Arabs in the Early Islamic Empire: Exploring Al-Azd Tribal Identity

This book explores the evolution of al-Azd, a broad tribal identity, from the pre-Islamic period to the early Abbasid era, highlighting its continuous refashioning.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 272 pages
\n Publication date: 28 February 2021
\n Publisher: Edinburgh University Press
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This book delves into the fascinating journey of a single broad tribal identity, al-Azd, from the immediate pre-Islamic period to the early Abbasid era. It explores the dynamic ways in which this identity was continuously shaped and reimagined throughout this period, shedding light on the complex tapestry of cultural, social, and political forces that influenced its evolution.

The book begins by providing a comprehensive overview of the historical context in which al-Azd emerged. It explores the social, economic, and political landscape of the region, highlighting the various tribes and clans that inhabited it. This initial chapter sets the stage for the subsequent chapters, which delve deeper into the specific aspects of al-Azd's identity.

One of the key themes that the book explores is the role of religion in shaping al-Azd's identity. It examines how the beliefs and practices of Islam influenced the formation of the tribe, as well as how the tribe responded to the challenges and opportunities presented by the Islamic faith. The book also explores the influence of other religious traditions, such as Christianity and Judaism, on al-Azd's identity, highlighting the complex interplay of religious beliefs and practices in the region.

Another important aspect of al-Azd's identity is its geographical location. The book examines how the tribe's proximity to important trade routes and strategic locations influenced its development and interactions with other cultures. It also explores the impact of environmental factors, such as climate and topography, on al-Azd's identity, highlighting the ways in which these factors shaped the tribe's way of life and interactions with the surrounding world.

Throughout the book, the author employs a range of historical sources, including primary sources such as historical texts, archaeological evidence, and oral traditions, to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of al-Azd's identity. The author also draws on contemporary scholarship and analysis to contextualize the historical events and processes discussed in the book, providing a contemporary perspective on the tribe's history.

In conclusion, this book offers a valuable contribution to the study of tribal identity and history in the early Islamic period. It provides a detailed and nuanced exploration of a single broad tribal identity, al-Azd, from its emergence to the early Abbasid era. Through its analysis of the role of religion, geography, and other cultural and social factors, the book sheds light on the complex and dynamic nature of identity formation in this period, and its enduring impact on the history and culture of the region.

\n Weight: 416g\n
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 20 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781474436809\n \n