Lecture Notes: Emergence of Islam and Byzantine Context

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Introduction to Islam

• Islam is one of the world's major monotheistic religions, alongside Zoroastrianism, Judaism, and Christianity.
• Spread rapidly; about a quarter of the world's population are Muslims.
• Two main branches: Sunni (majority) and Shia (primarily in Iran).

Historical Context

• Byzantium (Eastern Roman Empire) and Sassanid Empire were major powers.
• Constant warfare weakened both, creating a power vacuum in the Arabian Peninsula.

The Byzantine-Persian War

• Occurred in the early 7th century, weakening both empires.
• Paved the way for Islamic expansion.

Emergence of Islam

• Prophet Muhammad's life (570-632): orphaned, successful merchant, began having visions around age 40.
• Began preaching monotheism and received revelations forming the Quran.
• Five Pillars of Islam: Shahada, prayer, almsgiving, fasting during Ramadan, and pilgrimage to Mecca.
• Islam spread rapidly; egalitarian nature attracted converts.

Political Spread

• After Muhammad's death, four caliphs (Rashidun Caliphate) expanded control.
• Umayyad and Abbasid Caliphates furthered expansion; Abbasids moved capital to Baghdad.

Cultural Impact

• Abbasid Caliphate known for a golden age of science, literature, and translation projects.
• Influence of Persian culture and learning on Islam.

Theological and Methodological Considerations

• Comparisons of Christian and Islamic texts on warfare and theology.
• Historians must assess textual context and meaning critically.
• Differences in the approach to images and iconography between religions.

Iconoclasm in Byzantium

• Byzantine emperor Leo III banned icons in 726, lasted until 787.
• Influenced by Islamic prohibitions and military defeats.
• Controversial and ultimately failed to eliminate iconography.

Conclusion

• Islamic conquest was rapid and unprecedented.
• The next topic will cover European barbarians.