WORKING FOR A HARMONIOUS SOCIETY

Allah Almighty says in His book, the noble Qur’an:

“God does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes – from dealing kindly and justly with them.  Indeed, God loves those who act justly.” (60:8) 

When Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) established the law of Allah regarding social duties, it encompassed not only the Muslims, but humankind in general, proving true the statement of Allah:

“And We have not sent you but as a mercy to all the worlds.” (Quran 21:107) 

Abdullah ibn ‘Amr (may Allah be pleased with him), a famous companion of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), would regularly give charity to his neighbors.  He would send his servant to take portions of meat on religious occasions to his Jewish neighbor.  The surprised servant asked about Abdullah’s concern for his Jewish neighbor. Abdullah told him the saying of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh):

“The angel Gabriel was so adamant in reminding me to be charitable with my neighbor that I thought he might make him my heir.” (Saheeh Al-Bukhari)

Indeed the companions of the Prophet (pbuh) and his early followers understood Islam’s position on the rights of non-Muslims better. These Mulims followed such a high moral standard, that even the western historians acknowledge their kind and fair treatment towards the non-Muslim minorities. Renault is one such western historian. He comments:

“The Muslims in the cities of Islamic Spain treated the non-Muslims in the best possible way.  In return, the non-Muslims showed respect to the sensibilities of the Muslims and would circumcise their own children and refrain from eating pork.”

It is evident from all this that for a community with various religious and ethnic identities to live in harmony, there needs to be a feeling of mutual respect and sensitivity. One way such a feeling can be nurtured is through charitable efforts. Working together for common humanitarian goals can help promote goodwill and understanding among different elements of the society. 

As Muslims, it is our religious duty to be merciful towards not only other Muslims, but to all of Allah’s creation. The Prophet (pbuh) always emphasized the importance of building a strong society with high moral values and this applies to wherever we live. It is only appropriate then for Muslims to be at the forefront of all charitable efforts taking place in any given community.

Reference: The Rights of Non-Muslims in Islam (Dr. Saleh al-Aayed)