The document summarizes the origins and early history of Islam. It began in 622 AD in Mecca, Arabia, with the teachings of the prophet Muhammad. Muhammad received revelations from God through the archangel Gabriel, and taught monotheism, rejecting the polytheism and idol worship of Meccan merchants. In 622 AD, Muhammad fled persecution in Mecca by migrating to Medina, marking the start of the Islamic calendar. In Medina, Muhammad's influence grew and he eventually conquered Mecca, destroying its idols. After establishing Islam across Arabia, Muhammad died in 632 AD, and Abu Bakr became the first caliph, or successor, continuing the spread of the Islamic message.

1. Do Now: Where did the religion of Islam begin? Whose teaching became known as the religion Islam?

2. In 622 A.D. a new religion called Islam arose in Arabia. BEDOUINS Nomadic herders Adapted to conditions

3. Mecca Medina

4. Mecca - oasis town Located in western Arabia. Bedouins traded with each other in oasis towns Important Trading City: was at the crossroads of two main caravan routes. Pilgrimage Center Muslims believe that one of the city’s sacred sites, the Kaaba (ancient shrine), was built by the Old Testament patriarch Abraham.

6. Was born in Mecca in 570 A.D. (Present day Saudi Arabia) Married Khadija Wealthy older widow who ran her husband’s caravan business Muslims believe he is the fourth and the most important prophet chosen by God.

7. D. Muhammad periodically withdrew to a cave outside Mecca to meditate and pray for guidance. Received Revelations from God through the Angel Gabriel. Who proclaimed him a prophet of God. (Allah)

8. Muhammad’s wife became first convert to Islam. Islam means “surrender” or “submission”—submission to the will of God. A follower of Islam is called a Muslim, which in Arabic means “one who surrenders to God.” Meccan merchants were angered by Muhammad’s teachings to reject idols. They sought to kill him.

9. In 622 Muhammad fled to Yathrib (Medina) This Journey is known as a Hijra. marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar Turning point for Islam. Muhammad was made ruler/lawgiver and prophet Thousands converted Eventually attacked MECCA and destroyed idols in the Kaaba

11. After 2 years of working to united the Arabs, Muhammad died in 632. Abu Bakr was elected the first Caliph, or successor to Muhammad. Message of Islam spread quickly, far beyond Arabia.

12. It is important to ask questions about the past and things that you do not understand. You will be going on a “Discovery” to answer your questions having to with Islam You also will be identifying between reliable and unreliable sources. This is the link to the project site: http://www.pageflakes.com/merpol/28336436