Conditions of Arabia before the Advent of Islam
Introduction
The pre-Islamic period of history of Arabia is known as the period of jahiliyyah or the period of
ignorance. There were several reasons for this, as explained below:
Religious Conditions
The Arabs, before the advent of Islam were mostly idol worshippers, with the exception of the
Jews and the Christian every tribe had its own deity: there were about 360 idols in Ka'bah at the
time of the conquest of Makkah. People from different parts of Arabia used to come to pay their
homage to these idols; Al Habal was the chief of these deities, whereas Al Lat, Al Uzzah, and
Al Manat were female deities, and were referred to as the "Daughters of Allah".
There were hundreds of other idols; animals were sacrificed at their altar; and the blood of these
animals was presented as an offering to these deities. They considered angels to be daughters
of Allah, "Has then your Lord (O Pagans!) preferred for you sons and taken for Himself daughters
among the angels? Truly you utter a most dreadful saying"! [Isra 15:40]
Beside the idols, the Arabs worshipped elements in the nature the sun, the moon, and the
stars; they regarded trees, stones, caves and other objects of nature as holy.
Some believed ghosts and jinn, and were steeped in superstition; they resorted to the process
of divination through arrows, while others were devoted to fire-worship and they built altars and
shrines to fire.
During the period of Jahiliya, Christianity, Judaism and Zoroastrianism were also practiced in
Arabia. The Christians and the Jews had distorted their religions. The Christians believed that
the Christ was the son of God, while the Jews believed that Ezra was the son of God. "The Jews
call Uzair a son of Allah and the Christians call Christ son of Allah." [at-Taubah 9:30] They had
distorted and modified their books to serve their purpose.
Social Conditions
The Arab society at the time of Jahiliya was morally corrupt. Arabs were superstitious,
uncivilized and barbarous. They indulged in all kind of evils; they were addicted to gambling,
drinking, and stealing; and practiced fornication, adultery and usury. Unfair trade practices
were widespread, 'Might is right’, was the order of the day.
Slavery was common and master enjoyed the right of life and death over his slaves. Injustice
and all kind of malpractices were rampant in the society. Raiding the trading caravans as well as
highway robbery was common.
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The position of women in the Arabian society was so low that they could be inherited like
property or animals; they were regarded as chattels; they had no right and no social standing. A
man could many as many women as he liked, and could divorce them any time he wished. The
birth of a daughter was regarded as a matter of shame to the family. Some tribes buried female
infants alive. "When the female (infant) Buried alive is questioned. For what crime she was
killed." (At-Takwir81:89) Children were murdered for fear of poverty that would come from
raising them.
Cultural Conditions
The Arabic language and poetry was fully developed and the Arabs excelled in poetry. Every year
a fare used to be held at Ukaz, where poetry contests were held and the best poems were written
in gold letter and hung on the Ka'bah.
The Arabs had excellent memories, and were proud of their fluency and regarded all other
people as dumb and mute.
They were brave people, loyalty to their tribe; courage, proof of the honour and glorification
of the tribes was regarded as virtues.
The Arabs were always ready to pick a fight, and did not hesitate to shed blood. A minor incident
would stir up a dispute which, would last for many years, and thousands of lives would be lost.
Political Conditions
The Arabs did not have an organized government. Most of them were nomads with no
settlements. They were scattered tribes who would settle where ever they found water and
pasture.
The chiefs of the tribes were chosen because of their bravery, wealth, and wisdom.
Tribal loyalties led to inter-tribal rivalry and jealousy Disputes among tribes arose over cattle
pastures, springs of water, horseracing and other minor matters. The dispute would stretch to
many years.
One such dispute harb-Al - Basus stretched to ten years, while battle of Dahis and Ghabra
started over horse racing and lasted for many decades. The tribe stood by its members and would
not rest till they avenged him in case of injury or murder.
Economic Condition
Economically, Jews were leaders of Arabia. They were owner of best arable land in Hijaz, best
farmers, good businessmen & industrialists.
Arabs were far behind than other nations in industry, would hire slaves and foreigners to work for
them so slaves were backbone of economy in Arabia. Arabs were mostly traders; Quraysh
tribe was among the leading traders.
