Comprehensive Definition
Almoravids – Known as al-Murabitun in Arabic (المرابطون), the Almoravids were a coalition of Western Saharan Berber tribes united by a strict adherence to Islamic principles under the leadership of Abdallah ibn Yasin. This movement, which lasted from 1046 to 1157, sought to purify the Islamic community, emphasizing Quranic teachings, Hadith, and Maliki jurisprudence. The Almoravids expanded their influence into Morocco and Spain, enforcing Islamic law promptly and severely.
Etymology
The term “Almoravid” is derived from the Arabic root ر-ب-ط which means “to tie” or “to bind,” encapsulating the group’s principle of binding themselves to the cause of protecting and propagating their faith.
Historical Facts and Dates
- 1046: Formation of the Almoravid movement under the guidance of Abdallah ibn Yasin.
- 1054: Capture of Sijilmasa, marking the beginning of their expansion.
- 1086: Battle of Sagrajas where the Almoravids defeated Alfonso VI of Castile.
- 1090: Conquest of Granada and other parts of Muslim Spain (Al-Andalus).
- 1130: The declining phase begins after the death of Yusuf ibn Tashfin, marked by internal strife and external pressures.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
North Africa vs. Al-Andalus
In both regions, the Almoravids enforced Islamic principles, yet cultural resistance varied:
- North Africa: Their reforms were initially more accepted due to cultural and geographic proximity, leading to substantial cultural and infrastructural developments.
- Al-Andalus: Spanish Muslims showed more resistance due to differing social norms and intellectual traditions. The enforcement led to social reforms and tighter control but also pushed a blend of cultural exchange, particularly in architecture and academia.
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms:
- Al-Murabitun
- Saharan Berbers’ Coalition
Antonyms:
- Almohads (their successors who opposed their strict interpretations)
- Sufis (whom they opposed)
Related Terms
Abdallah ibn Yasin
Abdallah ibn Yasin (d. 1059): The Almoravids’ spiritual and military leader who initially preached their strict Islamic doctrines.
Jihad
Jihad: Often interpreted here as a struggle for religious purification, both internal (greater jihad) and external (lesser jihad).
Exciting Facts
- The Almoravids’ capital, Marrakesh, founded by them in 1062, became a noted center of culture and commerce.
- They were instrumental in the dissemination of the Maliki school of Islamic jurisprudence.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“The Almoravids, by their extraordinary devotion, were able to extend the reach of Islam into regions and hearts formerly shielded by pride and tradition.” – Muhammad Asad
Suggested Literature
- “Almoravid Iberia: The Cradle of Fundamentalism?” by Levi Nieschlag
- “Medieval North Africa and Spain under the Almoravid Dynasty” by Ahmed Yahya al-Mansur
- “The Sword and the Pen: Almoravid Scholarship and Military Might” by Sofia al-Hadid
Translation of Main Term
- Arabic: Almoravids (المرابطون)
- Persian: المرابطین
- Turkish: Murabıtlar
- Urdu: المرابطون
- Bengali: আলমোরাভিডস
- Indonesian: Almoravid
- Romanian: Almoravidii
### Who were the founders of the Almoravid movement?
- [x] Western Saharan Berbers
- [ ] The Moors
- [ ] The Ottomans
- [ ] The Mughals
> **Explanation:** The Almoravid movement was initiated by Western Saharan Berbers united under strict Islamic principles.
### What significant battle did the Almoravids win in 1086?
- [x] Battle of Sagrajas
- [ ] Battle of Hastings
- [ ] Battle of Tours
- [ ] Battle of Vienna
> **Explanation:** The Battle of Sagrajas in 1086 was a pivotal victory for the Almoravids against the forces of Alfonso VI of Castile.
### Under which jurisprudence did the Almoravids enforce their laws?
- [x] Maliki
- [ ] Hanafi
- [ ] Shafi'i
- [ ] Hanbali
> **Explanation:** The Almoravids strictly adhered to and enforced the Maliki school of Islamic jurisprudence.
### What was the principle meaning behind the name "Almoravid"?
- [ ] Warriors of the Faith
- [x] Those bound by allegiance
- [ ] Seekers of Knowledge
- [ ] Defenders of the Realm
> **Explanation:** The term "Almoravid" is derived from the Arabic root meaning "to tie" or "to bind," illustrating their commitment to their cause.
### Which prominent leader guided the early Almoravids?
- [x] Abdallah ibn Yasin
- [ ] Saladin
- [ ] Umar ibn al-Khattab
- [ ] Harun al-Rashid
> **Explanation:** Abdallah ibn Yasin was the spiritual and military leader who first preached the strict Islamic doctrines of the Almoravids.
### From which root in Arabic does the term "Almoravid" originate?
- [x] ر-ب-ط
- [ ] ن-ص-ر
- [ ] ق-ت-ل
- [ ] ق-ر-ا
> **Explanation:** The root "ر-ب-ط" in Arabic, meaning "to tie" or "to bind," serves as the basis for the term Almoravid.
### What was the capital city established by the Almoravids?
- [x] Marrakesh
- [ ] Cordoba
- [ ] Baghdad
- [ ] Alexandria
> **Explanation:** Marrakesh was founded as the capital by the Almoravids in 1062.
### Which cultural form did the Almoravids oppose during their rule?
- [x] Sufism
- [ ] Geometry
- [ ] Art
- [ ] Mathematics
> **Explanation:** The Almoravids opposed Sufism and emphasized a strict interpretation of Quranic teachings.
In continuing our journey through the rich tapestry of Islamic history, let us be inspired by the dedication and influence of our ancestors. Their imprints, though from centuries past, continue to shape our present narratives in profound ways.
“Bearing the torch of wisdom, let your pursuit of knowledge illuminate the path for generations to come.”
- Yusuf Ibn Tariq, 📖 2023
