Naqibs

Naqibs is the plural form of naqib, an Arabic term meaning “leader, chief, or representative.” In various Muslim communities, naqib has been used as an official title and as a descriptor for people serving in leadership or supervisory roles. The plural Naqibs appears in historical records referring to individuals who held such offices, particularly in contexts where there was a recognized head of a group or a municipality.

Historically, the title naqīb al-ashrāf (leader of the Ashraf, i.e., the descendants of the Prophet Muhammad) existed in several Muslim states, including parts of the Ottoman Empire and South Asia. People bearing the title acted as custodians of genealogies, guardians of customary laws, and administrators of waqf endowments for the communities they served. The exact duties and prestige of a Naqib varied by region and era.

In modern contexts, Naqib (and less commonly Naqib/Naqibs in the plural) is used as a surname among Arabic-speaking populations and in countries with Muslim communities. As a surname, it does not necessarily indicate a current official position, but rather family lineage or heritage.

The term may appear in historical documents, genealogical records, and contemporary name registries. It is distinct from but related to related titles such as Naqib al-Ashraf and other leadership designations for sayyid or noble lineages.