Bounties of the Gracious God — Page 126
126 BOUNTIES OF THE GRACIOUS GOD the year 623 CE, which marks the beginning of the lunar calendar of Islam. Holy Prophetsas A title used exclu- sively for the Founder of Islam, Hadrat Muhammadsas. Holy Quran The final and perfect Scripture revealed by Allah for the guidance of mankind for all times to come. It was revealed word by word to the Holy Prophet Mu- hammadsas over a period of twen- ty-three years. Istighfar Seeking Allah's forgiveness. Khātamun-Nabiyyin The Seal of the Prophets. A title accorded by God to the Holy Prophet Muham- madsas in the Holy Quran. A vari- ant is Khatamul-Anbiyā. Maulawī A Muslim religious cleric. Mi'raj The spiritual ascension of the Holy Prophet Muhammadsas to Heavens, described in the Holy Quran and related in detail in ha- dith literature. Mubahalah Prayer duel. As de- scribed in Surah Al-e-Imran, a contest between claimants to di- vine support wherein each party prays for God to curse the lying party. Muhammadsas Founder of Islam. see Holy Prophetsas. Ramadan The ninth month of the lunar calendar, in which fasting is prescribed for all adult, able-bod- ied Muslims, except those trave- ling, ill, pregnant, or nursing. Şihāḥ Plural of Şahih, meaning 'au- thentic. Refers to Șihah Sittah, six Hadith collections regarded as among the most authentic. Shariah Religious law of Islam. The term is also used in the general sense of any revealed law. Shirk Associating partners with Al- lah. Sūrah A chapter of the Holy Quran. Taqwa Righteousness. Fear of God.