SW Asia and North Africa Vocab

Question 1

Define Arabic Numerals

Answer 1

The system of writing we use today (1,2,3,4,5,etc)

Question 2

Define Astroblade

Answer 2

Used to help sailors determine their distance (north or south) of the equator.

Question 3

Define Bedouin

Answer 3

Arab nomad

Question 4

Define Caliph

Answer 4

Title meaning “Successor” in Arabic, used by leaders in Muslim communities.

Question 5

Define calligraphy

Answer 5

The art of beautiful handwriting

Question 6

Define 5 pillars of Islam

Answer 6

The most basic act of worship for Muslims, declaration of faith, prayer, charity, fasting, and making a pilgrimage to Mecca.

Question 7

Define Hajj

Answer 7

A pilgrimage made by Muslims to the holy city of Mecca

Question 8

Define Hijra

Answer 8

Muhammads migration with his followers from Mecca to Medina

Question 9

Define Jihad

Answer 9

Muslims’ struggle with challenges within themselves and the world as they strive to please god.

Question 10

Define Kaaba

Answer 10

Shrine in Mecca that is the most important islamic holy site

Question 11

Define Mehmet/d II

Answer 11

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.

Question 12

Define monotheism

Answer 12

A belief in one god

Question 13

Define Mosque

Answer 13

Islamic house of worship

Question 14

Define Prophet

Answer 14

A person who speaks or interprets the words of god.

Question 15

Define Quran

Answer 15

Holy book of Islam

Question 16

Define Ramadan

Answer 16

9th month of Islam calendar. Muslims are required to fast.

Question 17

Define Shia

Answer 17

A member of an Islamic community that supported Ali as the first Caliph.

Question 18

Define Sufism

Answer 18

An Islamic lifestyle that emphasizes controlling one’s desire, giving up world attachments, and seeking nearness to god.

Question 19

Define Sultan

Answer 19

Title of ruler of a muslim country.

Question 20

Define Sunnah

Answer 20

Traditions believed by many Muslims to come from the prophet Muhhamas

Question 21

Define Sunni

Answer 21

Member of Islamic religious group that support Abu Bakr as 1st caliph

Question 22

Define Translation Movement

Answer 22

A large well-funded effort, responsible for translating a significant volume of secular greek texts into arabic.

Question 23

Define Trigonometry

Answer 23

In the Islamic world, the calculation of a spherical triangle in order to carry out ritual customs.