Unit 6: Exchange and

EncounterThe rise of Islam

History•Muhammad (570 - 632) lived

in a polytheistic Arab society•One day, the angel Gabriel

tells him to spread the word of God

•Muhammad teaches monotheism

•religion is called Islam, and followers are called Muslims

•Muslims believe Muhammad is the last and greatest Prophet

•Islam spreads across Arabian Peninsula soon after Muhammad’s death

The Spread of Islam

Islam Spreads• The Qur’an Prohibits Muslims from

forcing others to accept their religion• Muslim rulers were tolerant of other

religions• Why did people convert to Islam?

–It was appealing–They wouldn’t have to pay the non-muslim tax

–You would be treated better

Islam Splits• There is conflict under Ruling Muslim

family, the Umayyads• Islam breaks into two main sects:

–Shi’as Opposed Umayyad Rule–Sunnis did not oppose Umayyad

• Today, most people are Sunni

Muslim Distribution Map

Practice of Islam• the five pillars – 5 duties

Muslims must perform to show their acceptance of Allah

1)Faith• A Muslim must believe in no god

but Allah and no prophet but Muhammad

2)Prayer• A Muslim must pray to Allah,

facing Mecca, 5 times every day.

3)Alms• A Muslim must give alms, or

money for the poor, through a tax.

4)Fasting• A Muslim must fast during the

holy month of Ramadan.• Muslims eat only one meal a day,

after sunset, every day during this month.

5)Pilgrimage• A Muslim should perform the hajj

– a trip to the holy city of Mecca – at least once in his or her life.