807 - AL QURAISH (Ayat# 01-04) surah end
The Quraysh tribe established a significant trade monopoly, initially succeeding the Sabaean kingdom in controlling East-West commerce. Prior to the Quraysh, Yemen served as the central hub for goods traveling from India, Java, Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and China. This trade flowed through Yemen's ports due to the absence of direct sea routes to Europe until Vasco da Gama's voyage in 1498. The Quraysh benefited from being custodians of the Kaaba, a sacred site revered by numerous tribes, offering protection to their caravans. This sanctuary prevented attacks, while other trade groups were vulnerable to raids. Their winter trade routes focused on Yemen, and summer routes extended towards Syria and Palestine. This dominance brought wealth and influence, but also a responsibility to acknowledge the true owner of the Kaaba and offer worship to Allah.
