They're actually of Indian origin, hence "Hindu-Arabic" numerals. Arabs received considerable (pre-Islamic) Indian science and technology and reworked that knowledge by applying the philosophical concept of 'aql' in Islamic Rational Theology.
Whence it was transmitted to Europe for its benefits in account-keeping and hence, profits in trade.
It was a section on "World Religious " in the class, was non-proselytizing, also included similar sections from "Judeo-Christianity".
They're actually of Indian origin, hence "Hindu-Arabic" numerals. Arabs received considerable (pre-Islamic) Indian science and technology and reworked that knowledge by applying the philosophical concept of 'aql' in Islamic Rational Theology.
Whence it was transmitted to Europe for its benefits in account-keeping and hence, profits in trade.