Historical Encyclopedia
The Arab conquest of Jordan in the 7th century was a significant event in the history of the region, changing its political and cultural landscape. The conquest is linked to the spread of Islam, which had a profound impact on the society, culture, and religious life of the Jordanians. This process not only altered the political map but also formed a new Islamic society that contributed to the development of trade, science, and art.
By the beginning of the 7th century, the Arabian Peninsula was in a state of political and social instability. Following the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632, the era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs began, marked by the rapid expansion of the Islamic state. Arab tribes united by the new faith began waging wars against neighboring countries, including the Byzantine and Persian Empires.
Jordan, located on the border of the Byzantine Empire, was an important strategic region controlling key trade routes. The Byzantines, weakened by internal conflicts and external threats, were unable to effectively defend their borders, creating favorable conditions for the Arab conquerors.
In 636, during the Battle of Yarmouk, Arab forces led by Caliph Umar I achieved a decisive victory over the Byzantine troops. This battle marked a turning point in the history of the region, paving the way for the Arab conquest of Jordan. After Yarmouk, Arab armies began to capture cities such as Jerash and Petra, which were important centers of trade and culture.
The Arab conquest proceeded relatively quickly, as the local population, weary of Byzantine rule, often greeted the Arabs with open arms. Many Jordanians embraced Islam, which facilitated the integration of the Arab conquerors into society.
After the conquest of Jordan, Islam became the dominant religion in the region. Arab rule brought not only religious changes but also cultural ones. The local population began to adapt Islamic traditions and customs, leading to the formation of a new Islamic society. Islamic culture, encompassing the Arabic language, architecture, art, and science, began to thrive.
The construction of mosques became an important part of public life. One of the first mosques in Jordan was the Mosque of Umar in Jerash, which became a symbol of the new Islamic era. This mosque, built in the 7th century, has preserved its architectural features and still attracts tourists and researchers today.
Under Arab rule, Jordan was part of the caliphate, which was divided into administrative units. Local rulers, appointed by the caliph, governed the regions and maintained order. This system of governance contributed to stability and economic development. Local residents who embraced Islam were given the opportunity to hold administrative positions, facilitating their integration into the new society.
The Arab administration actively developed infrastructure, including roads, markets, and oases, contributing to the economic prosperity of the region. Trade between Jordan and neighboring states, such as Egypt and Syria, significantly increased.
The Arab conquest of Jordan not only changed the political structure but also had a profound impact on the culture of the region. Islam promoted the development of science, philosophy, and art. Local scholars began to engage in astronomy, mathematics, and medicine, making significant contributions to global science.
The architecture of this period also experienced rapid growth. New building techniques emerged, and mosques and madrasas became important centers not only of religious life but also of education. The art of mosaics, calligraphy, and textiles reached high levels, reflecting the richness and diversity of Islamic culture.
Islam became the foundation for a new worldview, and the local population actively participated in community life. Sharia, Islamic law, regulated many aspects of life, including family relations, trade, and criminal matters. Local rulers sought to maintain order and adhere to Islamic principles, contributing to the formation of a stable society.
By this time, various Islamic currents already existed in Jordan, including Sunni and Shia. These currents influenced the political and social processes in the region, which also contributed to the development of a rich cultural life.
The Arab conquest of Jordan left a significant legacy that is felt today. The spread of Islam shaped the region's identity, and the Arabic language became the primary means of communication. Architectural monuments and cultural traditions that emerged during this period continue to attract the attention of scholars and tourists.
Today, Jordan is one of the key Islamic countries, preserving its traditions and culture. The local population takes pride in its heritage, which includes both Islamic and pre-Islamic history of the region.
The Arab conquest of Jordan and the spread of Islam were important events in the history of the region. This period not only changed the political map but also formed a new society based on Islamic principles. The legacy of this time continues to influence modern society, preserving cultural and religious traditions that make Jordan a unique country in the Middle East.