#1 - Worlds Together Worlds Apart - Chapter 2 : Origins of Islam to Abbasid Revolution  

Origins of Islam

  • Arabia was established in the 6th century CE.

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A New Community

  • Proselytizer-Forcer of faith.
  • Muhammad (Founder) a merchant Considered 1st proplet of Islam, 6th century, Mecca
  • Monotheistic (only one god) religion, Allah was the only god
  • The Quran was the holy book of teachings, considered the word of allah.
  • Islam means submission to Allah
  • Muhammad escaped to Medina and a new religious commuity developed called umma   * Because of other tribes not believing in his religion. They thought his proclamations were too radical
  • 5 Pillars - expectations for all muslims - faith, prayer, fast, Pilgrimage, and alms (charity)

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Muhammad’s Successors…Dar al-Islam (all things Islam)

  • Muhhamad’s death, 632 CE.
  • Caliph (political leader and defender of faith)   * Led to division in Islam which emerged to create the sunni/shia split     * Sunni - Rightful political leaders should lead     * Shia -  leadership should be blood relatives of Muhhamad.

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Abbasid Revolution

  • The Caliphate established Baghdad as capital in 750 CE.
  • The ulama (scholars, judges, administrators) expanded core beliefs.
  • Military used to secure Islamic state and expand.
  • Sharia Law instituted and regulated every aspect of life.
  • Patriarchy - where male gender rules, instituted veiling as a common practice.
  • Established by Abbasi Family.

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