَامِعُ al-Jámi‘ The Gatherer, the Unifier
88 ٱلْغَنيُّ al-Ghání The All Rich, the Independent
89 ٱلْمُغْنِيُّ al-Mugh The Enricher, the Emancipator
90 ٱلْمَانِعُ al-Máni‘ The Withholder, the Shielder, the Defender
91 ٱلْضَّارُ aḍ-Ḍárr The Distressor, the Harmer
92 ٱلْنَّافِعُ an-Náfi‘ The Propitious, the Benefactor
93 ٱلْنُّورُ an-Núr The Light
94 ٱلْهَادِي al-Hádí The Guide
95 ٱلْبَدِيعُ al-Badí‘ The Incomparable, the Originator
96 ٱلْبَاقِي al-Báqí The Ever Enduring and Immutable
97 ٱلْوَارِثُ al-Wárith The Heir, the Inheritor of All
98 ٱلْرَّشِيدُ ar-Rashíd The Guide, Infallible Teacher, & Knower
99 ٱلْصَّبُورُ aṣ-Ṣabúr The Patient, the Timeless
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Unusual characters, · Non-printing characters
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Special characters
Non-printing characters
Some additional characters in Arabic text documents.
Unicode, search seq.
200C (^u8204) zero width non-joiner between two characters that otherwise might be joined as a ligature
200E (^u8206) left-to-right mark
200F (^u8207) right-to-left mark
Search for the above characters in Word (pressing Alt+X will reveal the Unicode of a character or convert a Unicode to the character) using the search sequences—character strings that are preceded by a ^.
Replace straight quotes, (', 27, ^39) and (", 22, ^34), with their equivalent curly quotes—Word automatically replaces with left and right symbols based on position, so the replace character is the single or double quote entered from the keyboard. The exception is the grave accent or straight ‘Ayn (`, 60, ^96), this should be replaced using the string ^u8216. It is useful to enter the grave accent during the optical character recognition (OCR) process to ensure an ‘Ayn within a word or name remains as a left single quote when replacing all single straight quotes with their curly equivalent. In some cases, insert a right straight quote (´, U+00B4; e.g. ’tis) during the OCR process.
Copying or converting (e.g. PDF files) text containing ligatures (two or more graphemes or letters joined to form a single glyph) will also impede text searches. Search for (Æ, 00C6; æ, 00E6; Œ, 0152; œ, 0153; ff, FB00; fi, FB01; and fl, FB02) and replace them with the corresponding two single letters.
Unusual characters
Some Unusual characters (character, unicode and search sequences are listed) need to be removed from a document when pasting text from other sources. First paste the text into Notepad (or a similar application) to remove all formatting, and then copy and paste the text into Word. Alternatively, paste with the Keep Text Only option (Home | Paste drop down arrow, Keep Text Only).
An ẖ (“h with line underneath”, 1E96, ^u7830) should be replaced with an underlined “h”, and ṯ (1E6F, ^u7791) with ṭ. The following table lists some other characters that should be replaced with curly left or right single quotes:
Replace With
``, 60, ^96 ʻ, 02BB, ^u699 ʽ, 02BD, ^u701 ʿ, 02BF, ^u7031 ‘, 2018, ^u8216
´, 00B4, ^u180 ʹ, 02B9, ^u697 ʼ, 02BC, ^u700 ʾ, 02BE, ^u702 ’, 2019, ^u8217

1Left and right half ring or half circle.
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
Stages of the quest (3) The sharí‘a or obedience to the religious law, is absolutely essential for the spiritual life of the believer. This obedience is destined to lead that believer to a fuller knowledge or awareness, symbolized by ṭaríqa, the ‘way’ or ‘path’ and is the standard technical term for a mystical order. Ḥaqíqa, ‘ultimate’ or ‘divine’ reality, is used to indicate the highest possible limit (essentially unachievable) of human aspiration.
