The rights of non-Muslims in Islam are built on justice, honesty and kindness towards people of other faiths. This article collects what the Qur’an and authentic Hadith say about the rights of non-Muslims, and it points out where scholars of the schools differ. Each point is linked to its source so you can check it yourself.
1. No compulsion in religion
Allah says: “There is no compulsion in religion. The right path has become distinct from the wrong path” (Qur’an 2:256). Faith has to come from the heart, so no one may be forced to accept Islam. The Qur’an also says: “For you is your religion, and for me is mine” (Qur’an 109:6).
2. Kindness and justice towards peaceful neighbours
“Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes, from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly” (Qur’an 60:8). The Qur’an also tells believers to debate People of the Book only in the best manner (Qur’an 29:46).
3. Justice even towards those you dislike
“Let not the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is closer to righteousness” (Qur’an 5:8). Justice in Islam does not depend on a person’s religion. See also Qur’an 4:135.
4. Protection of life and agreements
The Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever kills a person under a covenant will not smell the fragrance of Paradise” (Sahih al-Bukhari 3166). He also warned that he would be the opponent on the Day of Resurrection of anyone who wrongs a person under covenant, burdens him beyond his ability or takes something from him unjustly (Sunan Abi Dawud 3052).
5. Respect and fair dealing
When a funeral procession of a Jewish man passed by, the Prophet ﷺ stood up, and when he was told that the man was Jewish he said, “Is he not a soul?” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1312). At the time of his death his armour was pledged to a Jewish man in exchange for barley, which shows that he dealt and traded with non-Muslims (Sahih al-Bukhari 2916). Allah also permits Muslims to eat the food of the People of the Book and to marry their chaste women (Qur’an 5:5).
Where Scholars Differ on Rights of Non-Muslims in Islam
The principles above are agreed upon, but scholars of the four schools differ over some details of the legal status of non-Muslims under Muslim rule. One example is blood money (diyah) for a non-Muslim who is wrongly killed: the Hanafi school holds that it equals the diyah of a Muslim, while the Maliki and Hanbali schools hold that it is half and the Shafi’i school holds that it is one third. Scholars also differ over the building of new places of worship and over how the old rulings on jizya apply in modern states with equal citizenship. Contemporary scholars often discuss these questions in light of modern treaties and citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rights of Non-Muslims in Islam
Can a non-Muslim be forced to accept Islam?
No. Qur’an 2:256 forbids compulsion in religion.
Does Islam allow dealing with non-Muslims in business?
Yes. The Prophet ﷺ traded with non-Muslims (Sahih al-Bukhari 2916), and honest dealing is required with everyone.
Is it permitted to be kind to a non-Muslim neighbour?
Yes. Qur’an 60:8 encourages kindness and justice towards those who do not fight Muslims.
Conclusion
Studying rights of non-Muslims in Islam from the Qur’an and authentic Hadith helps us to follow the guidance of Allah in our own lives. We hope this article on rights of non-Muslims in Islam has been useful. For related topics, read Rights of Minorities in Islam and Rights of Neighbours in Islam.
