The banner and its meaning among the Arabs before Islam, a study in the book Al-Mufassal in the History of the Arabs Before Islam

Abstract

The flag in the pre-Islamic era was an important symbol that carried different connotations. It was used for different purposes, expressing the political, social and even religious leadership system. It was a means of salvation in many cases, and an integral part of the value system of the Arabs before Islam. The Arabs paid great attention to the flag and gave it special care, to the point that they would entrust it to a person whose job it was to take care of it. It was of such great importance that it should be noted that the flag had different names such as the eagle, the banner, the flagpole, the flag and other names, and each name was used for a specific purpose and goal. The data indicates a great and important position, as it is a symbol that goes as far as sacrificing oneself for it. What a position it is, and it seems that the philosophy and importance of this matter remained until the Islamic call and even for the eras that followed it to this day.

The flag was a symbol and a social, cultural, political and military landmark for the Arabs before Islam. There were different purposes for the flag, including victory and indicating a specific place. The tribe paid great attention to the flag, as it represented an integral part of its history. The flag expressed the real political presence, so the Arab was interested in it and its details and gave it great care. The Arabs joined together in many of their battles under one flag to demonstrate political unity and tribal fanaticism. The flag was given to the brave men of the tribe, and sometimes to the leader exclusively.