islam. islam the word islam comes from the arabic words meaning “obedience and peace through...

IslamIslam

IslamIslam The word The word IslamIslam

comes from the comes from the Arabic words Arabic words meaning “obedience meaning “obedience and peace through and peace through submission to the submission to the one God.” one God.”

MuslimMuslim means “one means “one who submits to the who submits to the will of Allah.” will of Allah.”

IslamIslam Today there are over 1.3 billion Today there are over 1.3 billion

Muslims Muslims throughout the world, throughout the world, concentrated in the Middle East, concentrated in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Africa, and Asia.

IslamIslam is the world’s second largest is the world’s second largest religion after Christianity and it is the religion after Christianity and it is the fastest growing.fastest growing.

IslamIslam Arabia before Islam:Arabia before Islam: Before the advent of Islam, the Arab Before the advent of Islam, the Arab

civilization was on the periphery of civilization was on the periphery of two established and rival civilizations two established and rival civilizations of the time—the Byzantine Empire of the time—the Byzantine Empire (heir to Rome) and the Sassanid (heir to Rome) and the Sassanid Empire (heir to the imperial Empire (heir to the imperial traditions of Persia).traditions of Persia).

The Arabs had little impact on their The Arabs had little impact on their neighboring, and more powerful, neighboring, and more powerful, civilizations.civilizations.

IslamIslam Traditionally, the Arabs were two distinct Traditionally, the Arabs were two distinct

peoples: one, the nomadic peoples: one, the nomadic BedouinsBedouins who who roamed the desert plains and were roamed the desert plains and were loosely held together by tribal codes; loosely held together by tribal codes; and two, the urban dwellers, whose tribal and two, the urban dwellers, whose tribal divisions were mostly social, not divisions were mostly social, not geographic. geographic.

IslamIslam Because of its location and long-Because of its location and long-

distance trade, Arabs were familiar distance trade, Arabs were familiar with the larger world, including the with the larger world, including the monotheism of Judaism, Christianity, monotheism of Judaism, Christianity, and Zoroastrianismand Zoroastrianism.

IslamIslam By the time of Muhammad, most of By the time of Muhammad, most of

the urban Arabs had acknowledged the urban Arabs had acknowledged the preeminent position of the preeminent position of AllahAllah, the , the supreme god of the Arab pantheon supreme god of the Arab pantheon (there were many gods, including (there were many gods, including Allah’sAllah’s three daughters). three daughters).

Many Arabs increasingly identified Many Arabs increasingly identified Allah Allah with Judaism’s with Judaism’s YahwehYahweh, and , and regarded themselves also as the regarded themselves also as the “children of Abraham.”“children of Abraham.”

IslamIslam By 600 CE, many Arabs were religiously By 600 CE, many Arabs were religiously

moving towards Judaism or that of moving towards Judaism or that of Christianity, the most rapidly growing Christianity, the most rapidly growing religion in western Asia.religion in western Asia.

As many Arabs were beginning to explore As many Arabs were beginning to explore the possibility that Allah/Yahweh was the the possibility that Allah/Yahweh was the only God, the many others residing in the only God, the many others residing in the Ka’abaKa’aba and in shrines across the peninsula and in shrines across the peninsula were considered nothing more than were considered nothing more than “helpless and harmless idols.” “helpless and harmless idols.”

IslamIslam Even though Arab cities were widely Even though Arab cities were widely

scattered, the city of Makkah (Mecca) scattered, the city of Makkah (Mecca) had long been established as a trading had long been established as a trading center between Arabia and Africa to the center between Arabia and Africa to the west, Yemen and India to the south, and west, Yemen and India to the south, and Egypt and Syria to the north.Egypt and Syria to the north.

IslamIslam Mecca was also Mecca was also

important because important because it was the site of it was the site of the the Ka’abaKa’aba, the , the most important most important religious shrine in religious shrine in Arabia and a Arabia and a destination for destination for thousands of thousands of pilgrimspilgrims..

IslamIslam During this period, every pagan Arab During this period, every pagan Arab

tribe had its own idol placed inside the tribe had its own idol placed inside the Ka’aba Ka’aba (when Muhammad conquered (when Muhammad conquered Mecca in 630 CE, the city had over 360 Mecca in 630 CE, the city had over 360 idols, statues, and other pieces of idols, statues, and other pieces of devotion to various gods).devotion to various gods).

IslamIslam The leading tribe of Mecca were the The leading tribe of Mecca were the

QurayshQuraysh, whose bloodline stretched back , whose bloodline stretched back to the prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).to the prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).

However, the religion taught and However, the religion taught and practiced by Abraham had long since practiced by Abraham had long since been replaced by been replaced by polytheism polytheism and/orand/or animismanimism. .

The Quraysh controlled access to the The Quraysh controlled access to the Ka’aba and were able to grow extremely Ka’aba and were able to grow extremely wealthy taxing pilgrims wishing to see it.wealthy taxing pilgrims wishing to see it.

IslamIslam Superstitions [omens, amulets, Superstitions [omens, amulets,

astrology, and divination (by the astrology, and divination (by the casting of arrows)] were important in casting of arrows)] were important in deciding serious matters like when to deciding serious matters like when to travel, marry, or go to war.travel, marry, or go to war.

In Islam, this pre-Islamic polytheistic In Islam, this pre-Islamic polytheistic period is known as period is known as jahiliyyah, jahiliyyah, oror ‘the ‘the days of ignorance.’days of ignorance.’

IslamIslam Social and tribal hierarchies also meant Social and tribal hierarchies also meant

the pre-Islamic period was marked by the pre-Islamic period was marked by oppression, tyranny, and conflict.oppression, tyranny, and conflict.

There was constant strife and hostility There was constant strife and hostility between various tribes.between various tribes.

Slavery was a common practice (seen Slavery was a common practice (seen as a sign of wealth and power).as a sign of wealth and power).

Female infanticide was also common, Female infanticide was also common, as daughters were considered an as daughters were considered an expensive liability.expensive liability.

IslamIslam Women, whether married or not, like Women, whether married or not, like

slaves, were often considered slaves, were often considered personal property that could be sold personal property that could be sold or exchanged.or exchanged.

Polygamy was a common practice.Polygamy was a common practice. Changes were coming, as a result of Changes were coming, as a result of

Muhammad.Muhammad.

IslamIslam Here is the tradition of the birth of Islam:Here is the tradition of the birth of Islam: In the year 570 CE, In the year 570 CE, MuhammadMuhammad Ibn Ibn

Abdullah (which means “Praiseworthy”) Abdullah (which means “Praiseworthy”) was born in the city of Mecca.was born in the city of Mecca.

IslamIslam Muhammad was born into a family of Muhammad was born into a family of

noble lineage that belonged to the noble lineage that belonged to the Quraysh.Quraysh.

Orphaned at a young age (6), he would Orphaned at a young age (6), he would be raised mostly by his uncle (his be raised mostly by his uncle (his father’s younger brother).father’s younger brother).

As a young man, he became a As a young man, he became a merchant.merchant.

Being a merchant enabled him to travel Being a merchant enabled him to travel throughout the Arabian Peninsula, throughout the Arabian Peninsula, where he would come into contact with where he would come into contact with several cultures and religions (including several cultures and religions (including Judaism and Christianity).Judaism and Christianity).

IslamIslam He married He married KhadijahKhadijah, (known as the , (known as the

“Pure”), an older woman (15 years “Pure”), an older woman (15 years older), and had six children (2 boys/4 older), and had six children (2 boys/4 girls). Both sons died in infancy girls). Both sons died in infancy (which will be important to the story (which will be important to the story later).later).

IslamIslam He lived the life of a wealthy He lived the life of a wealthy

merchant. merchant. But he was a highly reflective man But he was a highly reflective man

who was constantly troubled with who was constantly troubled with religious and moral issues, as he religious and moral issues, as he disapproved of the lawlessness of his disapproved of the lawlessness of his countrymen and was troubled countrymen and was troubled because many were polytheistic and because many were polytheistic and superstitious.superstitious.

IslamIslam Muhammad was a Muhammad was a hanifhanif (one who (one who

followed the monotheistic teachings of followed the monotheistic teachings of Ibrahim).Ibrahim).

As a As a hanifhanif, he would spend weeks at a , he would spend weeks at a time in the caves in the mountains time in the caves in the mountains outside Mecca, fasting, praying, deep outside Mecca, fasting, praying, deep in contemplation, grieving over what in contemplation, grieving over what he saw as social injustices; infant he saw as social injustices; infant daughters buried alive; women traded daughters buried alive; women traded and bartered like chattel; and slaves and bartered like chattel; and slaves were treated no better than livestock.were treated no better than livestock.

IslamIslam Muhammad would retreat into the Muhammad would retreat into the

mountains outside Mecca to pray and mountains outside Mecca to pray and contemplate the meaning and purpose contemplate the meaning and purpose of existence (like Buddha and Jesus). of existence (like Buddha and Jesus).

Then in the year 610 CE (around his Then in the year 610 CE (around his 40th birthday), while praying in a cave 40th birthday), while praying in a cave on Mount Hira, Muhammad believed on Mount Hira, Muhammad believed that he began to receive revelations that he began to receive revelations from the archangel Jibril (Gabriel). from the archangel Jibril (Gabriel).

