The Makkan Model Of Peaceful Co-Existence And Its Relevance For Muslims In Europe And Other Non-Muslim Lands

By New Age Islam Staff Writer 12 March 2025 The Relevance Of These Discussions Today Is More Significant Than Ever, As Millions Of Muslims Live In Europe And Other Non-Muslim-Majority Countries, Navigating Challenges Related To Religious Identity, Integration, And Societal Engagement. With Increasing Debates Around Immigration, Multiculturalism, And Religious Freedom, The Makkan Model Offers A Guiding Framework For Muslims To Balance Their Faith With Active Participation In Diverse Societies. Contemporary Fatwas Supporting Peaceful Coexistence, Ethical Conduct, And Legal Compliance Provide Crucial Insights Into How Muslims Can Contribute Positively While Preserving Their Religious Values. At A Time When Some Voices Push For Isolation Or Confrontation, And Others Call For Assimilation At The Cost Of Religious Identity, These Fatwas And Theological Debates Serve As A Middle Path—Promoting Engagement Without Compromise, Patience Without Passivity, And Faith Without Conflict. Major Points: 1. The life of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is divided into two key phases: the Makkan period and the Madinan period. 2. Islamists believe that the Makkan period was a time of weakness when the Prophet (ﷺ) and his followers had no choice but to endure persecution without retaliation. They argue that once the Prophet (ﷺ) migrated to Madinah, he established an Islamic state, enacted legal and political systems, and led military campaigns. Based on this view, Islamists insist that Muslims today should work towards a similar goal of political power. 3. The Makkan model remains highly relevant for Muslims living in Europe and other non-Muslim lands today. 4. Muslims today live in a world that is vastly different from the era of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). In Europe and other non-Muslim-majority societies, they face unique challenges related to identity, religious freedom, integration, and social participation. In navigating these realities, one of the most powerful historical models available to Muslims is the Makkan period of the Prophet’s (ﷺ) life—a phase defined by patience, peaceful Da’wah (Islamic propagation), moral excellence, and engagement with non-Muslims without seeking political control. The Makkan Period: A Timeless Model for Muslims Today The life of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is divided into two key phases: the Makkan period and the Madinan period. The Makkan period, which lasted for about 13 years, was marked by patience, perseverance, and peaceful preaching despite severe persecution. In contrast, the Madinan period involved the establishment of an Islamic state, governance, and military engagement. Some Islamist groups argue that the Makkan period was merely a temporary phase leading to the formation of an Islamic state in Madinah. According to their perspective, Muslims should aim to follow the Madinan model by seeking political dominance and implementing Islamic governance. However, many moderate scholars strongly disagree. They emphasize that the values demonstrated in Makkah—patience, moral integrity, peaceful engagement, and coexistence—are essential and timeless, especially in today’s pluralistic world. What is the Makkan Model? The Makkan model refers to the approach the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his followers adopted during the 13 years he spent in Makkah before migrating to Madinah. During this time, Islam was not established as a state; instead, the focus was on: Peaceful preaching: The Prophet (ﷺ) conveyed the message of Islam without force or coercion. Patience in the face of persecution: Early Muslims faced oppression but responded with steadfastness rather than violence. Interfaith engagement: The Prophet (ﷺ) interacted with the Quraysh and other non-Muslims through dialogue and treaties. Community-building: The small Muslim community supported each other in matters of faith and social justice. These characteristics make the Makkan model particularly relevant for Muslims in Europe and other non-Muslim lands, where they are minorities and must navigate their faith within pluralistic societies. The Islamist View: Makkah as a Transitional Phase Islamists believe that the Makkan period was a time of weakness when the Prophet (ﷺ) and his followers had no choice but to endure persecution without retaliation. They argue that once the Prophet (ﷺ) migrated