Regulations Concerning Dhimmi
The term “Dhimmi” refers to individuals who have chosen to reside and be governed within an Islamic state, acknowledging the supremacy of Islam and its legal framework over their lives. In doing so, they accept a position of humility and subservience. This status is contingent upon their full payment of the jizya tax and their acceptance of the Islamic state’s authority. In contemporary terms, they can be likened to citizens. The Quran delineates the parameters of the relationship between Dhimmis and Muslims, allowing for kindness towards them within the bounds set by divine law while categorically forbidding their oppression or infringement upon their rights. The Quran warns sternly against those who violate their sanctity or unjustly harm them. However, should they express animosity and hostility towards Muslims and take up arms against them, the principles of good treatment and connection would not apply.
Obligations of Dhimmi in Islam
Dhimmi must adhere to Islamic regulations, which involves several key commitments:
- Submission to the authority of Islamic judicial systems and seeking resolution through them.
- Avoidance of criticism or mockery concerning Muslims’ religious beliefs, their Prophet, sacred texts, or legal principles.
- Refraining from public displays of immorality and indecency within the Islamic state, such as public nudity, consuming alcohol, or eating pork, as well as establishing places of worship inconsistent with Islamic law.
- Abstaining from actions that could harm Muslims, including espionage, conspiracies against them, or promoting illicit behaviors like adultery or alcohol consumption within their community.
- Maintaining a distinct identity from Muslims to prevent any potential confusion among the populace; the leader may mandate this or allow flexibility based on community needs.
Rights of Dhimmi in Islam
The responsibilities of Muslims towards non-Muslims, whether they are Dhimmi in an Islamic state or otherwise, encompass various aspects, including but not limited to:
- Inviting them to Allah and encouraging their acceptance of Islam.
- Avoiding unjust treatment towards them, whether concerning their person, property, or honor.
- Extending kindness in neighborly relations, which includes offering charitable assistance to those in need, although they cannot receive from Zakat funds.
- Not being the first to initiate a greeting to the Dhimmi; however, a Muslim should respond with “Wa Alaikum” if the Dhimmi greets them first.
- Engaging in trade and commercial transactions with them is permissible within Islamic law, as evidenced by the Prophet Muhammad’s engagement in commerce with non-Muslims.