These revelations would continue over These revelations would continue over the next 22 years.the next 22 years.

IslamIslam Convinced after Convinced after

some initial self some initial self doubt that he doubt that he was chosen to be was chosen to be a prophet, he a prophet, he committed his committed his life to fulfilling life to fulfilling the divine the divine commands he commands he thought he thought he received. received.

IslamIslam Muhammad was told by JibrilMuhammad was told by Jibril

(Gabriel) he was to be the (Gabriel) he was to be the RasulillahRasulillah (the Messenger of God), a prophet (the Messenger of God), a prophet charged with delivering a message charged with delivering a message that would set straight that would set straight misinterpretations of earlier misinterpretations of earlier revelations given through the Jewish revelations given through the Jewish or Christian prophetsor Christian prophets..

IslamIslam

IslamIslam Muhammad leads Abraham, Moses, and

Jesus in prayer (from a medieval Persian text).

IslamIslam The revelations from Gabriel to The revelations from Gabriel to

Muhammad, recorded in the Muhammad, recorded in the Quran (Quran (or or Koran)Koran), became the sacred scriptures , became the sacred scriptures of Islam, which to this day Muslims of Islam, which to this day Muslims everywhere regard as the very words everywhere regard as the very words of God and the core of their faith.of God and the core of their faith.

Intended to be recited rather than Intended to be recited rather than simply read for information, thesimply read for information, the Quran Quran, , Muslims claim, when heard in its Muslims claim, when heard in its original Arabic, conveys nothing less original Arabic, conveys nothing less than the very presence of the divine.than the very presence of the divine.

IslamIslam Religiously, it was radically Religiously, it was radically

monotheistic, presenting Allah as the monotheistic, presenting Allah as the only God, the all-powerful Creator, only God, the all-powerful Creator, good, just, and merciful; rejecting as good, just, and merciful; rejecting as utterly false and useless the many utterly false and useless the many gods housed in the Ka’aba; and gods housed in the Ka’aba; and scorning the Christian notion of the scorning the Christian notion of the Trinity.Trinity.

IslamIslam

Muhammad was not trying to create a Muhammad was not trying to create a new faith…he wanted to return to the new faith…he wanted to return to the old and pure religion of Abraham from old and pure religion of Abraham from which the Arabs, Jews, and Christians which the Arabs, Jews, and Christians had deviated. had deviated.

According to the According to the QuranQuran, submission to , submission to Allah (Muslim means “one who submits”) Allah (Muslim means “one who submits”) wasn’t just an individual or spiritual act, wasn’t just an individual or spiritual act, it involved the creation of a whole new it involved the creation of a whole new society.society.

IslamIslam

Over and over the Over and over the QuranQuran denounced denounced the prevailing social practices of Mecca; the prevailing social practices of Mecca; the hoarding of wealth, the exploitation the hoarding of wealth, the exploitation of the poor, corrupt business deals, of the poor, corrupt business deals, usury, abuse of women, and the usury, abuse of women, and the neglect of widows and orphans.neglect of widows and orphans.

Like the Jewish prophets of the Like the Jewish prophets of the Old Old TestamentTestament, the , the QuranQuran demanded social demanded social justice. justice.

IslamIslam

It sought to return to the older values of Arab It sought to return to the older values of Arab tribal life—solidarity, equality, concern for the tribal life—solidarity, equality, concern for the poor—which had been undermined in Mecca poor—which had been undermined in Mecca by its growing wealth and commercialism.by its growing wealth and commercialism.

The Quran also challenged the entire tribal The Quran also challenged the entire tribal and clan structure of Arab society, which was and clan structure of Arab society, which was prone to feuding and violence.prone to feuding and violence.

The just and moral society of Islam was the The just and moral society of Islam was the ummaumma, the community of all believers, which , the community of all believers, which replaced tribal, ethnic, or racial identities. replaced tribal, ethnic, or racial identities.

IslamIslam

Such a society would be a “witness over Such a society would be a “witness over the nations,” for according to the the nations,” for according to the QuranQuran, , “You are the best community evolved for “You are the best community evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right and mankind, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong.”forbidding what is wrong.”

In this community, women had an In this community, women had an honored and spiritually equal place.honored and spiritually equal place.

The The ummaumma was to be a new and just was to be a new and just community, bound by a common belief, community, bound by a common belief, rather than by territory, language, or rather than by territory, language, or tribe.tribe.

IslamIslam Muhammad began Muhammad began

preaching to his preaching to his fellow Meccans that fellow Meccans that there was no god there was no god but but AllahAllah, that they , that they must submit to must submit to God’s will, and he God’s will, and he pointed out their pointed out their unjust and evil unjust and evil ways. ways.

IslamIslam He warned them of the impending He warned them of the impending

judgment of judgment of AllahAllah (God). (God). His early preaching called for social His early preaching called for social

justice and equality and condemned the justice and equality and condemned the oppression of the poor by the wealthy oppression of the poor by the wealthy and powerful (ideals also common in and powerful (ideals also common in Judaism and Christianity).Judaism and Christianity).

IslamIslam At first, some of the people of Mecca At first, some of the people of Mecca

were amused by Muhammad while were amused by Muhammad while others scorned him. Eventually many others scorned him. Eventually many became interested in his words. became interested in his words.

As his popularity and power grew, As his popularity and power grew, the political leaders of Mecca began the political leaders of Mecca began a hostile campaign against him a hostile campaign against him (because his popularity threatened (because his popularity threatened their power). their power).

IslamIslam Muhammad’s message of absolute Muhammad’s message of absolute

monotheism and social equality was monotheism and social equality was against the Meccan establishment (of against the Meccan establishment (of his own Quraysh clansmen).his own Quraysh clansmen).

Fearing that their pagan beliefs and Fearing that their pagan beliefs and tribal social hierarchies were tribal social hierarchies were threatened by Islam, tribal elders began threatened by Islam, tribal elders began to persecute and torture Muslims and to persecute and torture Muslims and plotted Muhammad’s assassination (his plotted Muhammad’s assassination (his arch enemy was one of his own uncles).arch enemy was one of his own uncles).

IslamIslam In 615, Muhammad In 615, Muhammad

sanctioned the sanctioned the migration of 80 migration of 80 Muslims to Muslims to Abyssinia (Ethiopia) Abyssinia (Ethiopia) where they were where they were welcomed and welcomed and protected by the protected by the Christian king and Christian king and his subjects. his subjects.

IslamIslam The year 619 is known as the ‘Year of The year 619 is known as the ‘Year of

Grief’ for Muhammad. His uncle and Grief’ for Muhammad. His uncle and protector, Abu Talib died, and a few protector, Abu Talib died, and a few months later, his beloved wife and months later, his beloved wife and spiritual companion, Khadijah, passed spiritual companion, Khadijah, passed away.away.

Adding to his humiliation, he visited a Adding to his humiliation, he visited a nearby village to invite its people to nearby village to invite its people to Islam and its people set their children Islam and its people set their children upon him, chasing him from the city and upon him, chasing him from the city and pelting him with stones.pelting him with stones.

IslamIslam In 621, Muhammad came upon some

pilgrims from the city of Medina. They had heard of Muhammad and were aware of the Judeo-Christian claims of a “promised prophet.”

Muhammad explained Islam and the pilgrims converted.

A year later, they invited Muhammad and his followers to settle in Medina (Al (Al Madinah-which means “the city” in Madinah-which means “the city” in Arabic)Arabic).

IslamIslam Still fearing for his life, in 622 he and Still fearing for his life, in 622 he and

several followers secretly fled from several followers secretly fled from Mecca (he barely escaped Mecca (he barely escaped assassination) to the safer haven of assassination) to the safer haven of Medina about 200 miles north, where about 200 miles north, where Muhammad established an Islamic Muhammad established an Islamic community in the city.community in the city.

It is in Medina that Islam became the It is in Medina that Islam became the foundation for an entire way of life. foundation for an entire way of life.

IslamIslam This moment, known This moment, known

as the as the HijiraHijira (“migration”), was so (“migration”), was so important, it marks important, it marks the starting date of the starting date of the Muslim era, Year 1 the Muslim era, Year 1 on Islam’s calendar on Islam’s calendar (meaning we’re now (meaning we’re now in the 15in the 15thth century of century of the Islamic calendar). the Islamic calendar).

IslamIslam In the early seventh century Arab society In the early seventh century Arab society

was in social and cultural disarray, but was in social and cultural disarray, but Muhammad forcefully taught Allah’s Muhammad forcefully taught Allah’s lessons and began to transform his lessons and began to transform his culture. culture.

He assumed full leadership of the city of He assumed full leadership of the city of Medina—reorganizing and reforming the Medina—reorganizing and reforming the city politically, religiously, and militarily. city politically, religiously, and militarily.

Muhammad became the Prophet-ruler of Muhammad became the Prophet-ruler of a virtual Islamic state within the a virtual Islamic state within the heartlands of pagan Arabia.heartlands of pagan Arabia.

IslamIslam He was so successful that Muslims He was so successful that Muslims

look back to this time as the creation look back to this time as the creation of the standard or model for Muslim of the standard or model for Muslim society to follow. society to follow.

