Modern Saudi Arabia is a theocracy and the link between religion and government in Saudi Arabia is undeniable. Not only was the legal system based on Islam, but the whole creation of the Al Saud monarchy was heavily influenced by Islam. The reasons why Saudi Arabia has a theocratic government are related to the geographical location of Saudi Arabia, the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, and, more importantly, the Wahhab-Al Saud alliance. The geographical location of Saudi Arabia has great Islamic significance. The Islamic prophet Muhammad was born and lived in Mecca, a city in Saudi Arabia, for the first 52 years of his life (570–622 A.D.). Muslims believe that Mohammed started to meditate alone in a cave near Mecca at some point in his life. During his meditations, God communicated with him through an angel who recited verses from the Quran. Thus, Islam as a religion was established making the Arabian Peninsula very important to all Muslims. So, when Al Saud controlled Mecca and the surrounding areas they forced a theocratic ruling to this day. …show more content…
It was declared a site of pilgrimage by the Prophet Muhammad. The Masjid al-Haram contains the Qibla which is the direction that should be faced when a Muslim prays during prayers. However, The Qiblah has importance beyond prayer and plays a part in various ceremonies. The head of an animal that is slaughtered using halal methods is usually aligned with the Qiblah. After death, Muslims are usually buried with the body at right angles to the Qibla and the face turned right towards the direction of the