“In the two centuries following Muhammad’s death, the relationship between religious and secular authorities changed substantially.” In 1–2 sentences, develop a logical argument in support of this statement.

Answer 1

One could argue that during the early years of Islam, religious and secular authority were consolidated under the Caliphate system, with the Caliphs holding both religious and political power, but over time the rise of regional dynasties and empires led to the separation of religious and secular authority, with the emergence of secular rulers who granted religious scholars more autonomy.