hijaz
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Definition
Proper noun A coastal region in the western Arabian Peninsula, bordering the Red Sea. It is historically and religiously significant as it contains the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. It was formerly an independent kingdom before uniting with the Nejd region to form the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Usage
The term is used as a proper noun to refer to this specific geographic and historical region. * The pilgrimage routes to Mecca historically crossed the Hijaz. * The Hijaz region has a distinct cultural history within the Arabian Peninsula. * The unification of Hijaz and Nejd was a key event in Saudi Arabian history.
Advanced Usage
- The Hejaz Railway: A historical railway line, built in the early 20th century, intended to connect Damascus to Medina, running through the Hijaz region. Its construction and partial destruction during the Arab Revolt are famous in history.
- Hejaz (as a variant spelling): The word is also commonly transliterated as "Hejaz." Both "Hijaz" and "Hejaz" refer to the same region.
Variants and Related Words
- Hejaz: The most common alternative spelling.
- Hijazi (adjective): Of or relating to the Hijaz region.
- Example: She studies Hijazi architecture and calligraphy.
Synonyms
- Western Arabia: A broader, less specific geographic term that can encompass the Hijaz region.
- The Holy Land of Islam: A descriptive term referencing the region's significance due to the presence of Mecca and Medina, though this is not a direct geographic synonym.
Related Terms and Context
- Mecca: The holiest city in Islam, located in the Hijaz.
- Medina: The second holiest city in Islam, also located in the Hijaz.
- Nejd: The central plateau region of the Arabian Peninsula, which historically united with the Hijaz.
- Arabian Peninsula: The larger landmass on which the Hijaz is located.
- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: The modern state formed by the union of Hijaz and Nejd.
Noun
- a coastal region of the western Arabian Peninsula bordering on the Red Sea; includes both Mecca and Medina; formerly an independent kingdom until it united with Nejd to form the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia