Green Bridge Learning Resource For Pre-islamic Arabia (jahiliyyah)

Overview

Welcome to the captivating world of Islamic History and Civilization with a focus on the intriguing period of Pre-Islamic Arabia, known as Jahiliyyah. This era holds significant importance as it lays the foundation for understanding the cultural, social, and religious landscape before the advent of Islam.

In order to grasp the essence of Jahiliyyah, it is essential to delve into the various practices that were prevalent among the Arabs during that time. These practices ranged from idol worship, infanticide, polyandry, gambling, to usury, reflecting a society immersed in ignorance and darkness.

Jahiliyyah Practices: Idol worship was rampant in Pre-Islamic Arabia, with tribes worshipping a multitude of deities made of wood, stone, or even dates. Infanticide, a heinous act of burying infant girls alive due to fear of shame or poverty, was tragically common. Polyandry, the practice of a woman having multiple husbands simultaneously, blurred the lines of familial relations.

Gambling and usury were prevalent vices that plagued the society, leading to economic disparities and moral decay. Women were treated as property to be inherited or traded, devoid of basic rights and dignity. The culture of revenge and tribal warfare further perpetuated a cycle of violence and bloodshed.

However, with the dawn of Islam and the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him), a transformational wave of change swept through the Arabian Peninsula, heralding the beginning of a new era. Islamic reforms sought to uproot the deep-seated practices of Jahiliyyah and establish a society based on justice, equality, and monotheism.

Islamic Reforms: Islam brought about a radical shift in societal norms by abolishing idol worship and establishing the worship of one true God, Allah. The Quranic injunction condemning the killing of infants and emphasizing the sanctity of life sparked a revolution in attitudes towards children.

The prohibition of usury and gambling aimed to foster economic stability and ethical financial practices. Women were granted rights and protections unheard of in the Jahiliyyah period, elevating their status to that of respected individuals in society.

Islamic teachings emphasized mercy, compassion, and forgiveness, steering away from the cycle of vengeance and promoting reconciliation and peace. The concept of brotherhood among believers transcended tribal affiliations, fostering unity and solidarity among diverse members of society.

In conclusion, the study of Pre-Islamic Arabia (Jahiliyyah) unveils a tapestry of customs, practices, and beliefs that set the stage for the profound reforms brought about by Islam. By exploring the contrast between the darkness of ignorance and the illumination of divine guidance, we gain insight into the transformative power of faith and the enduring legacy of Islamic civilization.

Objectives

Trace The Reforms Brought About By Islam To The Jahiliyyah Practices
Distinguish The Different Types Of Practices Common To The Arabs Of Al-Jahiliyyah

Lesson Note

Not Available

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Pre-islamic Arabia (jahiliyyah). Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

What were some common practices of the Arabs during the period of Jahiliyyah? A. Idol Worship B. Infanticide C. Polyandry D. All of the above Answer: D. All of the above
Which of the following practices was prevalent among the Arabs in Jahiliyyah as a form of entertainment and social activity? A. Usury B. Gambling C. Polygamy D. Charity Answer: B. Gambling
Which of the following was considered a social evil during the period of Jahiliyyah in Pre-Islamic Arabia? A. Pilgrimage to Mecca B. Charity to the poor C. Infanticide D. Promotion of justice in society Answer: C. Infanticide
What was the primary belief system followed by the Arabs of Jahiliyyah before the advent of Islam? A. Christianity B. Atheism C. Polytheism D. Judaism Answer: C. Polytheism
Which of the following reforms did Islam introduce to eradicate the practice of Infanticide prevalent in Jahiliyyah? A. Prohibition of harming or killing female infants B. Permission to bury infants alive in certain circumstances C. Mandating the killing of male infants D. Encouraging the practice of Infanticide Answer: A. Prohibition of harming or killing female infants
What practice did Islam aim to eliminate by prohibiting Usury in the society of Jahiliyyah? A. Charity B. Interest-based lending C. Equal distribution of wealth D. Fair trade practices Answer: B. Interest-based lending
Which of the following reforms did Islam introduce to address the issue of Idol Worship in Jahiliyyah society? A. Emphasizing the worship of multiple idols B. Introduction of new idols for worship C. Declaring Tawhid (monotheism) and the worship of one God D. Encouraging the worship of nature Answer: C. Declaring Tawhid (monotheism) and the worship of one God
Why did Islam prohibit the practice of Polyandry common in Jahiliyyah society? A. To promote gender equality B. To encourage multiple husbands for women C. To create confusion in marital relationships D. To eradicate the practice of sharing wives Answer: D. To eradicate the practice of sharing wives

Recommended Books

	The Life of the Prophet Muhammad Subtitle Reforming Jahiliyyah Practices Publisher Islamic Publications Year 2010 ISBN 978-1-56564-796-4
	Purification of the Heart: Signs, Symptoms and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the Heart Subtitle Islamic Approach to Jahiliyyah Practices Publisher White Thread Press Year 2004 ISBN 978-0-9728-1615-5

Past Questions

Wondering what past questions for this topic looks like? Here are a number of questions about Pre-islamic Arabia (jahiliyyah) from previous years

WAEC SSCE - Islamic Studies - 2022 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

The period between the advent of Islam in Arabia is referred to as Jahiliyyah because Arabia

was surrounded by water in the West and South

had no inspired Prophet and revelation

was divided into three physical zones

had desert border lines

View Answer

JAMB UTME - Islamic Religious Studies - 2023 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

The main means of transport used by the Arabs in the desert was

Cattle

Horse

Camel

Donkey

Answer Details

The main means of transport used by the Arabs in the desert was the camel.
Camels are perfectly designed for living and traveling in desert environments. They have some unique adaptations that make them the ideal choice for traversing the desert.
One of the key reasons for using camels is their ability to conserve water. Camels are able to go for long periods of time without drinking water, which is a crucial factor in arid desert conditions where water sources may be scarce. They can survive for several days without drinking, and when they do have access to water, they can drink up to 30 gallons at once to replenish their reserves.
Another advantage of camels is their ability to tolerate extreme temperatures. They have a thick coat that helps to insulate them from the heat during the day and keep them warm at night. Their broad feet distribute their weight over a larger surface area, preventing them from sinking into the soft desert sand.
Camels also have a unique way of navigating through the desert. They have a strong sense of direction and can remember their travel routes even after long periods of time. They can use landmarks and the position of the sun and stars to find their way and avoid getting lost.
In addition to their physical adaptations, camels have been an integral part of Arab culture for centuries. They have been domesticated and trained to carry heavy loads, making them valuable for transporting goods and people across the vast desert landscapes. They are also well-suited for long journeys, as they are resilient and can withstand the challenges of desert travel.
Therefore, the camel was the primary means of transportation for the Arabs in the desert due to its adaptability to the harsh desert environment, its water conservation capabilities, its heat tolerance, its navigation skills, and its cultural significance in Arab society.

View Answer