What does Shay' mean?

Islam > Glossary > Shay'

Discover the meaning of the term Shay' (شيء) in Islamic vocabulary.

Definition Shay'

Shay' according to Kitab at-Ta'rifat (Al-Jurjani)

In the tongue: what can be known and reported of, by Sibawayh’s account. It is also said the thing is the expression of existence, a name for all components, accident or substance, which may be known and reported of. As a term: the affirmed existent, established in the outward.

Shay' according to Mu'jam al-Mustalahat al-Fiqhiyya

Among the people of the Sounna: the existent, affirmation, realization, existence and coming-to-be are synonymous terms. Among the mu’azilites: what has mental or outward realization. Among the linguists: what may be known and reported of.

Shay' according to Maqalid al-'Ulum (As-Suyuti)

What it is permitted to report of, and on which indication is valid.

Shay' according to Maqalid al-'Ulum (As-Suyuti)

In the speech of the people of jabr: the unknown root.

Related terms: Shay'