1. Arabia Pre-Islamic Period

2. Pre-Islamic Arabia

3. Arabia Arabia is a peninsula. It is an isolated area without any natural harbors. Very harsh climate – extremely hot during day and cold at night. Many Arabs were Bedouins – nomads of the desert. Life in Arabia before Islam featured decentralized political structure and constant warfare between tribes.

5. Domestication of Camels  Around 1000 B.C.  Camels became essential for survival –Milk –Meat –Travel  Commerce was born

6. Bedouin

7. Religions Before Islam ► Polytheism and Animism ► Monotheism existed – Jewish communities ► Influence of Christianity – from 4 th century ► Arabic tradition – same origins as the Hebrews.  Arabs were children of Ishmael, son of Abraham