Modes of being (3) The muslim is the one who submits to the law or sharí‘a, even if he does not fully ‘understand’ why he should. The mu’min, or secure (or faithful) believer, has through his submission acquired a fuller understanding of obedience and the law. The muḥsin, one made pleasing to God, ‘automatically’ reflects in his actions and deeds the transformative beauty of this faith and understanding.
Modes of perception (3) ‘ilmi yaqín (knowledge of certitude, demonstration; a religious life—Qur’án 102:5); ‘ainu’l-yaqín (experimental knowledge; truth ascertained by evidence; certainty (Qur’án 102:7)); and ḥaqqu (‘ilmu) ’l-yaqín (certain truth or knowledge (Qur’án 56:95, 69:51))
Modes of the soul (3) an-nafs al-‘ammára bi’l-sú’ (the erring soul, Qur’án 12:53), an-nafs al-lawwáma (the guiding soul, Qur’án 75:2), an-nafs al-muṭma’inna (the soul at peace, Qur’án 89:27)1

1 SeeThe Báb’s epistle on the spiritual journey towards God”, Todd Lawson.
Vowel sounds
The following information is provided merely as a very simple introduction to pronunciation.1
Accenting provides a guide to the pronunciation of vowel sounds in standard Arabic. Any attempt to show how vowels are pronounced using English word examples is limited by the fact that English words themselves are pronounced differently in different English speaking regions. The sound of short vowels is also affected by which consonant precedes them.
á a long a as in ‘ah’, ‘arm’ or ‘father’
a a short a as in ‘band’, ‘account’ or ‘ran’
í the vowel sound ‘ee’ as in ‘meet’ or ‘feet’
i a simple ‘i’ sound as in ‘hit’, ‘bit’ or ‘sit’
ú a ‘oo’ sound as in ‘boot’, ‘moon’ or ‘root’
u a ‘o’ sound as in ‘put’
aw as ‘ow’ sound in ‘vowel’

Further information can be found on https://pronunciation-guide-ll4k9v1xc.now.sh/
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12the Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word
Word transcription macros (Microsoft)
A number of useful Word macros are provided in this section. Buttons linked to the macros are placed on the Add-in tab on the Word Ribbon that allow the user to insert various transcription characters or to replace a letter with one that has an accent or underdot.
‘Ayn macro
Use the following macro to insert a left curly apostrophe, even when it follows a letter:
Sub Ayn()
' Ayn Macro
Selection.InsertSymbol CharacterNumber:=8216, Unicode:= _
True
End Sub
Acute macro
A Word macro to replace a letter with its accented form is:
Public Sub Acute)
' Acute macro
'
A_ChrSetAcuteUnicode = Array(65, 97, 67, 99, 69, 101, 71, 103, 73, 105, 75, 107, 76, 108, 77, 109, 78, 110, 79, 111, 80, 112, 82, 114, 83, 115, 85, 117, 87, 119, 89, 121, 90, 122)
A_ChrSetUnicode = Array(193, 225, 262, 263, 201, 233, 500, 501, 205, 237, 7728, 7729, 313, 314, 7742, 7743, 323, 324, 211, 243, 7764, 7765, 340, 341, 346, 347, 218, 250, 7810, 7811, 221, 253, 377, 378)
A_ChrSetUnicode = Array(193, 225, 262, 263, 201, 233, 500, 501, 205, 237, 7728, 7729, 313, 314, 7742, 7743, 323, 324, 211, 243, 7764, 7765, 340, 341, 346, 347, 218, 250, 7810, 7811, 221, 253, 377, 378)
Call S_ChangeCharacterUnicode(A_ChrSetAcuteUnicode, A_ChrSetUnicode)
End Sub
Underdot macro
Public Sub Underot()
' Underdot macro
W_ChrSetUnderdotUnicode = Array(65, 97, 66, 98, 68, 100, 69, 101, 72, 104, 73, 105, 75, 107, 76, 108, 77, 109, 78, 110, 79, 111, 82, 114, 83, 115, 84, 116, 85, 117, 86, 118, 87, 119, 89, 121, 90, 122)
W_ChrSetUnicode = Array(7840, 7841, 7684, 7685, 7692, 7693, 7864, 7865, 7716, 7717, 7882, 7883, 7730, 7731, 7734, 7735, 7746, 7747, 7750, 7751, 7884, 7885, 7770, 7771, 7778, 7779, 7788, 7789, 7908, 7909, 7806, 7807, 7816, 7817, 7924, 7925, 7826, 7827)
Call S_ChangeCharacterUnicode(W_ChrSetUnderdotUnicode, W_ChrSetUnicode)
End Sub
Subroutines called by the above macros
Sub S_ChangeCharcterUnicode(A_ChrSet1, A_ChrSet2, Optional V_StringLength, Optional Vb_NoChangeMade)
' Exchange charater from CharacterSet1 with equivalent character from CharacterSet2.
