Khuzaymah

Hazrat Ibn ‘Abbaas (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) has mentioned that Khuzaimah passed away on Millat-e-Ebraaheemi (the creed of Hazrat Ebrahim ‘alaihis salaam).

Kinaanah

He was held in high esteem among all the Arabs. Such was his vast knowledge and great virtue that people would travel from far and wide with the sole intention of visiting him.

Nadhr

The name “Nadhr” is derived from the word “Nadhaarah” which means “radiant and full of lustre”. He was given this title due to his handsome features and exceptional beauty. His actual name was Qays.

Maalik

His name was Maalik and his appellation was Abul-Haarith. He was one of the most prominent chieftains of the Quraysh.

Fihr

Fihr was his name and Quraish was his title. According to some scholars, his name was Quraish and his title was Fihr. His descendants are referred to as “Quraishi” whilst other Arab descendants, not hailing from Fihr, are referred to as “Kinaani”.

Some ‘Ulamaa are of the opinion that the term Quraish is used to refer to the progeny of Nadhr bin Kinaanah. Hafiz ‘Iraaqi (rahimahullah) writes:

اما قريش فالاصح فهر جماعها والاكثرون النـضر

As for Quraish, the most authentic (opinion) is that they are (the descendants) of Fihr but most are of the (opinion) that they (are the descendants) of Nadhr.

Reason for the name of Quraish

Quraish is actually the name of a marine animal, which, on account of its great strength, dominates all other marine animals. It is able to attack and devours whichever sea creatures it wishes without any other creature daring to attack it. Similarly, the Quraish, owing to their unrivalled valour and incredible courage, always maintained their dominance over the other tribes. None dared to challenge and combat them. This is why they were referred to as Quraish.

(Extracted from Seeratul Mustafa 1/22-24)