OH THOSE INFIDELS

It is common to see the word “infidel” used by many non- Muslims when quoting Muslims. Although a misunderstanding of the actual word, there are still a group of Muslims who insists on using the word for non-Muslim and, in some extreme cases, Muslims themselves. Our discussion here is not based on a mistranslation of the word, but its usage.

If we look towards the Qur’anic model we find that non- Muslims are usually addressed with words which are more polite and respectable. For this reason Dr. Yusuf Qaradawi states:

The Qur’an teaches us not to address others with the term, “Rejecter of faith” even if it is true. Instead it teaches us to used terms such as, “Oh Mankind” (Sura Al-Baqara verse 21), “Oh Son’s of Adam’ (Sura Al-Araf, verse 31), “Oh People of the Book” (Sura Ali Imran Verse 71), and “Oh My (God’s) servants” (Sura Al-Zumar, verse 53). In fact, you will not find the term ‘Rejecter of faith’ used as a direct address to anyone except twice in the Qur’an. One used for those who rejected faith in the Hereafter. The second was addressed to those people who tried to kill the Prophet (may God bless him and give him peace) and his companions and expel them from their homes. (Sh. Qaradawi, “Our Address during the Age of Globalization”, p.44)

Thus, the norm for the Muslim is to address his fellows with terms that are honorable and respectable. The Qur’an states, “Say to My servants to speak speech which is excellent” (Sura Israh, verse 53). By replacing the word “Rejecter of faith,” with “non-Muslim”, we can look at our fellow friends and countrymen with a merciful eye. Such a feeling is extremely important if we want to better understand and grow together. 

DID HE SAY OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS?

Another important and often neglected Qur’anic teaching is that of brotherhood between men. A common misunderstanding amongst Muslims is that they share a brotherhood which prohibits fraternal relations with others outside of their faith. This is based upon the following verse, “Indeed, the believers are only brothers.” (Sura Al-Hujurat, verse 10) However, is that truly the case? It is well-known that Muslims believe in most of the Prophets mentioned in the Bible. If we take a close look at the Prophetic models found in the Qur’an, we’ll find a clearer understanding of this concept of brotherhood. God, Most High, says, “The people of Noah rejected the Messengers. When their brother Noah said to them, ‘Won’t you be dutiful to your Lord?’” (Sura Shura, verses 105-106) In the story of Lot we find, “The people of Lot rejected the Messengers. When their brother Lot said to them, ‘Won’t you be dutiful to your Lord?’” (Sura Shura, verses 131-132) Notice how in both verses the people of Noah and Lot are described as “rejecters of faith”. However, the Qur’anic address emphasizes, even under such conditions, the brotherhood and fraternal bond that exists between them. Thus, the Qur’anic picture of brotherhood is quite vast and encompasses different types. From the brotherhood of faith shared as a special relation with one’s fellow Muslim, to a more global inclusive brotherhood which is shared amongst one’s fellows. If Western Muslims adopt such an outlook they will find it easier to work with others, build solid relationship and make important positive contributions to their societies. 

The Prophetic model of relations is a blessing we can ill afford to dismiss. At a time when the voice of Islam is drowned out by flaring unorthodoxy, it is my hope that Western Muslim communities and their fellow non-Muslim counterparts will take the time to get to know each other, build long-lasting relationships and synthesize the positive aspects of each other’s religious and cultural heritage.

If my essence is from dust, then dust (wherever it is)

is my homeland 

And every creature upon the heavens and the earth

represents a close relative.

— AN ARAB POEM

Suhaib William Webb is an American-born convert to Islam. He currently lives in Cairo where he studies at Al-Azhar University with a primary focus on Islamic Law.