The Caravan raids refer to a series of raids which Muhammad and his companions participated in. The raids were generally offensive[1] and carried out to gather intelligence or seize the trade goods of caravans financed by the Quraysh. The raids were intended to weaken the economic and in turn the offensive capabilities of Mecca by Muhammad. However many of the early converts,who were from the Quraish saw this as means of vengeance against the persecution they endured in Mecca but more so, the Meccans had sold Muslim property (which they left behind after Hijra) and invested it on their caravans.[2] In Medina's opinion, this was against Arab custom.[3] The Muslims felt that the raids were justified and that Godgave them permission to defend against the Meccans' persecution of Muslims.[4][5]
Background[edit]
The Islamic prophet Muhammad's followers suffered from poverty after fleeing persecution in Mecca and migrating with Muhammad to Medina. Their Meccan persecutors seized their wealth and belongings left behind in Mecca.[6]
Beginning in January 623, some of the Muslims resorted to the tradition of raiding the Meccan caravans that traveled along the eastern coast of the Red Sea from Mecca toSyria.[citation needed] Communal life was essential for survival in desert conditions, as people needed support against the harsh environment and lifestyle. The tribal grouping was thus encouraged by the need to act as a unit. This unity was based on the bond of kinship by blood.[clarification needed][7] People of Arabia were either nomadic or sedentary, the former constantly traveling from one place to another seeking water and pasture for their flocks, while the latter settled and focused on trade and agriculture. The survival of nomads (orBedouins) was also partially dependent on raiding caravans or oases; thus they saw this as no crime.[8][9]
Earliest Quran verse about fighting[edit]
According to William Montgomery Watt, the Quran verse 22:29[6] was the earliest verse commanding Muslims to fight. However, he says there was a "disinclination" among the Muslims to follow the command to fight, but they were given an incentive, after the Muslims were told that God prefers fighters to those who sit still and remain at home, and that for fighters there is a reward in paradise (Jannah).[10]