Purposive Understanding of the Texts on Dealing with Non-Muslims: A Critical, Analytical Study

Abstract

This article analyzes the literature related to the treatment of non-Muslims in Islam. It discusses Islamic jurisprudential provisions and judgements, as well as their causes and purposes, using the descriptive, analytical, and critical methods. The article concludes that Islam ensures freedom of belief, respects individual choice and invites Muslims to accept the other within the framework of citizenship. Many of the jurisprudential rulings rejecting the other have sprung from tough realities, rather than the accurate Islamic view. The Sharia calls for the good treatment of non-Muslims and improving the principle of good citizenship. This should be done to ensure the religious and non-religious privacy of Muslims.