Bazaars in the Hejaz region and its effects on social life

In this study, we tried to examine the geographical locations, establishment times, shopping styles, exported and imported goods of the bazaars established in Hicaz region and their effects on social life. The socio-economic and cultural conditions of pre-Islamic Hijaz cities were analyzed and sales patterns and customs that were not prohibited in the new religion Islam, were determined. As a result of the agreements that the grandfather of the Prophet, Hashim brought to Hijaz, these bazaars paved way to economic prosperity as well as the cultural convergence of the people of the region. Since the climate conditions of the region are not suitable for agriculture, these markets have become important livelihoods of the people. After securing trade routes with these agreements, the Quraish tribe embarked on foreign trade with the "ilaf" mentioned in the Holy Qur'an, and turned Hijaz in general and Mecca in particular into an important commercial, cultural and religious center as a result of its close relations with neighboring countries. The Prophet's participation in these markets at a young age, his travels with his uncle Abu Talib, and the commercial partnership he had with Hazrat Khadija 15 years before his prophethood made a very important contribution to his mission spreading the message of Islam. In fact, it is possible to say that the knowledge he gained from those travels contributed to the decision of sending Muslims to Abyssinia and later, to the decision of hijrah. The secure environment created in Hejaz, the general respect for the forbidden months, preventing injustice and establishment of an institution like Daru'n-Nadwah resulted in further development of trade. This was because the administration and management of commercial caravans and trade plans of Quraish tribe, and delivery time and place of the goods used to be determined in Nadwah. Focusing on the effects of bazaars on social life, literature and politics, information was given about that period of Hijaz. In addition to the Islamic sources, contemporary researches are also consulted in this study. Key Words: The Prophet, Jahiliya, Hejaz, Bazaars, Social Life