Origins of Islam

• Arabia was established in the 6th century CE.

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)

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.

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.