Trading caravans were dispatched on yearly basis, one in winters to Yemen and one in summers
to as-Sham (Syria)
People visiting Kabbah for homage especially in hajj months was a great source of income for
Makkans.
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Life of Prophet (SAW) before prophethood
lineage
Prophet Mohammad (SAW) has a distinguish lineage. He was a descendent of Prophet Ismail
(AS), son of prophet Ibrahim (AS). He belongs to Banu Hashim, a sub clan of the Tribe Quraish
which was a famous branch of Ismailite Arabs. His family had custody of Ka’bah and responsibility
of taking care of pilgrims. His grandfather, Abdul Muttalib, was known in history for three things;
He restored the well of Zam’Zam, he had a dialogue with Abraha who came to destroy kabah and
he brought up his grandson Muhammad (SAW).
Infancy and Early Childhood– Age 0-8
He was born on 12th Rabi-ul-Awal, 570 A.D. this year is known as Aam ul Feel-Year of Elephant.
His father Abdullah died before birth. He was named ‘Muhammad’ (the praised one) by
Grandfather Abdul-Muttalib and ‘Ahmed’ (the one who praises) by Mother Amna bint Wahab.He
was nursed by Thaubiyah in early days after birth who was slave girl of uncle Abu Lahab. She
fostered Hamza (RA) also.
Later according to Arab’s custom, he was entrusted for upbringing to Halimah Saadiah of Banu
Sa’ad, which was famous for its fluency and eloquence in Arabic language.
Immediately after accepting him, she experienced good fortune and blessing came to her and
her family. She asked to keep the Prophet (SAW) for longer than the initial two-year period
because she felt a close bond to him.
Prophet (SAW) was 5 years old when Angel Jibreel (AS) visited him. He opened his chest, took
out his heart, removed clot of blood and washed his heart with Zam’zam then put it back
together.Halima Saadia was shaken by the story of the two angels who came to clean the
Prophet’s heart, after which she returned the Prophet (pbuh) to his mother.
He returned to his mother at the of age of 5. His mother (Amna) took him Madinah to visit the
grave of father at the age of 6. On return journey, she passed away at Abwa and buried there.
Umm Ayman, the slave girl brought him to his grandfather - Abdul Muttalib. Abdul Muttalib brought
him up with affection for two years. Prophet (SAW) was 8 years old, when his grandfather died
too. But before his death, he entrusted Prophet to his Uncle Abu Talib. Uncle Abu Talib loved him
deeply, a lifelong friend and helper. ‘’Did He not find you an orphan and give you shelter (and
care).’’ (Ad-Dhuha 93:6)
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Main Event of Prophet (SAW) till Youth
Journey to Syria- Age 12
Prophet (SAW) accompanied Abu Talib on a trade journey to Syria at the age of 12.
They met a Christian monk Bahirah, who asked Abu Talib to take special care of his nephew
after observing the signs of Prophethood.
Battle of Fujar- Age 15
A sacrilegious war broke out at the fair of Ukaaz between Quraysh & Huwazin during sacred
months. Muhammad (SAW) was present in this battle but he did not participate in actual
fighting.He helped his uncle by picking up arrows thrown by the enemy.
Truce of Fudul – Age 15
Leaders of Makkan formed an alliance due to effects of war. The main objective was to
maintain peace in region. The meeting held at house of Abdullah ibn Jad’an. This alliance was
called Truce of Fudul. Prophet (SAW) participated actively and took the oath. Later on, he
said, ‘’ I witnessed in the house of Abdullah bin Jad’an, a covenant which I would not exchange
for any number of fine camels; and if I were asked to take part in it during Islam I should do
so.’’ (Ibn Hisham). Prophet (SAW)’s presence was proof of his concern & interest in the well
fare activity.
Profession & Youth
Prophet (SAW) had excellent characteristics. He never indulged in evil activities nor
worshipped idols He was known as ‘Sadiq’ & ‘Amin’ - truthful & trustworthy He used to work
as shepherd and trader.