to Madinah, he established an Islamic state, enacted legal and political systems, and led military campaigns. Based on this view, Islamists insist that Muslims today should work towards a similar goal of political power. To support their argument, they cite verses from the Qur’an, such as: وَأَعِدُّوا۟ لَهُم مَّا ٱسْتَطَعْتُم مِّن قُوَّةٍۢ وَمِن رِّبَاطِ ٱلْخَيْلِ تُرْهِبُونَ بِهِۦ عَدُوَّ ٱللَّهِ وَعَدُوَّكُمْ "And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of steeds of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy..." (Surah Al-Anfal 8:60) They also refer to a hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari: إِنِّي أُمِرْتُ أَنْ أُقَاتِلَ النَّاسَ حَتَّى يَشْهَدُوا أَنْ لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَأَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللَّهِ "I have been commanded to fight the people until they testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger..." (Sahih al-Bukhari, 25) Islamists interpret this hadith as a call for an ongoing struggle for political dominance. However, many scholars argue that this interpretation overlooks the broader historical and religious context of the Prophet’s mission. The Makkan Model: A Blueprint for Modern Muslims Moderate scholars argue that the Makkan period was not just a temporary stage but a vital part of the Prophet’s mission, filled with lessons for Muslims today. During this time, the Prophet (ﷺ) demonstrated resilience, ethical conduct, and a commitment to peaceful dialogue. One of the key principles from the Makkan period is da’wah—the peaceful propagation of Islam. The Prophet (ﷺ) and his followers endured verbal abuse, economic boycotts, and even physical attacks, yet they never resorted to violence. Instead, they focused on spreading their message through wisdom and good character. The Qur’an instructs: ٱدْعُ إِلَىٰ سَبِيلِ رَبِّكَ بِٱلْحِكْمَةِ وَٱلْمَوْعِظَةِ ٱلْحَسَنَةِ وَجَٰدِلْهُم بِٱلَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ "Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best." (Surah An-Nahl 16:125) This method remains highly relevant today, particularly for Muslims living in diverse societies where interfaith dialogue and peaceful coexistence are essential. Non-Violence and Patience in the Face of Persecution One of the most striking aspects of the Makkan period was the Prophet’s non-violent response to oppression. Despite facing immense hostility, he and his followers remained patient. The Qur’an records this approach: وَاصْبِرْ عَلَىٰ مَا يَقُولُونَ وَاهْجُرْهُمْ هَجْرًۭا جَمِيلًۭا "Be patient over what they say and avoid them with gracious avoidance." (Surah Al-Muzzammil 73:10) This principle is particularly relevant for Muslims today who face discrimination or challenges in non-Muslim-majority societies. Many contemporary scholars, such as Yusuf al-Qaradawi and Tariq Ramadan, emphasize that Muslims should engage with society constructively, focusing on ethical conduct and gradual reform rather than confrontation. Social Justice and Ethical Conduct Another key theme of the Makkan period was social justice. The early revelations of the Qur’an strongly condemned corruption, exploitation, and economic injustice. The Prophet (ﷺ) actively spoke against the mistreatment of the poor, women, and marginalized groups. The Qur’an states: كَلَّا بَل لَّا تُكْرِمُونَ ٱلۡيَتِيمَ، وَلَا تَحٰٓضُّونَ عَلَىٰ طَعَامِ ٱلۡمِسۡكِينِ "No! But you do not honor the orphan, and you do not encourage one another to feed the poor." (Surah Al-Fajr 89:17-18) This focus on social justice remains deeply relevant. Instead of seeking political dominance, moderate scholars argue that Muslims today should work towards eradicating poverty, injustice, and inequality. The Makkan Model in a Globalized World In today’s world, where Muslims live in diverse cultural and legal environments, the Makkan approach provides a practical framework for navigating life with faith and integrity. Shaykh Hamza Yusuf highlights that the Prophet’s example in Makkah teaches Muslims how to engage positively in non-Muslim-majority societies, emphasizing moral excellence and peaceful interaction. The Qur’an reinforces this principle: لَا إِكْرَاهَ فِي الدِّينِ "There is no compulsion in religion." