Compare and contrast the treatment of different religions by rulers of the Arab empire. bot
The treatment of different religions by rulers of the Arab empire varied depending on the time period and the specific ruler in power. Overall, Islam was the dominant religion in the Arab empire, and rulers generally favored and promoted Islam over other religions. However, there were periods and rulers who showed tolerance and even acceptance of other religions.
During the early Arab conquests in the 7th and 8th centuries, non-Muslims were generally allowed to practice their religion as long as they paid the jizya tax. This tax was a form of protection money that non-Muslims paid in exchange for being allowed to practice their religion and be protected by Muslim armies. Under the Umayyad dynasty, which ruled from 661-750, Christians and Jews were allowed to practice their religion and participate in society, although they were often treated as second-class citizens.
In contrast, the Abbasid dynasty, which ruled from 750-1258, was known for its relative tolerance towards non-Muslims. The Abbasid caliphs promoted learning and scholarship, and many non-Muslim scholars and scientists were able to flourish under their rule. The Abbasids also employed non-Muslims in high-ranking positions in government and administration.
However, there were also periods of intolerance towards non-Muslims in the Arab empire. The Fatimid dynasty, which ruled from 909-1171, was known for its persecution of Sunni Muslims and other religious minorities. The Almohad dynasty, which ruled from 1147-1269, imposed strict Islamic law and persecuted Jews and Christians in their territories.
Overall, the treatment of different religions by rulers of the Arab empire was complex and varied. While Islam was the dominant religion and often favored by rulers, there were periods of tolerance and acceptance towards non-Muslims, as well as periods of intolerance and persecution.