Islam began in the 7th century CE with the prophethood of Muhammad in Mecca, Arabia.
The Prophet Muhammad and the Revelation of Islam
- Muhammad was born in Mecca around 570 CE.
- He received his first revelation from God (Allah) at the age of 40, through the angel Gabriel.
- These revelations formed the Quran, the central religious text of Islam.
- Muhammad's teachings emphasized monotheism (belief in one God), submission to God's will, justice, and compassion.
The Spread of Islam
- After facing persecution in Mecca, Muhammad and his followers migrated to Medina in 622 CE. This event is known as the Hijra, marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
- In Medina, Muhammad established a community based on his teachings.
- He led military campaigns to spread the message of Islam, eventually conquering Mecca in 630 CE.
- Following Muhammad's death in 632 CE, Islam continued to spread rapidly across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond.
Key Dates:
- 570 CE: Birth of Muhammad in Mecca
- 610 CE: First revelation to Muhammad
- 622 CE: Hijra (migration) to Medina
- 630 CE: Conquest of Mecca
- 632 CE: Death of Muhammad
