Muhammadanism
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- An outdated and often offensive term for the religion of Islam: The word refers to the monotheistic religious system founded in Arabia in the 7th century, based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and the revelations in the Quran. It is important to note that this term is considered problematic because it can imply the worship of Muhammad, which is contrary to core Islamic belief.
Usage
- The term is historically found in older academic or colonial texts. Its use today is strongly discouraged. The standard, respectful, and accurate term is Islam. Muslims believe their religion was founded by God (Allah), with Muhammad as His final messenger, not as its founder. Using can therefore be seen as misrepresenting and offending this fundamental belief.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- 19th-century scholars sometimes used the term
Muhammadanismin their writings. (This describes historical usage.) - The book explained the pillars of faith, though it used the outdated term
Muhammadanism. (Highlights the term's dated nature.)
Advanced Usage Notes
- The term is considered a misnomer and is offensive to many Muslims. It parallels incorrect terms like . The suffix "-ism" attached to the Prophet's name can be interpreted as suggesting a man-made ideology centered on him, rather than a divinely revealed religion centered on God.
- In modern academic and interfaith discourse, the terms Islam (for the religion) and Muslim (for its adherents) are exclusively used.
Variants and Related Words
- Islam (n): The correct and preferred name for the religion. It means "submission to the will of God."
- Muslim (n): An adherent of Islam.
- Mohammedanism (n): An alternate, equally outdated and offensive spelling/variant of .
Synonyms
- Islam: The correct synonym. All other terms are outdated or offensive.
- The Muslim faith: A descriptive synonym.
Important Note on Usage
- This word should be avoided in contemporary speech and writing. It is included here for historical and lexicographical understanding only. When referring to the religion, always use Islam.
Noun
- the monotheistic religious system of Muslims founded in Arabia in the 7th century and based on the teachings of Muhammad as laid down in the Koran
- Islam is a complete way of life, not a Sunday religion
- the term Muhammadanism is offensive to Muslims who believe that Allah, not Muhammad, founded their religion