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Islam Arrives in Gujarat, peacefully
When Islam began in the seventh century, the coast of Gujarat was already inhabited by a vast and ancient network of Arab sea-traders, many of whom eventually moved inland. The Kingdom of Gujarat, as it was then called, welcomed Arabs with typical Gujarati hospitality.
By the 10th century, a leading Arab trader affirmed the testimony of his predecessors, “In no other part of India are Arabs and Muslims treated so well as in Gujarat.” Muslims had already built large mosques with the assistance of local Hindus, many of whom were so impressed with Muslim piety they converted to Islam.
Other Gujarati Hindus converted after hearing the preaching of mystical Muslim Sufis, or, according to widespread legend, after seeing their miraculous power with signs and wonders.
So unlike many other parts of the Muslim world where Islam spread after political conquest, countless Hindus of Gujarat embraced Islam peacefully, amid complete religious freedom
Islam Arrives in Gujarat, peacefully
When Islam began in the seventh century, the coast of Gujarat was already inhabited by a vast and ancient network of Arab sea-traders, many of whom eventually moved inland. The Kingdom of Gujarat, as it was then called, welcomed Arabs with typical Gujarati hospitality.
By the 10th century, a leading Arab trader affirmed the testimony of his predecessors, “In no other part of India are Arabs and Muslims treated so well as in Gujarat.” Muslims had already built large mosques with the assistance of local Hindus, many of whom were so impressed with Muslim piety they converted to Islam.
Other Gujarati Hindus converted after hearing the preaching of mystical Muslim Sufis, or, according to widespread legend, after seeing their miraculous power with signs and wonders.
So unlike many other parts of the Muslim world where Islam spread after political conquest, countless Hindus of Gujarat embraced Islam peacefully, amid complete religious freedom