Why was Islam Revealed in the Arabian Peninsula?

Significances of Arabia in the Formulation of Prayer Times

Authors

  • Reza Akbar Universitas Sultan Muhammad Syafiuddin Sambas
  • Zulfian Wanandi Institut Agama Islam Negeri Pontianak

Keywords:

Arabian Peninsula, Mecca, latitude, prayer times

Abstract

This research sets out from two main problems. First, the climate uniqueness of the Arabian Peninsula as the place where Islam emerged. Second, the various views of western figures such as Ernest Renan and H.A.R. Gibb who seeks to reveal the existence of a link between Islam and Arab. This research aims to reveal the significances of the Arabian Peninsula’s latitude in prayer times formulation and to discuss the link between Islam and Arab. The data are obtained from simulation of the Sun and twilight appearance in Prophet Muhammad time. Simulation using Stellarium software. The time setting for simulation are June 19 and December 19 in 622. The locations examined are Al Bahiyah, Mecca, Turaif, Istanbul, and Gukovo. The simulation results are then compiled into a table to present the beginning of prayer times in each city. This research shows that the significances of the Arabian Peninsula’latitude in prayer times formulation consist of two factors: 1) the ease of observing the sun and dawn; 2) a minimum of cloud and rain phenomena. Based on the analysis of the five cities’s latitude, Mecca is considered as the most ideal location in prayer times formulation among the cities. This research provides another perspective in revealing the link between Islam and Arab.

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Published

2026-04-27