CONCESSION TO OTHERS

One of the enduring principles of Islam is what the Quran calls ta’lif al-qulub—winning people’s hearts (9:60). It means bringing hearts together and creating a sense of affinity with others. This can be achieved only by showing consideration for people and respecting their feelings and interests. The principle of winning hearts is an important part of the Islamic message. It is universally relevant and remains necessary in every human society.

The Prophet of Islam followed this rule throughout his life. For instance, when he came to Madinah after emigration, many families of Jews and idolaters were settled there along with the believers. On reaching there the Prophet issued a statement known as the covenant of Madinah. In this the Prophet declared that each group would enjoy the freedom of their culture and religion; that the controversial matters of all tribes would be settled according to their respective tribal traditions; and that no coercion would be resorted to in matters of religion and culture.

The Prophet made special concessions to the Jews. He even went to the extent of fasting on the days when the Jews fasted until it was held obligatory by a revelation to fast in the month of Ramazan. Moreover, the Prophet prayed in the direction of Jerusalem, the direction followed by the Jews, for a period of seventeen months, until God’s command came to change the orientation towards the Kabah. By doing so, the Prophet aimed at fraternizing with the Jews, in order that they might be brought closer to his faith. (Tafsir al-Qurtubi, Vol. 2, p.150)

The way of the Prophet was not to return opposition for opposition. It was rather to make allowances in the face of opposition. His thinking was not to bring people into his fold by means of suppression. On the contrary, his way was to soften their hearts and bring them to his side through affection and kindness.