moment for Islam, which saw itself as the successor of Judaism and Christianity.[194] The term ʾiʿrāb has
the same root refers to the Bedouin tribes of the desert who rejected Islam and resisted
Muhammad.(Quran 9:97) The 14th century Kebra Nagast says "And therefore the children
of Ishmael became kings over Tereb , and over Kebet , and over Nôbâ , and Sôba , and Kuergue , and Kîfî ,
and Mâkâ , and Môrnâ , and Fînḳânâ , and ’Arsîbânâ , and Lîbâ , and Mase'a , for they were the seed
of Shem ."[195]
Relation Of The Clan With Arabs
The relationship between the Old Clan and the Arabs reveals a fascinating tale of cultural exchange,
intermarriage, and diplomatic strategies. The Old Clan's connection with the Arabs was strengthened
through marriage diplomacy and trade diplomacy, and their ancestors were among the descendants of
Adnanite Arabs, a significant branch of the Arab lineage.
Definition of Adnanite Arabs:
Adnanite Arabs are considered one of the two main branches of the Arab people, the other being the
Qahtanites. According to Arab genealogy, Adnan was a direct descendant of Isma'il (Ishmael), the son of
Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). The Adnanites trace their ancestry back to Adnan, making them part of a
prestigious and respected lineage within Arab culture.
The Old Clan's Ancestral Connection to Adnanite Arabs:
The Old Clan's ancestors were proud descendants of Adnanite Arabs, establishing a profound historical
connection with the Arab world. This shared lineage fostered a sense of kinship and cultural affinity,
providing a strong foundation for their interactions with Arab tribes.
Marriage Diplomacy with Arabic Tribes:
The Old Clan recognized the importance of forging alliances through intermarriage with Arabic tribes.
Marriage diplomacy was a powerful tool used by the Old Clan to strengthen their ties with influential
Arab families and communities. By strategically arranging marriages between members of the Old Clan
and prominent Arab figures, they solidified bonds and built bridges between their cultures.
Through these marital alliances, the Old Clan not only gained access to valuable resources and
protection from powerful Arab tribes but also demonstrated their commitment to building lasting
relationships based on mutual respect and cooperation. This form of diplomacy was a testament to their
understanding of the significance of family ties in Arab culture and their willingness to embrace Arab
customs and traditions.
Trade Diplomacy with Arab Communities:
Apart from marriage diplomacy, the Old Clan engaged in trade diplomacy with various Arab
communities. They recognized the economic potential and cultural benefits of trade exchanges, which
facilitated mutual prosperity and understanding. Through these trade interactions, the Old Clan
showcased their business acumen and openness to cooperation, reinforcing their position as valuable
partners in the Arab world.