When was Islam started?

When was Islam started?

Islam is believed to have begun in the 7th century CE, specifically in the year 610 CE, when Prophet Muhammad received the first revelation from Allah (God) through the Angel Gabriel. This event is known as the “First Revelation” and marks the beginning of Islam.

Introduction

Islam is one of the world’s major religions, with over a billion followers worldwide. Its history is rich and complex, spanning over 1,400 years. To understand when Islam started, we must delve into its origins and the life of its founder, Prophet Muhammad. Let’s explore the historical context and key events that marked the beginning of Islam.

Pre-Islamic Arabia

To understand the inception of Islam, we must first examine the environment of pre-Islamic Arabia. Before the advent of Islam, the Arabian Peninsula was a land characterized by tribalism, polytheism, and various forms of paganism. The Arabian Peninsula was home to numerous tribes, each with its own gods, customs, and practices. Mecca, a prominent city in present-day Saudi Arabia, played a central role in this cultural landscape.

The Birth of Prophet Muhammad

The story of Islam begins with the birth of its founder, Muhammad ibn Abdullah, in the year 570 CE in the city of Mecca. Muhammad belonged to the powerful and respected Quraysh tribe. As a young man, he worked as a merchant and was known for his honesty and integrity. At the age of 40, during a period of contemplation and meditation in the cave of Hira, located in the outskirts of Mecca, Muhammad received his first revelation from Allah (God) through the Angel Gabriel. This event marked the beginning of Islam.

The Revelation of the Quran

Over the course of 23 years, Prophet Muhammad continued to receive revelations from Allah. These revelations were compiled into the holy book of Islam, the Quran. The Quran is considered the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims, addressing matters of faith, morality, and daily life.

The Message of Islam

The central message of Islam, as conveyed by Prophet Muhammad, was the concept of monotheism. Islam taught that there is only one God, Allah, and that all humans are equal in His sight. It emphasized social justice, compassion, and the importance of good deeds. Muhammad’s teachings also included guidance on prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage to Mecca.

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The Migration to Medina

As Muhammad continued to preach monotheism and the message of Islam, he faced opposition from the leaders of Mecca, who felt threatened by his teachings. In 622 CE, Muhammad and his followers migrated to the city of Yathrib, later known as Medina, where they found refuge and support from the local tribes. This event, known as the Hijra, marks another significant milestone in the history of Islam and is considered the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

Expansion of Islam

During his time in Medina, Muhammad continued to receive revelations and established a thriving Muslim community. He also engaged in diplomatic efforts and, at times, military campaigns to protect and spread the message of Islam. By the time of his death in 632 CE, much of the Arabian Peninsula had embraced Islam, and his teachings had laid the foundation for a rapidly expanding faith.

Conclusion

Islam began in the 7th century CE with the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad in the Arabian Peninsula. It emerged in a region characterized by polytheism and tribalism and brought the message of monotheism and social justice. Over the centuries, Islam has grown to become one of the world’s major religions, influencing the lives of billions of people across the globe. Understanding its historical roots helps us appreciate the depth and significance of this faith in the modern world.

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