Early Middle Ages Religion

What is Religion? A set of beliefs concerning the creation and nature of the universe. Often contains a set moral code to govern human behavior. Often deals with the issue of an afterlife (heaven, hell, reincarnation, etc.) Is organized and can have a set place of worship, holy book(s), and spiritual leaders. Dictionary.com

Why study Religion? Religion is a force of change. Religion is a source to help determine social values. Religious institutions had (and have) a lot of political and social power.

Greek/Roman Gods Similar to Greek Gods but had different names. Ex: Jupiter instead of Zeus. Each God had its own specific powers and responsibilities. Roman Emperors were also considered Gods.

Timeline

JUDAISM Founded by the Patriarch Abraham over 3000 years ago. Most important Holy Book: the Torah. Believe in one God. Often persecuted and forced to move. Ended up settling in many cities of the Mediterranean world. Still a world religion today.

Timeline

Christianity Founded by the Jesus Christ and his apostles. Most important book is the Bible. 2 parts, Old Testament (Contains same five books as the Torah. New Testament (Contains the Gospels of Jesus’ apostles) Believe in one God, in three aspects. (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) Was known as the Roman Catholic Church and was led by the Pope during this time period.

Timeline – Edict of Milan

Timeline Christianity named official religion of the Roman Empire

Spread of Christianity ( 325 – 600 CE )

Timeline - Islam

ISLAM

ISLAM Founded by the Prophet Mohammed. Holy book known as the Quran (also spelled Koran.) Believe in one God. 5 Pillars of Islam Shahadah – Profession of the faith Salat – Prayer five times daily Zakat – alms giving Sawm – Fasting during Holy month of Ramadan. Hajj – Pilgrimage to the Holy city of Mecca.

Timeline – Islamic Expansion

Spread of Islam (622 – 750 CE)

Timeline – Battle of Tours

Battle of Tours (732 CE) Franks vs. Umayyad Caliphate The Franks (modern day French) under Charles Martel fought a battle against the Umayyad Caliphate under Abdul Rahman Al-Gafiqui. The Franks defeated the Umayyad Caliphate despite the Umayyad’s fierce cavalry. It is debatable how much of an impact this had on the halt of Islam into Europe, but it did set the stage for Charlemagne and the Carolingian Empire’s later dominance of Europe.

Timeline – Charlemagne