Dar al-Nadwa
/dɑːr ʔanˈnadwa/noun
The pre-Islamic council house in Mecca where Quraysh leaders reportedly gathered for political deliberation and major communal decisions.
Did you know?According to early Islamic historical tradition, the Dar al-Nadwa was founded by Qusayy ibn Kilab and stood beside the Kaaba as Quraysh’s political center.
Etymological Timeline
Classical Arabic
Arabic
dār
“House, dwelling, or settlement; from a Semitic root associated with dwelling or habitation.”
Classical Arabic
Arabic
nadwa
“Council, conference, or gathering for deliberation; related to the root n-d-w, associated with assembling or convening.”
Pre-Islamic Arabia
Arabic
Dār al-Nadwa
“The House of Council or House of Deliberation in Mecca, used by Quraysh leaders for communal affairs.”
7th Century
Arabic
Dār al-Nadwa
“A historically remembered Meccan institution described in early Islamic accounts as a venue for Quraysh decision-making.”
Medieval Arabic historiography
Arabic
Dār al-Nadwa
“A prominent landmark in narratives about pre-Islamic Mecca and the political organization of Quraysh.”
Modern English
English
Dar al-Nadwa
“A transliterated historical proper name referring to the pre-Islamic Meccan council house.”