The Punishments Imposed on Non-Muslims in Islamic History are an Obstacle to Contemporary Social Harmony – A Review
- August 20, 2020
- Posted by: RSIS
- Categories: IJRISS, Islamic Studies
International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume IV, Issue VIII, August 2020 | ISSN 2454–6186
Ahamed Sarjoon Razick*, Muhammadhu Ibrahim Nasrin
Department of Islamic Studies, South Eastern University of Sri Lanka, Oluvil
*Corresponding Author
Abstract: Misconceptions about Islam are prevalent in many parts of the world today, including among non-Muslims. There is a widespread perception that not only Islam but also Muslims are seen as a threat to other people who do not openly view Islamic legal plans and try to seek their authenticity. Many who view it superficially accuse some of the punishments meted out to non-Muslims by the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) in Islamic history as unjust and very cruel. Some Muslims living in Sri Lanka are also subject to that view. It is in this context that the present study pursued to dispel misconceptions about Islam by illustrating the justification given by the Prophet to the Banu Qurayza-Jewish tribe. This review was based on a descriptive methodology from previously published books and journal articles on the subject. This review clearly described the ways in which the Jewish tribes living in Medina, such as Banu Qaynuqa, Banu Nazir, and Banu Qurayza, deviated from the treaty made in Medina by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and how the punishments were meted out to them by the Prophet. Further, the relevant punitive method was analyzed and the rationale contained therein was revealed. It was discussed that the punishments meted out by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) were in no way an impediment to the reconciliation of Sri Lanka among the communities living there. It is hoped that this review will help to bring about a just and harmonious life for all the people of Sri Lanka by presenting the rationale of the penalties.
Keywords: Sri Lanka, Islamic history, non-Muslims in Medina, sentences in Islam.
I. INTRODUCTION
Today, Islam is seen as a religion under criticism by several non-Muslims. Critics of Islam are widely of the opinion that misinterpretations of Islamic punitive systems in many of the actions taken to misrepresent and discredit Islamic law are currently undermining Islam in international relations. Islam is a religion that loves humanity. It is a religion that emphasizes peace the most. It has the principle that no individual or community should be unjustly punished as far as Islam is concerned. Below are a variety of examples of this statement:
“I am against anyone who impersonates a non-Muslim minority, he said. I will argue against whoever I am against in the Hereafter” (Sahih al-Bukhari).
