Byzantine Basics
The Roman Empire was split into these two parts after Theodosius I died in 395, with Arcadius ruling the East and Honorius the West.
Known as the "Golden Mouth," this saint was a gifted speaker who preached against immorality in Constantinople.
Who is St. John Chrysostom?
Muhammad's name means this, given by his grandfather, and he became an orphan by age 6.
What is "one who is praised"?
What is the Kaaba?
A square stone building in the center of Mecca, the site most holy to Muslims and toward which they must face when praying. Used to have idols.
This "holy war" was how Muhammad decided to spread Islam, including attacking caravans and the Battle of Bedr.
What is jihad?
This was the primary language in the Eastern (Byzantine) Empire.
What is Greek
These two saints refused to deny their faith, similar to St. John: one fought Arianism, the other was a Cappadocian Father.
Who are St. Athanasius and St. Basil?
Muhammad heard the voice of Allah in a cave, leading to revelations like "There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is his prophet." What did this begin?
What is Islam?
Muslims pray 5 times a day, kneeling toward this.
What is Mecca?
The first caliph after Muhammad, who led jihad against Persia.
The first caliph after Muhammad, who led jihad against Persia.
The Eastern Church's liturgy was called this, and its authority came from patriarchs in places like Jerusalem, Alexandria, and Antioch
What is the Divine Liturgy?
This empress was cruel to enemies but courageous, convincing her husband to fight during an attack and becoming a key advisor.
Who is Theodora?
This term means "submission" or "total surrender," and its followers are called Muslims.
What is Islam?
This fast from food, drink, and pleasures starts at sunrise and lasts until sunset for a month
What is Ramadan?
Islam split into these two groups after Ali's murder: traditional ones and those supporting Ali's family.
What are Sunnis and Shiites?
Who was Justinian's wife who claimed she would rather die as an emperoress than die as a commoner?
Who was Theodora?
This greatest Byzantine emperor came to Constantinople as a poor boy, married Theodora, and left legacies like a famous cathedral.
Who is Justinian?
This is the event when Muhammad fled Mecca to Medina, marking the start of the Muslim calendar.
What is the Hegira?
What were Muhammad's sermons called that were later recorded by his followers?
What is suras?
What is about half?
Name two major accomplishments that Justinian completed that still exist today.
What are the Hagia Sophia and his code of laws?
This bishop was exiled twice but wrote 230 letters and welcomed visitors during his second exile, dying on the way to Pithys.
Who is St. John Chrysostom?
Muhammad claimed to be the last and greatest prophet, greater than this figure from Jewish and Christian teachings.
Who is Jesus?
What are the Five Pillars of Islam? (Name at least 3)
1. Belief in one God
2. Pray 5 times a day
3. Fast of Ramadan
4. Almsgiving
5. Pilgrimage to Mecca
Baghdad was known for this era's advances in math, medicine, and art, but it ended when leaders adopted Sharia Law, halting science. What is this Age called?
What is "The Golden Age?"