SW Asia and North Africa Vocab Flashcards
Define Arabic Numerals
The system of writing we use today (1,2,3,4,5,etc)
Define Astroblade
Used to help sailors determine their distance (north or south) of the equator.
Define Bedouin
Arab nomad
Define Caliph
Title meaning “Successor” in Arabic, used by leaders in Muslim communities.
Define calligraphy
The art of beautiful handwriting
Define 5 pillars of Islam
The most basic act of worship for Muslims, declaration of faith, prayer, charity, fasting, and making a pilgrimage to Mecca.
Define Hajj
A pilgrimage made by Muslims to the holy city of Mecca
Define Hijra
Muhammads migration with his followers from Mecca to Medina
Define Jihad
Muslims’ struggle with challenges within themselves and the world as they strive to please god.
Define Kaaba
Shrine in Mecca that is the most important islamic holy site
Define Mehmet/d II
The sultan of the ottoman empire. Sometimes referred to as Mehmet/d the conqueror. He is responsible for bringing an end to the byzantine empire.
Define monotheism
A belief in one god
Define Mosque
Islamic house of worship
Define Prophet
A person who speaks or interprets the words of god.
Define Quran
Holy book of Islam
Define Ramadan
9th month of Islam calendar. Muslims are required to fast.
Define Shia
A member of an Islamic community that supported Ali as the first Caliph.
Define Sufism
An Islamic lifestyle that emphasizes controlling one’s desire, giving up world attachments, and seeking nearness to god.
Define Sultan
Title of ruler of a muslim country.
Define Sunnah
Traditions believed by many Muslims to come from the prophet Muhhamas
Define Sunni
Member of Islamic religious group that support Abu Bakr as 1st caliph
Define Translation Movement
A large well-funded effort, responsible for translating a significant volume of secular greek texts into arabic.
Define Trigonometry
In the Islamic world, the calculation of a spherical triangle in order to carry out ritual customs.