One of the key ideas was that of One of the key ideas was that of equality among Muslimsequality among Muslims (in the sight (in the sight of Allah, there were no differences of Allah, there were no differences among believers). among believers).

That meant in theory, no racism. In That meant in theory, no racism. In reality though, this only applied to reality though, this only applied to Muslims. Others were considered Muslims. Others were considered inferior.inferior.

IslamIslam

The ancient tradition of slavery The ancient tradition of slavery continued, but one Muslim could not continued, but one Muslim could not enslave another. enslave another.

In the Muslim world it was considered In the Muslim world it was considered a good deed to free a slave, just not a good deed to free a slave, just not the slave (s) of a good friend or the slave (s) of a good friend or relative.relative.

IslamIslam Muhammad was Muhammad was

particularly successful in particularly successful in military affairs (followers military affairs (followers believed he was led and believed he was led and protected by “the will of protected by “the will of Allah”). Allah”).

He planned and led He planned and led many successful military many successful military campaigns, and in 630 campaigns, and in 630 he led his followers to he led his followers to victory over Mecca. victory over Mecca.

IslamIslam Muhammad was a compassionate Muhammad was a compassionate

conqueror, granting mercy to all who conqueror, granting mercy to all who submitted to Islam. submitted to Islam.

He became known as the He became known as the Prophet Prophet of Godof God..

Muhammad provided such a powerful Muhammad provided such a powerful stimulus that Arab society was stimulus that Arab society was mobilized almost overnight. mobilized almost overnight.

IslamIslam Even though he died in 632 CE, his faith Even though he died in 632 CE, his faith

and fame spread like wildfire. and fame spread like wildfire. Arab armies carrying the banner of Arab armies carrying the banner of

Islam invaded, conquered, and Islam invaded, conquered, and converted wherever they went. converted wherever they went.

By 715 CE, Islam reached far into North By 715 CE, Islam reached far into North Africa, into Spain, through the Africa, into Spain, through the Transcaucasia, and into most of Transcaucasia, and into most of Southwest Asia. Southwest Asia.

By 1000 CE, Islam had penetrated By 1000 CE, Islam had penetrated Southern and Eastern Europe, Central Southern and Eastern Europe, Central Asia (even reaching China), West Africa, Asia (even reaching China), West Africa, East Africa, and Southeast Asia.East Africa, and Southeast Asia.

IslamIslam By 1000 CE, By 1000 CE, Islam had become the Islam had become the

world’s first truly global religionworld’s first truly global religion, , stretching half way across the world.stretching half way across the world.

Muslims hold that the only genuine Muslims hold that the only genuine explanation for the rapid Islamic explanation for the rapid Islamic conquest of the Middle East outward conquest of the Middle East outward was Divine Providence, Allah’s help was Divine Providence, Allah’s help to those who fought for the faith. to those who fought for the faith.

IslamIslam While the spiritual capital remained in While the spiritual capital remained in

Mecca, as the Arab-Islamic Empire Mecca, as the Arab-Islamic Empire expanded, the political/administrative expanded, the political/administrative capital went from its original location in capital went from its original location in Medina to Damascus (Syria) and then to Medina to Damascus (Syria) and then to Baghdad (Iraq). Baghdad (Iraq).

While the empire expanded, it matured While the empire expanded, it matured and prospered. and prospered.

IslamIslam In architecture, mathematics, In architecture, mathematics,

medicine, and science the Arabs far medicine, and science the Arabs far outpaced their European outpaced their European contemporaries. contemporaries.

The Arabs established great The Arabs established great universities and libraries in many universities and libraries in many cities, including Baghdad, Cairo, cities, including Baghdad, Cairo, Timbuktu, and Toledo. Timbuktu, and Toledo.

IslamIslam Cathedral of Cathedral of

Seville. It used to Seville. It used to be a mosque.be a mosque.

The Alhambra The Alhambra Palace in Grenada.Palace in Grenada.

IslamIslam

The Umayyad The Umayyad Great Mosque of Great Mosque of Damascus.Damascus.

Interior of the Interior of the Great Mosque of Great Mosque of Cordoba.Cordoba.

IslamIslam How do Muslims regard How do Muslims regard

Muhammad? Muslims believe Muhammad? Muslims believe Muhammad was singled out Muhammad was singled out for his natural virtue and for his natural virtue and integrity to fulfill the role as integrity to fulfill the role as the final intermediary of the final intermediary of divine communication. divine communication.

As a human (As a human (he was he was nevernever considered divineconsidered divine), ), Muhammad naturally had his Muhammad naturally had his faults, but Muslims regard faults, but Muslims regard him as the finest our species him as the finest our species has produced, the ideal family has produced, the ideal family man and leader of humanity.man and leader of humanity.

IslamIslam

Throughout his married life with Throughout his married life with Khadijah, Muhammad stayed away Khadijah, Muhammad stayed away from adultery, drinking alcohol, from adultery, drinking alcohol, gambling, and the rivalries which gambling, and the rivalries which plagued pre-Islamic Mecca.plagued pre-Islamic Mecca.

He was known for his compassion He was known for his compassion and care, especially towards orphans and care, especially towards orphans and the poor.and the poor.

IslamIslam So what is Islam?So what is Islam? The precepts of Islam in many ways The precepts of Islam in many ways

are a revision and embellishment of are a revision and embellishment of Judaic and Christian beliefs and Judaic and Christian beliefs and traditions. traditions.

All three faiths trace their origins to All three faiths trace their origins to AbrahamAbraham (in Hebrew Abraham means (in Hebrew Abraham means ‘Father of Nations’ ).‘Father of Nations’ ).

IslamIslam

The The Judaic/ChristiaJudaic/Christian faiths n faiths followed followed Abraham’s Abraham’s son son IsaacIsaac while Islam while Islam traced itself to traced itself to his first son his first son IshmaelIshmael. .

IslamIslam All three faiths All three faiths believe in the same Godbelieve in the same God, who , who

occasionally communicated to humankind occasionally communicated to humankind through prophets. through prophets.

Islam believes that God spoke to humankind Islam believes that God spoke to humankind beginning with Adam and continued through beginning with Adam and continued through Moses and Jesus, but considered Moses and Jesus, but considered Muhammad as “the seal,” the final and Muhammad as “the seal,” the final and greatest of the prophets. greatest of the prophets.

Muslims believe Muhammad’s mission was Muslims believe Muhammad’s mission was to bring God’sto bring God’s final revelation to humankind.final revelation to humankind.

IslamIslam What are some of the fundamental What are some of the fundamental

beliefs?beliefs? Islam brought to the Arab world not Islam brought to the Arab world not

only a unifying religious faith it had only a unifying religious faith it had lacked but also a new set of values, a lacked but also a new set of values, a new way of life, a new individual and new way of life, a new individual and collective dignity. collective dignity.

Islam dictated the observance of what Islam dictated the observance of what became known as the became known as the FiveFive PillarsPillars……they are how the beliefs of Islam are they are how the beliefs of Islam are to be put into action every day.to be put into action every day.

IslamIslam The first pillar is the confession of The first pillar is the confession of

faith—the repeated expression of faith—the repeated expression of the basic creed (belief in one God the basic creed (belief in one God and the prophet hood of and the prophet hood of Muhammad)—known as the Muhammad)—known as the ShahadahShahadah..

IslamIslam The second pillar is the daily prayer –The second pillar is the daily prayer –

five times a day facing Mecca –known five times a day facing Mecca –known as the as the SalatSalat. .

Prayer times are dawn, just after Prayer times are dawn, just after noon, mid-afternoon, just after sunset, noon, mid-afternoon, just after sunset, and after dark.and after dark.

IslamIslam The third pillar is daytime fasting called The third pillar is daytime fasting called

SawmSawm. . This occurs during the ninth month of the This occurs during the ninth month of the

Muslim calendar (lunar not solar) which is Muslim calendar (lunar not solar) which is called called RamadanRamadan. .

From sun-up to sun-down, Muslims are not From sun-up to sun-down, Muslims are not supposed to eat or drink anything. supposed to eat or drink anything.

After sun-down Muslims usually eat a After sun-down Muslims usually eat a

light meal filled with sweets. light meal filled with sweets.

IslamIslam The evening is spent in spiritual The evening is spent in spiritual

reflection and prayer.reflection and prayer. In 2014, Ramadan ran from June 28 to In 2014, Ramadan ran from June 28 to

July 28. The end of Ramadan is know as July 28. The end of Ramadan is know as Eid al-FitrEid al-Fitr, a day of joy and celebration., a day of joy and celebration.

This daily sacrifice shows equality with the This daily sacrifice shows equality with the

poor and it reminds Muslims that the goodpoor and it reminds Muslims that the good

things in life are to be enjoyed but not to be things in life are to be enjoyed but not to be

overindulged in. overindulged in.

IslamIslam

But Ramadan is much more than merely But Ramadan is much more than merely not eating or drinking during the day.not eating or drinking during the day.

Fasting is supposed to teach self-Fasting is supposed to teach self-discipline, patience and spirituality.discipline, patience and spirituality.

