Dhows

Dhows were an Arab sailing ship. They are categorized huge lateens or triangular sails. These ships were first developed on the Nile before they were adopted and modified by the Arabs. The hull shape was shallow and made of wood and had a triangular bow and a square stern. This hull shape allowed the ship to move quickly and swiftly. The triangular sails were mounted on one or two masts. Sail shape allowed the dhow to tack against the wind. Although these ships were not huge or navy-worthy they provided Islam with a crucial tool in order to enhance its maritime trade and spread. Dhows were found in the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean. Sufism used the dhow as means of transportation to spread Islam. This spread to places such as Southeast Asia and India led to the rise of Hinduism's bhaktic cults.

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Created by Benjamin Ellison September 16 Edited by Rachel Mitchell September 18 Edited by Hannah Hollon 10/21/08