Houses in Early Islam
Etymology and Translation
- Arabic: بَيْت (bait), plural: بُيُوت (buyūt)
- Arabic: دَار (dār), plural: دِيَار, دُوْر (diyār, dūr)
- Hebrew: בַּיִת (bayit)
- Turkish: Ev
Historical Context
During the time of the Prophet Muhammad, the houses of the Arabs reflected their environment and available resources. The structure often comprised:
- Materials: Framework of jarīd (palm-sticks) covered with camel hair cloth or similar materials.
- Modest Abodes: Wealthier Arabs would opt for walls of unbaked bricks with roofs made from date leaves plastered with mud and clay.
Muhammad’s family homes were typical of this era, utilizing these humble materials.
Descriptions by Historians
Sir William Muir’s Observation:
From the accounts by the secretary of Al-Wāqidī, as translated by Sir William Muir, it is evident that:
- The Prophet’s wives lived in houses made of unburnt bricks with separate apartments of palm branches daubed with mud.
- Omar ibn Al-Azīz, around A.H. 100, noted these humble abodes and counted nine houses, each possessing separate chambers.
These houses illustrated the Prophet’s modesty and the community’s reluctance to indulge in luxury.
Rural and Urban Housing in Islamic World
- Rural Areas: Houses built from mud, unburnt bricks, or stones (in mountainous areas). Generally, they consist of one room that also accommodated animals.
- Urban Areas: Slightly varied with some having an upper storey, but maintaining modest architecture. Wealthy individuals might include protective watchtowers.
Influences of Seclusion Of Women
Due to Muhammad’s injunctions emphasizing the seclusion (Hijab) of women, housing for the upper class in Muslim-majority regions was designed to ensure privacy:
- Inner Courts: Called ḥarīm or zanānah, these courts were exclusive to women.
- Entrances: Typically narrow and nondescript; but sometimes featured elegant doorways.
- Reception Rooms: Male visitors and guests were received in upper chambers or bālā k͟hānahs, places for dining and sleeping.
Common Features of Eastern Dwellings
- Flat Roofs: Used for drying produce and other household activities.
- Latticed Windows: Provided air and light while maintaining privacy.
- Courtyards: Central to the household’s daily activities.
- Guest Chambers: ḥujrahs provided space for male guests.
Interesting Architectural Innovations
- In Cairo and Damascus: Description of majestic houses by Mrs. Meer Ali including furnished ḥarīms and Zanānahs.
- Peshawur: Underground rooms (ṭah khānahs) served as cool retreats in hot weather.
Recommendations for Further Reading
- “The Life of Mahomet” by Sir William Muir for insights on early Islamic house structures.
- “Modern Egyptians” by E.W. Lane for understanding traditional Cairo housing.
- “The History of the Arabs” by Philip Hitti for a comprehensive overview of Arab societies.
- “The World of Islam” by Bernard Lewis for appreciating Islamic cultural evolution.
Takeaways and Conclusion
Houses in the early Islamic period reflect the socio-economic and environmental contexts of the time. The simplicity and functionality dictated by local resources juxtapose the evolving designs in later centuries influenced by Islamic principles. The Prophet Muhammad’s lifestyle set a precedent for modesty and practicality, which continued to influence Islamic architecture and cultural norms.
By understanding these historical dwellings, one gains a deeper appreciation for the values and lifestyle of early Muslim communities. Decoding this facet of Islamic history enhances our respect for its rich architectural and cultural legacy.
