The influence of religious motives on the development of Arab-Islamic civilization

until the end of the Umayyad era

Abstract

This research examines the impact of religious motivations on the development of Arab-Islamic civilization up to the end of the Umayyad era. Since the advent of Islam with the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), it marked a major turning point in Arab history, transforming them from a state of tribal fragmentation to a religious and political unity based on monotheism, justice, and equality. Islamic teachings contributed to organizing social life, consolidating moral values, and building a disciplined society governed by Islamic law.

During the era of the Rightly Guided Caliphs, particularly Umar ibn al-Khattab, religious motivations took on a practical dimension in the Islamic conquests aimed at spreading the message. This led to the expansion of the state and the interaction of Muslims with diverse civilizations, resulting in cultural, administrative, and scientific exchange that enriched the nascent civilization.

In the Umayyad era, especially during the reign of Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan, religious motivations manifested in the consolidation of Islamic identity through the Arabization of the administrative offices, the minting of Islamic currency, and the development of administrative systems. Furthermore, there was a focus on urban development, including the construction of mosques and major infrastructure projects, which strengthened the state's cultural character. Thus, it can be said that religious motives were the main driving force behind the establishment, expansion, and organization of the Islamic state and its institutions, and contributed directly to building an integrated Arab-Islamic civilization until the end of the Umayyad era in 132 AH / 750 AD.