Rank the social divisions in the Arab Muslim Empire from top to bottom.
1. Caliph – The highest rank belonged to the Caliph, who was the political and religious leader of the Muslim Empire. The Caliph was considered the successor to the Prophet Muhammad and was responsible for maintaining and expanding the empire.
2. Arab Muslims – The Arab Muslims were given a higher status than other Muslims in the empire due to their direct connection to the original Arab tribes and the Prophet Muhammad. They held key positions in the military, government, and administration.
3. Non-Arab Muslims – Non-Arab Muslims, such as Persians, Egyptians, and Berbers, held a lower status compared to Arab Muslims. However, they were still considered part of the Muslim community (ummah) and could hold administrative and military positions.
4. Dhimmis (People of the Book) – The Dhimmis were non-Muslims who followed monotheistic religions such as Christianity, Judaism, and Zoroastrianism. They were allowed to practice their religion and maintain their institutions but had to pay a special tax called jizya, ensuring their protection and certain rights.
5. Mawali (Non-Arab Muslim converts) – Mawali were non-Arab converts to Islam, who held a lower status in the society, often facing discrimination and not allowed to hold high administrative positions.
6. Slaves – Slavery was a deeply entrenched institution in the Arab Muslim Empire, with slaves coming from various regions such as Africa, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia. Slaves were used for labor, military service, or domestic service, and their status in society was at the bottom of the social hierarchy. However, Islam encouraged fair treatment of slaves, and they could eventually gain their freedom through various means, such as conversion to Islam or by displaying exceptional skills/abilities.