UMMAH is an Arabic term denoting a grouping of individuals constituting a larger community with a single identity. The term is often translated as "community" or "people," and the plural (umam) is commonly used in Arabic with the meaning "nations." Other Semitic languages also employ this root (ʾMM) to designate social groups that share a common language, ethnicity, or set of laws and customs.

QurʾĀn and Islamic Exegesis

The term ummah and its plural occur numerous times in the Qurʾān, referring to groups of animals (Qurʾān 6:38) and people. According to Qurʾān 7:34 and 15:5, each ummah has an appointed time, which is fixed and cannot be delayed. To every ummah is sent a messenger (Qurʾān 10:47) or warner (35:24), calling each ummah back to the worship of God. Muslim exegetes relate that on the Day of Judgment the prophet Muḥammad will intercede on behalf of all...