MCQ Detailed View

Before the advent of Islam, the majority of Arab tribes practiced idol worship (Shirk) as their main religion. The people of Makkah and surrounding regions had turned away from the monotheistic teachings of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) and Prophet Ismail (A.S), and over time, they filled the Kaaba with idols of different names and shapes. Historians record that more than 360 idols were placed inside and around the Kaaba at the time of Prophet Muhammad (SAW)'s birth.

Tribal Arabs believed these idols represented gods and deities who could bring blessings, protection, rain, and help in their affairs. While idol worship was dominant, there were also small groups who followed Christianity, Judaism, or remained true monotheists (Hanifs), but idol worship was the biggest and most widespread belief in the Arabian Peninsula.

Islam came as a revival of Tawheed (Oneness of Allah), calling the Arabs and the entire world to worship only Allah and reject all false gods. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) later cleansed the Kaaba of all idols, restoring it to its original status as the House of Allah dedicated solely to monotheism.

Key Facts:

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  Idol worship was the main religion of Arabs before Islam.

  
  


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  Over 360 idols were kept in and around the Kaaba in Makkah.

  
  


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  The Arab tribes believed idols had divine powers to help or harm.

  
  


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  Only a few Arabs, known as Hanifs, continued the pure belief in one God.

  
  


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  Islam abolished idol worship and restored Tawheed as the central belief.

  
  


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  The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) removed all idols from the Kaaba after the conquest of Makkah.