Marriage with Khadijah bint khuwalid (RA) – Age 25
Khadijah (RA) was a widow trader who requested Prophet (SAW) to take her merchandise to
Syria with her slave Maisara. She was impressed by his honesty and goodness; her marriage
proposal was accepted by prophet (SAW). They got married when Khadija was at the age of
40 and Prophet (SAW) was 25. They had 6 children 2 sons and 4 daughters. She was the first
person to accept Islam and supported Prophet (SAW) in his struggles.
Rebuilding Ka’abah & Arbitration Issue- Age 35
Quraish decided to rebuild Kabah which was damaged due to floods. They divided tasks
among chiefs of tribes and decided to spend halal income only. A dispute arose between
chieftains to take the honour of fixing the black stone. Abu Umayyah suggested to accept the
decision of the first person to enter the Ka’abah the following morning. Prophet (SAW)
happened to be the first person entered and he accepted to arbitrate. An explosive situation
was resolved peacefully by the wisdom of prophet (SAW).
Meditation in cave of Hira.
The marriage to Khadijah (RA) freed Prophet (SAW) from financial worries.
He started experiencing the signs of prophethood such as true dreams.
He used to spend his time in cave Hira in the mount of Nur till call to Prophethood at the age
of 40.
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Call of Prophethood – First Revelation
Prophet (SAW) never indulges in the corrupt Makkan society. His marriage to Khadijah
(RA) freed him from financial worries. He used to meditate in Cave of Hira, a cave in Jabal
Nur which is 2 miles from Makkah and ponder over the condition of his people.
As he approached the age of 40, he started observing sign of prophethood such as True
dreams and visions.His period of solitude in cave of Hira increased, so he would take
provisions with himself or Khadijah (RA) would provide him.
During the last days of Ramadan in 610 A.D, while prophet (SAW) was meditating in the
cave, an angel appeared before him in form of man. The angel said ‘’Read.’’ Prophet (SAW)
replied, ‘’I am not a reader.’’ At this angel hugged and squeezed him so hard that he thought
that he would die of suffocation. He was then released. The angel again said, ‘’Read.’’
Muhammad (SAW) again gave the same reply. The angel squeezed him harder and released
him. The angel asked him third time, ’Read.’’ Muhammad (SAW) repeated his reply, ‘’I am
not a reader.’’ The angel hugged him even harder for third time. Muhammad (SAW)’s fear of
suffocation increased, so he asked, ‘’what shall I read’’. The angel then released him saying
first five verses of Surah Al-Alaq.” Read! in the name of your Lord, Who created. Created
man out of a clot of congealed blood. Read! And your Lord is most bounteous, Who has
taught by the pen. Taught man what he did not know. He recited these verses after the angle
and felt as though the words were written on his heart. First 5 verses of Surah Alaq (96:1-5)
were the first revelation.
The Prophet (SAW) was greatly shocked by this strange experience and thought he was
possessed by an evil spirit. He (SAW) left the cave and proceeded to his house. On the way
down from the mountain, he heard Jibra’il (AS) saying, “O Muhammad! You are the
messenger of Allah and I am Jibra’il”. This time Jibra’il (AS) was in his true form, the
angel was as huge as filling the horizon.
Prophet (SAW) rushed home, trembling with fear; he asked his wife Khadijah (RA), to wrap
him in blanket and narrated the incident to her. Khadijah (RA) consoled him by saying: “Allah
will never disgrace you as you keep good relations with your family, speak the truth, help the
poor and the destitute, serve your guest generously and assist those who deserve help.”
Khadijah (RA) took him to her cousin, Warqah-bin-Naufil. Waraqa was a blind Christian
scholar with Knowledge of old scriptures of Torah & Gospel. When he heard what happened
in Hira, he confirmed that it was indeed Jibra’il (AS), the angel who brought revelations to all
the previous prophets. He also forewarned that Prophet (SAW) would be forced to leave
Makkah on account of his beliefs by his own people. He wished that he was young to live
and support him but Warqa died soon after that.
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Early Preaching of Islam in Makkah
First revelation in the cave of Hira marked the beginning of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)’s role as
Messenger of Allah. He told his wife Khadija and later her cousin Waraqa bin Nawfal about the
event. Khadija was the first to accept the message.
