The Rise of Islam

Six centuries after Christ, Muhammad is born in Mecca into the Quraysh tribe, traditionally descended from Abraham through Ishmael. Orphaned young, he becomes a merchant known for honesty. At age 40, while meditating in a cave, he receives the first of many revelations from the angel Jibril (Gabriel)—the beginning of the Quran. Muhammad preaches strict monotheism against Meccan polytheism, attracting followers but also persecution. In 622 CE, he and his followers migrate to Medina (the Hijra), marking Year 1 of the Islamic calendar. In Medina, Muhammad establishes the first Muslim community, combining religious and political leadership. After years of conflict, he conquers Mecca in 630 CE, destroys the idols in the Kaaba, and unifies much of Arabia under Islam. He dies in 632 CE, leaving a rapidly expanding faith that would soon stretch from Spain to Central Asia.