Faith, Commerce, and Cultural Exchange in the World of Ibn Battuta

This book offers a nuanced historical analysis of the profound impact of Ibn Battuta’s extensive travels across Asia, Africa, and Europe. As one of the most significant figures of medieval Islamic history, Ibn Battuta’s journey not only documents his personal experiences but also serves as a lens through which we can examine the complex interrelations of faith, commerce, and cultural exchange that shaped the medieval world. This volume adopts integrating perspectives from history to explore the enduring legacy of his observations. The volume is divided into five thematic sections. The first focuses on the economic implications of Ibn Battuta’s travels, particularly his observations on trade, finance, and their influence on economic networks, with particular attention to the Indian Ocean trade routes. The second section examines the histrory of religious pilgrimage, especially the Hajj, in facilitating the movement of people, ideas, and religious practices across vast distances, shaping deep intercontinental connections. The third part investigates the spread of jurisprudence and cultural practices, focusing on Southeast Asia and the broader Indian Ocean world, and the ways in which Ibn Battuta’s journey contributed to the shaping of regional legal systems and social norms. The fourth section highlights the relevance of Ibn Battuta’s insights to contemporary global issues such as international trade, health, and sustainability, drawing parallels between the medieval and modern periods. The final section explores Ibn Battuta’s lasting legacy as a historian and a figure of cultural exchange, reshaping both historiography and broader chronological narratives. This book provides a comprehensive historical account of Ibn Battuta’s travels, offering new insights into the interconnected world of the medieval period and its ongoing influence on contemporary global systems.