ISLAM

Founded: 600 CE Founded by: Muhammad Islam means: Submission ie: To the will of Allah Sacred Book: Quran Main Sects: -Sunni -Shiia (Shiite)

Arabic People
Descendants of Ishmael (Son of the Prophet Abraham) Arab means nomad (Desert dwellers or Bedouins) Roamed desert following sources of water and vegetation for themselves and their livestock. Individual tribes held power in particular parts of peninsular and kept means by scheming and warfare. 7th Century an increasing number began to settle in cities (Mecca & Medina) as they expanded and became more commercialised. Created stress on tribal values.

Early Arabic Religions

Animistic beliefs Local Deities Nature Spirits Megaliths Sacred stones Trees and springs venerated Spirits inhabited desert sands Carved wood, stone and clay figures were worshipped Celestial bodies worshipped Believed in Jinn (Demon Spirit) Pilgrimage and certain rituals at sacred places such as circumambulating (walking around) megaliths were continued on in the practice of Islam.

Early Arabic Lifestyle

Jewish and Christian Religions around but had little social or political influence. Amongst Indigenous people brawling, gambling, drinking and promiscuity was widespread. Women were property to be bought and sold into marriage or slavery. Women had no inheritance rights. Men could take as many wives as the desired. Female infanticide was not uncommon. Ethical code based on tribal links and experiences rather than communal respect.

Mecca
Mecca more important as it was at the crossroad of major caravan and pilgrimage routes. People of Mecca worshipped a high God called Allah. Centre of Pilgrimage and worship in Mecca was a shrine called Kaaba. (Built by Ishmael and Abraham). Over time became a centre of idol worship. Site of annual pilgrimage and social occasion known as Souz Ukaz. Cubical structure housed divinities and sacred black stone. Dominated by Quraish tribe, not nomads but an urban community.

Caravans