People are encouraged to restrain People are encouraged to restrain themselves from any type of sin, themselves from any type of sin, including backbiting (or being catty), including backbiting (or being catty), gossip, looking at unlawful things and gossip, looking at unlawful things and using obscene words.using obscene words.

IslamIslam The fourth pillar The fourth pillar

is the giving of is the giving of alms (charity) to alms (charity) to the poor—known the poor—known as as ZakatZakat. .

If you can afford If you can afford it, you are to give it, you are to give 2.5% of your 2.5% of your savings to the savings to the poor every yearpoor every year..

IslamIslam The final pillar is at least one The final pillar is at least one

pilgrimage in each Muslim’s lifetime pilgrimage in each Muslim’s lifetime to Mecca –known as the to Mecca –known as the HajjHajj to see to see the the Ka’abaKa’aba. This is one of the . This is one of the prerequisites for entering Heaven.prerequisites for entering Heaven.

IslamIslam According to According to

tradition, Abraham tradition, Abraham and Ishmael built a and Ishmael built a simple stone cube-simple stone cube-like structure in like structure in what came to be the what came to be the center of the city of center of the city of Mecca (a large Mecca (a large mosque has been mosque has been built around built around the the Ka’aba). Ka’aba).

IslamIslam In Muhammad’s In Muhammad’s

time, the Ka’aba time, the Ka’aba was about 15 feet was about 15 feet tall with a black tall with a black stone about the stone about the size of a bowling size of a bowling ball in one corner ball in one corner (believed to be a (believed to be a meteor of divine meteor of divine origin from the origin from the time of Adam and time of Adam and Eve). Eve).

IslamIslam This miniature (c. 1315) This miniature (c. 1315)

shows Muhammad shows Muhammad rededicating the stone rededicating the stone at the Ka’aba. at the Ka’aba.

The meteor is framed in The meteor is framed in silver, and pilgrims silver, and pilgrims attempt to kiss it like attempt to kiss it like Muhammad supposedly Muhammad supposedly did. did.

IslamIslam Since this isn’t Since this isn’t

always possible always possible because of the because of the crowds, you are to crowds, you are to point to the stone point to the stone and bow every and bow every time you make a time you make a circuit around the circuit around the Ka’aba. Ka’aba.

IslamIslam

The Ka’aba The Ka’aba was thought to was thought to be at the be at the center of the center of the world with the world with the Gate of Gate of Heaven Heaven directly above directly above it. it.

IslamIslam The Ka’aba marked the location The Ka’aba marked the location

where the divine world intersected where the divine world intersected with the mortal. The embedded Black with the mortal. The embedded Black Stone was a symbol of this Stone was a symbol of this intersection (as a meteorite that had intersection (as a meteorite that had fallen from the sky, it linked heaven fallen from the sky, it linked heaven and earth).and earth).

IslamIslam Today the Ka’aba is about 43 feet high Today the Ka’aba is about 43 feet high

and about 40 feet wide. and about 40 feet wide. Its holiness as a divine presence Its holiness as a divine presence

comes mainly from its association with comes mainly from its association with the lives of Abraham and Muhammad. the lives of Abraham and Muhammad.

It is covered by a black silk curtain It is covered by a black silk curtain made in Egypt, decorated with gold-made in Egypt, decorated with gold-embroidered calligraphy. This cloth is embroidered calligraphy. This cloth is known as the known as the kiswahkiswah; and it is ; and it is replaced yearly. replaced yearly.

IslamIslam When performing the Salat (prayer 5 When performing the Salat (prayer 5

times a day), you are to face towards times a day), you are to face towards Mecca (because that’s where the Mecca (because that’s where the Ka’aba is).Ka’aba is).

IslamIslam The Hajj occurs during the last month The Hajj occurs during the last month

of the Islamic year (known as the of the Islamic year (known as the Month of the Hajj). Month of the Hajj).

The pilgrimage rites occur during a 5-The pilgrimage rites occur during a 5-day period, between the 8th - 13th day period, between the 8th - 13th days of this lunar month. days of this lunar month.

In 2014, the Hajj is believed to occur In 2014, the Hajj is believed to occur between October 2-7between October 2-7thth..

IslamIslam

Since Islam teaches that all people are Since Islam teaches that all people are equal before God, Muslims are required to equal before God, Muslims are required to shed any symbols of their social status shed any symbols of their social status when making the Hajj.when making the Hajj.

The same The same ihramihram (Hajj clothing) is worn by (Hajj clothing) is worn by all: men wear two white, unsewn pieces all: men wear two white, unsewn pieces of cloth (which represents the shroud); of cloth (which represents the shroud);

Women wear any plain, simple clothing Women wear any plain, simple clothing that covers them fully.that covers them fully.

No jewelry or perfume is to be worn. No jewelry or perfume is to be worn.

IslamIslam Over three million pilgrims attend the Over three million pilgrims attend the

Hajj every year. Most stay in the Hajj every year. Most stay in the “white tents at Mina” where they are “white tents at Mina” where they are arranged by nationality.arranged by nationality.

IslamIslam

Muslims believe that performing the Muslims believe that performing the Hajj purifies them from sin, and when Hajj purifies them from sin, and when they return home, there are usually they return home, there are usually great celebrations of their “sinless” great celebrations of their “sinless” status.status.

The majority of Muslims do not manage The majority of Muslims do not manage to perform the Hajj, so during the Hajj to perform the Hajj, so during the Hajj period, they fast and pray at home.period, they fast and pray at home.

http://video.nationalgeographic.com/video/places/culture-places/beliefs-and-traditions/saudiarabia_mecca/

IslamIslam

To the five pillars, many Muslims would To the five pillars, many Muslims would add a sixth, add a sixth, jihadjihad, which means a , which means a person’s inner struggle to live a good person’s inner struggle to live a good life.life.

Muhammad believed jihad to be the Muhammad believed jihad to be the personal effort each devout Muslim personal effort each devout Muslim must make against greed and must make against greed and selfishness, a spiritual striving toward selfishness, a spiritual striving toward living a “God-conscious” life. living a “God-conscious” life.

IslamIslam

Today, many see jihad to mean either Today, many see jihad to mean either “holy war” or “spiritual struggle “holy war” or “spiritual struggle against the adversaries of Islam.”against the adversaries of Islam.”

In its lesser form, the “jihad of the In its lesser form, the “jihad of the sword” was to mean the armed sword” was to mean the armed struggle against the forces of evil and struggle against the forces of evil and defending the defending the ummaumma (the Islamic (the Islamic community) from threats of infidel community) from threats of infidel aggressors.aggressors.

IslamIslam

Like the Like the Judeo/Christian Judeo/Christian heritage, Islam heritage, Islam believes in believes in angels (several angels (several are the same), are the same), the devil, and a the devil, and a Judgment Day Judgment Day for all humanity. for all humanity.

IslamIslam Those who have been faithful and have Those who have been faithful and have

done Allah’s will, will be rewarded in done Allah’s will, will be rewarded in Paradise (Heaven).Paradise (Heaven).

For Muslims, death is not seen as the end For Muslims, death is not seen as the end but merely as a transition from one state of but merely as a transition from one state of being into another as the soul journeys being into another as the soul journeys back to the creator (similar to other faiths).back to the creator (similar to other faiths).

But those who have rejected faith and But those who have rejected faith and commit sins and grave injustices, they are commit sins and grave injustices, they are condemned to the fires of Hell. condemned to the fires of Hell.

IslamIslam

IslamIslam Muslims, like many Christians and Jews, Muslims, like many Christians and Jews,

also believe in predestination…that your also believe in predestination…that your life is predetermined and that God controls life is predetermined and that God controls everything that happens. everything that happens.

Muslims, like Christians and Jews, also Muslims, like Christians and Jews, also have a code of behavior that stresses have a code of behavior that stresses correct social behavior like respecting your correct social behavior like respecting your parents, your neighbors, and your parents, your neighbors, and your community; and being honest, trustworthy, community; and being honest, trustworthy, and patient.and patient.

IslamIslam Islam forbids alcohol, smoking, eating Islam forbids alcohol, smoking, eating

pork, and gambling.pork, and gambling. It tolerated polygamy…you could have up It tolerated polygamy…you could have up

to 4 wives…(Muhammad had 9), although to 4 wives…(Muhammad had 9), although it spoke of the virtues of monogamy.it spoke of the virtues of monogamy.

Mosques (Muslim houses of worship and Mosques (Muslim houses of worship and community) were not only for prayer, but community) were not only for prayer, but they became social gathering centers they became social gathering centers which knit the Arab religious community which knit the Arab religious community ((ummaumma) closer together.) closer together.

IslamIslam Mecca became the spiritual center for a Mecca became the spiritual center for a

divided, widely dispersed people for divided, widely dispersed people for whom a collective focus was something whom a collective focus was something new. new.

Yet for all its vigor and success, Islam still Yet for all its vigor and success, Islam still fragmented into two theological sects. fragmented into two theological sects.

The earliest and most consequential The earliest and most consequential division came about after the death of division came about after the death of Muhammad.Muhammad.

IslamIslam Who should be his legitimate successor?Who should be his legitimate successor? Who would become the spiritual and Who would become the spiritual and

political leader of the political leader of the ummaumma, the , the protector and defender of the faith?protector and defender of the faith?

