In Islam, the ulama (/ˈuːləˌmɑː/; Arabic: علماء, romanized: ʿulamāʾ, lit. 'the learned ones';[1] singular Arabic: عالِم, romanized: ʿālim; feminine singular alimah; plural aalimath[2]), also spelled ulema, are scholars of Islamic doctrine and law. They are considered the guardians, transmitters, and interpreters of religious knowledge in Islam.[2]
"Ulama" may refer broadly to the educated class of such religious scholars, including theologians, canon lawyers (muftis), judges (qadis), professors, and high state religious officials. Alternatively, "ulama" may refer specifically to those holding governmental positions in an Islamic state.[3]
By longstanding tradition, ulama are educated in religious institutions (madrasas). The Quran and sunnah (authentic hadith) are the scriptural sources of traditional Islamic law.[4]
- ^ Brown, Jonathan A.C. (2014). Misquoting Muhammad: The Challenge and Choices of Interpreting the Prophet's Legacy. Oneworld Publications. p. 3. ISBN 978-1-78074-420-9.
The ulama (literally, the learned ones);
- ^ a b Cl. Gilliot; R.C. Repp; K.A. Nizami; M.B. Hooker; Chang-Kuan Lin; J.O. Hunwick (2012). "Ulamā". In P. Bearman, P.; Bianquis, Th.; Bosworth, C.E.; van Donzel, E.; Heinrichs, W.P. (eds.). Encyclopaedia of Islam (2 ed.). Leiden: E.J. Brill. doi:10.1163/1573-3912_islam_COM_1278. ISBN 978-90-04-16121-4.
- ^ "ʿulamāʾ (Islam)". Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved 16 October 2023.
- ^ Zaman, Muhammad Qasim (2007). The Ulama in Contemporary Islam: Custodians of Change. Princeton University Press. p. 1. ISBN 978-0-691-13070-5.