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Calif: meaning, definitions and examples

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calif

 

[ ˈkælɪf ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

historical title

The term 'calif' refers to the leader of the Islamic community, often seen as the successor to the Prophet Muhammad. Historically, caliphs were not just political leaders but also religious ones, overseeing the application of Islamic law and values. They played a significant role in the expansion of the Islamic state and its cultural achievements. The institution of the caliphate has undergone various transformations, influencing both governance and spirituality in the Muslim world. Though the caliphate no longer exists as a formal institution, its legacy continues to impact modern Islamic thought and governance.

Synonyms

leader, ruler, successor

Examples of usage

  • The calif led the Muslim empire.
  • Abu Bakr was the first calif after Muhammad.
  • The calif's decisions shaped Islamic law.

Translations

Translations of the word "calif" in other languages:

🇵🇹 califa

🇮🇳 खलीफा

🇩🇪 Kalif

🇮🇩 kalifah

🇺🇦 халіф

🇵🇱 kalif

🇯🇵 カリフ

🇫🇷 calife

🇪🇸 califa

🇹🇷 halife

🇰🇷 칼리프

🇸🇦 خليفة

🇨🇿 chalíf

🇸🇰 chalíf

🇨🇳 哈里发

🇸🇮 kalif

🇮🇸 kalífi

🇰🇿 халиф

🇬🇪 ხალიფა

🇦🇿 xəlif

🇲🇽 califa

Etymology

The word 'calif' comes from the Arabic term 'khalīfah', which means 'successor' or 'representative'. The early Islamic community established the caliphate in the 7th century CE, following the death of Prophet Muhammad. The first four caliphs, known as the Righteous Caliphs, were elected and widely respected for their close association with Muhammad. Over time, the position evolved, and caliphs began to acquire more power and authority, leading to various dynasties such as the Umayyads and Abbasids. The office of the caliphate experienced a decline in political power by the late Middle Ages, although it retained significant religious influence among Sunni Muslims until the abolition of the caliphate by the Ottoman Empire in 1924. The historical legacy of the caliphate continues to resonate in contemporary Islamic discussions about leadership, governance, and community.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,876, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.