The Descent of the Messiah — Page 337
HADRAT MIRZA GHULAM AHMADAS Kadhdhāb A great liar. Khalifah Caliph is derived from the Arabic word 'Khalifah, which herein means 'succes- sor. Khulafa' is the plural of Khalifah. Khilafat The institution of successorship in Islam. Langar Khānah Communi- ty Kitchen. The Promised Messiahas established a din- ing and hospitality centre that provided free meals to anyone in need, as well as those people who travelled to Qadian to visit him. Mahdi Literally means 'Guided. Maghrib the name of the early evening Prayer offered by Muslims. One out of the Five Daily Prayers. Maulawi A Muslim religious cleric. Mubāhalah Prayer duel. As de- scribed in Sürah Ale-Imran, a contest between claimants to divine support wherein each party prays for God to curse the lying party. Mujaddid A Reformer. Holy personages within Islam who appeared at the head of every century. 337 Nawwab An honorific title be- stowed by Mughal emperors to semi-autonomous Mus- lim rulers of princely states in South Asia. The female equivalent is 'Begum' or 'Nawwab Begum. Promised Messiahas A title given to the Reformer prophesied to appear during the Latter Days, by the Holy Prophet Muhammadsas; see About the Promised Messiah. Sahib A title of respect similar to diverse English terms like Mister, Honourable, and Re- vered. Salat Five daily Prayers that are obligatory for Muslims. Sūrah A chapter of the Holy Quran. Ulema A body of Muslim schol- ars. Wasīlah A means, a way, or a link that can be used to achieve a goal or gain closeness to something, particularly in a spiritual context. Vedas The most ancient Hindu scriptures, written in San- skrit and containing hymns, philosophy, and guidance on ritual for the priests of the Vedic religion.