أسس المنهج الإسلامي في معاملة أهل الكتاب

Abstract EN

This research addresses the Islamic approach in dealing with the People of the Book, i.e.

the Jews and the Christians.

It begins with defining the People of the Book, then illustrates the most important features of the Islamic approach in dealing with those people.

These features include the following: • Recognizing the common grounds to achieve understanding and cooperation; • Discussing with the People of the Book in a good mannerto clarify the truth; • Belonging to the homeland; • Peaceful coexistence; • Beneficence; • Religious respect and tolerance; • Freedom of opposition and giving advice; • Solidarity, cohesion and dignity preservation; • Help and support; • Having patient with the People of the Book; • Justice, equality and preventing injustice; • Providing protection.

This was followed by examples of practical applications that show how Muslims are committed to this approach in every era.

The research also indicated to the praise of the People of the Book to this approach, and their testimonies concerning the good treatment of Muslims throughout history.

This research concludes that Islam naturally tends to openness to, and coexistence with, others, regardless of their beliefs and religions.

Besides, the research confirms the fact that the Muslim community has never been without non-Muslims who embrace different beliefs and religions.

Islamic sharīʿahh as many proofs that oblige Muslims to co-exist with non-Muslims and treat them in a good manner.

It already has special rulings for non-Muslims, known to the jurists as the rulings, rights and duties of the Dhimmis and Mustaʾmīn 2.

These rights include political ones such as the right to employ, to vote, to run for public office.

There are also public rights, such as religious freedom, work freedom and freedom of opinion expression, along with special rights, such as the sanctity of non-Muslim blood, property and housing.

These rights and sharīʿrulings became one of the devotional duties imposed upon Muslims.

So, Muslims should implement and abide bythese duties.