sheikh

Also known as Sheik, Shaikh, Shekh, Sheikhah, Sheikha, shaykh

Sheikh ( , , , , shuyūkh ) is an honorific title in the Arabic language, literally meaning "elder". It commonly designates a tribal chief or a Muslim scholar.

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A sheikh is an Arabic honorific title meaning "elder" that is commonly used to refer to either a tribal chief or a Muslim scholar. The term carries respect and authority, reflecting the importance of age, wisdom, and leadership in Arab and Muslim cultures.

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Image: G1895 pg006 KURDISH SHEIKHS.jpg

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Commons category: Sheikhs
female form of label: cheikha
P8168: Bob Widlar

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Article

15 sections

Contents

Etymology and meaning
Sufi term
Regional usage
Arabian Peninsula
Lebanon
Maghreb
Horn of Africa
South Asia
Southeast Asia
Iran
For women
See also
Notes
References
External links

Sheikh ( , , , , shuyūkh ) is an honorific title in the Arabic language, literally meaning "elder". It commonly designates a tribal chief or a Muslim scholar.

In some countries, it is given as a surname to those of great knowledge in religious affairs, by a prestigious religious leader from a chain of Sufi scholars. The word is mentioned in the Qur'an in three places: verse 72 of Hud, 78 of Yusuf, and 23 of al-Qasas.