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:256) This verse, revealed in Madinah, aligns with the Makkan approach of persuasion and freedom of belief rather than coercion. The Makkan period of the Prophet’s life offers valuable lessons for contemporary Muslims. While Islamists argue that the Madinan model of governance and political power should be the ultimate goal, moderate scholars emphasize that the patience, moral integrity, and peaceful engagement of the Makkan period remain crucial today. The Prophet’s approach in Makkah teaches that true strength lies in ethical conduct, dialogue, and positive engagement rather than political conquest. By following this model, Muslims can contribute meaningfully to their societies while staying true to their faith. Muslims in Europe and Non-Muslim Lands: A Growing Presence Today, millions of Muslims live in Europe, North America, and other regions where they are minorities. According to the Pew Research Centre, Muslims make up around 5% of the population in Europe and are projected to grow due to migration and birth rates. The presence of Muslims in non-Muslim lands is not new; historical interactions between Muslims and Europe date back to trade routes, Andalusian Spain, and Ottoman diplomacy. However, in the modern era, Muslim communities in Europe face: Religious freedom and restrictions (e.g., debates over hijab bans in France) Islamophobia and discrimination Identity challenges for second- and third-generation Muslims The question of integration: How much should Muslims adopt local cultures? The Makkan model offers a practical guide for addressing these challenges, balancing faithfulness to Islam with constructive engagement in society. Why is the Makkan Model Relevant Today? Some argue that the Makkan period was only a temporary phase, leading to the later establishment of an Islamic state in Madinah. However, many contemporary scholars emphasize that the Makkan model provides timeless lessons for Muslims living as minorities. The Qur’an itself reinforces the principles of the Makkan model: لَا إِكْرَاهَ فِي الدِّينِ "There is no compulsion in religion." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:256) This verse, revealed in Madinah, aligns with the Makkan approach of peaceful persuasion rather than forced conversion or dominance. Many scholars, including Shaykh Abdullah Bin Bayyah, Dr. Jonathan Brown, and Shaykh Hamza Yusuf, argue that Muslims in non-Muslim lands should adopt the Makkan approach—focusing on moral integrity, social justice, and interfaith engagement rather than political control. This article explores the theological foundation of the Makkan model, the fatwas (Islamic rulings) that support it, real-life examples of its application, and debates around its relevance today. By understanding this model, Muslims in Europe and non-Muslim lands can navigate their societies with wisdom, patience, and a clear Islamic identity. Conclusion The Makkan model remains highly relevant for Muslims living in Europe and other non-Muslim lands today. The life of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) during his years in Makkah teaches lessons of patience, peaceful engagement, moral integrity, and social justice—values that help Muslims navigate life in diverse societies. While some argue that Muslims should focus on establishing political dominance, the majority of scholars and fatwas emphasize that the real mission is to uphold faith, contribute positively to society, and engage in constructive dialogue. Classical Islamic rulings and modern fatwas support the idea that Muslims can live in non-Muslim lands as long as they can practice their religion freely. Scholars such as Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, Abdullah Bin Bayyah, and the European Council for Fatwa and Research (ECFR) have reinforced the importance of integration without assimilation, encouraging Muslims to be active, ethical members of their communities. In today’s world, where Islamophobia, identity struggles, and cultural differences exist, the Makkan approach provides a balanced way forward—one that avoids both isolation and extremism. By embodying the Prophet’s (ﷺ) patience, wisdom, and strong moral character, Muslims can thrive in non-Muslim societies while staying true to their faith. The key is engagement with integrity, coexistence with confidence, and faith with resilience. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Also Read: The Abrogation Doctrine And The 'Sword Verses': Theological Misinterpretations Of Radical Ideologues ------------------------------------------------------------------------ URL: https://www.newageislam.com/debating-islam/makkan-peaceful-existence-relevance-europe-non-muslim/d/134850 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism