Relationships with non-Muslims in Islamic Law: Difference between revisions

The [[Qur'an]] strictly prohibits friendship with [[non-Muslims]], including the "[[Islam and the People of the Book|People of the Book]]".  

The Qur'an and other [[Islam and Scripture|Islamic texts]] are very clear in teaching that there is no equality between Muslims and non-Muslims, and hence no basis for a relationship of peers. [[Allah]] through Prophet [[Muhammad]] describes unbelievers as "perverted transgressors",<ref>"''Ye are the best of peoples, evolved for mankind, enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, and believing in Allah. If only the People of the Book had faith, it were best for them: among them are some who have faith, but most of them are perverted transgressors.''" - {{Quran|3|110}}</ref> the "worst of creatures",<ref>"''Those who reject (Truth), among the People of the Book and among the Polytheists, will be in Hell-Fire, to dwell therein (for aye). They are the worst of creatures.''" - {{Quran|98|6}}</ref> "unloved by Allah",<ref>"''That He may reward those who believe and work righteous deeds, out of his Bounty. For He loves not those who reject Faith.''" - {{Quran|30|45}}</ref> and destined for eternal torture in [[Hell]].<ref>"''Those who reject Faith,- neither their possessions nor their (numerous) progeny will avail them aught against Allah: They are themselves but fuel for the Fire.''" - {{Quran|3|10}}</ref> Thus, by the Qur'an's most literal interpretation, there is little sense in befriending these "creatures" of such inferiority.

[[Apologists]], who are often embarrassed by this verse, provide an interpretation that deviates substantially from the literal meaning. The Arabic word ''Awliyā''' (أولياء "friend") is legitimately also translated as "protector" or "guardian". Therefore, apologists claim that this verse refers to a Muslim's allegiance to an unbelieving government.

Yet modern day Islamic governments are often dependent on the alliances of predominantly non-Muslim nations, ensuring that this interpretation provides little more convenience. Furthermore, the verse itself appears to distinguish between "friend" and "protector", commanding Muslims to exclude disbelievers as both. Apologists will therefore continue to rationalize the verse with interpretations drifting further from intuitive understanding.