Compare and contrast the treatment of different religions by rulers of the Arab empire.
(4 points)
1. In the early days of the Arab empire, under the rule of the Rashidun Caliphs such as Abu Bakr and Umar, there was a policy of tolerance towards different religions, particularly towards Jews and Christians. Non-Muslims were allowed to practice their faith and were exempted from certain obligations required of Muslims, such as paying the zakat (Islamic tax).
2. However, under the Umayyad Caliphate, which followed the Rashidun period, there were instances of discrimination and persecution towards non-Muslims. The Umayyads favored Arab Muslims over non-Arabs and imposed certain restrictions on non-Muslims, such as special taxes and limitations on building new places of worship.
3. The Abbasid Caliphate, which succeeded the Umayyads, adopted a more inclusive approach towards different religions. The Abbasids were known for their patronage of science, philosophy, and culture, and they often employed non-Muslims in important positions in government. This policy of inclusivity helped to foster a period of cultural flourishing known as the Islamic Golden Age.
4. Overall, the treatment of different religions by rulers of the Arab empire varied depending on the specific period and the individual caliph in power. While there were instances of tolerance and even promotion of religious diversity, there were also periods of discrimination and persecution. Ultimately, the treatment of different religions reflected the complex political and social dynamics of the Arab empire at different points in its history.