Topic summary
Mawālī
Extracted from the Wikipedia article Mawla.
Mawlā (Arabic: مَوْلَى; IPA:, plural mawālīمَوَالِي; ), is a polysemousArabic word, whose meaning varied in different periods and contexts. Depending on the context, it could mean master, protector, ally, one with authority, a close associate, friend, supporter, or one deserving loyalty and affection.