An Historical Account of Islam in Gedeb Asasa Woreda

ABSTRACT Islam is one of the universal religions, which introduced into Ethiopia in the early seventh century.Due to the geographical proximity and peaceful relations of Ethiopia with the Arabian Peninsula merchants, artisans, adventurers and clerics seem to have played leading role for the creation of Muslim petty states on the coastal areas and the Ethiopian interior.The introduction of Islam in Ethiopian brought about profound changes in social, cultural and religious developments that have far-reaching effects on the Oromo.The main purpose of this thesis is an attempt to reconstruct and document an Historical account of Islam in Gedeb Hassasa woreda. Geographically, Gedeb is located in the southeasterm Ethiopia in Oromia Regional State West Arsi Zone.The data collection method of the study considered the use of primary and secondary sources using qualitative methods of data collection.In the process of the Islamization of Gedeb region of Arsi, the local Muslim scholars from Balé and the Eastern part of Arsi have played quite a significant role. Several factors were accounted for early contacts of the local people with the agents of Ulama. Cultural similarity between Arsi Oromo and the neighboring Muslim communities was one of main factors for the gradual expansion of Islam into Gedeb area.