Lisan al Gaib



Lisan al Gaib is the Fremen term for an off-world prophet or messiah. The term comes from the Arabic, "لسان," (Lisan) meaning "Tongue," and "الغيب" (al Gaib) meaning "The hidden" or "unseen". It should be noted that in context of Islam, "الغيب" (al Gaib) signifies the 'unseen dimensions of Reality', and the "tongue of the unseen" is a "prophet", and not a "foreigner".

It is "The Voice from the Outer World" and is outlined in Fremen messianic legends heavily influenced by the Bene Gesserit's Missionaria Protectiva. It is also translated as the "Giver of Water."

Paul Atreides suggests that the term means that the Bene Gesserit have been planting superstitions of The One, but Jessica remarks that they have been preparing the Fremen for the arrival of The One.

Beginning in The Original Dune, Paul Atreides is often referred to as the Lisan al Gaib by the Fremen. This is first seen when the Atreides arrive on Dune and are ‘touring’ the capital.

Also the great persian poet "Hafiz" (1315-1390) whose Poems have spiritual and religious depth was called by this Nickname.