A recent discovery made by researchers in Sweden found that "Allah," the Arabic word for God, was embroidered on ancient Viking burial clothes, The Independent reported.
"The silk patterns were originally thought to be ordinary Viking Age decoration but a re-examination by archaeologist Annika Larsson of Uppsala University revealed they were a geometric Kufic script. They were found on woven bands as well as items of clothing, in two separate grave sites," the British news site wrote.
Described as "staggering," the new findings suggest that Viking funeral customs had been influenced by Islam.
"Presumably, Viking Age burial customs were influenced by Islam"
Speaking to The Independent, lead researcher Annika Larrson said:
“One exciting detail is that the word ‘Allah’ is depicted in mirror image. Perhaps this was an attempt to write prayers so that they could be read from left to right."
"It is a staggering thought that the bands, just like the costumes, [were] made west of the Muslim heartland. Presumably, Viking Age burial customs were influenced by Islam and the idea of an eternal life in paradise after death," she explained.
It is written in the Quran that those who go to paradise will wear silk; which may be an explanation as to why Viking graves had much of this material in them.
"The findings are equally prevalent in both men’s and women’s graves," she added.
People are amazed at the discovery
A few don't want to believe it
Some tried to find different explanations
"It was Vallah not Allah"
