Muslims in Spain

An Essay by Dr. Mohammed Moinuddin

There is a wrong notion among the Muslims as well as Non-muslims that the Muslims invaded Spain because they wanted to expand the Muslim Empire. The historical events surrounding the invasion of Spain by the Muslims are as follows :

In the year 711 AC, a Gothic King named Roderick was the ruler of Spain. He was a corrupt ruler. He had a huge palace which was also used as a training place for the royal families to learn the "royal" customs and mannerisms. One of his courtier named Julian had a beautiful daughter. Julian sent his daughter to the palace to learn the royal ways. King Roderick, fascinated by her beauty, made advances towards Julian`s daughter and raped her. When she came home, she told the story to her father. Julian could not do anything against his own king. So he approached, Musa Ibn Nusair, who at that time was the Governor of North Africa, under the Khalifa, Al-Walid I who used to live in Damascus (Syria). Julian told the entire story to Musa complaining about the corruption and evil ways of King R0derick. He requested Musa to wage war against King Roderick. Musa sent a letter to his Khalifa asking for advice. Al Walid consulted his companions and gave permission to attack King Roderick. Musa appointed Tariq Ibn Ziyad, a 21 year old Berber (Algerian), as commander in chief of 7,000 soldier army. Tariq, with his army, crossed the strait of Gibralter in boats and landed in Southern Spain. Next day, his army was reinforced by another 5,000 soldiers sent by Khalifa Al-Walid. When the 12,000 Muslim soldiers saw the army of Roderick numbering 70,000, some of the Muslim soldiers were frightened and started thinking of returning to Africa. Tariq, realizing the seriousness of the situation, burnt all the boats and made a remarkable speech noted for its inspiration. He told the people that in front is the enemy and behind is the sea and there is no escape; to fight with courage and bravery and that he would be with them at all times in the front lines fighting with the enemy. And in case, even if he falls, to continue fighting till every one perishes or Allah gives them victory.The next day, the Muslims fought with courage. The battle ended in routing of the King`s army. King Roderick was killed and most of the Spanish territories came under Muslim rule.

The Muslim Rule in Spain is considered as the "Golden Chapter" in the history of Muslims, because of explosive advances in several areas. These included the Sciences---Medicine, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Algebra, Astronomy etc. The Education to masses (Muslims and non-muslims) increased at a rapid pace. Universities, schools, colleges, hospitals were built. There was equal treatment of Muslims, Jews and Christians. There was peace and harmony. The Jews also made significant progress and contributed to the success of Spain. This was at a time when Europe was submerged in the darkness of illiteracy and backwardness. West Europeans came to universities in Toledo and Cordoba to study the Sciences and other branches of education. Hence, the "Golden Era".

The lessons we learn from this page of history are as follows :

1. The real reason why Muslims went to Spain was not to expand the Muslim empire but to respond to the call of help from the Christians oppressed by their own king. Hence Muslims should help (if they are capable) those who are in need of help regardless of religion.
2. Bravery is not optional but obligatory on Muslims.
3. Hierarchy is important in Islam----when Gov Musa was apprached by Julian, Musa did not make the decision himself but sought the advice of his superior, Khalifa, Al Walid.
4. In order to progress, Ibadah (worship), although very important, is not enough. Muslims have to excel in Sciences and other fields, should read the Quran, understand it, follow it, practise it, teach others (Muslims and non muslims). Muslims should be thinkers and not just followers.
5. Rule with justice and fairness and treat everybody including, non muslims, kindly.