The Qur’an (the holy scriptures of Islam) The Qur’an (the holy scriptures of Islam) dictated a democratic system for dictated a democratic system for choosing the successor (known as the choosing the successor (known as the caliphcaliph).).

Muslims were free to debate, have Muslims were free to debate, have differences about successors, and elect differences about successors, and elect a new leader.a new leader.

IslamIslam

No one could have predicted the No one could have predicted the consequences of this would lead to consequences of this would lead to the most serious divide in the Islamic the most serious divide in the Islamic community. community.

A few believed that the caliph should A few believed that the caliph should be a blood relative of the prophet be a blood relative of the prophet (Muhammad) who led Islam. (Muhammad) who led Islam.

Others felt that any truly devout Others felt that any truly devout (male) follower of Muhammad was (male) follower of Muhammad was qualified to lead the faithful.qualified to lead the faithful.

IslamIslam The first four caliphs , known among The first four caliphs , known among

Muslims as Muslims as The Rightly Guided Caliphs The Rightly Guided Caliphs (623-662 CE) were close “companions (623-662 CE) were close “companions of the Prophet,” selected by the Muslim of the Prophet,” selected by the Muslim elders in Medina.elders in Medina.

Almost immediately tribal divisions Almost immediately tribal divisions surfaced causing the first caliph, Abu surfaced causing the first caliph, Abu Bakr, to suppress them forcibly. Bakr, to suppress them forcibly.

IslamIslam The first chosen The first chosen

successor (caliph) was successor (caliph) was a Muhammad’s closest a Muhammad’s closest friend and the father friend and the father of one of Muhammad’s of one of Muhammad’s four wives (and thus four wives (and thus not a blood relative). not a blood relative).

Bakr died after serving Bakr died after serving only 27 months as only 27 months as caliphcaliph..

IslamIslam The next two caliphs, The next two caliphs,

UmarUmar, who ruled 10 , who ruled 10 years until 644 CE, years until 644 CE, and and UthmanUthman, who , who ruled 12 years until ruled 12 years until 656 CE, were close 656 CE, were close friends and friends and associates of associates of Muhammad, but also Muhammad, but also not relatives. not relatives.

IslamIslam Initially under Abu Bakr, but also Umar and Initially under Abu Bakr, but also Umar and

Uthman, Muslim military commanders Uthman, Muslim military commanders raided into areas north of Arabia as far as raided into areas north of Arabia as far as present-day Iraq and Syria and westward present-day Iraq and Syria and westward into Egypt.into Egypt.

These raids showed the weakness and These raids showed the weakness and vulnerability of the post-Classical Byzantine vulnerability of the post-Classical Byzantine and Sassanid (Persian) Empires.and Sassanid (Persian) Empires.

With victories came the problem of how to With victories came the problem of how to divide the spoils of conquest among the divide the spoils of conquest among the tribes. tribes.

IslamIslam Umar was assassinated by a rival clan Umar was assassinated by a rival clan

coming home from a Hajj. coming home from a Hajj. Uthman, the first caliph of the Uthman, the first caliph of the Umayyad Umayyad

clan, was 84 and unpopular when he was clan, was 84 and unpopular when he was assassinated by rebels from a rival clan, assassinated by rebels from a rival clan, run through with a sword while in prayer run through with a sword while in prayer at home.at home.

Less than 25 years after Muhammad’s Less than 25 years after Muhammad’s death, a civil war between the Umayyad death, a civil war between the Umayyad clans and those that supported clans and those that supported Muhammad’s cousin Muhammad’s cousin Ali Ali erupted. erupted.

IslamIslam The first three caliphs didn’t satisfy a The first three caliphs didn’t satisfy a

faction of Muslims who wanted to see faction of Muslims who wanted to see AliAli, Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-, Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-law (married to his daughter Fatima), law (married to his daughter Fatima), named caliph.named caliph.

Tradition states that Ali was the Tradition states that Ali was the second person who converted to Islam. second person who converted to Islam.

Ali had been previously passed over Ali had been previously passed over because the tribes didn’t think he was because the tribes didn’t think he was old or experienced enough to lead the old or experienced enough to lead the faithful. faithful.

IslamIslam When Ali’s turn came on the When Ali’s turn came on the

death of Uthman (and he death of Uthman (and he became the fourth caliph 24 became the fourth caliph 24 years after Muhammad’s years after Muhammad’s death) his followers, known death) his followers, known as the Shiat Ali (the as the Shiat Ali (the followers of Ali) or the followers of Ali) or the Shi’itesShi’ites,, proclaimed that proclaimed that Muhammad finally had a Muhammad finally had a legitimate successor. legitimate successor.

IslamIslam Shi’itesShi’ites believed that Ali should have believed that Ali should have

been the first caliph and that the been the first caliph and that the caliphate should pass down only to caliphate should pass down only to direct descendants of Mohammed via direct descendants of Mohammed via Ali and Fatima.Ali and Fatima.

Entirely rejecting the authority of the Entirely rejecting the authority of the first three caliphs, the Shiah Muslims first three caliphs, the Shiah Muslims regarded Ali as the first in a line of regarded Ali as the first in a line of infallible religious leaders called infallible religious leaders called imamsimams..

IslamIslam

But Ali moved the capital of the Islamic But Ali moved the capital of the Islamic community from Medina to Kufa (now in community from Medina to Kufa (now in Iraq) where he had more support.Iraq) where he had more support.

This made him unpopular and many This made him unpopular and many Muslims refused to accept his authority.Muslims refused to accept his authority.

Even though he was a skilled soldier, Ali Even though he was a skilled soldier, Ali lost the backing of powerful clans and a lost the backing of powerful clans and a new Umayyad chieftain, named new Umayyad chieftain, named Mu’awiya Mu’awiya was proclaimed caliph in Jerusalem.was proclaimed caliph in Jerusalem.

IslamIslam

This directly challenged Ali’s position and This directly challenged Ali’s position and in 657, both men led armies into a three in 657, both men led armies into a three day battle to decide who was the day battle to decide who was the legitimate caliph.legitimate caliph.

The battle was inconclusive and both The battle was inconclusive and both agreed to a six-month truce and agreed to a six-month truce and arbitration.arbitration.

However when the time came, neither However when the time came, neither man backed down and the stand-off man backed down and the stand-off continued.continued.

IslamIslam Some Muslims hatched a Some Muslims hatched a

plot to end what they plot to end what they saw as a damaging saw as a damaging conflict: on the 19conflict: on the 19thth day day of Ramadan in 661, both of Ramadan in 661, both men were stabbed with men were stabbed with poisoned swords while at poisoned swords while at prayers.prayers.

Mu’awiyah recovered, Mu’awiyah recovered, but Ali died two days but Ali died two days later.later.

IslamIslam

The “Holy The “Holy Family” of Shia: Family” of Shia: Muhammad Muhammad (center), Fatima (center), Fatima (veiled), Ali, and (veiled), Ali, and grandsons grandsons Hassan (green) Hassan (green) and Husayn and Husayn (red).(red).

IslamIslam His eldest son, Hassan, agreed to His eldest son, Hassan, agreed to

Umayyad demands not to become the Umayyad demands not to become the caliph in return for his life and a caliph in return for his life and a pension. He died less than a year pension. He died less than a year later, allegedly poisoned.later, allegedly poisoned.

Those who backed Mu’awiya and the Those who backed Mu’awiya and the Umayyads against Ali and the Shi’ites Umayyads against Ali and the Shi’ites were known as the were known as the Sunni Sunni (“the Way” (“the Way” or “the Path of Muhammad”).or “the Path of Muhammad”).

IslamIslam In 680, Ali’s younger son, Hussein (or In 680, Ali’s younger son, Hussein (or

Husayn), led an army of followers Husayn), led an army of followers against the man who proclaimed against the man who proclaimed himself the caliph (Mu’awiya’s son himself the caliph (Mu’awiya’s son Yazid). Yazid).

Hopelessly outnumbered, Hussein’s Hopelessly outnumbered, Hussein’s army was slaughtered at the army was slaughtered at the Battle of Battle of KarbalaKarbala (in today’s southern Iraq). (in today’s southern Iraq).

IslamIslam The Battle of Karbala (680 CE).

IslamIslam The division between those who were The division between those who were

Shi’itesShi’ites and those who were and those who were SunnisSunnis was was set, and has been in place for 1300 set, and has been in place for 1300 years.years.

Hussein’s death is commemorated Hussein’s death is commemorated annually (known as the annually (known as the Day of AshuraDay of Ashura) ) with intense processions during which with intense processions during which the marchers beat themselves bloody the marchers beat themselves bloody with chains and cut themselves with with chains and cut themselves with sharp metal instruments. sharp metal instruments.

IslamIslam

The Day of Ashura commeration:The Day of Ashura commeration:

IslamIslam The The Sunni’sSunni’s did not see a blood did not see a blood

relationship as necessary for relationship as necessary for succession…rightful religious, succession…rightful religious, political, and military leaders could be political, and military leaders could be selected by the Islamic community.selected by the Islamic community.

Shi’itesShi’ites felt the caliphs should come felt the caliphs should come through the line Ali and Hussein, through the line Ali and Hussein, blood relatives of Muhammad, both of blood relatives of Muhammad, both of whom died at the hands of their whom died at the hands of their political or religious enemies.political or religious enemies.

