Arabia Before Islam: Key Concepts

Which two powerful empires bordered Arabia before the rise of Islam?

• Roman and Greek Empires

• Egyptian and Babylonian Empires

• Sasanian and Byzantine Empires

• Mongol and Chinese Empires

Why were powerful empires not interested in conquering Arabia before the rise of Islam?

• It was too difficult to cross the mountains.

• It was a hot desert with few valuable resources.

• The Arabian tribes were too strong to defeat.

• They were already allied with the Arabian tribes.

What made Mecca a safe and attractive place for trade?

• It had many fertile lands and water sources.

• It was protected by a powerful army.

• It was declared a "haram," where violence was forbidden.

• It was located on a major sea trade route.

What was the primary source of income for the Meccans?

• Farming and agriculture.

• Fishing and pearl diving.

• Mining for precious metals.

• Taxing trade and pilgrimage.