1. Islam

2. Rise of Islam Islam emerged in the Arabian Peninsula The region was an important crossroad for trade The two leading towns were Mecca & Yathrib(Medina) Islam means submission A Muslim is a person who submits to God

3. Muhammad Born in Mecca around 570 Orphaned as a child & raised by his uncle At 25 he married Khadija who recognized his spiritual qualities She encouraged him to spend time praying and fasting

4. Muhammad During a retreat he heard the voice of Gabriel ordering him to “proclaim” As God’s prophet he began to spread the message of one God Won over very few converts

5. The Hejira After his wife’s death he was forced to leave Mecca Moved to Yathrib or Medina (city of the prophet) Became known as the hejira or the beginning of the spread of Islam His followers proclaimed it the first year of the Muslim calendar

6. Five Pillars 1. Believe in one God 2. Pray 5 times a day 3. Charity to the poor and aged 4. Fasting during the month of Ramadan 5. Pilgrimage to Mecca or hajj

7. The Koran Sacred book of Islam Authority on all subjects Religion, politics, law and social life

8. Mosque Muslim house of worship

9. The Kaaba Ancient shrine Muslims believe was built by the Prophet Abraham

10. The Spread of Islam After Muhammad’s death Islam quickly spread By 732 the Arab Empire included Persia, Arabia, Palestine, Egypt, North Africa, and Spain

11. Reasons for Success Arab armies were united by their beliefs Warriors who died in service of Islam won a place in paradise Riches to be during conquest of lands Jihad also motivated soldiers Protecting the religion- holy lands or people

12. Divisions After Muhammad’s death Dispute over who should become successor to the prophet or Caliph Sunni- leader should be elected from those capable of the job Shiites- leader should stay within the prophets family