IslamIslam From the beginning of this disagreement, From the beginning of this disagreement,

the vast majority of Muslims took the the vast majority of Muslims took the Sunni position. Sunni position.

The great expansion of Islam was The great expansion of Islam was propelled by propelled by SunnisSunnis; the ; the Shi’itesShi’ites survived survived as a small minority scattered throughout as a small minority scattered throughout the empire (today mainly in Iran and the empire (today mainly in Iran and Iraq). Iraq).

Today, about 85-90% of Muslims are Today, about 85-90% of Muslims are SunnisSunnis..

IslamIslam

For most of Islamic history, For most of Islamic history, Shi’itesShi’ites saw themselves as the oppressed saw themselves as the oppressed minority…that the faith had taken a minority…that the faith had taken a wrong turn and that they were “the wrong turn and that they were “the defenders of the weak, the critics and defenders of the weak, the critics and opponents of privilege and power.” opponents of privilege and power.”

To To Shi’itesShi’ites, , SunnisSunnis were the advocates were the advocates of established order.of established order.

These deep divisions exist even today.These deep divisions exist even today.

IslamIslam The first four caliphs after Muhammad’s The first four caliphs after Muhammad’s

death were elected, but after the death were elected, but after the political turmoil surrounding Ali’s death, political turmoil surrounding Ali’s death, the the caliphatescaliphates (Islamic empires) (Islamic empires) became hereditary, even though new became hereditary, even though new caliphs were still formally elected.caliphs were still formally elected.

There were two Islamic dynasties during There were two Islamic dynasties during the post-Classical period: the Umayyad the post-Classical period: the Umayyad Dynasty (661-750) and the Abbasid Dynasty (661-750) and the Abbasid Dynasty (750-1258).Dynasty (750-1258).

IslamIslam

Since Ali’s last descendent died in Since Ali’s last descendent died in the 9th century (and thus the blood the 9th century (and thus the blood line of Muhammad), Shi’ites created line of Muhammad), Shi’ites created a council of 12 scholars called the a council of 12 scholars called the ulemaulema to elect a Supreme Imam. to elect a Supreme Imam.

Shi’ites believe their Supreme Imam Shi’ites believe their Supreme Imam is a fully spiritual guide, and the sole is a fully spiritual guide, and the sole source of true knowledge, inheriting source of true knowledge, inheriting some of Muhammad's inspiration.some of Muhammad's inspiration.

IslamIslam

The Shia Imam has come to be imbued The Shia Imam has come to be imbued with Pope-like infallibility and the Shia with Pope-like infallibility and the Shia religious hierarchy is not dissimilar in religious hierarchy is not dissimilar in structure and religious power to that of structure and religious power to that of the Catholic Church. the Catholic Church.

Sunnis and Shi’ites agree on the Sunnis and Shi’ites agree on the fundamentals of Islam, like the Five fundamentals of Islam, like the Five Pillars, and they recognize each other as Pillars, and they recognize each other as Muslims, but they have some deep Muslims, but they have some deep divisions (like in Christianity).divisions (like in Christianity).

IslamIslam Mu’awiya moved the political capital Mu’awiya moved the political capital

from Medina to Damascus (Syria) where from Medina to Damascus (Syria) where it was more centrally located in the it was more centrally located in the growing empire.growing empire.

From Damascus, the Umayyads built a From Damascus, the Umayyads built a bureaucracy to govern their vast lands bureaucracy to govern their vast lands (which would become the largest (which would become the largest empire since the Romans). empire since the Romans).

Mu’awiya made sure that his son was Mu’awiya made sure that his son was made his successor before he died.made his successor before he died.

IslamIslam The caliph became more powerful The caliph became more powerful

and imperial, living in lavish desert and imperial, living in lavish desert palaces and conducting court against palaces and conducting court against an exotic background of wild birds an exotic background of wild birds and beasts and dancing girls.and beasts and dancing girls. This This was quite different from the simple was quite different from the simple lifestyles of Muhammad and his early lifestyles of Muhammad and his early successors.successors.

IslamIslam Under the Umayyads, a distinctive Islamic Under the Umayyads, a distinctive Islamic

culture began to take shape, influenced culture began to take shape, influenced largely by their Arab background.largely by their Arab background.

Arabic became the official language of the Arabic became the official language of the administration, replacing Greek and administration, replacing Greek and Persian, which had been used in the Persian, which had been used in the conquered territories.conquered territories.

An extensive communications system was An extensive communications system was established, with horseback postal routes established, with horseback postal routes and staging points for official use.and staging points for official use.

IslamIslam For seven years, the Islamic armies of For seven years, the Islamic armies of

the Umayyads battled for the Iberian the Umayyads battled for the Iberian Peninsula.Peninsula.

Landing at Gibraltar in 711, a Muslim Landing at Gibraltar in 711, a Muslim leader had his boats burned, then told leader had his boats burned, then told his men “The sea is behind you and his men “The sea is behind you and the enemy is in front of you. By God, the enemy is in front of you. By God, there is no escape for you save in there is no escape for you save in valor and determination.” valor and determination.”

IslamIslam Under the Umayyads, Under the Umayyads,

Islamic armies Islamic armies conquered as far east conquered as far east as Afghanistan and as as Afghanistan and as far west as northern far west as northern Africa , Christian Africa , Christian Spain, and well into Spain, and well into central France (before central France (before being turned back at being turned back at the Battle of Tours in the Battle of Tours in 732).732).

IslamIslam From Damascus, the Umayyads built a From Damascus, the Umayyads built a

bureaucracy to govern their vast lands bureaucracy to govern their vast lands (the largest empire since the Romans). (the largest empire since the Romans).

The core of the caliph’s government and The core of the caliph’s government and army officers were Arabs who lived in army officers were Arabs who lived in the urban centers and shared in the the urban centers and shared in the rewards of conquest.rewards of conquest.

Rural areas held mostly non-Arab Rural areas held mostly non-Arab subject peoples, who paid taxes to subject peoples, who paid taxes to support the government (unlike Arab support the government (unlike Arab Muslims who were only taxed for ZakatMuslims who were only taxed for Zakat—charity)—charity)

IslamIslam The Umayyads tried to keep interactions The Umayyads tried to keep interactions

between the Arab Muslims and subject between the Arab Muslims and subject peoples to a minimum to prevent the peoples to a minimum to prevent the loss of tax revenue.loss of tax revenue.

Non-Arab Muslim converts received few Non-Arab Muslim converts received few social or financial benefits, so social or financial benefits, so conversions were not very common, yet.conversions were not very common, yet.

They still had to pay property taxes and They still had to pay property taxes and special head taxes, and they were not special head taxes, and they were not considered to be a part of the considered to be a part of the ummaumma..

IslamIslam

The “The “People of the BookPeople of the Book,” as Jews ,” as Jews and Christians were known, were and Christians were known, were considerably better treated, even considerably better treated, even though they had to pay the same though they had to pay the same taxes as other subject peoples.taxes as other subject peoples.

However, Jews and Christians were However, Jews and Christians were allowed to worship as they pleased allowed to worship as they pleased and their communities and legal and their communities and legal systems remained intact.systems remained intact.

IslamIslam

The name Jews and Christians were The name Jews and Christians were given, the given, the dhimmisdhimmis (or “People of the (or “People of the Book”) explains why: Muslims Book”) explains why: Muslims respected Jews and Christians respected Jews and Christians because they were also governed by because they were also governed by holy scriptures and they had shared holy scriptures and they had shared beliefs and common roots. beliefs and common roots.

IslamIslam The Umayyad exclusion of non-Arab The Umayyad exclusion of non-Arab

Muslims (Muslims (mawalimawali) proved to be ) proved to be problematic as Arab administrative problematic as Arab administrative centers became increasingly far-flung.centers became increasingly far-flung.

In the 740’s, rebel In the 740’s, rebel mawali mawali forces forces demanded social and religious equality demanded social and religious equality with Arab Muslims and eventually with Arab Muslims and eventually brought down the Umayyad Dynasty.brought down the Umayyad Dynasty.

IslamIslam Recapping the early expansion of Islam:Recapping the early expansion of Islam: Shortly after the death of Muhammad, Shortly after the death of Muhammad,

Islam began a rapid drive for expansion.Islam began a rapid drive for expansion. Unlike Buddhism or Christianity, which Unlike Buddhism or Christianity, which

expanded through missionary or expanded through missionary or commercial activity, Islam initially commercial activity, Islam initially extended its influence by military extended its influence by military conquest.conquest.

Islam spread quickly throughout Islam spread quickly throughout portions of Africa and Eurasia. portions of Africa and Eurasia.

IslamIslam Within a year of Muhammad’s death, Within a year of Muhammad’s death,

most of the Arabian Peninsula was most of the Arabian Peninsula was united under Islam.united under Islam.

Persia was conquered in 651 when the Persia was conquered in 651 when the Sassanid Dynasty was overthrown.Sassanid Dynasty was overthrown.

By the end of the seventh century, By the end of the seventh century, Islam had reached Syria, Mesopotamia, Islam had reached Syria, Mesopotamia, Palestine, and Egypt. Palestine, and Egypt.

