{
  "id": 5610822,
  "title": "‘Muallim’: The Arabic word for those who pass on knowledge and skill",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/04/muallim-the-arabic-word-for-those-who-pass-on-knowledge-and-skill",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-04T18:01:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The National UAE",
    "slug": "the-national-uae",
    "url": "https://www.thenationalnews.com/arts-culture/2026/09/04/muallim-teacher-in-arabic-learn-online/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Arabic term \"muallim\" signifies an individual who imparts knowledge and skills, extending beyond the confines of a classroom. While it is frequently associated with educators in traditional educational settings, the word is also used to describe those who pass on their expertise in specific trades or provide guidance in their application. In Arabic, \"muallim al-lugha al-Arabiya\" translates to \"Arabic teacher,\" and \"muallim khususi\" refers to a private tutor. The feminine equivalent is \"muallima,\" and the plural forms are \"muallimun\" and \"muallimin.\" The term \"muallim\" finds its origin in the Arabic root letters ain, lam, and mim, and it carries additional meanings related to knowledge, learning, and teaching. Related terms include \"ilm,\" which signifies knowledge, and \"taalim,\" denoting education. The verb \"allama\" means \"he taught,\" and \"taallama\" translates to \"he learnt.\" The word \"maluma\" refers to a piece of information, while \"malum\" means \"known.\" A notable example of the term's respect and reverence for a knowledgeable person is found in an Arabic poetic verse penned by Egyptian poet Ahmed Shawqi. The verse, written in the late 1920s, reads: \"Qum lil-muallim waffihi al-tabjila, kada al-muallim an yakuna rasula,\" which translates to: \"Stand for the teacher and show him reverence; the teacher almost becomes a messenger.\" Outside the academic realm, \"muallim\" also carries a broader meaning, being defined as someone qualified to independently practice a trade. In this context, \"muallim najjar\" can refer to a master carpenter, and \"muallim bina\" describes a master builder. In everyday conversation, \"ya muallim\" conveys a respectful, sometimes playful connotation, depending on the context and the relationship between the speaker and the person being addressed. This usage is exemplified in one of the most popular Arabic songs from the past two decades, \"Lm3allem\" by Moroccan singer Saad Lamjarred. Released in 2015, the song's chorus declares: \"You are the boss, and from you, we learn.\" Whether in an academic context or related to a craft, \"muallim\" acknowledges the value of knowledge and the high regard given to those who share it with others.",
  "summary": "The Arabic word muallim means a teacher whose lessons can be taught beyond the classroom. While commonly referring to educators in schools, the term is also bestowed upon those who pass on their skills in a particular craft, or guidance around it. Muallim al-lugha al-Arabiya means “Arabic teacher”, while muallim khususi refers to a private tutor. The feminine form is muallima, while the plurals…",
  "key_points": [
    "\"Muallim\" means a teacher who imparts knowledge and skills.",
    "\"Muallim al-lugha al-Arabiya\" translates to \"Arabic teacher.\"",
    "\"Muallim\" is used for masters in trades like carpentry and building."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "The National Business",
        "title": "‘Muallim’: The Arabic word for those who pass on knowledge and skill",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/04/muallim-the-arabic-word-for-those-who-pass-on-knowledge-and-skill-5613535",
        "published": "2026-09-04T18:01:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}