Understanding the term 'Ummat'

[Reader Questions]

Dear Sir,

What is ummat? Is it generation or total human. Can non-human too be described as ummat?

[Joseph Islam]

Salamun Alaikum,

'Ummah' simply means communities or a group of living beings which possess certain characteristics or circumstances that they have in common. In verse 6:38 even animals and birds have been cited as being in such communities.

I hope that helps, God willing.

Regards,
Joseph.