Islam believes that non-Muslims are 'kafirs' and must be hated by all.

Allegation: Islam believes that non-Muslims are ‘kafirs’ and that all of them should be hated.

The basis of this allegation is the use of the word ‘kafir’ in Islam and certain provisions regarding relations with non-Muslims, which are often misinterpreted and used by Islamophobic groups for propaganda purposes. They say that since Islam calls non-Muslims ‘kafirs’, this religion spreads hatred, malice and intolerance.

But the question is, what is the real meaning of the word ‘kafir’? Does Islam really say to hate all non-Muslims? And how should non-Muslims be treated in Islam – is it clearly defined in the Quran and Hadith?

Let us analyze this issue in depth.

Meaning and Context of the Word ‘Kafir’

The word ‘Kafir’ comes from the Arabic root ‘ka-f-r’. It means ‘to cover’ or ‘to deny’. In Islamic terminology, ‘kafir’ is a person who knowingly or knowingly denies the truth revealed by Allah (Islam). It is a religious term, just as the words ‘Hindu’ or ‘Christian’ are used to refer to followers of a particular faith.

The word ‘kafir’ is not a derogatory term. Rather, it is a descriptive designation. The Quran uses this term from the perspective of faith, not in the sense of any ethnic or social hatred.

For example, the Quran states:

“As for those who disbelieve, whether you warn them or do not warn them, it is the same for them. They will not believe.”

(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:6)

Here, ‘kufr’ means rejecting the truth that has come from Allah.

Does Islam say to hate all non-Muslims?

The answer to this question is clearly no. Islam does not command that non-Muslims should be hated. Rather, Islam evaluates people based on their actions, behavior, and intentions. Islam does not hate anyone just because they are non-Muslims.

Allah Almighty says:

“Allah does not forbid you from being kind and just to those who have not fought you and driven you out of your homes. Indeed, Allah loves the just.”

(Surah Mumtahinah, 60:8)

This verse clearly states that Islam allows treating people kindly and justly with those who have not fought against Muslims or harmed them.

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ himself was a unique example in following this command. He lived in the society of the infidels in Mecca, traded, made contracts, and even went to care for a Jewish young man when he was sick.

Calling him a kafir does not mean hatred

The word ‘kafir’ is often used as an insult these days, whereas in the Quran it is used in terms of religious identity. Islam does not say to hate someone as a kafir, rather the Quran and the Messenger ﷺ taught each person to judge according to his deeds and justice.

Many people wrongly claim that the verse in the Quran that says “Kill the disbelievers” (e.g., Surah At-Tawbah, 9:5) proves that Islam promotes hatred. However, the reality is that this verse was revealed at a specific time and context, for a specific war situation. The proof of this is in the next verse of the same Surah:

“If they repent, establish prayer, and pay zakat, then leave their path.”

(Surah At-Tawbah, 9:5)

That is, this is not a permanent provision, but rather was applicable to a specific nation in the context of a war treaty breach.

Rights of Non-Muslims in Islam

In Islam, non-Muslims are given certain rights. In the state structure, they were known as ‘dhimmis’, whose lives, property, religion, and security were protected by the state.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Whoever kills a non-Muslim citizen who is a treaty member, he will not even smell the fragrance of Paradise.”

(Sahih Bukhari)

In another hadith, he said:

“Whoever oppresses a non-Muslim citizen, I will stand against him (in protest) on the Day of Judgment.”

(Abu Dawud)

This teaching is not only humanity, but also the highest example of Islamic justice.

Islam is not a religion of hatred—a religion of brotherhood and justice

Islam aims at the welfare of mankind, not only Muslims. Islam gives a message to people—give love and respect based on their behavior. In Islam, only good people are worthy of respect, whether they are Muslims or non-Muslims.

Allah says:

“Indeed, We created you all from a single male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another. Indeed, the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous.”

(Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:13)

This verse establishes the basis of respect and dignity regardless of race, religion, or color—that is, piety or morality.

Conclusion

So, the accusation that “Islam teaches us to hate non-Muslims as ‘kafirs’”—is not true. It is a misinterpretation or intentional distortion. The Quran calls kafirs to those who deny religious truth, which is a kind of identification, not an insult.

Islam teaches justice, tolerance, and brotherhood—but it makes a clear distinction between belief and disbelief. The call to establish relationships based on justice, not hatred, is the real message of Islam.

If you want, I can choose the topic of the next discussion, or you can raise a specific accusation yourself.