KhalilAllah

KhalilAllah, also transliterated as Khalilullah or Khalil-Allah, is an Arabic honorific meaning "Friend of God." In Islamic tradition, it denotes a special closeness between God and a chosen individual. The epithet is most commonly associated with the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who is described in Islamic sources as having been made a khalil, an intimate interlocutor or confidant of God.

Etymology and scriptural basis: The word khalil (خليل) means "friend" or "intimate companion," derived from a root meaning to approach closely or to touch. The Qur’an states that Allah took Abraham as a khalil, highlighting his devout faith and obedience. The exact nuances of KhalilAllah are debated among scholars, but the designation is widely understood as referencing Ibrahim’s unique relationship with God.

Usage and cultural context: In classical exegesis and early Islamic literature, Ibrahim is commonly identified as Khalilullah. The phrase appears in religious poetry, theology, and discourse to evoke his closeness to God. Beyond theological contexts, KhalilAllah is also used as a given name or honorific in various Muslim communities, with transliterations varying by language and tradition.

See also: Ibrahim (Abraham), Khalil (title), Khalilullah in Islamic literature.