After the verses from surah Mudathir were revealed to Prophet (SAW), the revelation came
frequently and regularly. ‘’O you, who are wrapped in your mantle. Arise and warn. And
glorify your Lord. And purify your garments. And keep away from idols (Al Mudathir 74:1-5)
The Holy Prophet followed the divine call with full determination and courage and stood up to
inform the people about Allah's commandments so that they could be saved from the evil ways
of life. He started preaching secretly to people who were close to him, his relatives and friends.
Some of Prophet’s close relatives accepted Islam in secrect preaching which gave immense
support to Prophet PBUH.
▪ Hazrat Khadija (RA) was the first person, and the first woman who accepted Islam.
▪ Abu Bakr (RA) was first male adult to enter the folds of Islam.
▪ Ali ibn Abu Talib and the cousin of the Holy Prophet, was the first youth to accept Islam. At the
time of acceptance, he was only ten-years-old.
▪ Zaid bin Haritha (RA), the freed slave of the Holy Prophet, was the first slave to accept Islam.
▪ Umm-e-Ayman was the first slave girl to accept the Oneness of Allah.
In the early days, the Holy Prophet (SAW) preached Islam secretly. Some companions were
the first to accept Islam like; Ammar bin Yasir (RA), Khabbab bin Al-Arat (RA), Uthman bin
Affan(RA), Abdul Rahman bin Auf (RA), Saad bin Abi Waqas (RA), Talha, Arqam, Sa'id bin Zaid,
Abdullah bin Mas'ud, Uthman bin Mazun, Ubaidah (RA)and others. A number of them accepted
Islam at the hands of Abu Bakr (RA).This secret mission continued for about three years, during
which time 40 people embraced Islam.
The early Muslims were poor and a number of them were slaves. Thus, in the beginning, Islam
was spread through these poor (and common) people that Islam was established during its early
days. The main message at this point was to reject idols and believe in one God.
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First duty ordained in the beginning of mission was Salah twice a day and Wudu was made a
prerequisite of prayer. Makkan paid no attention to the new faith due to small number of his
followers. Then the verse of suarh Ash-Shu’raa revealed, ‘And admonish your nearest
kinsmen.’’ 26:214). To follow the orders, Prophet (SAW) invited some members of Banu
Hashim and Banu Muttalib to his home twice. He addressed them towards the message of
Allah, his prophethood and warned them abut hereafter. Their reaction was very rude especially
of Abu Lahab but Abu Talib promised to protect and help Prophet (SAW).
Soon Allah (SWT) directed to Prophet (SAW) to make his massage public by the verse of surah
Al-Hijr ‘’ Therefore, declare openly to them, what you are commanded, and turn away from
the pagan.’’ (Al-Hjir 15:94). Prophet (SAW) ascended the Mount of Safa and proclaimed ‘’Ya
Sabahah’’. A traditional way to warn the citizens.
Prophet (SAW) addressed to Quraish and asked them: "If I were to tell you that there were
some horsemen in the valley waiting to raid you, would you believe me?" The Quraish
replied: "Yes, we have always witnessed the truth from you". There then he (SAW) invited
them to Islam, asked them to worship One Allah and told them that he was the chosen man from
Allah and he is the Messenger of Allah. Abu Lahab interrupted first, he disgraced and cursed
Prophet Mohammad (SAW) and talked to him in a loud and rude manner. Similarly, others called
Mohammad (SAW) a liar and a mad man. Disappointed by the reaction of Abu Lahab, yet
determined Prophet (SAW) continued to invite the different clans one by one.
Despite the taunts of his tribesmen, he remained firm in his mission. He continued mission and
more people entered in the folds of Islam. This open preaching brought hostility and opposition
to the Prophet (SAW) and his companions.
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Persecution of the Quraish towards Prophet (SAW)
Background
When Prophet (PBUH) was given the command of preaching his religion openly, he went to
Mount Safa and invited people of Makkah to Islam. He began to approach all different clans of
Quraish and proclaim the message loudly in courtyard of Ka’bah. this resulted in more people
to enter the fold of Islam. Quraish felt threatened and held a meeting in Dar-ul-Nadwa.They
planned to persecute and torture the Holy prophet (SAW) and his followers as per their power.
