Zübale Market from the Jewish Markets of Medina Before Our Prophet

In the pre-Islamic period, there were four major market areas in Medina —then known as Yesrib. These markets were lined up from south to north on the western side of the city: Safâsif in the Asabe area, Müzâhim near the fortress of Abdullah b. Übeyy, Kaynukā' near the bridge of the Buthân valley, and the Zübâle market located further north. These four markets were either directly under the control of Jewish tribes or in their vicinity, and they controlled a large portion of Medina's trade. The Zübâle market was situated in an area between Medina and the old village of Yesrib, on the route extending north of the city. This area, described in sources as "mine'n-nâhiyetilleti tüd'â Yesrib" (from the region called Yesrib), was identified with the Zübâle district. According to the narration of Ibn Zübâle, this market had an organic relationship with Bakîu'z-Zübeyr. The Zübâle and Bakîu'z-Zübeyr region continued to maintain some commercial significance during the Islamic period. Jewish merchants dominated the economy of Medina by engaging in jewelry making, weapon manufacturing, and the trade of agricultural products in these markets. Benî Kaynukā' was prominent in jewelry and jewelry materials, Benî Nadir in date farming, and Benî Kurayza in leatherworking. This economic power also formed the basis of the Jews' political influence in the city. When the Prophet Muhammad migrated to Medina, he realized that the existing markets did not conform to Islamic trade principles. In an environment where usury was prevalent, inaccurate measurements were used, and discriminatory practices against Muslims continued, it became necessary for Muslims to have their own market. The Messenger of Allah established a new market for Muslims by setting up a large tent in the Bakîu'z-Zübeyr area. This initiative fundamentally transformed the structure of Medina's economy. [Source: TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, "Market" article, islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/pazar; TDV Islamic Encyclopedia, "Medina" article, islamansiklopedisi.org.tr/medine]