Foundations of Islam and Al-Andalus Civilization

Muhammad and the Pillars of Islam

Muhammad is the prophet of Islam, born in the city of Mecca around 570 CE. The precepts of Islam are the obligations of a Muslim believer, contained in the holy book, the Quran. These are five core obligations:

1. To believe in one God, Allah, and His prophet Muhammad, and to profess one's faith (the Shahada).
2. To perform ritual prayer (Salat) at least five times a day, facing towards Mecca.
3. To give alms to the needy (Zakat).
4. To fast (Sawm) from dawn to dusk during the month of Ramadan.
5. To make the pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca, the holy city, at least once in a lifetime.

Islamic Economic Principles

The Islamic economy was primarily based on agriculture, which developed significantly in Arabia, and nomadic pastoralism, adapted to the desert environment. Pastoralism and trade were primary sources of wealth. Local authorities controlled numerous commercial centers, which were often hubs for caravan trade routes and waterways.

Islamic Art and Architecture

In Islamic art, architecture stands out, contrasting with the limited development of sculpture and painting. This is due to the Quran's recommendation against reproducing the figures of Muhammad, other human figures, or animals. The most characteristic buildings were palaces and mosques. Palaces were often surrounded by gardens and fountains. They typically consisted of a public area for receiving emperors and officials, and a private residence for the caliph and his family.

Urban Centers in Al-Andalus

As in other Islamic cities of Al-Andalus, they possessed a medina (city center) which was surrounded by walls with several gates that were closed at dusk. The streets were narrow and winding, often following an irregular path. Cities typically had a network of sewer systems for wastewater, as well as public toilets and water sources. Each neighborhood had at least one mosque and a market. Religious schools, often attached to mosques, as well as libraries and hospitals, were also common.

Economy and Society in Al-Andalus

Rural activities were characterized by the development of both rain-fed and irrigated agriculture, livestock farming, mining, fishing, salt and stone extraction, and the collection of esparto grass and wildflowers. Urban activities emphasized the production of fabrics, jewelry, and various crafts. Both internal and external trade flourished, facilitated by a stable currency. Foreign trade, in particular, benefited from Al-Andalus's privileged geographical location.

The Great Mosque of Cordoba

The Great Mosque of Cordoba stands as a supreme work of Muslim architecture in Al-Andalus, remarkably preserved to this day.

The Caliph's Authority

Initially, the Caliph was the religious leader, recognized as the 'Prince of Believers.' This role quickly evolved into the highest authority of the Islamic world, organizing both central and regional administrations, as well as the judiciary. Caliphs undertook reforms to unify Islamic customs across all territories of the Caliphate.

Islamic Law and Customs

Islamic law forbids the faithful from consuming alcohol and pork. Additionally, it provides various recommendations for daily life. Muslims should refrain from blowing on food, must use their right hand for eating, should use toothpicks frequently, and avoid eating raw garlic or onions before going to the mosque.

The Kaaba and Black Stone

The Kaaba houses the Black Stone, which is probably a meteorite. The worship of the Black Stone attracted many pilgrims to Mecca even before the birth of Muhammad.

The Medina: Walled City Center

The Medina was the walled area where most houses, the main mosque, and the souk (market) with its shops and craft workshops were located.

The Mosque: Muslim Place of Worship

The mosque is the Muslim place of worship, where believers gather for prayer.

The Muslim Conquest of Hispania (711 CE)

In 711 CE, an army of Arabs and Berbers (Muslims from North Africa) led by Tariq ibn Ziyad entered the Iberian Peninsula. They capitalized on the internal strife among the Visigoths regarding the succession to the throne. In a decisive battle near the Guadalete River (Cadiz), they defeated the army of the last Visigothic king, Roderic. Following this victory, the Muslims quickly occupied most of the peninsula, established their capital in Cordoba, and named the conquered territories Al-Andalus.

The Caliphate of Cordoba

In 929 CE, Emir Abd al-Rahman III proclaimed himself Caliph of Al-Andalus. The Caliphate of Cordoba thus became politically and religiously independent from Baghdad, with its capital remaining in Cordoba.