Khalifa | خَلِیفہ
- “One who succeeds or replaces another,” often referring to a successor or steward. (literal)
- Historically, the head of the Muslim community (Ummah) was the religious and political successor to the Prophet Muhammad (saw). (common)
- In Sufi traditions, the deputy or representative of a spiritual teacher is designated to guide followers. (spiritual)
- The broader concept of “khalifa” extends to humankind being stewards of the Earth in Islamic cosmology. (cultural)