IslamIslam Also by the end of the seventh century Islam Also by the end of the seventh century Islam

extended into Central Asia east of the extended into Central Asia east of the Caspian Sea, where it competed with Caspian Sea, where it competed with Buddhism.Buddhism.

During the eighth century, Muslim armies During the eighth century, Muslim armies reached present-day Tunisia, Algeria, and reached present-day Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco; Hindu-dominated northwest India; Morocco; Hindu-dominated northwest India; and the Iberian peninsula (Spain and and the Iberian peninsula (Spain and Portugal).Portugal).

The earliest Muslim conquerors were less The earliest Muslim conquerors were less concerned with spreading religion and more concerned with spreading religion and more concerned with the extension of Arab power. concerned with the extension of Arab power.

The Umayyad CaliphateThe Umayyad Caliphate

Under the Under the Umayyad Caliphate Umayyad Caliphate (661-(661-750):750):

The office of The office of caliphcaliph united both secular united both secular and religious authority in the person of and religious authority in the person of one leader.one leader.

After the assassination of Ali in 661, After the assassination of Ali in 661, the Umayyad family came to power.the Umayyad family came to power.

Establishing their political capital in Establishing their political capital in Damascus, the Umayyad were noted Damascus, the Umayyad were noted for the following:for the following:


An empire that emphasized Arab An empire that emphasized Arab ethnicity over adherence to Islam.ethnicity over adherence to Islam.

Thousands of non-Arab converts (Thousands of non-Arab converts (mawalimawali) ) seethed at discriminatory taxes and seethed at discriminatory taxes and mistreatment.mistreatment.

Respect for Jews and Christians as Respect for Jews and Christians as ““People of the BookPeople of the Book.” Even though .” Even though required to pay taxes on property and for required to pay taxes on property and for charity, Jews and Christians were allowed charity, Jews and Christians were allowed freedom of worship and self-rule within freedom of worship and self-rule within their communitiestheir communities.


They created a unified state, a vigorous They created a unified state, a vigorous commerce, and a resolute military based commerce, and a resolute military based upon Arab tribes. upon Arab tribes.

But by 740 Umayyad policies had But by 740 Umayyad policies had severely polarized their subjects and severely polarized their subjects and generated widespread hostility to their generated widespread hostility to their authority. authority.

Arab armies on the frontiers resented Arab armies on the frontiers resented their low pay, constant campaigning, and their low pay, constant campaigning, and the privileges of more favored tribes.the privileges of more favored tribes.


The Umayyad ruling family lived lives of The Umayyad ruling family lived lives of luxury, which prompted riots and luxury, which prompted riots and instability among the general population.instability among the general population.

These riots led to the overthrow of the These riots led to the overthrow of the Umayyad Dynasty by the Abbasid Umayyad Dynasty by the Abbasid Dynasty in 750. Dynasty in 750.

The Abbasid Dynasty, which took its The Abbasid Dynasty, which took its name from an uncle of Muhammad (al-name from an uncle of Muhammad (al-Abbas), were originally supported by the Abbas), were originally supported by the Shi’ites but became increasingly Shi’ites but became increasingly receptive to the Sunni too. receptive to the Sunni too.

The Abbasid CaliphateThe Abbasid Caliphate

The The mawalimawali also supported the Abbasids also supported the Abbasids (they never liked the Umayyads) (they never liked the Umayyads) because they hoped the Abbasids would because they hoped the Abbasids would accept them as members of the Islamic accept them as members of the Islamic community of believers (the community of believers (the ummaumma).).

In 750, Umayyad forces met Abbasid In 750, Umayyad forces met Abbasid forces at the forces at the Battle of the River ZabBattle of the River Zab (northern Iraq) and the Abbasids were (northern Iraq) and the Abbasids were victorious.victorious.


To eliminate the possibility of future To eliminate the possibility of future Umayyad challenges, most of the Umayyad challenges, most of the Umayyad were invited to a Umayyad were invited to a “reconciliation” banquet where they “reconciliation” banquet where they were massacred.were massacred.

Those Umayyad not attending the Those Umayyad not attending the banquet were hunted down and killed.banquet were hunted down and killed.

One member of the family escaped to One member of the family escaped to Spain, where he established the Spain, where he established the Caliphate of Cordoba.Caliphate of Cordoba.


The establishment of the Abbasid Caliphate The establishment of the Abbasid Caliphate was a true revolution, not just a change of was a true revolution, not just a change of administrations.administrations.

They ended the ethnic and economic They ended the ethnic and economic discrimination against non-Arab Muslims discrimination against non-Arab Muslims ((mawalimawali) and they established the ) and they established the fundamental principle that all Muslims were fundamental principle that all Muslims were equal before the state as well as before God.equal before the state as well as before God.

Freed of Umayyad elitism, Islam Freed of Umayyad elitism, Islam experienced a dramatic surge in experienced a dramatic surge in conversions.conversions.

The Abbasid CaliphateThe Abbasid Caliphate To dramatize the To dramatize the

newness and purity of newness and purity of their government, the their government, the Abbasids abandoned Abbasids abandoned the Umayyad capital of the Umayyad capital of Damascus, and built Damascus, and built themselves a new themselves a new capital in Baghdad. capital in Baghdad.

The tower of the Great The tower of the Great Mosque of Samarra Mosque of Samarra (built 847). (built 847).


In Baghdad the In Baghdad the Abbasid court Abbasid court welcomed Muslims welcomed Muslims of all ethnic of all ethnic backgrounds, backgrounds, laying the laying the foundations of an foundations of an intellectual, intellectual, philosophical, and philosophical, and scientific scientific renaissance. renaissance.


Under the Abbasid Caliphate (750-1258): The mawali (converts) experienced new

opportunities for advancement in education, government, and the military.

Trade became increasingly important and routes stretched from the western Mediterranean to China.

The learning of the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Persians was preserved. Greek logic, especially that of Aristotle, permeated Muslim intellectualism.


In mathematics, the In mathematics, the fields of algebra, fields of algebra, geometry, and geometry, and trigonometry were trigonometry were developed or developed or further refined.further refined.

The astrolabe, The astrolabe, which measured the which measured the position of the stars, position of the stars, was improved. was improved.


The study of astronomy produced The study of astronomy produced accurate maps of the stars.accurate maps of the stars.

Optic surgery became a specialty, and Optic surgery became a specialty, and human anatomy was studied in detail.human anatomy was studied in detail.

Muslim cartographers produced the Muslim cartographers produced the world’s most detailed maps.world’s most detailed maps.

Some of the world’s first universities Some of the world’s first universities and largest libraries were built in and largest libraries were built in Cairo, Baghdad, Timbuktu, and Cairo, Baghdad, Timbuktu, and Cordoba.Cordoba.

The Abbasid CaliphateThe Abbasid Caliphate In the arts, In the arts,

calligraphy and calligraphy and designs called designs called arabesquesarabesques adorned adorned writing and pottery.writing and pottery.


In architecture, new In architecture, new styles were styles were developed. Buildings developed. Buildings were commonly were commonly centered around a centered around a patio area.patio area.

MinaretsMinarets, towers from , towers from which the faithful which the faithful were called to prayer, were called to prayer, topped mosques.topped mosques.


Great pieces of Great pieces of poetry and literature, poetry and literature, including including The The Arabian NightsArabian Nights and and the the RubaiyatRubaiyat, , enriched Muslim enriched Muslim culture.culture.

““A jug of wine, a loaf A jug of wine, a loaf of bread, and thou of bread, and thou besides me singing besides me singing in the Wilderness…”in the Wilderness…”


Although responsible for much of the Although responsible for much of the advancement of Islamic culture, the advancement of Islamic culture, the Abbasids found their vast empire Abbasids found their vast empire increasingly hard to manage and increasingly hard to manage and effectively govern. effectively govern.

The dynasty failed to address the The dynasty failed to address the problem of succession, and high problem of succession, and high taxes made the leaders less and less taxes made the leaders less and less popular.popular.

The Role of WomenThe Role of Women

The role of women in Islam went The role of women in Islam went through several changes from the time through several changes from the time of Muhammad through the Abbasids.of Muhammad through the Abbasids.

In the early days of Islam, women In the early days of Islam, women were not required to wear the veil and were not required to wear the veil and were not secluded from public.were not secluded from public.

These customs were adopted by Islam These customs were adopted by Islam after later contact with Middle Eastern after later contact with Middle Eastern women. women.


The The Qur’anQur’an urges modesty in both men urges modesty in both men and women, but no particular cultural and women, but no particular cultural dress was stipulated.dress was stipulated.

From the time of Muhammad onward, From the time of Muhammad onward, Muslim men, following the example set in Muslim men, following the example set in the the Qur’anQur’an, were allowed to have up to , were allowed to have up to four wives, provided they could afford to four wives, provided they could afford to treat them equally (an exception was treat them equally (an exception was made for Muhammad who actually had made for Muhammad who actually had nine wives after Khadija’s death).nine wives after Khadija’s death).

