Shaikh, also rendered as Sheikh, Sheik, Shaik, Shaykh, Shaikh, Shekh, Cheikh, Šeih, Šejh, Şeyh and other variants (Arabic: شيخ, shaykh; pl.شيوخshuyūkh), is a title given to many South Asian Muslim castes. It originally was a word or honorific term in the Arabic language that commonly designated a chief of a tribe, royal family member, Muslim religious scholar, or "Elder". However in Northern India, Shaikh was used as an ethnic title, by those claiming Arab descent & Upper caste coverts to Islam like Khatris, Brahmins & Rajputs etc, particularly from prominent Muslim figures such as the Rashidun Caliphs, majority of these.[1]
Origin
In North India, it is not just an ethnic title but an occupational title attributed to Muslim trading families. Many Shaikhs claimed to be descendants of Arabs, however some Shaikhs did not actually descend from Arabs. In Frontier Regions, Punjab of Pakistan, or Kashmir, the title shaikh was not given to those of Arab descent, but those who had descended from upper caste natives such as the Brahmins, Kayasthas and Rajputs.
Shaikh Qidwai, who claim to be descendants of the Qazi Qidwa, a son of the Sultans of Rum. The Qidwai were recruited in the household cavalry of Shuja-ud-Daula, which was mainly composed of the Sheikhzadgan.[2][3] These clans had not taken any profession other than a soldier or a civil officer.[4]
Shaikh Hashmi, who claim to be descendants of the Banu Hashim clan of the Banu Quraish tribe. The Islamic prophet, Muhammad belonged to this clan. Usually carry the title Sayyid.
Sheikh Mirza, who claim to be descendants of Umar Sheikh Mirza, the son of the conqueror Timur. They usually associate themselves with Mirza or Mughal caste, while some with the Sheikh caste while carrying the title Mirza.
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