Middle Eastern and Islamic Terms

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Islam

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This is a major religion in the Middle East; its followers are called Muslims

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Oasis

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An area of the desert which has water

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Sheikh

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An Arab leader, usually the leader of an Arab tribe, family, or village

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Caravan

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A collection of merchants who travel together to trade

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Quran

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The holy book for Islam

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Shari'ah

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Islamic law code

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Caliph

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The leader of Islam. Abu Bakr was the first one of these after Muhammad died.

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Sunni

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A group of Muslims who believed that the caliph should be the person most qualified for the job

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Shia

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A group of Muslims who believe that the caliph should be a descendant of Muhammad.

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Sultan

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A king or leader of an Islamic country