Life and Teachings of the Prophet Muhammad
1. Arabia before Islam
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spring which is known as Zamzam. Makkah is founded at this
spring spot of Zamzam.
Both Makkah and Madinah were, and still are, islands in a sea
of desert. These towns were initially inhabited by the descendants
of the nomads, who still retained many of the desert born habits of
their ancestors.
Situated in a valley, Makkah is one of the oldest cities in the
world. It is a desert, with no vegetation, no date-palms.
There are some fertile spots in the desert, which are called
oases. There are also springs of water here and there, although
grass and palm trees grow. These springs of water are scattered all
over the desert. Large as well as small clans settle around the
oases.
Makkah since ancient times was an important centre for the
caravans coming from the south with valuable merchandise. They
brought gold, precious stones and spices from Africa to Yemen.
From here it was taken to the markets of Syria, Egypt and many
other places on the backs of camels.
The merchants travelled in caravans for the sake of safety. For
in those days caravans were an easy target. Since these caravans
passed through vast stretches of uninhabited deserts, it was easy
for plunderers to rob them of all their merchandise.
At Makkah agriculture not being possible, the city thrived on
commerce. Makkah became an important trading centre because of
