aalims

Aalims is the plural form of alim, an Arabic term widely used in Islamic contexts to denote a learned scholar in religious sciences. The word alim originates from the Arabic root ilm (knowledge) and literally means "the knowing one." In transliteration, the singular is alim or aalim, and the plural is aalims or ulama depending on dialect; in English usage, aalims is common, while ulama refers to the traditional Arabic plural. The term is used across Sunni and Shia communities to refer to scholars who study and teach the Quran, hadith, fiqh (jurisprudence), usul al-fiqh, creed, and related disciplines. Aalim may serve as teacher, interpreter of Islamic law, legal expert (mufti), preacher, or community adviser. They often operate within madrasas, mosques, and universities; many hold formal qualifications such as ijazah or degrees from Islamic seminaries.

Historically, aalims have played central roles in shaping religious practice, education, and governance in Muslim societies, from early medieval centers of learning to contemporary religious institutions. In modern times, the use of alim or aalim as a title is common in communities seeking to recognize scholarly credentials, and the term may appear in collective forms like "the Aalims" to denote a council of scholars or a pedagogical body. The concept and demand for qualified aalims vary by region, reflecting differences in curricula, interpretation, and authority.