the supreme ecclesiastical dignity among the Saracens; or, as it is otherwise defined, a sovereign dignity among the Mahometans, vested with absolute authority in all matters relating both to religion and policy.

It signifies in the Arabic, successor or vicar: the Saracen princes assumed this title as descendants from Mahomet; the caliphs bearing the same relation to Mahomet, that the popes pretend they do to Jesus Christ or St Peter. It is at this day one of the grand signior's titles, as successor of Mahomet; and of the sophi of Persia, as successor of Ali.