Glossary of Islamic Terms

This is a glossary and is in no way meant to explain fully these terms.

Allah: The proper name of God. Allah is the Maker of all creatures. He is not just the God of Muslims, but of all human kind.
Prophet Muhammad: The final messenger of Allah to mankind.
Riba : Interest, which is unlawful in Islam
Veil: A Muslim woman’s veil or head-covering when meeting strangers and going out.
Quran: The sacred book of Muslims, the final book of guidance from Allah, sent down to Muhammad (peace be upon him) through the angel Jibrail (Gabriel) over a period of 23 years.
Salaat: The five compulsory daily prayers offered in a particular way at set times
Friday Prayers: The special congregational Salah said at midday every Friday.
Zakaat: Welfare contribution – a compulsory payment from a Muslim’s annual savings. It is an act of worship and should not be confused with any tax.
Hijaab: see above
Meccah: The city where the Kabah is located and the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Hajj: The pilgrimage to the Kabah in Makkah. One of the five basic duties in Islam

References: Islam: Beliefs and Teachings by Ghulum Sarwar