They, like the Arabs, were an Oriental people, both traced their lineage to Abraham, their common ancestor; both were believers in the unity of God.

It was their defense of that doctrine that had brought upon them the hatred of their Visigothic masters.
Under the Saracen rule they were treated with the highest consideration.
They became distinguished for their wealth and their learning.

For the most part they were Aristotelians.

They founded many schools and colleges.

Their mercantile interests led them to travel all over the world.