ONE of the first concepts new Muslims come across is that a Muslim is a brother of his fellow Muslim. Among the first Arabic words, a new Muslim may learn, are ‘Akhee' (my brother) and ‘Ukhtee' (my sister). ‘Akhee' also becomes a habitual word we frequently use. Where does this word come from, what is its origin and what does its etymology say? Some linguists believe that the word ‘Akh' is derived from the word ‘Aakhiyyah', which refers to a piece of rope whose two ends are buried in the ground and attached to a small stone or stick. It is used to tie a horse (or any other animal) in its place. This is the way one should be attached to his or her brother, so that one does not wander off from the other. Similarly, the brother should be like an Aakhiyyah to ensure that his companion is close to the mark and does not wander too far away from it. If it should happen, his brother will draw him back to it. Another group of linguists believe that the word ‘Akh' is derived from the word ‘Wakhaa' , which means Aim, Endeavor or Desire. In this sense, the two would share similar aims as if they are one. An Arabic proverb, well explains the above meaning. “Rubba akhin laka lam talid-hu ummuka” “You have many brothers that your mother did not give birth to.” – Shoubaki has a Masters in Arabic linguistics from the International Islamic University, Malaysia and blogs at arabicgems.wordpress.com. __