Verbal Persecution towards Prophet (SAW)
Makkans launched a campaign against Prophet (SAW). They declared him a magician,
soothsayer and poet. Prophet (SAW) was mocked and called madman by them. They wrote
abusive poems to ridicule the Prophet (SAW). They began calling him Mudhammam which
means a condemned person instead of Muhammad, praiseworthy. During the time when there
was a gap between the revelations, Makkans used to mock the Prophet (SAW) that his God
has abandoned him. Quraish taunted him by calling ‘’al-abtar’’after the death of his son as
mentioned in surah Kawthar.The Insults, verbal abuses and whistling during the recitation of
Quran was a routine matter.
They plan strategies to divert people’s attention from his teachings and make his preaching
ineffective such as they used to raise their voices whenever they heard the Quran, and make
loud noises whenever they saw the Prophet (SAW) trying to call someone to Allah or trying to
recite Quran to him. Whenever they saw the Prophet (SAW), they used to look at him with anger
and infuriation, as Allah (Glorified is He) relates, And the disbelievers would almost trip you
up with their eyes when they hear the Message; and they say, ‘Surely, he is possessed!’
[Surah Al-Qalam: 51]
Mental pressures to Harass Prophet (SAW)
Temptations by Quraish
The pagans tempted him to quit his mission. Utbah bin Rabiah was sent on the behalf of all
Quraish leaders, who offered Prophet (SAW) great wealth or marriage to a woman of his
choice or kingship of Makkah to stop preaching his religion. Prophet (SAW) declined and
recited verses from the Quran. Utbah was greatly impressed and he asked Quraish to leave the
Prophet (SAW) alone.
Bargain offered by Quraish
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They offered the Holy Prophet (SAW) an agreement that they will follow Prophet’s (SAW)
religion if and only if Muhammad (SAW) and his follower will also worship idols with them. In
this way Gods of both parties will get satisfy with them. At that moment surah-al-Kafirun was
revealed, ‘’ To you be your religion, and to me mine." (Al-Kafiroon 109:6)
Pressure to his Family
Abu Lahab orders his sons to divorce their wives, who were Muhammad (SAW)’s daughters,
just to add to his worries. Quraish pressurized Abu Talib, either to stop his nephew from
preaching or be prepared for the consequences. But Abu Talib refused after prophet (SAW)
told him, “‘O my uncle, ‘even if they set against me the sun on my right and the moon on
my left, I will not abandon my purpose until Allah grants me success or until I die.’
Physical torture towards Prophet (SAW)
Quraish could not harm Prophet (SAW) physically, the way they mistreated other followers who
were slaves and poor, as he was under the protection of Abu Talib who was chief of his tribe.
Abu Jahl & Uqbah ibn Muayit, they placed dirty intestines of a camel on his back while
prostrating near kaba’h and Fatima (RA) removed the filth from Prophet’s back. Uqbah ibn
Muayit strangled Prophet (SAW)’s neck. Umm-e-Jamil (Wife of Abu lahab) used to throw
thorns and brambles in Prophet’s (SAW) path. A lady used to throw rubbish on the Prophet
(SAW). Prophet (SAW) was even pelted with stones during visit to Taif.
Severity of the Persecution faced by Prophet (SAW)
The socio-Economic Boycott, 7th – 10th year of Prophethood. Quraish Imposed a general
social boycott on Banu Hashim and Banu Abdul Muttalib that lasted for three years. During
these years, they had to suffer severe physical and financial troubles but Mohammad (saw) and
the companions remained steadfast and firm in their belief. His followers were also persecuted
which hurt the Prophet too. 10th year of Prophethood known as Year of grief due to the death
of Khadijah (RA) and Abu Talib. After abu Talib the new leader Abu Lahab increased tortures.
Prophet (SAW)’s visit to Taif and face extremely negative response. Quraysh plotted to
assassinate him but he migrated to Madinah by Allah (SWT)’s order.
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Persecution of the Quraish towards the followers
Background
After the revelation to preach relatives (Surah Shura 26:214) and Prophet (SAW)’s open call at
Mount Safa. Quraish rejected him and feeling threatened of new message began to persecute
the Muslims.Those who had no protection were easy targets and faced worst persecution.
