Tawalli
/təˈwɑːli/noun
In Shia Islam, tawalli is loyalty and devotion to Muhammad’s family and their spiritual authority.
Did you know?Tawalli is traditionally paired with tabarri, the principle of disassociation from those regarded as opponents of the Prophet’s family.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Semitic
Proto-Semitic
*w-l-y
“A root associated with nearness, following, protection, and allegiance”
Classical Arabic
Arabic
w-l-y
“To be near, follow, protect, govern, or hold authority over”
Qur’anic Arabic
Arabic
walī
“A protecting friend, ally, guardian, or spiritual patron”
Medieval Islamic Arabic
Arabic
tawallī
“Taking someone as a wali; showing loyalty, attachment, and allegiance”
Modern Islamic Studies
English loanword
tawalli
“The Shia doctrine or practice of devotion to the Prophet Muhammad’s family”
Modern English
English
tawalli
“A transliterated Islamic religious term used especially in academic and theological writing”