Middle East: Vocab Flashcards
Group of major monotheistic faiths that include Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. They are based on the teachings of the Hebrew patriarch Abraham and share the belief in one God.
Abrahamic Religions
Arabic phrase meaning “House of Islam: and is commonly used to refer to areas where Muslim rule and Islamic law are practiced
Dar al-Islam
A name given to the Muslim-ruled part of the Iberian Peninsula (modern-day Spain and Portugal) between 711 and 1492; a period of great cultural, religious, and intellectual tolerance, which saw the flourishing of Islamic, Jewish, and Christian cultures
al-Andalus
Intellectual center in Baghdad during the Abbasid Caliphate in the 9th and 10th centuries CE; a library and translation institute which collected, translated and studied Greek, Indian, and Persian scientific and philosophical texts. It was a major source of knowledge and learning in the Islamic world and contributed greatly to the development of science and philosophy
House of Wisdom
Branch of the Islamic faith, is the largest branch of the religion and comprises around 85% of the global Muslim population. Sunni Muslims adhere to the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and the Qur’an, and believe in the five pillars of Islam; also believe in the caliphate, which is a form of Islamic government.
Sunni
Other main branch, other than Sunni. Shi’a Muslims believe that the leadership of the Muslim community should remain within the family of the Prophet Muhammad, particularly through his cousin and son-in-law, Ali ibn Abi Talib. Emphasized the spiritual and moral authority of their leaders, known as Imams, who are believed to be divinely appointed
Shi’a
Islamic mystic tradition that emphasizes the personal experience of God through spiritual practices, such as meditation and ritual. It is often referred to as Islamic mysticism and is focused on understanding and experiencing the divine.
Sufis
A place of worship for Muslims, typically featuring a domed roof, minarets, and a prayer hall for communal prayers.
Mosque
Islamic educational institution that provides instruction in Islamic studies, including Qur’anic studies, Islamic law, Islamic jurisprudence, Hadith, and Islamic theology. Madrasas are typically found in countries with predominantly Muslim populations and are often the primary source of religious education for children.
Madrasa
Leader of Muslim community who leads prayer services and provides spiritual guidance to the community. The Imam is typically chosen based on his knowledge of Islamic scriptures and teachings, as well as his ability to lead and guide the community.
Imam
Tax historically imposed on non-Muslims by Islamic states. It is typically paid in exchange for protection and freedom of worship.
Jizya
Set of Islamic laws derived from the Qur’an, Hadith, and centuries of Islamic scholarship. It is a comprehensive code of conduct that governs all aspects of life, including spiritual, social, political, and economic matters.
Sharia
medieval Turko-Persian empire based in Central Asia. It was founded by Genghis Khan’s grandson, Chagatai Khan, in 1219 CE and lasted until it was conquered by Timur in 1369 CE. It was the second largest contiguous empire of the medieval period, covering much of Central Asia, Afghanistan, and parts of modern-day Iran and Pakistan. The Ilkanate was known for its religious tolerance and its vibrant culture, as well as its military prowess.
Ilkhanate
Turco-Mongol conqueror who founded the Timuid Empire in Persia and Central Asia in the 14th century. He is remembered for his military campaigns and his ruthless tactics, which included the systematic massacre or tens of thousands of civilians.
Timur
Type of sail made from interwoven strips of canvas, generally used on small boats and ships. It is lightweight and easy to handle, and is well-suited for light air sailing.
Lateen Sails