Tribal heads began to torture tribesman.
Some of the early converts who faced hostility
Bilal ibn Rabah, an Abyssinian slave, was tortured by his master Ummaya Bin Khalaf. Ummaya
would tie a rope around Bilal’s neck and drag him on the streets. He would also make Bilal on
burning coal and place a stone on his chest so that he could not move. Yet, Bilal (RA) never
renounced his faith and remained steadfast. He was later freed by Abu Bakr (RA)
Ammar bin Yasir (RA), was from the tribe of Makhuzum. He and his parents suffered terribly at
the hands of the elite tribe of Makkah, the Quraish. His parents were made to lie on the burning
sand, both his parents were martyred. In fact, his mother Summayah (RA) was the first female
martyr of Islam.
The Makhzum clan used to take out Ammar ibn Yasir with his father and mother in the heat of
the day and expose them to the excessively-hot environment of Mecca and torture them in the
scorches of the open fire, and Muhammad used to pass by them and say, "Patience, O family
of Yasir! Your meeting-place will be Paradise" and "O fire! Be cool and harmless for
‘Ammar in the same manner in which you became cool and harmless for Ibrahim;”
consequently, Ammar had scars on his body from the torture for the rest of his life.
Uthman in Affan (RA), His uncle used to wrap him up in a mat made of palm leaves, and then
put a fire under it was wrapped in palm leaves and set fire to by his uncle. His uncle Al-Hakim
ibn Abu Al-Aas ibn Omayyah tied him up strongly and swore that he would not free him until he
left Islam. Therefore, Uthman swore that he would not leave Islam. When his uncle saw how
determined Uthman was in remaining a Muslim, he let him free.
Abu Bakr (RA) When Abu Bakr proclaimed the Unity of God in the courtyard of the Ka’aba
openly. The Quraish set upon him fiercely, and maltreated him so mercilessly that when his
fellow tribesmen intervened and carried him to his house, he was quite unconscious and his face
was swollen.
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Amr bin Fuhairah (RA) was as a slave who was tortured. Abu Bakr (RA) purchased his freedom
and he continued to work for him as a shepherd.
Talha and Zubair bin al Awwam (RA) were dragged on streets and suffocated
Abu Zarr Ghaffari (RA) was attacked by a crowd of non-believers. He fell down and became
senseless for sometimes.
Mus’ab ibn Umayr (RA) lived life of comfort and luxury but when accepted Islam was tortured
by mother’s relatives, till he escaped and migrated to Abyssinia.
Khabab bin Arat (RA) was put on heated stones and made to lie on burning coal with a rock on
his chest.
The weak and those held in bondage like slaves, were persecuted brutally and savagely.
Labeenah was a female slave of Banu Adi. She would be beaten up mercilessly.
Zinnira (RA) was a female slave belonged to the Makhzum clan. She was handed over to Abu
Jahl to be tortured. Deprived of sleep, food and water, she became blind as a result of the
malnourishment. Abu Jahl taunted her that that the idols Al-Lat and Al-Uzza had taken her sight
away. She responded that her Lord Allah had decided this and that he could return her eyesight.
Miraculously the next day, her eyesight was restored. Abu Bakr also purchased her freedom.
Severity of the persecutions
Prophet (SAW) told the believers to meet secretly at Dar al-Arqam, where they would learn
about their new faith.
Prophet (SAW) allowed some people to migrate to Abyssinia in 5th Year of Prophethood to
escape from the severity of persecution.
A social and economic boycott was imposed on the Muslims. They were to live in Shib-i- Abi
Talib, where they faced great hardships for three years.
The persecution was not only physical but also economic. The poor Muslims were not paid for
their hard work. The rich and settled Muslims like Abu Bakr (RA) had to face non-cooperation
in trade. For example, Makkans used to sell their goods in less than the purchase price in order
to hurt Muslim traders.
Later, they migrated to Madinah leaving their homeland for faith.
Reference:
• Cambridge O Level Islamiyat by Dr Saqib Muhammad khan and Dr Habib ur Rehman
• When the Moon Split by Safiur Rahman Mubarakpuri
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