ALMOHADE Meaning and
Definition
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Almohade refers to a historical and religious group that played a significant role during the 12th and 13th centuries in the western Islamic world, particularly across the regions of North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula. The term "Almohade" originates from the Arabic term "al-Muwahhidūn" or "al-Muwaḥḥidūn," meaning "Unitarians" or "Unitarian believers." The Almohades emerged as an influential Berber dynasty and movement known for their strict adherence to the principles of Islamic monotheism, emphasizing the belief in the oneness of God.
The Almohades were followers of a reformist ideology that sought to purify and unify Islamic practices and beliefs, considering themselves as the true followers of the pure form of Islam. They were actively involved in spreading their doctrine, implementing religious reforms, and establishing political control in the regions they governed. Under their leadership, they conquered vast territories, including major cities such as Marrakesh, Seville, and Cordoba.
The Almohades were known for their robust military capability and architectural prowess, leaving behind remarkable structures like the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh and the Giralda in Seville. However, their reign gradually declined due to external pressures, internal conflicts, and shifting power dynamics within the Islamic world.
Today, the term "Almohade" predominantly refers to this historical group and their impact on various aspects of culture, art, architecture, and religious ideology during the medieval era in North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula.
Etymology of ALMOHADE
The word "almohade" is derived from Arabic. It comes from the Arabic term "al-Muwahhidūn", which means "the unitarians" or "the monotheists". The Almohads were a Berber-Muslim dynasty that emerged in the 12th century in North Africa and eventually ruled over parts of the Iberian Peninsula (modern-day Spain and Portugal). The name "Almohads" reflects their core belief in the oneness of God and their opposition to polytheism.
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