Abstract:
The conception of the ahl al-bayt, “people of the house,” “family,” or “household” of the Prophet Muhammad plays a vital role in Islamic thought and piety. In the tashahhud portion of the ritual prayers, Muslims of all persuasions supplicate daily, “O God! Bless Muhammad and his family (al), as you blessed Abraham and his family.” This article examines the notion of the ahl al-bayt in the Quran, the Prophetic tradition, and in Muslim thought spanning many geographical regions and time periods.
Cite this publication:
Virani, Shafique N. “Ahl al-Bayt.” In Encyclopedia of Religion. Edited by Lindsay Jones. 2nd ed. Vol. 1. 198-199. New York: Macmillan, 2005.
Share what you’re reading on social media
If you liked this, you may also enjoy reading
Early Nizari Ismailism
The Dear One of Nasaf: Aziz Nasafi’s ‘Epistle on Love’
