Ibn Battutah's Maldives Account

Extensive journeys across the Islamic world, covering a vast geographic area, including West Africa and China.

Religious, honest, and non-violent individuals, described by Ibn Battutah as people who rely on prayer instead of arms.

A travelogue (travel writing) meticulously detailing his journey, considered an accurate record but potentially incorporating information from other travelers, written orderly and lively.

The vast realm of Islam spanning various regions and cultures permitting travel for Ibn Battutah, creating a stable environment that fostered travel.

Buildings, primarily mosques, are constructed from wood and characterized by cleanliness.

Seafaring individuals who avoid attacking the Maldive Islands.

Religious law scholar (or jurist) who commanded respect and employment in the Islamic world.

The Maldivians maintain excellent personal hygiene, bathing frequently due to the heat.

Island inhabitants, both men and women, often wear minimal clothing, including turbans or kerchiefs, bare feet, and, for women, aprons that reach the ground, leaving the rest of the body uncovered.

When meeting a preacher (qádi), people remove their shoulder coverings and walk barefooted with them to their houses. Foot washing is required upon entering a house or mosque.

Cowrie shells are used as currency on the islands and some surrounding regions, exchanging at rates that fluctuate.

The hairy part of coconuts is processed, tanned, and made into strong cords used for sewing ships together, superior to hemp.

Fish, coconuts, cloths, cotton turbans, brass utensils, cowrie shells, and ganbar (coconut fiber) are exported from the islands.

The qadi (preacher) attempted to enforce the wearing of clothes on the islanders but was unsuccessful.

The value of cowrie shells varied, sometimes exchanging at rates of 400,000 shells for a gold dinar, and other times 1,200,000 shells for a dinar.

Island women, even their queen, did not cover their hands. They wore aprons and left most of their bodies uncovered.