The Role of WomenThe Role of Women Most of Muhammad’s marriages were Most of Muhammad’s marriages were

motivated by political or humane motivated by political or humane reasons; some of his wives were the reasons; some of his wives were the widows of his lieutenants killed widows of his lieutenants killed fighting for Islam, while others were fighting for Islam, while others were the daughters of important Arab the daughters of important Arab leaders.leaders.

One of them was A’isha, the daughter One of them was A’isha, the daughter of Abu Bakr (Muhammad’s dearest of Abu Bakr (Muhammad’s dearest friend and closest advisor).friend and closest advisor).


Muhammad’s wives lived in separate Muhammad’s wives lived in separate rooms around the courtyard of his rooms around the courtyard of his house, and he took turns staying house, and he took turns staying with them.with them.

The Qur’an gave husbands the right The Qur’an gave husbands the right to chastise “unruly” wives, but to chastise “unruly” wives, but Muhammad was said to be a very Muhammad was said to be a very kind and indulgent husband.kind and indulgent husband.

Women, by contrast, could have only Women, by contrast, could have only one husband. one husband.


Women in Islam, in many ways, had Women in Islam, in many ways, had more privileges than women in other more privileges than women in other societies at the time:societies at the time:

Both men and women were equal Both men and women were equal before Allah.before Allah.

Female infanticide was forbidden.Female infanticide was forbidden. Women could own property both Women could own property both

before and after marriage.before and after marriage.


Islamic women could initiate divorce and Islamic women could initiate divorce and could remarry if divorced by their could remarry if divorced by their husband.husband.

But the legal privileges enjoyed by But the legal privileges enjoyed by women were eventually women were eventually counterbalanced by their seclusion from counterbalanced by their seclusion from public life to prevent the gaze of men (in public life to prevent the gaze of men (in some cultures, women weren’t even some cultures, women weren’t even supposed to go to the market if men supposed to go to the market if men were there).were there).


Women of the Women of the Qur’anQur’an include include Eve Eve (representing (representing domestic harmony domestic harmony and bliss…the other and bliss…the other half of Adam; and not half of Adam; and not solely responsible for solely responsible for the couple’s removal the couple’s removal from Eden), and Mary.from Eden), and Mary.

The Role of WomenThe Role of Women MaryMary (the mother of (the mother of

Jesus) Jesus) is the figure many is the figure many Muslim women aspire to be Muslim women aspire to be like; she was pious, sincere like; she was pious, sincere in her worship of God, and in her worship of God, and innocent—the perfect image innocent—the perfect image of femininity and tenderness of femininity and tenderness (there is even a chapter (there is even a chapter devoted to her in the devoted to her in the Qur’anQur’an). ).

Only Abraham, Moses, and Only Abraham, Moses, and Noah are mentioned in the Noah are mentioned in the Qur’an more than Mary.Qur’an more than Mary.


Mary and the baby Mary and the baby Jesus from an early Jesus from an early Islamic (Persian) Islamic (Persian) manuscript.manuscript.

Muhammad once Muhammad once declared that his declared that his daughter Fatima would daughter Fatima would have the highest place have the highest place in Heaven after the in Heaven after the Virgin Mary.Virgin Mary.

SlaverySlavery

Islamic law forbade enslaving other Islamic law forbade enslaving other Muslims, except in the case of prisoners Muslims, except in the case of prisoners of war.of war.

Slavery was not hereditary…children of Slavery was not hereditary…children of a slave woman and a Muslim man were a slave woman and a Muslim man were considered free.considered free.

Muslims were frequently known to free Muslims were frequently known to free their slaves, especially if they converted their slaves, especially if they converted to Islam during their servitude.to Islam during their servitude.

The Qur’anThe Qur’an The revelations and teachings of The revelations and teachings of

Muhammad were not compiled into a Muhammad were not compiled into a single document until several years single document until several years after his death.after his death.

Islamic holy scriptures (the messages Islamic holy scriptures (the messages Muhammad received that are Muhammad received that are believed to be God’s final revelations believed to be God’s final revelations to humankind) are contained in the to humankind) are contained in the Qur’an Qur’an (or (or KoranKoran).).

The Qur’anThe Qur’an The Qur’an is a book The Qur’an is a book

about the same length about the same length as the as the New Testament New Testament and is one of the most and is one of the most remarkable scriptures remarkable scriptures in history for it has in history for it has molded the lives of molded the lives of millions of people and millions of people and given birth to a given birth to a powerful and enduring powerful and enduring faith.faith.

The Qur’anThe Qur’an Unlike the holy scriptures of the Jews Unlike the holy scriptures of the Jews

and Christians, which are religious and Christians, which are religious narratives, laws, poems, proverbs, narratives, laws, poems, proverbs, prophecies and prayers dating from prophecies and prayers dating from different time periods and written by different time periods and written by different men, every word of the different men, every word of the Qur’anQur’an was delivered to the world from the lips was delivered to the world from the lips of a single man (Muhammad) over a 22 of a single man (Muhammad) over a 22 year period in the Seventh Century.year period in the Seventh Century.

The Qur’anThe Qur’an Some of the Qur’an’s chapters, or

suras, are short fiery warnings of doom, proclaiming a Day of Judgment and demanding the worship of one God.

Others discuss the Biblical prophets and the lessons of their lives; others lay down detailed regulations concerning the family, property, and justice.

The Qur’anThe Qur’an In the In the Qur’anQur’an, ,

everything in life is everything in life is regulated, going regulated, going from absolutely from absolutely forbidden to what’s forbidden to what’s absolutely required absolutely required to lead a good, to lead a good, peaceful, and moral peaceful, and moral life and create a life and create a harmonious society.harmonious society.

IslamIslam Besides the Besides the Qur’anQur’an are are

the the Hadiths Hadiths (literally (literally means “speech” or means “speech” or “saying”).“saying”).

The The Hadiths Hadiths refer to refer to anything Muhammad anything Muhammad was thought to have was thought to have said; remembered and said; remembered and recorded and passed recorded and passed down by his early down by his early followersfollowers..

IslamIslam Besides the Besides the Qur’anQur’an, Islam is held , Islam is held

together by very strict moral laws together by very strict moral laws (called the (called the Sharia (or Shariah)—which in Arabic means “the clear, which in Arabic means “the clear, straight path”). straight path”).

Over centuries, the Over centuries, the ShariaSharia became became very rigid, and by 1200 C.E. it was very rigid, and by 1200 C.E. it was thought to be perfect (which meant thought to be perfect (which meant there was little room for there was little room for interpretation).interpretation).

IslamIslam Having sacred laws created a strong Having sacred laws created a strong

bond among Muslims (which was bond among Muslims (which was important since they lived in so many important since they lived in so many areas). areas).

From India to North Africa, despite From India to North Africa, despite different cultures and languages, different cultures and languages, people had common threads of faith people had common threads of faith (in Islam) which united much of the (in Islam) which united much of the world.world.

IslamIslam Belief in the hereafter is fundamental to Belief in the hereafter is fundamental to

Islam, and according to the Islam, and according to the HadithsHadiths, the , the afterlife will be preceded by the Day of afterlife will be preceded by the Day of Judgment, a final reckoning of all souls, Judgment, a final reckoning of all souls, who will collectively stand before God.who will collectively stand before God.

Islamic tradition believes that this last Islamic tradition believes that this last day will follow a series of apocalyptic day will follow a series of apocalyptic events that will center around two main events that will center around two main figures in figures in HadithHadith literature: the literature: the MahdiMahdi (a descendant of Muhammad) and (a descendant of Muhammad) and Jesus.Jesus.

IslamIslam According to the According to the HadithsHadiths, preceding the , preceding the

end of days the sun will rise in the West, end of days the sun will rise in the West, devastating earthquakes will happen devastating earthquakes will happen more frequently, time will pass more more frequently, time will pass more quickly, and terrible afflictions will come quickly, and terrible afflictions will come from the East.from the East.

Dijjal, the Antichrist, will come to power in Dijjal, the Antichrist, will come to power in Medina. Medina.

IslamIslam Throughout the world there will be Throughout the world there will be

widespread moral decadence, widespread moral decadence, oppressive rulers, sexual immorality, oppressive rulers, sexual immorality, greed and avariciousness, and killing. greed and avariciousness, and killing.

IslamIslam At this dire point, the Mahdi (means At this dire point, the Mahdi (means

“the guided one”) will appear followed “the guided one”) will appear followed by Jesus, and together through them, by Jesus, and together through them, the final battle of good versus evil will the final battle of good versus evil will take place.take place.

The Mahdi and Jesus will vanquish the The Mahdi and Jesus will vanquish the Antichrist, and Islam and peace will be Antichrist, and Islam and peace will be re-established on earth.re-established on earth.

IslamIslam According to Islamic tradition, Jesus will According to Islamic tradition, Jesus will

then marry, have children, die a natural then marry, have children, die a natural death, and be buried next to Muhammad death, and be buried next to Muhammad in Medina.in Medina.

It is after the second coming of Jesus that It is after the second coming of Jesus that life on earth as we know it will end, and life on earth as we know it will end, and God’s final judgment will take place.God’s final judgment will take place.

islam. islam the word islam comes from the arabic words meaning “obedience and peace through...

Documents

islam slide

word islam

islam arabia

advent of islam

urban arabs

identified allah

growing religion

sassanid empire heir