CALIFATE Meaning and
Definition
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Caliphate, also spelled califate, refers to the political and religious system that was historically governed by a caliph, who was considered as the successor or representative of the Prophet Muhammad. The term derives from the Arabic word "khalīfah," meaning "successor" or "deputy."
A caliphate is a form of Islamic leadership that encompasses both political and religious authority. It is an Islamic state and institution which aims to govern the affairs of Muslim peoples according to Islamic law or Sharia. When ruled by a caliph, the caliphate establishes a centralized system of government and seeks to unite Muslims worldwide under a single political entity.
The concept of a caliphate emerged after the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632 CE, as the early Muslim community sought guidance on religious and political matters. The first caliphate, known as the Rashidun Caliphate, was established by Abu Bakr, a close companion of Muhammad. Subsequent caliphates included the Umayyad Caliphate, Abbasid Caliphate, and Ottoman Caliphate, among others.
A caliphate may exert influence over various territories, spreading either through conquest or through voluntary allegiance from existing states. It presides over matters of governance, law, military, and religious affairs. However, over time, caliphates have faced internal conflicts, external threats, and political fragmentation, leading to their decline.
In contemporary discussions, the idea of caliphate is sometimes associated with movements calling for the reestablishment or restoration of an Islamic state governed by Islamic law, particularly by extremist groups.
Common Misspellings for CALIFATE
- xalifate
- falifate
- dalifate
- czlifate
- cslifate
- cwlifate
- cqlifate
- cakifate
- caoifate
- calufate
- caljfate
- calkfate
- calofate
- cal9fate
- cal8fate
- calicate
- caligate
- califzte
- califste
Etymology of CALIFATE
The word "Caliphate" or "Califate" is derived from the Arabic term "khilāfa", which itself is derived from the root word "khalafa", meaning "to succeed" or "to follow". In Islamic history and jurisprudence, the term refers to the political and religious leadership of the Muslim community, following the death of the Prophet Muhammad. The word "Caliphate" specifically emerged during the Umayyad dynasty, when the title of the leader of the Muslim community transformed from "khalīfah" (caliph) to "Khilāfat Rasūl Allāh" (Caliph of the Messenger of God). Over time, the term "Caliphate" has come to signify an Islamic state led by a caliph, governing according to Islamic law (Sharia).
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