The views expressed in this journal passage are best seen as evidence of which of the following concerning medieval Islamic societies?

(A) The absence of religious orthodoxy (B) Hostility toward outsiders (C) Limited economic opportunities (D) The supremacy of pietyExplanation: The final sentence states that despite the pursuit of wealth, the traders were “pious, humble, [and] upright,” which matches (D). The attention to tithes would indicate at least some degree of religious orthodoxy, so eliminate (A). The network welcomed cultures from all over the Indian Ocean, including Zoroastrians and Hindus; eliminate (B). There were vast economic opportunities, so (C) is also incorrect. Choice (D) is the answer.