This constitution spelled out the rights of Jews as non-Muslim citizens in the Muslim state. As a result, the Prophet managed to establish a multi-faith political community in Medina based on a set of universal principles. The rules set out in the constitution were meant to maintain peace and cooperation, protect life and property, prevent injustice and ensure freedom of religion and movement for all inhabitants – regardless of tribal or religious affiliation. Allegiance to the community superseded religious identity, as spelled out in the rules for joint defense: “[E]ach must help the other against anyone who attacks the people of this document.”
The Prophet’s treatment of the “People of the Book,” in this case Jews, showed religious tolerance as well as prudence. The constitution established the pattern for the future relationship between Muslims and non-Muslims, specifying non-Muslim citizens as equal partners with Muslim inhabitants.
Almost 15 years when Muslims conquered Jerusalem from the Byzantines, Caliph Omar Ibn al-Khattab granted its people, who were mainly Christians, safety for their persons, property and churches. As well-known British historian Karen Armstrong writes, “[Omar] was faithful to the Islamic inclusive vision. Unlike Jews and Christians, Muslims did not attempt to exclude others from Jerusalem’s holiness.”
http://newageislam.com/islamic-history-and-principles-of-pluralism/islam-and-pluralism/d/1588
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4:06 AM
Moderate Islamist here
