Arabic word meaning practice. When Muslims generally use the term, they refer to the Sunnah of Muhammad (SAW), that is his statements, actions, tacit approvals and descriptions of his conduct and appearance. By following his Sunnah, Muslims follow the Qu'ranic injuction to obey Allah and his Messenger. The Qu'ran tells us that Muhammad is a fine example, so following that example is a necessity. The actions of a Muslim should first come from the instructions in the Qu'ran, which are often explained by the actions of the Messenger of Allah (SAW). If it cannot by found there (or the instructions are not clear), a Muslim should refer to the Sunnah of his Prophet. The development of legal opinions and understanding from these two primary sources is known as fiqh.