... the great powers. These nomadic tribes were more likely to raid the great powers in a snatch and grab fashion. For this reason neither empire devoted significant resources to the defence against the Arabs. Instead Arabian allies, like the Ghassnids and the Lakhmids, were employed to keep the nomads in check. In hindsight it is clear that if harnessed correctly these nomadic tribes, and their sedentary and tribal brothers, could provide an imposing and effective force. It was Muhammad and most significantly the new religion of Islam that finally harnessed this power. It is important to note that Muhammad's Islamic state did not destroy the tribal system that underpinned Arabian life. Instead, we should see the Islamic state as a "supra-tribe". Muhammad and Abu Bakr utilised the strong control that tribal leaders could exert over their kinsmen by associating a tribal leader with the state. The status of the leader ...

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