Ayah Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ayah
[ˈaɪ.ə ]
Definition
Islamic term
An 'ayah' is a verse in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. Each surah (chapter) in the Quran is made up of a number of ayahs, and they form the basis of the text, conveying messages of faith, law, and guidance.
Synonyms
verse, verse of scripture.
Examples of usage
- The first ayah of Surah Al-Fatiha is often recited in prayers.
- Muslims memorize several ayahs from the Quran.
- Scholars interpret the meaning of each ayah.
- The ayah emphasizes the importance of compassion.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'ayah'
The word 'ayah' is derived from Arabic 'آية', which means 'a sign' or 'a miracle'. In the context of the Quran, the term began to be used during the early 7th century when the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. It emphasizes the divinity of the text and serves as a reminder of the signs of God’s existence and guidance. The structure of the Quran, composed of different surahs each with varying numbers of ayahs, also reflects the literary and spiritual richness of the work. As the Quran was compiled and standardized during the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan, the term 'ayah' became integral to the study and recitation of the Quran, influencing Islamic education and religious practices throughout Islamic history.