Shaikhs in South Asia

Sheikh, also rendered as Sheik, Shaykh, Shaikh, Shekh, Cheikh, Šeih, Šejh, Şeyh and other variants (Arabic: شيخ, shaykh; pl. شيوخ shuyūkh), is a word or honorific term in the Arabic language that literally means "elder." It is commonly used to designate an elder of a tribe, a revered wise man, or an Islamic scholar. Although the title generally refers to a male, a very small number of female sheikhs have also existed in history.[1]

Origin

The Shaikh title is used by the descendants of Arab and other Muslim immigrants who settled in areas of South Asia. Sufi and other migrants from the Middle East and Central Asia too attained the title 'Shaikh'. But in south asia many higher castes hindus who converted to Islam adopted this title.

Foreign Muslim origin

In South Asia, the term Shaikh may signify Arab ancestry, or other Middle-eastern or Central Asian origins.

Sub-divisions

The subdivisions of the Shaikh include:

Prominent People

See also

References

  1. People of India by Sir Herbert Risely

External links

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