Spread of Islam Vocabulary
Caliph A title that Muslims use for the highest leader of Islam. Caliphate Term used to describe the system of government first used by Muslims.
Sunnah Islamic Golden Age The way Muhammad lived which provides a model for the duties and the way of life expected of Muslims. Islamic Golden Age Period of cultural and territorial growth for the Islamic faith. It lasted from roughly AD 750 – AD 1258.
Mosque Building for Muslim prayer. Qur’an Holy book of Islam.
Shia / Shiite Branch of Islam that think only Muhammad’s descendants can become caliphs. Sunni Branch of Islam that do not think caliphs have to be related to Muhammad.