I(caps)slam, a religion emphasizing peace and social justice, has a rich history of interaction with diverse communities. Throughout the centuries, Muslim societies have fostered environments where people of various faiths coexisted and thrived. This essay explores the tenets of Islam that promote respect for the rights of non-Muslims, examining the core principles that encourage tolerance and peaceful coexistence within a pluralistic society.
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Quranic Perspective on Religious Freedom
Before delving into the rights of non-Muslims in Islam, it is essential to understand what the Quran says about religion. The Quran clearly states in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:256):
There shall be no compulsion in (acceptance of) the religion.
This verse unequivocally declares that individuals are free to choose their religion, whether they wish to be Hindu, Christian, or Jewish. Islam does not prohibit this freedom of choice.
Inviting Others to Islam
Can a Muslim invite a non-Muslim to Islam? Yes, but it must be done peacefully and respectfully. The Quran instructs Muslims on how to invite others to Islam in Surah An-Nahl (16:125):
Invite (all) to the way of your Lord with wisdom & beautiful preaching; And argue with them in ways that are best & most gracious.
This verse emphasizes that invitations to Islam should be logical, well-reasoned, and conducted with the utmost respect.
The Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) Treatment of Non-Muslims
The life of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) provides numerous examples of his concern for the rights of non-Muslims. He stated:
Whoever wrongs a non-Muslim at peace with us, or infringes on his rights, or burdens him with more than he can bear, or takes anything from him against his will, then I will be his prosecutor on the Day of Judgement. [Sunan Abi Dawud 3/170]
This declaration shows the Prophet’s commitment to justice and fairness for non-Muslims.
Additionally, the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
Indeed, whoever kills a Mu'ahid (Non-Muslim Ally or confederate) that has a covenant from Allah and a covenant from His Messenger (ﷺ), then he has violated the covenant with Allah and the covenant of His Messenger, so he shall not smell the fragrance of Paradise; even though its fragrance can be sensed from the distance of seventy autumns. [Sunan-at-Tirmidhi 1403]
Historical Examples of Compassion
When Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions were forced to leave Makkah due to persecution, they returned victorious with an army of 10,000. Despite having the power to take revenge, the Prophet (ﷺ) chose forgiveness:
“O people of Quraish! What do you think I will do for you?”
Hoping for a good response, they said: “You will do good. You are a noble brother, son of a noble brother.”
The Prophet (ﷺ) then said: “Then I say to you what Joseph said to his brothers: ‘There is no blame upon you.’ Go! For you all are free! [Related by Ibn Kathir, Recorded by Ibn Al-Hajjaj Muslim]
This act of forgiveness highlights the Prophet’s (ﷺ) merciful nature.
Treatment by the Companions
The companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) also upheld these principles. For instance, when a Muslim governor unjustly punished a non-Muslim, Khalif Umar (R) ordered the same punishment for the governor and said:
From when you started to think people as your slave? [Knajul Amal volume 4; page 455]
Rights of Non-Muslims in an Islamic State
Non-Muslims living in an Islamic country are granted several rights. The Quran states in Surah Al-Hajj (22:40):
Those who have been evicted from their homes without right—only because they say, ‘Our Lord is Allah.’ And were it not that Allah checks the people, some by means of others, there would have been demolished monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques in which the name of Allah is much mentioned.
Hasan Al-Basri comments on this verse, saying:
The houses of worship for non-Muslim citizens are defended by the believers. [Source: Ahkam Al-Quran Al-Jassas 5/83]
Ibn Khuwaiz adds:
Included in this verse is the prohibition of demolishing the churches of non-Muslim citizens, their temples, and their houses of worship. [Tafseer Al-Qurtubi 22:40]
Protection and Security
In a hadith, it is mentioned:
In the name of Allah, the Gracious, the Merciful. This is what is granted security by the servant of Allah, Umar, the commander of the faithful, to the people of Jerusalem. He grants them safety for their lives, their property, their churches, and their crucifixes, for their ill, their health, and their entire community. Their churches will not be occupied, demolished, or reduced in number. Their churches and crucifixes will not be desecrated and neither anything else of their property. They will not be coerced to abandon their religion and none of them will be harmed. [Tareekh At-Tabari 2/449]
Jizya and Zakat
Non-Muslims in an Islamic country are required to pay a tax known as "Jizya," which is lower than the compulsory tax for Muslims, "Zakat." The poor, aged, and handicapped non-Muslims are exempt from this tax and are instead supported by the state fund, "Baitul Mal."
Conclusion
Islam ensures the rights of non-Muslims through its teachings in the Quran and the practices of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companions. These rights include religious freedom, protection of life and property, and fair treatment under the law. The principles of justice, compassion, and respect are deeply embedded in Islamic teachings, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between Muslims and non-Muslims.
