THE RISE OF ISLAM-THE BEGINNING

              THE RISE AND HISTORY OF ISLAM

The history of Islam is a rich and complex narrative that spans over 1,400 years, encompassing a vast geographic expanse, diverse cultures, and a profound impact on world civilization. From its humble beginnings in Mecca, Islam rapidly spread across the Arabian Peninsula, North Africa, and the Middle East, shaping the course of human history. This journey explores the rise of Islam, the development of its core principles, and the evolution of the Islamic world, highlighting key events, figures, and cultural achievements that have contributed to the vibrant tapestry of Islamic civilization.

1. Rise of Islam: Three Phases – Faith, Community, and Politics

a) Faith

Before Islam, Arabs were polytheistic, worshiping multiple gods and goddesses. Prophet Muhammad was born in Mecca in 570 CE and preached the worship of one God, Allah. He declared himself the messenger of God and founded Islam.

b) Community

Muhammad founded a community of believers (umma) bound by common religious beliefs. The community faced opposition from affluent Meccans, but Muhammad's message appealed to those seeking a new community identity.

c) Polity

After Muhammad's death, the umma transferred political authority without an established principle of succession. This led to innovations and divisions among Muslims. The institution of caliphate was created, with the leader becoming the deputy of the Prophet.

2. Modern Islam

By the 21st century, there were over 1 billion Muslims worldwide, with diverse languages, cultures, and nationalities.

3. Early Islam

Early Islam was united in its observance of the sharia in rituals and personal matters. It defined its religious identity, stressing equality and opposing idol worship.

4. Social Scenario – Before Prophet Muhammad

Before 612 CE, Arabia was socially, economically, and politically backward. The Jahiliyyah age was marked by tribalism, slavery, and lack of central authority.

5. Change in Social Scenario – After Prophet Muhammad

After 612 CE, Muhammad created a political order in Medina, resolving civil strife and providing protection to his followers. The community survived on agriculture, trade, and alms tax.

6. Political Factors of the Caliphates

After Muhammad's death, the caliphate was established, with the leader becoming the deputy of the Prophet. The Umayyads and Abbasids were two prominent caliphates.

7. Economic Factors

Agriculture was the principal occupation in the Islamic world. Urbanization and trade flourished, with cities like Baghdad and Cairo becoming centers of commerce and culture.

8. The Legend of Learning and Culture

Islamic civilization flourished, with developments in literature, poetry, philosophy, and science. Scholars like Ibn Sina and Umar Khayyam made significant contributions.

9. Development of Three Aspects of Human Civilization

The history of central Islamic lands brings together three important aspects of human civilization: religion, community, and politics. These aspects merged in the 7th century and separated over the next five centuries.

Timeline

- 570 CE: Prophet Muhammad was born in Mecca

- 612 CE: Prophet Muhammad preached the worship of one God, Allah

- 622 CE: Prophet Muhammad migrated to Medina (Hijra)

- 632 CE: Prophet Muhammad died, and the caliphate was established

- 661 CE: Muawiya became the first Umayyad caliph

- 750 CE: Abbasids replaced Umayyads

- 8th-9th centuries: Islamic civilization flourished

- 10th century: Islamic world expanded, and trade flourished

- 11th-13th centuries: Conflicts between European Christians and Arab states

- 21st century: Over 1 billion Muslims worldwide

 Key words:

1. Umma

The umma refers to the global community of Muslims. It is a term used to describe the collective body of believers in Islam, transcending geographical, ethnic, and linguistic boundaries.

2. Islam

Islam is a monotheistic religion founded in the 7th century CE by Prophet Muhammad. It emphasizes the oneness of God (Allah) and the importance of following the teachings of the Quran and the Hadith.

3. Prophet

In Islam, a prophet is a messenger sent by God to guide humanity. Prophet Muhammad is considered the final prophet in Islam, and his teachings are seen as the ultimate guidance for Muslims.

4. Sufi

A Sufi is a Muslim mystic who seeks a deeper, personal connection with God through spiritual practices such as meditation, prayer, and self-reflection. Sufism emphasizes the inner dimension of faith and the pursuit of spiritual growth.

5. Bedouin

A Bedouin is a member of a nomadic tribe in the Middle East, traditionally inhabiting the deserts of Arabia. Bedouins have a rich cultural heritage and have played an important role in the history of the region.

6. Abbasids

The Abbasids were a dynasty of caliphs who ruled the Islamic world from 750 to 1258 CE. They played a significant role in the development of Islamic civilization, promoting arts, sciences, and culture.

7. Sharia

Sharia refers to Islamic law, which is based on the Quran and the Hadith. It provides guidance on various aspects of life, including rituals, personal relationships, and social justice.

8. Caliphate

The caliphate refers to the political leadership of the Islamic community after Prophet Muhammad's death. The caliph was considered the deputy of the Prophet and was responsible for guiding the community according to Islamic principles.

9. Jahiliyyah

Jahiliyyah refers to the period of ignorance or darkness before the advent of Islam in Arabia. It is characterized by tribalism, idolatry, and social injustice.

10. Hijra

Hijra refers to the migration of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE. This event marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar and is considered a pivotal moment in Islamic history.

In conclusion, the rise of Islam and the central Islamic lands is a complex and fascinating story that spans over 1,400 years. From the birth of Prophet Muhammad in 570 CE to the spread of Islam across the globe, this journey has been marked by significant events, figures, and cultural achievements. The three phases of Islam's rise - faith, community, and politics - have shaped the religion and its adherents, creating a rich and diverse heritage. The Islamic civilization has made immense contributions to human knowledge, literature, philosophy, and science, and its legacy continues to inspire and influence people around the world. Today, with over 1 billion Muslims worldwide, Islam remains a vital and dynamic force, shaping the lives of individuals, communities, and nations.