Aspects of Economic Life in Medina before Islam 10.35781/1637-000-122-006

Abstract

This study seeks in its first section to shed light on the economic aspects of Madina before Islam, and the impact of its geographical location on the trade caravan routes that passed through it. The second part of the study examines the occupations and crafts that flourished in the city, such as agriculture, trade, carpentry, butchery, tanning, tailoring, blacksmithing, construction, goldsmithing, and digging a gold minie. It also explores the most important commercial markets that existed at that time. The study used historical sources- Hadith, Sira, and other historical works- to extract information about how the people of Madina earned their livelihood through crafts and trade in the markets. Main findings were that the city's geographical location played a significant role in controlling the caravan trade routes that passed through it in ancient times, especially between Yemen in the south and the Levant in the north. The study also demonstrated the importance of agriculture as an economic pillar and a primary resource in Medina. The success and diversity of agricultural crop cultivation encouraged trade activity. Furthermore, the city had limited commercial and industrial activities, largely linked to agriculture. Industry and commercial markets were concentrated in Jewish hands, as Jews controlled and dominated the city's economic activity. The study recommended promoting a more in-depth study of Islamic history from an economic perspective and utilizing it in the present. It also recommended designing tourist itineraries that highlight ancient economic sites, such as markets, and drawing inspiration from historical models to mitigate economic crises based on lessons from Madina's history. The study also recommended reviving traditional crafts as part of Madina's heritage.