HASHEMITE Meaning and
Definition
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Hashemite is a term that primarily refers to a prominent Arab dynasty, known as the House of Hashem, and its lineage and associated members. The Hashemites trace their descent from Hashem, the great-grandfather of the Islamic prophet Muhammad. Originally hailing from the Arabian Peninsula, this family has played a significant role in history, particularly in the Arab world.
The Hashemite dynasty gained prominence after the fall of the Ottoman Empire and the subsequent dismantling of the Caliphate. Sharif Hussein bin Ali, leader of the Hashemites and the ruler of the Hejaz region in western Arabia, played a pivotal role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottomans during World War I. Hussein's sons, Abdullah and Faisal, went on to become the first kings of Transjordan (now Jordan) and Iraq respectively.
Today, the term "Hashemite" is often used as an adjective to describe individuals or entities associated with the Hashemite dynasty or their respective domains. It also refers to various institutions and organizations established by the Hashemites, such as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, which is currently ruled by the descendants of King Abdullah I, the founder of modern Jordan.
In summary, "Hashemite" pertains to the influential Arab dynasty that traces its lineage back to Hashem and encompasses individuals, nations, and organizations closely associated with this family's history and legacy.
Etymology of HASHEMITE
The word "Hashemite" is derived from the Arabic term "Banu Hashim", which translates to "the children/sons of Hashim". It refers to the Banu Hashim clan, a subclan of the larger Quraysh tribe, to which Prophet Muhammad also belonged. The term "Hashim" comes from the Arabic word "hashama", meaning "to break bread" or "to crush", and the clan earned its name because one of its prominent ancestors, Hashim ibn Abd Manaf, was known for his generosity in providing food and breaking bread with others. Over time, the descendants of Hashim became known as the "Hashemites", and the term is now used to refer to the royal family of Jordan and other individuals or groups associated with them.