' Process characers as Unicode.
'
If IsMissing(V_StringLength) Then V_StringLength = 1
If Selection.Type = wdSelectionIP Then Selection.MoveLeft Unit:=wdCharacter, Count:=V_StringLength, Extend:=wdExtend
V_ToBeChanged = Selection()
'
Vb_NoChangeMade = True
'
Call S_CheckAndReplace1Chr(A_ChrSet1, A_ChrSet2, V_ToBeChanged, Vb_NoChangeMade)
If Vb_NoChangeMade = True Then Call S_CheckAndReplace1Chr(A_ChrSet2, A_ChrSet1, V_ToBeChanged, Vb_NoChangeMade)
Selection.MoveRight Unit:=wdCharacter, Count:=1
End Sub
Sub S_CheckAndRelace1Chr(A_ChrCodeSet1, A_ChrCodeSet2, V_ToBeChanged, Vb_NoChangeMade)
' If "ToBeChange" is found in "ChrCodeSet1", replace selected character with equivalent defined in "ChrCodeSet2",
' expected that ToBeChanged" is identical with selected character.
'
V_StToBeChanged = Selection.Style()
boolVb_Bold = False
If Selection.Font.Bold = True Then boolVb_Bold = True
boolVb_Italic = False
If Selection.Font.Italic = True Then boolVb_Italic = True
Vb_Size = Selection.Font.Size
Vn_Counter = 0
For Each V_Code In A_ChrCodeSet1
If V_Code = AscW(V_ToBeChanged) And Vb_NoChangeMade = True Then
tmpOutput = A_ChrCodeSet2(Vn_Counter)
V_Changed = ChrW(A_ChrCodeSet2(Vn_Counter))
Selection.Delete
Selection.Text = V_Changed
Selection.Style = V_StToBeChanged
Selection.Font.Size = Vb_Size
Selection.Font.Bold = boolVb_Bold
Selection.Font.Italic = boolVb_Italic
Vb_NoChangeMade = False
End If
Vn_Counter = Vn_Counter + 1
Next V_Code
End Sub
Top -s ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
• Arabic and Persian   →   · Letters, transcription & abjad values, · ‘Ayn & hamza consonants, · Capitalisations, · Elative word forms, · Hybrid words/names, · Numbers, · Plurals (Arabic, Persian) · Underdots, · Underscores, · Vowel Sounds, · Elison and grammatical cases
• Bahá’í   →   · Apostles of Bahá’u’lláh, · Bearers of the throne of God (8), · Hands of the Cause of God, · Letters of the Living, · Principles, · Shrine of the Báb, · Travels of Bahá’u’lláh
• Calendars (days, months)   →   · Badí‘-Bahá’í days, months, years (Days, Months, Years), · Gregorian days, months, · Islamic months, · Persian Solar Months
• Caliphs (first 28 caliphs)   →   · The Rightly-guided, · The Umayyad, · The Abbaside.
• Imams   → · Twelve Imams · Twelfth Imám, · Deputies of the 12th Imám
• Twelfth Imám—occultation and return
• Meccan pilgrim meeting points
• Qur’án súra names
• Qur’anic “names” of God
• Special characters   →   · Non-printing characters, · Unusual characters,
• Traditional Qur’anic/Ṣúfí concepts
• Microsoft Word