molvi

Molvi, also spelled Maulvi, Maulana, or Moulvi, is a title used for Islamic scholars and clerics in South Asia and nearby regions, with spread into parts of Central Asia and the diaspora. The term derives from Persian and Arabic forms such as Mawlavi or Maulana, and is often translated as “our master” or “teacher.” In common usage, a molvi refers to a religious teacher, imam, or madrasa instructor who leads prayers, delivers sermons, teaches Islamic subjects, and provides guidance on religious matters to a community.

Distinctions and roles: A molvi is not automatically a mufti—the latter being a jurist qualified to issue fatwas. While some mollvi may have formal scholarly credentials and training in religious law, the title broadly denotes a religious educator or cleric rather than a specific legal designation. Responsibilities vary by institution, region, and individual, ranging from pastoral duties in mosques to administrative roles in Islamic schools or community organizations.

Regional usage and connotations: In India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and parts of Afghanistan, the term is widely used as a respectful form of address for clergy. It can be a neutral descriptor or, in some contexts, carry informal or colloquial overtones. Variants reflect linguistic preferences, with Maulana often perceived as more formal and Molvi as more colloquial, though usage overlaps across communities.

History and context: The title has deep roots in the Muslim scholarly and devotional traditions of South Asia, shaping religious education and leadership for centuries. Today, molvi remains a common, broadly applied honorific for religious teachers and clerics in many Urdu- and Persian-influenced communities.