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Definition: Literally this means "successor," but is used to refer specifically to the successors of Muhammad as the leaders of the Muslim community.
The four "orthodox" or "rightly guided" khalifah were Abu Bakr (623-24), Umar (634-44), Uthman (644-56), and 'Ali (656-61).
Shi'a believe that the first four were usurpers and that 'Ali was originally designated as Muhammad's rightful successor.
Also Known As: Caliph, Khalif (English)
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Related Resources:
What is Islam?
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