An Introduction to the Islamic Theory of International Relations

“The Islamic government’s” interactions in international relations are probably the most studied topics in Islamic FIGH. Considering “war” and “peace” the most important topics in international law, if we study Islamic FIGH issues, it is obvious that there are many important concerns about war (Jihad) and peace and the right of enemies and even lifeless things like animals and trees. Previously Islamic scientists analyzed foreign relations under terms of “Dar Al-Salam” and “Dar al-Harb”. Today this classification may not show the new situation of the world and the role of Islamic countries in it, so using Islamic sources we should define new concepts to analyze international interactions in Islamic countries. The main question of this article is “Can traditional terms in FIGH describe international relations in the new world? Or “Can we find new terms in FIGH lexicon to describe these issues?” It seems that the terms “Dar Al-Shahadah” or “Dar Al-Davah” are more suitable terms to replace “Dar Al-Harb” to describe people of different civilizations, cultures, religions and moralities but who live in peace with others in Islamic and multicultural societies. There is no need to use the terms “Dar Al-Salam” and “Dar Al-Harb”. Although the term “Dar Al-Ahd” has a potential to replace “Dar Al-Harb” but this term is just can be conceptualized under the terms “Dar Al-Salam” and “Dar Al-Harb” in peaceful situations and is not suitable to describe our position in the modern world.