Alif

Alif is the first letter of the Arabic alphabet, serving as a fundamental building block in the language's script. It often functions as a vowel placeholder or elongation marker within words, influencing pronunciation and meaning. In addition to its role in writing, Alif holds symbolic significance in Islamic culture, representing the unity of God and the starting point of knowledge and creation. Its shape and use are integral to reading and understanding Arabic text, making it essential for anyone studying the language or literatures that employ it.