Pronunciation: [kˈalɪf] (IPA) 
The word "caliph" is spelled with a "c" followed by an "a", which makes the /k/ sound. The following "a" is pronounced as a short /æ/, like in the word "cat". The letter "l" makes the /l/ sound, followed by a long "i" sound represented by the letter "i". Lastly, the "ph" is not pronounced "f", but as the letter "f" followed by a puff of air (aspirated "p") represented by the symbol /pʰ/. This makes the word sound like "KA-lif".
Caliph is a noun which refers to a successor or representative to the Prophet Muhammad in the Islamic faith. The term is derived from the Arabic word ‘khalīfah,’ meaning "successor" or "deputy."
In Islamic history, a caliph was the highest religious and political leader of the Muslim community. After the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632 AD, the caliphate system was established to maintain leadership within the Islamic world. The caliph was considered the religious authority and the supreme political figure. The role was initially based in Medina and then shifted to the Umayyad and Abbasid dynasties that ruled from various Islamic capitals.
As the caliph, the individual held significant powers including the ability to enact laws, command armies, and judge disputes. The caliphate was seen as an essential institution that provided political unity and religious guidance to the Muslim community.
Throughout history, caliphs have played a crucial role in influencing the development and spread of Islam. They oversaw the growth of Islamic empires, the expansion of knowledge in fields such as religious sciences, philosophy, and art. Caliphs also acted as patrons of education, architecture, and cultural advancements.
In contemporary times, the caliphate system no longer exists as it did in the past. It has been replaced by nation-states, and the role of a caliph is not universally recognized. However, the concept of a caliph and the legacy of the early caliphs remains an integral part of Islamic history and theology.
The title assumed by the successors of Mahomet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "caliph" is derived from the Arabic word "khalīfah" (خَلِيْفَة), which means "successor" or "representative". It comes from the root word "khalafa" (خَلَفَ), meaning "to succeed" or "to follow". In Islamic history, a caliph is the leader and successor to Prophet Muhammad, who ruled over the Muslim community as both a political and religious figure. The title of "caliph" has been used in various Muslim empires and dynasties throughout history.
