The word "jemaah" is spelled as /dʒɛmɑː/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This is a Malay term that refers to a group or assembly of people. The word includes the letter combination "j'" which represents the voiced palato-alveolar affricate sound, which is similar to the "ch" sound in English. The letters "e" and "a" represent the sounds /ɛ/ and /ɑː/ respectively. The word is commonly used in Southeast Asia and is important in the context of religious gatherings, such as the Jemaah Islamiyah extremist group.
Jemaah is a noun that originates from the Malay language, primarily used in Malaysia and Indonesia. It refers to a group, community, or congregation that typically engages in activities related to religious or social purposes. The term carries strong connotations related to collective and communal aspects of life.
In the context of religious activities, jemaah often refers to an organized group of people who gather for prayers, religious rituals, or spiritual pursuits. It can encompass members of a mosque, a religious sect, or any other religious institution. This term emphasizes the sense of unity, togetherness, and solidarity among individuals who come together to worship or follow common religious practices.
In a broader social or community setting, jemaah refers to a kinship or association of individuals who unite around a shared interest, goal, or objective. Jemaah may include groups such as societies, clubs, or organizations that focus on cultural, educational, or other non-religious activities. It highlights the idea of people joining together for a collective purpose, often working collaboratively towards shared aims while nurturing social bonds and fostering a sense of identity.
Overall, jemaah represents a concept whereby individuals come together, forming a cohesive entity unified by religious or social principles and engaging in various activities that promote a sense of community, belonging, and mutual support.
The word "jemaah" is taken from the Malay language and has its origins in Arabic. In Arabic, the word is spelled as "jamaa'h" (جماعة), and it carries the meaning of a group or gathering. The term "jemaah" was adopted into Malay from Arabic due to the significant influence of Islam on Malay culture and language. In Malay, "jemaah" often refers to a collective group of people, often associated with religious congregations or organizations. The adoption of Arabic words into Malay is common due to the historical and cultural connections between the two languages, especially within the context of Islamic practices and teachings.