Reappraising the Way the Prophet (S.A.W.) Interacted with the Non-Muslims

One of the most important discourses in the Apostle of Allah’s (S.A.W.) life history (sīra) is the way the Prophet (S.A.W.) interacted with the non-Muslims. Deliberation on and exploration into the life of the Prophet (S.A.W.) indicates that while approving the non-Muslims’ rights, especially that of the People of the Scripture, he never failed to express affection and do justice to them. He based the principle in this respect on logic and dialogue, informing and spreading culture, and joint cooperation. While tolerating the unbelievers and supporting the religious centers of People of the Scripture, he did not force anyone change their religion and convert to Islam, although he did his best in intelligently introducing Islam and attracting people to it, using all emotional and rational means. Besides, in such fields as signing of treaties, employing the elite and experts, transaction with the unbelievers, accepting helps from non-Muslims, respecting the ambassadors and envoys, and other related fields, his holiness delineated their rules and left behind lasting principles and regulations, while accepting and emphasizing the basis of these instances.