Sheikh شَيْخ

A title of respect for an elder, a teacher of religious knowledge or a person of standing.

Arabic
شَيْخ
Transliteration
Sheikh
Meaning
Elder or scholar
Topic
Calendar & people

About Sheikh

In religious study a sheikh is a teacher from whom a student has learned and who may give permission to teach the same text, which is called an ijazah. Reciters of the Quran are often called sheikh as well. In some regions the title is also used for tribal leaders and elders.

Related on QuranCentral

Quran reciters

See also

  • Imam إِمَام — Prayer leader and scholar
  • Tafsir تَفْسِير — Explanation of the Quran
  • Hifz حِفْظ — Memorising the Quran
  • Tajweed تَجْوِيد — Rules of Quran recitation

These entries are general, mainstream explanations for learning. Where scholars differ, this is noted. For rulings and personal questions, please ask a qualified scholar.