Islam is a universal way of life.

How Islam Should Treat People of Other Religions — A Detailed Discussion

Islam is a universal way of life, the foundation of which is justice, mercy, and recognition of human dignity. It is not limited to religious rituals alone, but touches every aspect of social, political, and interpersonal relationships. In light of this comprehensive view, Islam calls for peace and harmony not only among Muslims, but also between Muslims and non-Muslims. The way Islam treats people of other religions is not just tolerance, but also dignity, justice, and mutual respect.

The first thing to understand is that the Quran clearly declares that although mankind was created as one nation, it has been divided into different nations and tribes so that they can “know” each other, not to find fault. In verse 13 of Surah Hujurat, Allah says,

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

The commentary on this verse is very important. Here, differences in race, tribe, culture, or religion are not a conflict — rather, they are a planned diversity of Allah. Therefore, maintaining respect and order within these differences is part of Islamic morality.

This teaching is reflected in practice many times in the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). He was not only the leader of Muslims, but also protected the rights of non-Muslims as the head of state of Medina. The “Constitution of Medina” that the Prophet (peace be upon him) formulated after his migration to Medina considered Muslims, Jews, and followers of other religions as a single political community, and each group was guaranteed its own religious freedom and security.

This constitution states:

“The Jews shall be free in their religion, the Muslims in their religion... they shall all be one Ummah.”

This is not only a historical document, but also an eternal example of religious tolerance in Islamic governance.

In Islam, good treatment of followers of other religions is not just a state law or a strategy for peaceful coexistence, but it is part of worship. The Quran states,

“Allah does not forbid you from treating those who have not fought you for religion or driven you out of your homes with kindness and justice. Indeed, Allah loves the just.” (Surah Al-Mumtahinah, 60:8).

This verse makes it very clear that showing hatred or hostility towards a non-Muslim simply because of their different religious beliefs is not an acceptable course of action in Islam. Rather, when they are not fighting against Muslims and are innocent, then it is the Islamic guidance to treat them well and be just.

In addition, Islam has a special attitude of respect towards the “People of the Book” — that is, Jews and Christians. The Quran recognizes them as “People of the Book” and has permitted food and marital relations with them. Surah Al-Maidah (5:5) states:

“The food of the People of the Book is lawful for you and your food is lawful for them. And marriage with the women of the People of the Book is lawful for you, if they are chaste and moral.”

This provision implies not only accepting each other’s religious existence, but also establishing a deep mutual trust and human relationship.

Many incidents during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) are real examples of this tolerance and amity of Islam. Once, when a Jewish youth fell ill, the Prophet (PBUH) himself visited him. On another occasion, when Christian priests came to the Prophet’s Mosque, he allowed them to pray inside the mosque. This incident is a unique example in history where a Muslim leader welcomed the worship of another religion into his place of worship.

However, distinguishing between truth and error is also an essential duty in Islam. Islam is not a compromise ideology. The Quran repeatedly denounces the false doctrines of other religions — such as Christianity’s view of Jesus as the Son of God, or the Trinity. But that denunciation is not hatred — rather it is an invitation to the right path through intellectual and moral discussion.

“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good advice, and argue with them in a way that is best.” (Surah An-Nahl, 16:125)

Therefore, in Islam there is invitation, but no compulsion. The Quran clearly declares:

“There is no compulsion in religion; truth and error have become distinct.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:256).

This verse highlights the fundamental principle of Islamic belief — that the human soul and conscience are free; it will accept the truth through understanding and belief, not through pressure or persuasion from anyone.

Ultimately, the ultimate goal of Islam is to inspire people to be kind, just, and good to one another — regardless of religion, race, or language. It is the responsibility of Muslims to manifest the beauty of Islam through their conduct, morality, and humanity, so that others are attracted to this message.